Overview & Reviews

Why are Honda vehicles so highly regarded by American drivers? Certainly, their excellent reputation for reliability and quality is a major factor. But it also has to do with the overall driving and owning experience. Read any Honda review and you'll likely notice common themes such as thoughtful design, a friendly nature, better-than-average fuel economy and attention to safety.

Japan-based Honda Motor Company was founded in 1948 by Soichiro Honda. The company got its start making motorbikes. Japan had been rendered cash poor and fuel-starved after World War II, and its citizens were hurting for an inexpensive, fuel-efficient mode of transportation. Honda's first motorcycles mated engines with bicycles to create a motorbike that was cheap to make and operate.

Honda's bikes quickly evolved into vehicles far more sophisticated than small engines stuck into bicycle frames. The manufacturer's 1949 D-Type could reach speeds of up to 50 mph, and offered front and rear suspension. The 1950s saw the launch of the successful Juno scooter, built to steal market share from the Vespa knockoffs that were popular in Japan at that time. In the latter part of that decade, Honda introduced the ultra-successful C100 Super Cub. The motorbike was remarkably easy to operate and featured a crossbar-free frame that made it popular with women. It went on to become the first Honda motorbike sold in the U.S. via then-new American Honda Co. in 1959.

By the early 1960s, Honda had built its first automobiles for the Japanese home market and entered Formula One racing. But it wasn't until 1970 that it exported its first car, the diminutive N600, to the U.S. The automaker initially had a hard time sparking interest among American buyers, but that all changed in 1973 with the introduction of the Civic. The car was larger than Honda's previous models even though it was still very petite compared to compact American cars. The Civic's high fuel efficiency (an important selling point given that decade's energy crisis) and affordability made it Honda's first American success story. By 1976, the Civic had been joined by the Accord, which quickly became a favorite with U.S. consumers as well.

By the 1980s, Honda's success and its reputation as a maker of well-built reliable cars and motorcycles continued to grow. It began building Accords in the U.S. in 1982 and by 1989 had earned the distinction of making America's most popular car. This was also the decade in which Honda created the Acura brand as a way to sell more upscale and luxurious vehicles. Throughout this decade and into the 1990s, the Civic and Accord were huge sellers and considered class benchmarks. Also during this time, Honda continued to innovate through such technologies as variable valve timing, aluminum body construction and improved safety features.

Today, Honda's lineup runs the gamut. Included are fuel-sipping hybrids, a spacious minivan, reliable family sedans, practical SUVs and even a pickup. Although the latest Civic and Accord aren't quite the benchmarks they once were for their respective classes, Honda's brand as a whole continues to be one of the most well respected in the industry, with millions of loyal and satisfied customers.

User Reviews:

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  Black Flag Honda - 1995 Honda Passport
  By McJJrod - July 14 - 2:00 am

  This is the worst truck i have ever had. I had the car a year and it was in the shop 13 times.. I even had the engine replaced and it still doesnt run right. This car has cost me 7,000 dollars in repair out of my own pocket.. and I pitty the person who has to drive it next. Honda sucks!!!!!

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  I love this car! - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By Suz - July 14 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car for one reason ~ the engine ~ and have not been disappointed. Fastest 4 cyl. I could find with 190 hp, great Honda reliability. They make cars that last as this car replaced a 10 year old Acura Integra still running strong. Great little sports car that makes you feel like a million bucks while in it. Safe, solid ride with no major repairs to date (owned it for 3 years).

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  Excellent vehicle except the mpg - 2010 Honda Odyssey
  By diva_3181377 - July 13 - 5:52 pm

  This is my first Honda. Have a VW and BMW and had Toyotas before this. Compared to the VW and BMW, this is very reliable. So far the only thing broke was a door lock actuator which was fixed free under warranty. We occasionally go for long trips (~1200 miles one way) and it never had any issue. A very reliable vehicle. Bad -> MPG and tires. With city driving only, i see it ranges from 13 to 18. Highway, it is 23+. I take care of my cars really well and seems this mpg is normal for the vehicle of this size. The tires last only like <25K. Tried Yokohoma tires after the OEM. Next need to try something else like Pirelly. Aligned once and all were in good shape. Maintenance - i changed the transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid at 30k. Planning to do the same again at 60k. Also cleaned the MAF sensor and air/cabin filters (they were not dirty at all). Using 0W20 full synthetic oil and changes it when the MM shows 15% life. Also use the Techron once a year. Other than the brake job and TB job at 100k, i am not expecting any issues. Honda battery does not last long (multiple people experienced the same thing). Changed 1 time and then switched to the Auto zone brand.

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  My First Honda, A+++++++ - 2008 Honda Accord
  By David Huinker - July 13 - 5:43 pm

  Fun to drive! My first Honda. Precisely tuned suspension that hugs the contours and curves. Beautiful sleek new exterior that says "Come Look At Me"!!! Im looking forward to driving this car every day I get up and head out!! Its that much fun. Nicer interior than the Mercedes C300s we looked at.

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  Solid as a rock! - 1992 Honda Prelude
  By Grantbo - July 13 - 2:00 am

  I love my Fresco Blude lude! Ive had it for 8 yrs and just turned over 90k miles today. Maintenance has been limited to routine items such as brakes, mufflers. Always dependable, and honestly, still gets flattering comments on its styling!

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  Features - 2001 Honda S2000
  By cowboy - July 13 - 2:00 am

  Over all excellent car, bur a little small inside for men over 6 feet or heavier than 240 lbs

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  right on honda - 2002 Honda S2000
  By ken baxter - July 13 - 2:00 am

  This is the best and by far the most fun car I have owned and I have owned a lot of cars. You do not drive the s2000 you ride it. It feels more like a bike than a car. I am so impressed that I have traded in my 2000 model for a 2002. Carry on Honda!

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  Transmission Problems - 1998 Honda Accord
  By fenderkev - July 12 - 10:00 am

  At 69k miles my accord automatic tranny had to be rebuilt. Ive heard alot of incidents of accord auto transmissions needing rebuilding at 50k-90k miles (98-2002)... thats why honda extended the transmission warranty for 2000-2002 (i didnt get so lucky.. if you talk to them right.. they might extend 98s - 99s). If you get this car.. you might want to *possibly* look into getting a tranny cooler as well. This applies to both i4s and v6s. Overall its a good car with a reliable motor :)

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  My Element has problems! - 2003 Honda Element
  By DEF532 - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Battery is dead if not driven in 7-15 days and the dealer cant figure out why. They replaced the battery, radio, multiplex unit and amplifier and something is still draining the battery. Its now under Lemon Law, which is a real joke. Runs great if you can get it started.

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  Great ECONO SUV bargain! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By george - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Great handling, great build quality, beautiful engine. Standard equipment list with the EX is extensive including 4 wheel disc brakes w/ABS, Side airbags, PW, AC, PDL, Tilt, CC, Moonroof, Alarm, CD changer, etc... and THESE THINGS ARE A GREAT BARGAIN! SUV is large enough for most use. CR- Vs are more than adequate for the snowy mess we get up in the mountain passes sometimes. You need studs for black-ice however (true of any vehicle 4x4 or not). Most Honda dealers (in Seattle) did not want to discuss discounts, but I went over the border to Griffiths in The Dalles, Oregon, and got a great deal.