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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  I Love My SI - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Buckeye34 - June 14 - 10:00 am

  I have been wanting this car for over 6 months and got it at last on October 1st. Everything about this car is off the hook, good car for pople of all ages.

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  Great disapointment - 2007 Honda Civic
  By great disapointment - June 14 - 4:13 am

  I didnt do much research on this car before I purchased it, however I wish I had. I have had my radio serviced 3 times! It just shuts off, or doesnt start when I start my car. I would have to restart my engine at red lights to try and turn it on again. Another serious issue is BLIND SPOTS!!! In both the front, and the back. Horrible vision, must always readjust passenger seat after passengers get out so I can see. Car slide out a lot, and forget about trying to keep it on the road in the wind. Very disappointed, called Honda yesterday about a trade in!

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  Awesome Honda - 1990 Honda Civic
  By Pam Bailey - June 14 - 2:00 am

  I am so very happy wth my honda civic, I have had it for 12 years and I definitely have gotten my moneys worth. I am so happy with honda that I am off to buy another one..wish me luck!

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  Honda,s Best - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By toter - June 13 - 11:56 pm

  Went to buy another Sienna. I was interested in the XLE Limited. When I found out that the floor mats and rear window spoiler are a $700 extra on a car that sells for $35000+ and the dealer would not agree to include these items in the price, I left and went down the road to visit Honda. We drove Honda touring and were impressed with the controlled ride, quietness (ANC), the cylinder management system (VCM) and all the other features many similar to that of the Sienna. In the first 1500 miles I have gotten 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the interstate at 75 mph. With Honda I got a better deal, better selection and overall I think I got a better car than if I would have bought a Sienna

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  "SEE OUR V" - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By SW - June 13 - 11:06 pm

  This is my second Honda, (still have my first one--10 years old and still going strong). Wanted a larger vehicle, but nothing too big. Extensively researched the Equinox, RAV-4, Vue, Sorrento, Escape, Tribute, Highlander and Liberty, but options, fuel economy, reliability and price kept me coming back to the CRV. The vehicle comes fully loaded in the base price of the SE model. Most other companies charge extra for, "packages," that can be added to the vehicle. Fuel economy is much better than most other SUV models. Very fun to drive. Lots of pickup for a 4 cylinder and tackles hills without a problem.

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  Pure Luxury - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By K Sid - June 13 - 4:46 pm

  This is a wonderful Van - The interior luxury is amazing for the driver and the passengers. I love having all that leg room! The navigation system is worth the extra $$$! Having the 8th seat is very useful (not availiable on the Touring model) The ride & handling is what I expect in a new car... I was not dissapointed in any way! I havent had it long enough to comment on reliability or gas mileage.

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  Changing my driving style - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Bill - June 13 - 12:43 pm

  I am 5000 miles into ownership. My MPG started at 43 and has improved with each fillup. My last tank was 51 MPG. I run tire pressure 2 pounds below the max pressure and trade a hard ride for MPG. The instruments are always in your face about your driving style and gives feeedback on your every move. I drive 65 miles a day in rolling hills and with mixed hwy/local roads. I run the AC only at cruising speed and let the cruse control take over when possible. I rate this car high for performance because I view fuel economy as its primary performance attribute. I never have a problem with entering and merging onto the highway, and typically run speed limit +5 to 10 w/AC on 90% of the time.

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  Gas mileage not as good as claimed - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By steve - June 13 - 4:16 am

  Has been a good travel vehicle in. However, is a little on the noisy side. Maybe when it is time to change tires. That will help!

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  Fun, fun, fun!!! - 1994 Honda Prelude
  By now-a-prelude-man - June 13 - 2:00 am

  This is the most fun car I have ever driven. The engine gives very good performance and the car corners like a dream.

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  coulda, woulda, shoulda! - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By oxygen177 - June 13 - 2:00 am

  Overall, this is an excellent vehicle that I purchased brand new at an excellent price (19500+ttl). I only have 2400 miles on it and already I hear squeaks from the back of my car & the transmission is acting up, this is going in the shop tomorrow. Believe it or not I really wish I had purchased a mazda protege ES, fully loaded you can get this baby at 15k it is very peppy and has lots of power upfront. I do love my prelude though, the sunroof makes it perfect. have fun with this baby