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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  A Big Disappointment - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By George - January 21 - 12:13 pm

  My wife and I bought the vehicle two weeks ago and it has spent more time in the shop then us enjoying it. The vehicle has been there three times for the same problem(front alignment). Afetr each visist we were told that the vehicle was corrected and that it meet Honda specs, and each time they found something else wrong. If this is Honda specs I would advise against purchasing a Honda. The enigne is lack laster at best. The body is suppose to be on a Civic chasis but fels more like a jeep.

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  Head rest at terrible angle. - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Bill Leibenguth - January 21 - 11:11 am

  This is a great car but terribly uncomfortable due to the forward tilt of the headrest. If you sit with good posture there is no way you can drive this car more than 60 miles. The headrest is angled forward and pushes constantly on the back of your head. I windup looking directly at my speedometer all of the time. All of the great technology is useless if you cant drive it. Most other car manufacturers allow about 2" between the back of your head and the headrest. My Subby is really old (2001) but really comfortable. "An update 9-2016) the headrest can be turned backwards but then there is too much space between the headrest and my head. The other solution is to recline the back of the seat so youre partially reclined but due to my fractured back that too is impossible. Best solution, trade it in and buy another Subaru.

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  Could be a great car - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Steve - January 21 - 2:09 am

  This car could be great, but I have had electrical issues well as problems with the third brake light housing. I have found, per my dealership, that every coupe with a third brake light has the housing coming down. Honda has not developed a fix for this yet so I have a third brake light housing that is hanging down from the rear area. As well as the electrical issues have left me less than satisfied. I hope Honda gets it together and fixes these problems soon.

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  Great car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Ruben - January 21 - 12:03 am

  This a great car for every day needs. Good relibility and build quality.

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  Sold my MDX - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By sold my mdx - January 20 - 4:46 pm

  Had a 2001 Acura MDX which I decided to sell. Looked at the Honda Pilot and the mix. Bought the pilot because I could not justify the diff in price of around $9000. Rides as well or better than the Acura and mileage is about the same. Am very satisfied with the Pilot so far.

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  Glad to be a Civic owner again. - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Damian - January 20 - 12:40 pm

  This is my third Civic with other cars between. The car handles better then my Passat and my Mustang. The steering is very light and precise. I noticed a good 34 mpg with a mixed hwy/ city driving. And the best part is no more high grade fuel as with my VW.

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  Just as Advertised - 2008 Honda Civic
  By OldRockr1 - January 19 - 11:26 pm

  I bought this a few weeks back and so far so great! The fuel economy is great, the ride is tight and at 63" plenty of room for a small car. The engine is small but peppy. The feel is tight and responsive although not overly smooth. Only complaint is the sound system which, as written about previously, is lacking. I upgraded the speakers to some Pioneer three ways which broadened the spectrum quite a bit. A larger amp and sub woofer would help but is not a pressing need. Overall this is a great car for my commute and around town needs. Highly recommended.

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  MPG ratings a BOGUS! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By minekinda - January 19 - 2:46 pm

  I just went from a Ford excursion diesel 12 mpg city and 16 to 18 mpg hwy, 8000 pounds of truck. Great truck mind you. Bought this Honda so I wouldnt have to take out a second mortgage on my house. The Honda states it gets 27 city and 35 mpg highway. This is bull, I just finished my first tank of gas, I just filled up the car, mind you I have been driving the car like an old man. Mostly city and very little highway I just calculated out at 20.58 mpg. I knew the ratings were bogus, every car I have owned the stated mpg is always about 7 to 10 mpg off. As far as you people here stating that you got 32 mpg 35 mpg 38 mpg is that downhill without a driver? You cannot drive this car any slower than me

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Randy - January 19 - 2:16 pm

  An excellent choice in SUVs. More than adequate power, good handling and thus far exceedingly quiet on the road. Satelite radio is terrific, comfortable seats and plenty of room. All in all, a very good design, carried out extremely well. Safety scores are at the head of the class.

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  Best Car Ever! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By tulip1924 - January 19 - 1:36 pm

  I absolutely love this car. It is reliable, runs so smoothly and looks fantastic. The only thing I really do not like is the fabric used on the seats. Everything sticks to it, and they can be hard to clean. But other than that, this is one of the best cars out there for your dollar.