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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  Lack of Hole in Steering Wheel equals comfort issu - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By HondaLove - January 3 - 2:21 am

  I did not notice when test driving, and I drive the SE CRV over 100 a miles a day. I do not like that the CRV does not have a hole in the bottom of the steering wheel, it creates a very uncomfortable ride for me because that is where I am use to grabbing the wheel. The CRV drives nice, and really offers alot for the price. I just the believe the hole would add so much to the comfort of the drive and handling. The steering wheel is really hard too. So far I am averaging around 25 MPG mostly country side driving/ HWY. Great Visibility too

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  Now I love it - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By waksocal - January 3 - 1:46 am

  I traded in my 1999 Ford Expedition on the 2006 Pilot EX. My first day in the Pilot I suffered buyers remorse as it seemed so small compared to the Expedition. But by the 2nd day something happened. I feel in love with the Pilot. It is just so easy and fun to drive. You really do forget you are in a SUV because it handles beautifully. Its typical Honda in that its well made with subtle quality but there arent a lot of frills or bells & whistles. I wish there were automatic headlights, memory seats and a better radio. But for the important things its perfect. I can fit lots or kids or lots of stuff and thats exactly what I needs.

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  Love it! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By TRDelaware - January 2 - 7:13 am

  Went out and about last week armed with reviews of every car claiming 30+ MPG. The Civic was the only choice, and I drove 6 different cars-- everrything from the MX-3 to the Scion Xa. Perfect for commuting, comfortable, gas mileage today was 36.1--all highway. Although I bought the value package version, I really feel as if I got more for my money than the other models offered. Added to the legendary Honda reliability, I almost feel like I stole this car. Although the Elantra was a bit cheaper, with more options, it did not feel as solid as this car does.

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  what a relief - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Lisa Jensen - January 2 - 4:00 am

  After driving an Expedition for the past 4 years, the Odyssey is like a luxury car!!---What a relief to not have to CLIMB in and out, to not go to the gas station every 3-4 days, to have solid feel when it hugs the road--My only complaint so far is how noisy the air conditioning system is-Living in the south its used 10-11months out of the year and the volume of the AC is way to loud

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  Back to Honda - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Thomas D. - January 2 - 1:53 am

  This Pilot (AWD with NAV) replaces my 2003 Infinti FX35. The FX was a great vehicle with three exceptions. Very poor seating, driver seat power buttons under your right leg, Extremely rough ride in rear seat when driving on anything other than a very smooth road, and very poor visibility due to rounded design. Honda, on the other hand has excellent visibility, plenty of glass area, plus third row seating,and runs on regular gas plus most of the options I had on the Infiniti for $14,000.less at sticker.After looking at big sister Acura, decided to stay with little sister, Honda Pilot. Plenty of Bang for the Buck!

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  Pleased Hybrid Owner - 2005 Honda Accord
  By DT - January 2 - 1:16 am

  Car is great. Over 70 MPH and mileage drops between 31-33 MPG, but other than that its great.

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  Great crossover suv - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Dana Edwards - January 1 - 9:59 pm

  I love my cr-v!! Has great gas mileage, runs safely and smoothly, nice interior, great storage space (love the double access of automatic fold down of the back row of seats), awesome three-view backup camer and side mirror camera, and overall great quality for the price.

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  Sweet little Si - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Jim - January 1 - 7:53 pm

  I bought my 1st Honda Si in 1987, and loved everything about it. Sold it with over 200,000 miles and the engine was still perfect. The 2006 gives me the same feeling. This engine is the sweetest engine you will find. It loves to rev, and the sound is pure music. Currently have over 3,000 miles on mine and have enjoyed every mile. Its really amazing this day and age that you can find a sporty, well made, did I mention "fun" car for low 20s. You really need to drive one to know what Im talking about. Kudos to Honda for making a great car. Jim in Tennessee

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  A Lot of Bang for the Buck - 2017 Honda CR V
  By C.M.K. - January 1 - 2:52 pm

  The 2017 CRV feels much bigger than my 2007, which is mostly due to the humps on the hood. Rear seats are much more comfortable than my 2007. Has many features that even Lexus, Audi & Acura do not have yet.

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  Fun all around - 2008 Honda Civic
  By gile - January 1 - 3:40 am

  I have had this car for 8 months now and I love it. I never had a fun car that I didnt have to pour gas in. I love the fact you can be lazy and ask yourself "should I stop and get gas today?" lol. The fact that oil changes are not needed until 5000 miles blew me away. The dash is fun and it has lots of contour lines for chrome. The hpp 17" aluminum rims are a nice touch. I have heard many good things about Honda and they are all true. I wish I never spent so much on Chevys and Fords in the past.