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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  Middle/End of the pack? Waitaminute folks! - 2011 Honda Pilot
  By crgeorgia - January 3 - 4:06 pm

  Traded an 08 RDX for an 11 EX-L 12/22/10. Came close to ignoring the Pilot after reading the editors review. We had an 05, so visited the local Honda dealer for a test drive. Bought it immediately after. Here is my take after a 1200 mile round trip from GA to FL (7.5 hrs ea way). Performance, acceleration, handling, and braking are fine. It is relatively quiet, quite comfortable, and a pleasure to drive on a long trip. We got 22.8 mpg with a new engine & cruise set @ 77-83. Center stack does have a lot of buttons but, the layout is quite logical rendering it a non-issue. The vehicle also features outstanding reliability and owner satisfaction over the long term (check Consumer Reports).

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  2011 Honda Accord - 2011 Honda Accord
  By mgrow - January 3 - 1:04 pm

  I recently purchased my 2011 Honda Accord from Maddy Zaalouk at Leith Honda in Raleigh, N.C. My experience was excellent. It was an easy and hassle free purchase. I also considered buying a Camry and an Altima. After comparing all 3 vehicles the Accord won me over for its overall package inlcuding body style, standard accessories, reliability, driving experience and price.

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  this car sucks - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By dlemmon1 - January 1 - 9:38 pm

  i bought my 01 cr-v with 130,000 miles on it, it now has 153,000 on it and the engine died, only had it 2 years bought new tires 3 months later engine dies clyinder 4 has no compression, blowback, could sieze up anytime i thought hondas were good cars but im sticking with a jeep

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  I would buy it again!! - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By notijeka - January 1 - 4:58 pm

  Traded in our 08 Accord in Nov. 09 for our 10 Pilot LX. First thing we did was go to ebay & bought (4) Touring wheels (Brand new). Then we bought the running light kit from a Honda dealer in Ohio. I then bought a custom grill kit from CarID in Ca. and two chrome pipe extensions. We also bought the faux chrome strips that go in the door guards. After taking off that goofy looking grill, installing the awesome billet grill (2 pc. upper & lower) installing the running lights and exhaust extensions and door chrome this LX is awesome. The good part.... I saved $4500 by doing it myself. Absolutely love the big roomy SUV.... have driven it to Florida and back and to Ohio and back. # 1 car

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  Overall - Good - 2011 Honda Odyssey
  By erik_h - January 1 - 12:35 am

  First mini-van, wanted a vehicle with 3rd row. Looked at all the competition and his was the choice for us. Happy with the choice and have very little to complain about. Interior is better then the competition and was better fit for my family.

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  Great in snow (and all year round) - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By darwinzfolly - December 31 - 12:55 pm

  Tested the CRVs mettle in a recent MN snowstorm (where we got 20 inches of snow). On the way home from work, the car plowed through the snow as if it wasnt there. I was impressed & felt very safe. Its great for shopping,hauling people and pets, and gets decent mileage.

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  Not Bad - 2009 Honda Civic
  By sjet - December 31 - 10:54 am

  I leased a Honda Civic for the price and have not been too disappointed.

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  Insight is out of sight - 2010 Honda Insight
  By peta - December 29 - 9:57 pm

  I just got my insight and it seems to be a very good car to have. I love the econ assist light display. The car gives me all the power I need get there in. Tonight when I say my prayers I will thank God for letting me have this car.

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  Do not buy this car! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By fhiebel - December 29 - 3:58 pm

  Unfortunately at this point I would say do not buy a Honda car. I have been a loyal Honda owner for over 20 years but Honda has dug their own grave with this car and battery issue and their lack of customer support! Just go out and read all the issues that people have had with the IMA recall and battery issues for this car. Very unhappy customer.

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  2008 Civic MT problems - 2008 Honda Civic
  By mwitt - December 29 - 3:49 pm

  I have had my 2008 Civic 5 speed manual for over 2 years now. I have 47,000 miles on it. I am very disappointed. First minor problem: One of my rear tires cupped and had to be replaced. OK, maybe not Hondas fault. Next, drivers side window has a problem. Sometimes it goes up and sometimes it doesnt. Now, a big problem. My clutch is not working. Car jerks and vibrates when shifting into 1st and 2nd gear. The dealer said I need a new cluth at cost of $2000. Ive had Hondas before and have loved them for their reliability. I dont think I will be buying one again.