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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  Outstanding - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By wvhonda1 - December 19 - 8:31 pm

  This vehicle was thought through very well when designed. Great room for its class size. Gas mileage exceptional. I have heard a lot of negative comments about road noise. I have not experienced this road noise and feel it rides very smooth and quiet. AWD works well for normal winter and typical off road driving. Would not recommend taking it on the Rubicon trail but will hold its own on basic rough terrain. Thumbs up again Honda for a job well done.

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  Nice car to own - 2011 Honda CR-V
  By whkg - December 19 - 1:48 pm

  Before I buy CRV, I read some of negative review about this car. I had similar feeling while I test drive. 1. Not able to pick up to 60 MPH 2. Engine wind noise But after I compare some other cars, I am glad I bought the car. I found it is not bad when you pick up. And most small car has similar wind issue. For the price, value of the and build in features, I think this is a nice car to own.

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  Great car but LOW TECH!!! - 2011 Honda CR-V
  By damjadi - December 19 - 6:49 am

  Honda has some great lease deals (probably because of the low depreciation). The CRV has a car-like ride, tons of leg and head room and very comfortable seats. It is well designed and very flexible. It has an amazing turn radius and no major blindspots. The gas mileage is a little less desirable and the road noise is rather noticeable as is the idle. My biggest pet peeve is the lack of features standard in most other vehicles base models. To get bluetooth and iPod connections you have to get the EX-L with navigation, meaning an extra $3000. We got the SE for the larger, safer tire package, but the dealer stressed the upgrade to a 6 CD disc changer. Is this 1992?

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  The Best of the Bunch! - 2011 Honda Odyssey
  By eddiewannabee1 - December 18 - 1:02 pm

  Purchased a Touring Elite Odyssey about a month ago. Had a 2010 Odyssey we traded in. The 2010 was already making unwanted noises, rattles and more. The 2011 is much more quiet than previous Odysseys we owned. The stereo system is superior than all previous Honda models, if only for the wattage. The ride is as expected, comfortable and uneventful, and again noise cancellation is superior than previous Odysseys. Room is plentiful and gas mileage a little better than previous models. The technology aspect is quite remarkable. It seems they decided to include just about every which way and it shows. The looks of the van are somewhat different from the 2010 but it does look good all around.

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  6 month update - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By adansereau - December 18 - 6:28 am

  i now have nearly 5000 miles on my ex awd crv. quality, comfort, reasonable mpg ie 21-23 around town and 28 highway not to bad for awd. it is quite, handles well, and the build quality is second to none. i have had over 50 vehicles and i know a good one and this is one of the best . i have to say there is nothing that stands out that needs changing, it nearly perfect.

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  Very Reliable Economical Transportation - 1998 Honda Civic
  By exhaust_fan - December 17 - 9:12 pm

  I have had this car for about six years and have only done one repair. Replaced the windshield wiper motor. Everything else has been maintenance. I get excellent gas mileage. 34-44. Great commuter car

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  Best of the best - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By elewsader - December 17 - 7:22 pm

  *at the time of this release - this has been the definitive minivan for the market segment. I tend to pull up to intersections with multiple Odyssey in line which doesnt bother me because I can feel comfortable knowing Ive selected the best available option for my money. If you find yourself on the fence on deciding whether to go with the Sienna or the Honda which I did I have no regrets with this car. The fit an finish just far exceed all other minivans in this segment and this has been one of the few rare purchases in my life that Ive not regretted.

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  Great car! - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By bpuharic - December 17 - 10:00 am

  My goal with any car is low cost of ownership. The Honda CRV (2000) is an AMAZING value. I bought mine with 5000 miles on the odometer, and kept it for 10 years. Its transmission finally gave up the ghost at 210,000 miles. Other than shocks, routine maintenance (timing belt, water pump, tires, etc.) it needed NO repairs, not even a headlight replaced. Its not the most comfortable or stylish car but it is one of the best values in the world.

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  check your oil - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By jimmyh1 - December 17 - 7:06 am

  we owned the vehicle since Aug 09 and it has ran very good. I am concerned about the oil consumption Burning oil) Had all but an oil changed at the dealer,one at the local mechanic. Before going on longer trips, I always checked the fluids. Saw the oil was low. topped it off and then checked periodically. We have 25K miles on it now and used synthetic oil. It appears I am not the only one complaining or noticing the low oil level. check out carcomplaints.com. Going to see what the dealer has to say and have it documented. Please check you oil level also and if you are low, bring it to their attention. Perhaps with enough complaints, honda will have to do something, . (

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  Love it - 2011 Honda Pilot
  By gdog477 - December 16 - 3:11 pm

  We got the car about 1 month ago. It has been a pleasure! Its very comfortable and a big upgrade for me coming from a 04 Accord dx.