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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  Love this van! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By TMCMT - August 24 - 12:18 pm

  We bought this car for our 2 kids & 2 large dogs. It has fit everyone and everything (e.g. drywall, twin mattresses.) Weve kept it maintained with oil changes, brakes, 1 new battery, and tires every 60K miles. The only issue was a fuel pump replacement, but was under warranty. We drive 22K mpy and have 120K miles and I plan to keep it for another 100K. Our previous car was a Ford Exploder. DO NOT PLACE GOODYEAR TIRES on this car. Stay with the regular Michelin for a smoother more fuel efficient ride. Added rear view circle mirrors for viewing blind spots. Minor paint chipping, molding deteriorating and plastic covers/hooks breaking but expected with age, wear and tear. Id buy another Honda.

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  Great economy - 2006 Honda Civic
  By yolie - August 24 - 11:03 am

  I travel 80 miles a day to work and this car gets very good gas mileage of 40 to 48 mpg. I am also able to use the car pool lane which is great advantage and time saver.

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  Update of Previous Review - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Warren H. - August 24 - 10:40 am

  Weve taken our son 400 miles each way to college this last week. The MPG was 28.5, ride was Okay at best (Im 61") the seats are not designed for the long haul. However, because we were trying to make time on our trip I was driving an average speed of 80 pushing 90 on occasion. THIS cars suspension is that of one much more expensive. Weaving in an out of traffic the handling was beeee U Teee full... It was almost as though the car wanted to be driven hard. On the downside. YOU CANNOT move a kid into a dorm in this car. No room at all for 4 passengers and cargo. 3 passengers maybe if you fold down the rear seat. The engine is buzzy at 80+ but you ignore it after a while. Still in Love. 0)

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  Outstanding Vehicle - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Susan - August 24 - 7:43 am

  I bought my 2004 Accord new off the showroom floor. I initially bought it because of the fuel economy and maintenance history but I love driving this car. It handles great and is very low maintenance. It now has 105,000 miles on it and I still love it. The only unexpected issue I had was a headlight replacement which was relatively inexpensive. Every time I take it in for service, the service technicians try to sell me a new one because they have such a demand for used Accords. My 64" husband doesnt like it because he doesnt fit well in the passenger seat, but he rarely drives it.

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  Great choice - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By RRS - August 23 - 11:50 pm

  I did a lot of research before picking the CR-V. The interior is quite clean, spacious and comfortable. It handles great, and the power is reasonable. While I am not in love with the exterior appearance, I am very happy with my choice. The CR-V feels like it is very well made. I recommend the "door visors" as an accessory.

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  2009 Fit Sport W/Nav - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Stacz - August 23 - 9:53 pm

  This was a replacement for my 99 Blazer (Cash/Clunkers), after 3 weeks I am happy with my Fit. It is much roomier on the inside then it appears from the outside. The ride is very comfortable. It handles well, even in the rain. I am not getting great mileage, but at 24 MPG it is more than double then that of my Blazer. I got the Sport because the base model was a little too bare bones. The added features remote entry, cruise control, etc are worth it. Warning: Do not lose your keys. I wanted an extra key and found it cost over $100 for just a key w/no remote, something do to w/programming the key. I got one for under $10, but it only opens the doors, it will not start the engine.

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  3 year owner - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By regor - August 23 - 10:18 am

  This vehicle has exceeded all my expectations. Exactly what I needed to bridge the SUV, to truck market. Meets both expectations providing you are not going to try to pull a house. Mileage on road has reached 23, in town especially in winter maybe 16. Mileage on vehicle 45000, no problems, no signs of problems and love the truck. The below bed trunk can easily store three large coolers, and nice to see the spare out of the weather. Rear seat compartment borders on monstrous. Can store three fairly large toolboxes under the seat along with a four foot level. If you are looking for a small truck, that drives like a car with great traction in snow, this is the vehicle.

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  luv to drive - 2005 Honda Civic
  By h - August 23 - 7:40 am

  this is the best value in an economical sporty car. great styling, gas mileage & handling. Very fun to drive, easy to manuver... another great gem put out by Honda... the Civic SI is second to none.

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  Roomy Ride - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By J. L. Butler - August 22 - 11:10 pm

  Im enjoying my new CRV SE after upsizing from a ten year old Honda Fit. The CRV is much more roomy than other cars in its class. The similar sized Ford and Toyota seem quite claustrophobic in comparison. I am also impressed with the cargo space in the CRV. I was able to haul a small love seat in the back of the car with plenty of room to spare. The back seats are easy to lower, even for a woman over 55. The CRV is a good height - no climbing up or stooping down to get into the drivers seat. The front seats are a little shallow for tall drivers, but there is plenty of leg room. The car is very responsive and has great brakes. After driving a tiny Fit, Im still getting used to a larger car, but the back-up camera is a big help. Bluetooth, Audio and Aux systems work well. Im counting on Honda dependability.

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  Fun and economical - 2004 Honda Element
  By Julia King - August 22 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun SUV -from the styling to the performance. We call it our baby Hummer and laugh because it gets more than 5 miles to the gallon. Its amazing the pep this SUV has with a 4 clylinder motor.