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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  No weaknesses - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By nadcap - August 15 - 2:26 pm

  Didnt know what to expect with the CRV but I must say that we have had the car for two months, and we still say to each other "I glad we chose this one" With the dashboard mileage reading and a little creative driving staying under 60 miles per hour I was able to get 32 miles per gallon on the Highway. Although 24 to 25 is what to expect if you are not heavy footed in combined mileage. The traction control is sweet in the snow.

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  Brakes - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Ken - August 15 - 10:10 am

  I was just informed that I will need new rear brakes. The car just has 25K; they ought to go over 40K. The dealership I took the car to told me I was told that they are seeing cars needing brakes in 15K miles. My driving is mostly highway which probably accounts for the fact that I got more. I cannot imagine that Honda was unaware of this problem. Unfortunately I bought a 2009 EX-L Honda Accord before I became aware of the problem. Honda needs to correct it immediately and reimburse customers for any repairs. If they do not correct the problem, I plan on telling everyone I know about it and recommending that they not buy the car.

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  2nd CRV - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Ken - August 15 - 4:23 am

  Traded by 2000 CRV (EX) for a 2006 EX. After the first 2 weeks, and 400 miles, I am pleased with the purchase. Mileage, mostly around town, was about 22 for the first 2 fill ups. Engine response and pickup is far superior to the 2000 model. Only 2 minor complaints so far. The rear window wiper only cleans about 60% of the window and I really miss the "junk drawer" under the passenger seat in the 2000 CRV.

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  Wow! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Steve - August 15 - 2:40 am

  I am so excited to own a new accord. This car is giving me everything I want. I can even go to Home Depot and fit an eight foot piece of molding in the cabin and still shut the trunk:)

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  My Accord - 2004 Honda Accord
  By King Honda - August 15 - 12:03 am

  I love my 04 Honda Accord. The ride is heaven...

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  WOW! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By corik - August 14 - 10:30 pm

  I have owned very high end cars and I am amazed at the expectations of some of these reviewers. This Honda is so fun to drive and very reasonably priced. A 20k car is not going to drive like a 50k car. My husband and I compare it to our old BMW. Of course, it has more road noise but so did the 5 series when we tested it. We are both tall, 511 and 62" and have no problems with the seats. This is a great car for the money.

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  Good basic transportation - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Walter white - August 14 - 9:42 pm

  Always keep up with maintenance schuldule and it will give you reliable safe transportation

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  Comfort and balance - 2007 Honda Accord
  By jf - August 14 - 11:03 am

  Just received 2 weeks ago my new Honda Accord EX-L w/navi. It is my first Honda purchase after owning a Subaru Legacy. I love the light of dashboard and comfort of leather seats. The interior is amazing and the navi is so user friendly. If asked for same amount of money to choose a navi or a V6 I will opt for the Navi; it adds a dimension to traveling that a V6 will not give you (might be slower to unknown destination). Smooth drive.

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  It Grows On You - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Don - August 14 - 5:13 am

  I have owned this Accord for 7 months and overall its a very nice car. The interior is roomy, plenty of shoulder and leg room. The ride and handling are crisp with a bit of European flavor to it, though it falls just short of the total experience. The sound system is OK but tends to be shrill at times. Gas mileage has been acceptable but not particularly notable. The seats are firm, and at first I didnt care for them, but after a while I learned to appreciate that the firmness is really part of the overall ride and handling and you feel more attuned and attached to the driving experience. Acceleration is middling but OK. Smooth and almost transparent shifting. Great car for commuting.

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  07 Accord EX-L - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Dan - August 14 - 2:03 am

  Tested several cars but always went back to the Honda. Have only had it a few days, but it seems to be a winner. Leather, heated seats, auto a/c, heated mirrors, power seats, ect. The 2.4 has really good power, and mileage is 34/24. After inspecting the car at home, I was amazed at the fit, trim and paint, just perfect. Interior is very well designed with audio and cruise on steering wheel. Warranty was good but I selected the 7 year, 100,000 mile extended warranty/no deductible for only 817.00. The ride is smooth with the new Michelin Energy tires, with a 440 treadwear rating, A on traction and A on heat. The car is just a fantastic piece of work. Leg room in back is great. Buy it!