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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  Wifes 1st honda- continued - low oil now - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By jimmyh1 - December 6 - 2:00 am

  We had the vehicle for 24,000 miles and it is running good. I did notice at about 15,000 miles before an oil change it was low on oil, not low enough for the light to come on though. I been monitoring the oil level since then wondering if it was dripping for the filter or the oil plug, but nothing. Now with 24,000+ miles I still notice I need to add a quart of oil in between oil changes. Started looking on-line to see if anyone else is starting to notice the same as myself, YES they r. Check your oil level in between changes to see if your vehicle is also consuming oil too. I had been using synthetic oil at every oil change. Im curious if other owners are noticing the consumption. Look forward

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  Uncomfortable - 2010 Honda Civic
  By Joe - December 5 - 1:13 pm

  Bought this instead of the Fit and have regretted it since. (Not sure Id like the Fit though). The headrests are the main issue and why I didnt notice at the time I went around the block, Ill never know. They push my head forward. I have adjusted the seat and headrest to be bearable. Even my mother had trouble riding in the car with me and had to lean forward in an uncomfortable manner. Ill never buy a car with a headrest like this again. Otherwise, the car is mediocre. No trip computer for an EX trim line, go figure.

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  Still runs like new - 2000 Honda Accord
  By bobh - December 5 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new, and still drive it ~80 miles RT each day to work. Just turned 254,000 miles. Original trans, exhaust, motor, etc. Had to replace wiper linkage and catalytic converter last summer. Otherwise, no significant issues.

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  Why all the negative comments? - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By happyhondaowner - December 4 - 2:00 am

  The 2003 Odyssey EX-L we purchased new about 8 years ago has been a very good, reliable and enjoyable car. I read on the post about all transmission and door problems, etc. but we have not experienced those problems. We drive about 12k miles/year. Im not saying were lucky... I think we take care of our car with maintenance, with not driving it hard, etc. This was our first Honda and we dont have anything bad to say about it. Its plenty spacious for the family and all the trips and things we take with us. My 2 cents. its a great car , but if you get a lemon, youll have a sour taste in your mouth - (we must have got the cherry)!

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  Very disappointed in Honda - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Mike - December 4 - 2:00 am

  I originally liked the idea of a cooler looking sportier Prius not made by Toyota, but buying the Insight was a very bad decision. Sure, it was fairly easy to exceed the fuel economy ratings, but in return you get a very insubstantial car and in many ways a poorly designed car. Many things on this car had me wondering if anybody at Honda even tested it for more than an afternoon. It got to the point to where the battery would recalibrate and die unpredictably, leaving you wondering if you had enough power to pull out into traffic. I found the drivetrain very jerky and unrefined, especially when starting and stopping, and it often felt as though the wheels were driven by a rubber band.

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  Transmission - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Red King - December 4 - 2:00 am

  Made it to 126K, the transmission started slipping and a few months later thats all she wrote. The lights began to flash (engine, maint, and the D). Brought it to an honest transmission repair shop and he told me it was JUNK. $2000. to $2500. to rebuild it, 6 weeks before replaced timing belt, balance belt, water pump, sway bar bushing, plugs, transmission seal between engine $$$. Was a 3 Honda family not again. Thanks Honda

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  Best car Ive ever owned! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Dr. Blob - December 4 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the car used in 1/05 w. 16,500 miles. Car now has 108,000+. Rides and runs like it was brand new! Nothing but regular maintenance (5000 miles oil changes, trans and radiator every other year, 100,000 mile total makeover etc). I am still using the original rear brakes (the last year for the old drum style -very durable). 5 speed manual is still smooth - original clutch - no slippage or chattering. Approximately 30 mpg - mixed driving - regular gas. Everything still works - very comfortable - handles like its on rails. Cant rave about it enough! Love it!

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  2011 ODYSSEY - 2011 Honda Odyssey
  By Duggg - December 4 - 2:00 am

  This is our 1st minivan and we bought this over a Honda Pilot because it was more sensible for our growing family. We compared the 2011 Sienna and Odyssey. The Odyssey won due to the ease of the folding rear seats and my wife liked the looks and drive better. I have only two complaints, the driver seat doesnt go back far enough (Im 62)and the middle row of seats CANNOT be arranged to have the two bigger seats side by side with the smaller center seat removed for easier access to the rear. Great van otherwise, very happy.

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  Best Honda yet - 2010 Honda Accord
  By fnc119 - December 4 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car for 6 months and taken on several long trips. The performance is outstanding, the car is comfortable and the MPG is as advertised. Have performed the routine maintenance and expect to keep the car for years. My son-in-law liked mine so much he bought one too and feels the same as I do.

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  Bye Bye Honda - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Rob - December 4 - 2:00 am

  For the last 12 years every car I bought was a honda product. That would be 5 cars, most higher end. I bought a 2009 accord, new with a V6 and everything but Nav. I needed a valve job (4 of 6 were toast) after 8 k. The car was never the same, poor power, power fuel economy.I was concerned,the dealer said they would stand behind it. the transmission started making noise and the brakes went early.Honda claimed nothing was wrong. Brakes went early & basically honda would not stand behind product. They strung me along till i was passed lemon law miles and then said good bye. I feel this car was about what i would expect from ford for $10 k less. Honda lost me.