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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  Awesome - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By The Bat - June 1 - 10:00 am

  This car is awesome. It feels great to drive.

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  Second CRV and loving it! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Suezee101 - June 1 - 10:00 am

  We just traded in our 98 CRV for a new one last weekend. It was hard parting with the 98, but it was close to 100,000 miles so it was time. We looked at the Jeep Liberty and the Toyota RAV-4 but still came back to the Honda. I have always been a "Honda person" and it scares me to purchase anything thats not a Honda. Every Honda Ive had has been reliable. I love the CRV. Its just the right size for my small family and its fun to drive. The only difference this time is we traded a blue one in for a red one. I cant say enough good things about my Honda CRV.

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  My Accord EX - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Mikkos - June 1 - 10:00 am

  This is a nice car. Im really glad that I purchased it. I have the EX trim which is loaded with good features as ABS, Keyless entry, CD changer, Moonroof and side airbags. Although I do have some complaints. This vehicle has alot of sqeaks and rattles. The sunroof rattles alot when the sun shade is opened.

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  Horrible Honda - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Nomer - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Never again, what a piece of junk. The transmission went out at a little over 5000 miles. The interior lights quit working. My dash lights flicker. The ride is less than comfortable and it doesnt have the get up and go I expected. No more Hondas for me!

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  almost perfect - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Trkerjim - June 1 - 10:00 am

  My 1st honda automobile and it wont be the last. As a diehard GM owner I was very skeptical about buying one but my daughter has a 97 civic with well over 100k on it and it still runs and drives like a new car. This car has plenty of power for the average person, fun to drive, easy to maintain. the only problem Ive had was the carpet on the passengers side was loose from the trim.Ive taken fairly long trips(600- 750) and it has gotten over 35mpg at over 75 mph. Id buy another one in a heartbeat if I was in the market for a car.

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  accord - 2004 Honda Accord
  By tinkabella - June 1 - 10:00 am

  this is the most reliable and most comfortable car i have ever driven and owned.

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  Honda Accord EX/L 2004 - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Stormy777 - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Love the car couldnt be any happier. The car drives smooth and is super quiet. Comes with all the extras. Love Honda

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  Hybrid Heaven - 2007 Honda Civic
  By dochollywood - June 1 - 10:00 am

  This car is the best I have ever owned. I am getting between 55-60 mpg, seriously. I am driving around 60 mph and try to coast as much as possible, especially down hill. This car handles great and is really fun to drive. Much better than the Prius if you ask me, and I have driven them both.

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  2013 sport - 2013 Honda Accord
  By cowbells - June 1 - 9:10 am

  Bought a new accord sport 2 weeks ago. Very nice car,Dealer really started nogh.price when i told them i was buying that day,but was going to a different dealer in another town. Got mine for 22,200 sticker was around 25,000 +i got mud guards,wheel locks,and trunk mat. that they think r worth 600.00. for what i can afford i really like the car. First time i drove it i thought the tach. was broken it hardley moves with the CVT trans.on a nornal take off. Great miles p.g. first day drove 300 miles @80 mph and got 37 mpg with only 20 miles on it when i started. Getting 26 aro und town. Dealer says its fast, but i havn,t seen that yet, but haventried keeping RPMS up till its broken in.

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  Love the car - will only buy Honda/Acura - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By HondaOwner4Life - May 31 - 10:13 pm

  Great SUV! Traded in a 2001 CL type S for the Pilot. Plenty of room, great ergonomics, fun to drive. Has plenty of storage areas, and the dash is easy on the eyes. Not cluttered like other cars. Would reccomend this car to anyone!