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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  Different -- and Im learning to like it - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By syracuse_jeff - March 26 - 5:23 am

  My wife really likes her 2013 CR-V, so the 2015 was on my short list when my ancient Saturn died. The biggest concern was the new CVT transmission, but after driving it for the better part of a month Ive pretty much gotten used to it. It certainly has a different feel, and for someone who has driven manual transmissions for 40 years, the mild vibration I get at low speeds reminds me of the "lugging" that would usually prompt me to downshift. But it didnt take long for me to get used to it, and now I hardly notice it. The car itself has been absolutely flawless; no problems whatsoever. Handling is even better than my wifes 2013.

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  Like my hybrid civic but waiting for mpg - 2008 Honda Civic
  By TEXAS LADY - March 26 - 3:53 am

  Our Civic started out averaging 34 mpg. It increased to a max of 43.4. Now it is down to about 35. We mostly drive in a semi-city situation, and we are not quick start and stop people, we drive conservatively. I am not excited about the 40-45 mpg claims at this point since we have yet to see that on a regular basis. Otherwise, we really like the little car.

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  A leader in the suv market - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By James - March 25 - 7:04 pm

  Shop around you can get a great deal if u look

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  First Time Honda Buyer - 2007 Honda Accord
  By windancer - March 25 - 4:13 pm

  For the middle of the road for features, the SE brings a lot to the table for a reasonable cost. The ride is a little stiffer than other models, but the sport 17in 50series tires take some of the blame, but pay back dividends in cornering.

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  Wonderful car, nice experience - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By KCBUYER - March 25 - 10:13 am

  I have been driving my CR-V LX AWD for 2 months, the performance is really wonderful, but a little bit more power would be perfect, I am very nervous when passing over or merging on the highway.

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  X-gens move over...this ones an adult! - 2003 Honda Element
  By EdCT-NY - March 25 - 10:00 am

  I do 600 miles weekly. We own a 2003 Odessey and love it, so I gave Hondas a look. The Element or CRV was an imediate consideration for my needs: AWD for northeast driving, flexibility, utility, and comfort. The Element came up convincing and for a change, a Honda with competative pricing due initial soft sales! I bought the EX AWD for $300 over invoice. At 7000 miles and everyday variable use, the car is working out really well! Gas mileage is right on the estimates.

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  I ABSOLUTELY love this truck!!! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By heathers CR-V - March 25 - 10:00 am

  The look of this truck brought me into test it out, the Honda reliability is what stood out. I absolutely love this truck.....it was definitely a good decision. I couldnt be happier.

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  DISAPPOINTED - NOT A TOYOTA - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By WLS - March 25 - 10:00 am

  DEAD SPOT IN THE TORQUE AT CRUISING SPEED. IRRITATING SHIFT AT CRUISING SPEED FOR ANY ACCELERATION. SHORT LEFT LEG POSITION. FRONT SEAT BACKS NOT COMFORTABLE AT SHOULDER BLADE HEIGHT IN CENTER. REAR SEAT TOO SMALL FOR ANYONE BUT A SMALL KID. RADIO/TAPE CONTROLS NOT FRIENDLY. WELL BUILT, SAFE, STABLE, GOOD RIDE AND QUIET FOR AN SUV.

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  Its a great family van - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Afan - March 25 - 10:00 am

  The odyssey is a real quality vehicle that affords all the options you can imagine.

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  GREAT car - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Atreides096 - March 25 - 10:00 am

  One of the most comfortable and quietest cars Ive ever driven. Not necessarily a lot of "fun" (compared to something like a 350Z, or at higher ends, a Porche) but extremely enjoyable.