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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  Very happy - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Chris - March 20 - 6:50 am

  This is my first Honda car. I got tired of driving my family boat (Dodge Intrepid) and wanted to get back to something fun yet reliable and economical. I have two kids (6 & 10) and had reservations about getting a coupe, but its just so much fun and its really been no hassle getting them in and out of it. I had also considered a Mazda3 S. While this car doesnt have quite the performance as the 3, its much more comfortable and less expensive to maintain. I take a lot of long business trips (200-350 miles), and it is excellent! The radio kicks and I put my entire cd collection on just a few MP3 cds. The interior fabric is very nice and everything works flawlessly. I am very happy.

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  Design flaw in the doors - 2015 Honda Accord
  By Linda - March 20 - 6:38 am

  This is my third Accord. I cant say enough good about my 1997 and my 2007. I like my 2015 well enough, but I feel like some quality was sacrificed, maybe in exchange for the upgraded technology. Most notably, there is a design flaw in the doors. Whether I run my car thru the car wash, or use the do-it-yourself spray wand, soap and water collects under the bottom seal. After every wash, I have to open all the doors and wipe residual soap and water from the door jams and seals. Its like Honda wants the car to rust. My prior Accords paint held up really well. My new cars finish is already looking cloudy on the doors and fenders.

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  Without question, the best midsize car. - 2006 Honda Accord
  By daavo - March 19 - 9:16 pm

  My experience with this car has been superb.The only other car that I looked at was the 07 Camry. The Accord just seems nicer all around. The ride and handling tradeoff is excellent. The iVtec four is super smooth and has plenty of power even with the auto. I love the LED tail lights and the new front end, very classy. The seats are very comfortable for long drives. I have to drive employees around town and they all comment on how nice it is. The car is very addictive to drive. I find myself driving it just to drive it and wishing my commute was longer. It is always a pleasure to get in and drive this car. I always look forward to it. Nice looking (black with beige interior).

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  The best bang for your buck - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Schatze57 - March 19 - 7:00 pm

  This car is FUN to drive! Mileage is fantastic, averaging 45mpg. Love the crank windows, as my previous Camrys were always shorting out. Stereo is so- so but it plays music. Upside is the volume will only go so high so theres no danger of blowing out your speakers. Car hugs the road beautifully. Honda reputation is what convinced me to buy. Now my family owns three Civics

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  Hi performance sleeper - 2005 Honda Accord
  By JIMBO - March 19 - 1:43 pm

  The new body style in 2003 finally allowed me to own one. At 64" and 290 lbs i could never fit before. Now i can. I find this car to be a great long distance commuter. I do 90 miles per day and its combination of performance, ride, and fuel economy never leave me wanting. It could use a little more rubber but other than that hard to complain. Highly recommend!

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  Extremely happy in an Extreme ride! - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Kathy Pearce - March 19 - 11:06 am

  Probably the best car on the market in the price range. More comfortable than the Corolla I had before, by far.

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  Extremely happy in an Extreme ride! - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Kathy Pearce - March 19 - 11:06 am

  Probably the best car on the market in the price range. More comfortable than the Corolla I had before, by far.

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  98 Accord EX Sedan - 1998 Honda Accord
  By ricepilof - March 18 - 10:00 am

  Excellent car, I havent had any problems with this car, highly recommended.

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  Awesome - 2003 Honda Element
  By Cortinlot - March 18 - 10:00 am

  I have owned the Element for a few months now and it is the best investment I have ever made. While I am a teenager, I find it a very good car and the looks even grow on you

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  SLIVER SPACE SHIP - 2003 Honda Element
  By Fubwit4949 - March 18 - 10:00 am

  My husband came home last night with the sliver space ship. He got rid of his Buick Rendevous. I pulled up and was loike this is so so cool. What a neat ride!