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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  Accord Hybrid....WOW - 2005 Honda Accord
  By RJ - February 12 - 3:20 pm

  This is the best car I have ever had the pleasure of driving. You get great performance (255 HP) with luxury and outstanding gas mileage. The quality of the car is amazing. Everything about the car feels awesome. I feel like Im driving a Porsche. The reliability of Honda puts my mind at ease. I highly recommend this car. Having my cell phone charging in my center armrest while out of view is very cool.

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  Awesome first car! - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Alex - February 12 - 10:27 am

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  Awesome first car! - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Alex - February 12 - 10:27 am

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  I love my second Honda - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By annapalooza - February 12 - 7:53 am

  My CR-V SE is my second Honda vehicle. I have known that I wanted an CR-V for over two years. But even I was surprised at how absolutely delightful the 2005 is. One should not feel this way about an inanimate object. Oh, there are one or two little things I would change ... slightly wider arm rests; gradient intermittent windshield wipers; standard transmission not available... But the good stuff outweighs these little things, and there is a lot of good stuff! A great driving experience. I expect to have it a long time.

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  noisy - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By mossy - February 12 - 2:26 am

  Has been in shop twice for whistle noise and still makes the "Honda Whistle" at moderate speeds. Tire noise on some roads extremely loud.

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  good - 2003 Honda Accord
  By tony lopez - February 11 - 6:40 am

  the car drives very nice, very smooth. it has alot or power and very good on gas.

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  A fun, zippy ride.... - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Mothers taxi - February 11 - 4:53 am

  Purchased this car for around town driving for the family, and am very pleased with not only the way it handles and its ability to fit into tight spots, but also its fuel economy as well as its nimble acceleration.The visibility is especially good on all sides, owing to large windows and windshield. Sitting up higher than regular cars also provides a better sight line. The interior design makes for comfortable driving, but I would not plan a long drive (6 hours +) in this car. All in all, a good family car with room for extra gear in both the back and on the optional roof rack

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  watch the wipers. - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By KPM - February 10 - 3:00 pm

  This car is all utility. Its a bumpy ride for the passengers. My husband and dogs all get sick in the car. The deep hollow for the windshield wipers holds the snow and ice, and your wipers are too deep to dig out! They get frozen in there. They ought to do a safety recall!

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  Always a Honda - 1998 Honda Accord
  By ace - February 10 - 10:00 am

  Have never had a problem with a Honda. I have had four.

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  Greatest Car To Buy - 1998 Honda Civic
  By jdm-man - February 10 - 10:00 am

  What an excellent car. 40mpg, plenty of room, performs excellently, no power accesories, very stylish, and most importantly extremely modifiable.