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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  Nice Ride - 2010 Honda Accord
  By Matt_Landers - November 14 - 2:00 am

  As the title suggests, the Honda Accord Coupe EX-L V6 is a NICE ride. The 271 HP moves out strong and leaves you with a feeling of confidence when maneuvering on HWY roads. The front fascia has an aggressive presence and while the rear fascia isnt any eye catcher is compliments the car nicely. The leather seating inside is comfortable, however Im sure some will disagree. Handling is firm and sporty.

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  Best Car Ive ever owned - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Brian - November 13 - 2:00 am

  Bought it with 70,000 and currently has 227,000 replaced 1 half axle, 1 battery, upper bushing on front. 34 mpg on highway w/ cruise combined around 28 mpg. At one point at about 110,000 it would just shut off as if I turned the key off but would catch in gear again b/c of it being a 5 speed standard. I called Honda and they told me that it had been recalled for bad ignition switch. Made an appt at the local dealer. Honda replaced everything. igniton switch, points, plugs, cap, wires and even an oil change at NO COST.. Now thats SERVICE! In fact I just bought my wife a 2004 Accord EX.

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  Not for everyone - 2010 Honda Element
  By Pudde - November 13 - 2:00 am

  If you need a great little car for commuting then this is the one! I wasnt the target type for this car but its ended up being just right for me. The various cargo arrangements are great! Mpg is over 25 for light city driving (4.9 miles to work for me) and always nice to have the awd on hand.

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  Really, really good, but not great. - 2010 Honda Odyssey
  By HondaNgermany - November 13 - 2:00 am

  Expecting a 3rd child, we knew exactly what we were going to get. Honda is the most reliable motor company out there and are long-trusted in my family. We were so impressed by the build quality. Its like they gathered all the moms of the world and asked them what they wanted in a van and then met ALL demands. I have only two complaints. This car is a Jekyll and Hyde van. In the dry weather, it drives great! But give it some rain and it becomes a monster. The variable cylinder control system SNAPS on and off creating a wrestling match with the stability control system and causes the van to rock side-to-side. Not a good thing on a sick, wet road. The other issue are the brakes (see below).

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  At 9000 miles - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By ChuckfromLI - November 13 - 2:00 am

  Gas mileage has improved tremendously since the engine is broken in. Currently getting over 22 MPG in crowded suburban driving, up from 18 or so. Still very, very happy with the car. No problems, comfortable in the front and rear.

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  First Honda of Many? - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By sw44057 - November 13 - 2:00 am

  Bought this CR-V a few weeks ago at the urging of my wife. Was surprised by the room inside the cabin. Very open design. Wish it had a V6 available but the four seems to do just fine, youre certainly not going to blow by people on the road.

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  Dont Understand Why all the Drama - 2011 Honda Pilot
  By Mr. Andy - November 13 - 2:00 am

  Purchased vehicle brand new. Drives quietly, smooth and very comfortable. Im 62" and fit very well in the driver & Passenger seat. Havent tested full fuel range but Im sure I can get a good 375 miles from a full tank. Many complaints about comfort, Fuel economy, gadgets. Perhaps if one test drove the vehicle first, they would see these faults and move on to something else. As far as Fuel, I didnt pick an SUV because I wanted Fuel economy, I picked it because it felt strong. If you want better gas mileage DONT BUY AN SUV. Get a Camry or an Accord Duh. No problems with braking I dont tailgate or expect to be still doing 60 mph in heavy traffic. Im lovin my Honda.

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  Could Do Better - 2009 Honda Accord
  By CGS - November 13 - 2:00 am

  We picked the Honda because it was the least expensive car that gave us all of the features we wanted (standard, good size, leather, sun roof, good gas mileage, etc). I find it was more than a compromise for me and will look longer the next go around. Im 56 and although my mind likes the idea of a standard, theres a reason 94% of cars nowadays are automatics (smile). I have a squeak in the steering column that annoying and my key fob is failing (all with very little use). The greatest drawback though is that the Accord is a lot noisier at highway speeds than it should be. I have six cars. This is the newest. And the noisiest. That shouldnt be in this day and age.

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  My favorite Honda to date - 2008 Honda Accord
  By SatisfiedAccordOwner - November 13 - 2:00 am

  I have 25,000 miles on it. I did just have the rear brake pads replaced and the rotors resurfaced, which 50% will be reimbursed by the class action suit. Other than that, no problems. Plenty of power with the V6, no issues with V6. Road noise isnt any more than when I test drove it (and is not bad). Seats are not any less comfortable than when I test drove it (and are not bad). Radio controls are not any more confusing now than when I test drove it. Materials in dashboard are not any cheaper looking now than when I test drove it.

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  Love my car - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Loyal Honda customer - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I love my 2001 Accord vp! It has over 185k miles and continues to be reliable! I have had to replace many parts, but this is mostly due to normal wear and tear. Belts wear, seals leak. But that happens to any well used car. My engine and transmission are mechanically sound! I just bought a second Accord, because I was ready for new car with more features ( ex-l) and so dont want to sell my old one because I love it!