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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  What a move fro a low riding sports car to an SUV - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Stephanie M - December 2 - 8:37 am

  I had owned a sports car for almost 10 years but as my 66th birthday loomed it was getting harder and harder to get out without difficulty. My son, who is an avid Honda fan and owner, had done his homework and highly recommended this model for me. It was love at first ride....so much easier to get in & out of and I was surprised that, even though it was beefier than my Mazda, it takes up less space in my garage. New rides always take a while to get used to but so far Im enjoying every moment. My small dog always loved to stand between the seats with her front feet on the console. Now she feels like a queen so high up. I was worried about her scratching the leather console but a neoprene sleeve fits perfect over the lid. Looking forward to many adventures in my new HR-V

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  Dont buy base on reviews - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Earl Chanley - December 2 - 6:25 am

  Went over reviews on several makes and based on reviews, purchased a Honda Accord. (1) Start off dealer support is non-existent, car was recalled several times and getting in to the dealer or getting any thing done is not worth the hassel. Dealers think they are there just to sell you a car. (2) Car is nosiey, can not hear the radio on the road. (3) Fit and finish is bad, the leather interior has bubbles and torn is several areas, rubber front window molding has melted and no longer seals, not even talking about the front headlights covers. (4) Front cup holder is under the armrest and useless. (5) I have been driving for 50 years and this was the first cat that had the back brakes replaced before the front, Honda recalled but was useless in getting reimbursed (less than 30,000 miles). (6) Gas mileage is acceptable but no where near what was posted on sticker. (7) I have driven this car for ten years and is ok for a daily driver but I will not buy another Honda again.

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  Civic Hybrid is a Winner !!! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Larry S.S. - December 2 - 12:03 am

  I love my Civic Hybrid. I am getting 47 MPG in mostly city driving. I commute about 20 minutes one way, all city streets, and it does great. Had it in Texas over the Holidays and it started without a problem at 15 degrees F, completely ignoring the cold. Good lights, great seats (easy to clean), good low end torque (can squeal the tires at startup). All in all, the Hybrid does everything any other Civic can do, just better (except for hot rodding.)

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  When U Buy a Honda V6, kick ass! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By bill tulbert - December 1 - 3:27 pm

  Honda is an Engine builder! Better engines than any I have ever owned..If only they could "better isolate the cabin", they would exceed Lexus and Mercedes for "the total car"...

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  Nice car, missing mini-extras - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Kathy - December 1 - 3:06 pm

  I traded in my 2004 Lincoln LS for this car and waited two months before writing this review to be fair. This car has a little better mileage than my LS and not require premium gas like my LS. Missing some of the little things that would make this car really special.

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  Honda Accord 06 - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Mark Moye - November 30 - 1:25 pm

  Great car. Good on gas. Bought it at 92,000 miles. Have 125,000 miles on it now and just replaced the timing belt and fan belt. Should get another 90,000 miles out of it. I deliver pizzas in it and it is excellent on gas. Synthetic oil only i use every 4,000 miles. Great car!!!

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  Dont Believe the Hype - 2004 Honda Element
  By Element Owners - November 30 - 10:00 am

  No matter what everyone says, dont hose this one out. We did, as indicated on a number of web sites and a $566 repair bill resulted. Honda will not pay for the repair because it was "not a manufacturing defect." The salesman told us we could hose it out, too. Honda is content to get the business from folks who want "easy clean," but when people buy the car because of this feature, they dont stand behind you.

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  funky ride - 2004 Honda Element
  By andydog - November 30 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is extremely versitle. I have taken the seats out and carried a love seat. I have taken my family of four on long trips in comfort. Last week I drove it 1,000 miles in two days and felt good afterwards. I average 23 MPG and get up to 26 MPG. The engine is smooth, the vehicle is quiet, and I can sleep in it if I want. Plus to clean it I open the doors get out the leaf blower and bhamclean car. I have been asked so many times about the car that I embarass my 16 yr. old. The car could be heavier, have an arm rest and cruise control (I had AC, and a stereo put in immediately) Overall a great vehicle you could call it an FUV, fun utility vehicle

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  Lots of room for - 2004 Honda Element
  By dkwells1029 - November 30 - 10:00 am

  My wife was crazy about this car after we drove it. We compared it to the Mazda Tribute/Ford Escape and the CRV looking for a reliable business vehicle to help me survive midwest winters on the road. Tall (62") children fit comfortably in back seats. Feels very large inside, but fits nicely everywhere. Bottom line - its functional and my teens think its cool; a moms car that doesnt look like a moms car. Super easy to find in a parking lot.

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  Great Car BUT interior is a NIGHTMARE - 2004 Honda Civic
  By TommyJohn - November 30 - 10:00 am

  My new civic is a joy to drive. Went from a gas hog Explorer to a gas saver and I am loving it. I get around 36 to 37 MPG on average. In fact I drove a total of 500 miles on vacation without having to fill up. The exterior is sleek and sporty for the class it is in. I do not have a spoiler, but think the spoiler really dresses the car up. The interior is decent but needs serious work (see improvements)!