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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  Dependable - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Saba Khalid - July 31 - 12:26 am

  I bought it certified pre owned and have been enjoying the ride. Keep up with routine care and it will go much longer.The sun visors are a bit small when sun is low,should have an extender, esp for shorter drivers.

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  Love the power and ride - 2004 Honda Accord
  By 6 Speed - July 30 - 10:03 pm

  Ive had this car for over 5 years with 68K mileage. No major mechanical problems. The car radio Headunit backlight did go dead the the dealer, replaced it. This was a TSB from Honda to all dealerships. Their is some road noise but thats because the car has a lower clearance than Toyotas. The lower clearance gives honda a better handling and feel of the road where the Camry feels like you are floating going all over the road.For a V6 this car gets good gas mileage, 18-19 city and 29-30 highway. The fauk leather in the drivers seat does where down and stretch but no cracks.

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  1997 Honda Accord - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Paul - July 30 - 9:22 pm

  Simply the best car I have ever owned. Have owned Gm, Chrysler, etc and they dont compare reliability wise. Simple car, which is why they last as long as they do. 250k, tires, oil changes and brakes. Fantastic car....

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  Fun to Drive - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Carol Hughes - July 30 - 5:16 pm

  I went from a van to the Honda Pilot and is is so much more comfortable and fun to drive. It is very spacious in the interior and has many cup holders and outlets for cell phones and other electronics. Love it!

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  fun for the buck - 2003 Honda Accord
  By rich - July 30 - 3:26 pm

  Bought it with a few dings in it, but over all in great shape. Its a little four banger, but zips around town. Brakes like a champ and handles turns quite well. Very pleased with my purchase. Waiting to see how it handles in the snow and go from there.

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  The best car I ever owned - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By CingleMom - July 30 - 3:10 pm

  I only had my CR-V for a week and I love it. I traded my 2007 Dodge Caliber for it. This is one of the best decisions Ive made in a long time. The Caliber was horrible. The Honda CR-V drives like a dream. I wouldnt trade it for the world. I just hope that its good on mileage.

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  Better Than Expected... - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By NewCarGuy - July 30 - 2:29 pm

  After driving every small ute out there, I narrowed it down to the CR-V and the Forester. The wife preferred the look of the CR-V over the Forester. Since its primarily her car we went with the CR-V. I was most concerned about the lack of power (I drive an 09 Murano). However, it packs plenty of punch for her daily needs. Its amazing how spacious the interior feels on such a small frame. This is a perfect vehicle for driving around town, but I prefer the smooth ride of my Murano on a long drive. The handling is superb for an SUV, which makes it fun to drive. I was concerned about rear visibility w/o the backup camera, but its fine. Make sure you check out the Forester too.

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  Still strong after 6 years! - 2003 Honda S2000
  By Dave Lucas - July 30 - 7:06 am

  I have liked the S2000 since I first saw it, prior to the first sell. It has pleasing, timeless lines and handles quite well. In fact, when I drive other cars for short periods, then get back to the S2000 - that is when I really appreciate how it handles. True, the car is not for everyone, but that is what I tried to avoid in the first place (a vanilla car). I look forward to having this car for another 10+ years - may be get a nice paint job when it starts to show its age!

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  Love the CR V - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Erica - July 30 - 6:56 am

  We traded in our 04 Chrysler Town and Country that had 170,000 (my husband drives a lot for work)for the CR V. What a great and fun to drive truck it is! Our other car is a Volvo XC90, and while I enjoy driving it, the CR V is so easy to maneuver and park that I have virtually kidnapped th CR V from my husband. It really is a great value compact SUV for the money, not to mention the Honda reliability. This is our 3rd Honda and we couldnt be more pleased.

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  Exceeding my expectations - 2009 Honda Civic
  By dave92029 - July 30 - 1:40 am

  The build quality of the 09 LX is equal to my last C Class Mercedes and the reliability will be much better at half the price. This vehicle is a solid, comfortable, quiet fun car to drive. When I pause to think about what I paid for this wonderful car I just have to laugh. The LX is a wonderful value, while also being lots of fun to drive. Im so happy that I bought this car and wonder others pay so much more for those "high priced" brands.