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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  My experiences over five years - 2003 Honda Element
  By JoeB - July 28 - 9:19 am

  I have a 2003 AWD Element, bought new in 03. In my rural real estate practice, I go absolutely everywhere, and in all kind of conditions. (The Pittsburgh end of Pennsylvania is very hilly!). I have taken it through farmer fields in knee-to-waist-high grass and weeds in showing land. I also have five years experience in all kinds of winter weather, often driving on ice and up to ten inches or so of snow. (The experiences I could tell you!). I usually use an aggressive tread all- weather tire in the winter, or sometimes a mud & snow. I dont particularly overload my Element with heavy "stuff" in the rear, although I do keep lots of real estate stuff back there (for fixing "for sale" signs).

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  the new lexus - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By andi - July 28 - 6:20 am

  I traded in my 2004 CRV for the new updated model. I love the new design of the outside and inside of the car. The only two things I do not like is the rear visibility (for short people) and the missing cup holder in the dash, otherwise it handles much more like a luxury car, quiet, responsive, much more power and the look and feel of a much more expensive car.

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  Great people and cargo hauler - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Alex - July 28 - 12:23 am

  After 3 years and 25k miles, I havent had to change a thing, not even the windshield wiper rubber! It lives up to the Honda reputation. Ample room and flexible seat arrangements allows you to carry big or long items, saving the cost of buying a truck. Its headroom is larger than most SUV and midsize cars.

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  I like it - 2007 Honda Accord
  By gt - July 27 - 11:19 pm

  Bought 2nd hand with 15k miles for a second auto... Surprised me.. Now my regular car... Fun to drive... Totally reliable.. Very quick... Great handling.. Ave gas mileage 22 city 29 hwy with ac and I do push it a bit... Hated the velour seats.. Always covered with dog hair so I put in leather.. Huge help.. I consider this to be an underrated really excellent auto ... Get one.

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  07 CRV LX AWD - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Teresa - July 27 - 11:03 pm

  This is my 4th Honda and I am not disappointed. I love the vehicle. The drive is smooth. The interior design is simple, functional and comfortable - lots of room.

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  Mini Minivan - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Wow! - July 27 - 7:24 pm

  If you are looking for a small car with great gas mileage, lots of interior room, look no further this is it! From the outside the car looks tiny but the room inside is amazing - like a mini minivan.

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  Always a Honda - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Parish - July 27 - 12:26 pm

  With the exception of a "between cars car" I have always driven an Accord and the newest model is yet another example of why this is one of the top 3 selling cars in America. Design, quality, reliability - all top notch. Very smooth ride that will run forever at a price most families can afford.

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  New Honda Civic Si - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Joe - July 27 - 11:40 am

  A lot of fun to drive - she moves quick in traffic.

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  great compact suv - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By gerry34plant - July 27 - 9:00 am

  this is my first suv and first japanese auto. its a great compact suv. wonderful outside view, easy to drive and park. holds large items in back. i added a few extras that i believe are worth the dollars. a cargo cover, cargo mat amd wheel locks. everything else is included in the purchase price. one item that should be changed is a variable wiper that gives more speed control.

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  Pretty much a great little car - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By CMW - July 27 - 8:07 am

  I am happy I purchased this car because I love the way it looks and drives. Very practical. Lots of compliments from retirees. Car looks like it costs a lot more than it does.