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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  Sought after - 2009 Honda Accord
  By DB - July 24 - 7:53 am

  The Belize blue is a head turner. I received a good price at Sept. month end and love the car. I have 6 miles on it and have had seven compliments. Proud to be the owner...so far.

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  Outstanding Premium Compact - 2006 Honda Civic
  By hyampols - July 24 - 7:20 am

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. It is refined, economical, fun to drive and great to look at. Every day this car exceeds my expectations.

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  A sweet inexpensive reliable car! - 2009 Honda Civic
  By Sweet little car! - July 24 - 6:53 am

  Ive been driving this car for over 2 months now and I just love it! The power is really good for a 4cyl and gas mileage is what I had expected, good. What I love about it is that it didnt have to break my bank to get this nice cute car where you still look good enough to go on a date with and girl doesnt call you a loser for not driving a BMW, Lexus or Mercedes. I really like the reliability of Hondas. Ive had Hondas all my life but just before this I bought a Mazda Tribute (Ford affiliated) and I can tell you that Honda is a much better built cars! I will never buy anything else other than Honda for the value!

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  Saved My Life! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Jennifer - July 23 - 4:06 pm

  I bought my 2006 Honda Civic and drove it for 2 1/2 years. LOVED it! Smooth, has great power, comfortable, perfect size. In August of 2008 I was rear ended in the fast lane of a 4-lane freeway. I was struck so hard my car flew sideways into the next lane where my drivers side door slammed into the back end of another car at a 90 degree angle. I then flew across 2 more lanes of traffic, up the embankment and into the scrub trees. I walked away with a bruised arm and a cracked rib. No whiplash, no serious broken bones. My car was totaled, but I found had retained 100% of its value! His insurance gave me exactly what Id paid for it 2 1/2 years earlier! I went out and bought a 2008 Honda Civic!

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  Love Honda - 1997 Honda Accord
  By mdgottse - July 23 - 10:00 am

  Excellent family car! Its my second Honda, and Im still in love.

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  Great Mini Ute - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By tzaharis - July 23 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is very functional, with a great use of space. Also, you cant beat the reliability and re-sale value.

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  Perfect for Grandpa and Grandma! - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By hausfrau - July 23 - 7:39 am

  After being in a car accident with our 1992 Honda Accord with an 18 wheeler and lived, we were sure that the Honda was a good make of vehicle. Brother- in-law and sister sold us their 2001 Honda CR-V. We love it! My husband is 65" and has plenty of leg room. This is a spacious automobile. We have our own little entertainment center in the front seat with us, AM/FM/Cassette Tape and CD player. We have the little "bar" and the table in the back. What else could a little old retired couple ask for? It rides smooth. We dont know what it will be like in a Minnesota winter, but the brother-in-law had it for 8 Wisconsin winters, so that cant be too much worse. No more accident fears! Yay!

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  Third and Goal - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By Third Odyssey - July 23 - 12:49 am

  We are on our third Odyssey and will likely go for a fourth. The 09 Touring has great features and functionality and keeps on getting better compared to our 04 and 05. Road noise is non-existent, fuel economy is 22 city and 28 highway. The radio is well placed and logical and the nav has everything including a compass. I paid 40% off of the $42K sticker due to dealer hunger. First time I have felt good about my purchase price.

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  Awesome vehicle. - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By noone - July 22 - 6:18 pm

  Doesnt get much better than this.

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  Best Ride Ever - 2006 Honda Civic
  By CALIDRIVER - July 22 - 3:26 pm

  Im so glad my experience with my first car has been a great one. I bought the CIVIC EX with Navigation, and it was worth every penny. I love the sporty look. reving it up when intering a freeways is probebly the best part. The navigation system is a life saver.