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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  Unexpected Surprise - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By saa33186 - July 13 - 5:50 am

  I went from a 2007 Acura TLS.. fully expecting to have felt like I traded down, I can absolutely say, without conviction, that I love love love this car and have felt none of the letdown after having traded down from a much more expensive, higher performing vehicle. This car is fantastic and a heck of a lot cheaper than the Acura TLS.

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  Love my new Honda - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Karen Frensley - July 13 - 3:25 am

  Really helped to know what others were buying a new Honda for. Helped in negotiation and got an even better price. Took 1000 off the. Est price quoted.

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  First time Honda Owner - 2016 Honda Fit
  By Ronna - July 12 - 11:57 pm

  I purchased the 2016 Honda Fit when the front suspension needed replacing in my trusty 2003 Toyota RAV. I loved the RAV but couldnt justify the investment of an expensive repair. Budget-wise, it was not an opportune time for me to buy a new car so it was important to find an economical solution. The new RAVs were now too large for me so I needed to find something else. I wanted a car that got great ratings & reviews, good crash test scores, excellent gas mileage, has lots of cargo space & a low price tag. After researching thoroughly, the Honda Fit was the only vehicle that met all of my criteria.

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  Fun to drive but noisy and rattles - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Chris - July 11 - 9:50 pm

  Really fun to drive and handling is incredible. Now the bad, tire noise is constant except on perfect new smooth blacktop. The car has numerous rattles from several areas, but only on rough roads or over rail road tracks etc. It is tight on smooth roads. Rear brakes are making a dull hum at 16,000 miles. I would not recommend this car if you are sensitive to road noise and rattles. I would not purchase this car again but only because of the road noise and rattling issues! I plan to sell it asap to get a tight, quiet car like Honda used to build! Too bad, Honda blew it for me! And I was a big fan!

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  Getting so much from a compact car! - 2013 Honda Fit
  By Mary Griffiths - July 11 - 3:57 pm

  Clean, comfortable and cute! Very huge cargo capacity! Well finished interior! Sunny disposition!

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  215,000 miles-more! just a few dings... - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Hondas rule! - July 11 - 10:00 am

  Went over 214,000 miles...no sign of letting up! Was offered 5k last week, but until I find something as good- why part ways? Car gets dinged up more easily than others... cant get out of its own way up hills but GREAT car!!! buy 2 of them!

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  More than I expected. - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Bobrobin - July 11 - 10:00 am

  If you are looking for a compact SUV or an alternative to a family car you have to check the CR-V. I got much more than I expected. Acceleration and power are more than adequate for the vehicle. Interior space and storage areas are unmatched in its class. Styling has been much improved in the latest generation. The quality is outstanding for a $18-$19,000 vehicle. Could it use a little here and there, yes, but if your that picky, buy a Lexus or Acura. But, for us middle classers, you cant beat it. Just one thing, get the keyless entry. No power lock button on passenger door is a pain. My keyless entry is on order.

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  One Year and Still Happy - 2003 Honda Civic
  By VgHomer - July 11 - 10:00 am

  Its hard to believe its been a year since I bought the car. Still fun to drive, love to pass gas stations, A favorite at our house. First choice to use when any of our 3 drivers have errands to run.

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  Great balance - 2003 Honda Accord
  By sposton - July 11 - 10:00 am

  This car is wonderfully balanced. It has a good ride, nice handling, and a great performing 4 cylinder. On the inside, it is roomy, the seats are supportive and comfortable, it has all the features I need, and the build quality is outstanding. All of this in an $18,000 dollar package spells success in my book.

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  Family sports car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Eschins - July 11 - 10:00 am

  Fun car to drive; feeling of a sports car with the 6 cylinder engine. The safe feeling to drive your children around.