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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  Said goodbye to my MINI - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By MFH - July 14 - 2:49 pm

  It was tough, but I was ready to say goodbye to the modified MINI Cooper S thats been my pride and joy since 2002. Weve owned other Hondas and every one has been bullet proof. We chose another Honda because of our positive experiences with our local dealer and service department and because our Civic and previous Accord have never required any service other than routine maintenance (affordable even after the warranty has expired). Im really enjoying the quiet smooth ride that the CR-V provides. I got black w/ ivory interior, looks sharp.

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  Would do it all over again! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Steve - July 14 - 2:08 pm

  Thought you may be interested in a review from someone who has owned this car for 6 yrs. Just turned 204,000 miles. Only problem was the radio that was replaced by Honda. Replaced the alternator at 190,000 miles. Other than that, just normal maintenance. Lots of highway driving, getting 30 to 32 mpg. Brakes last far longer than any other car Ive owned. Cant believe the car still runs so well. I keep asking my service man (independent) when the car might die and he keeps saying not anytime soon. The 4 cylinder doesnt have the initial burst that you would like, but the low cost of maintenence and the reliability more than make up for it. Would highly recommend this car.

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  Great First Car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By WSUguy - July 14 - 9:28 am

  We bought my civic a year used from friends who were moving on to a Prius. It was a great first car, everything just worked. I never had a problem outside of a flat tire. I only filled it up once or twice a month, and with its 12 gallon tank that was really amazing. It has a really fun ride and did a great job getting me through high school. My sister is now driving it, and there still is yet to be a mechanical issue!

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  a real thoroughbred - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By dykhuis - July 14 - 3:46 am

  fun to drive, lots of power, all features are easy to use: radio, cd, navigation. Lots of cargo capacity, tight steering radius, easy to park.

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  THE BEST - 2002 Honda Accord
  By drewali - July 13 - 6:50 pm

  I OWN A 1998 AND LOVE IT SO MUCH THAT I CANNOT THINK OF ANY MAKE 2002 TO BUY THAT IS BETTER.THE VALUE,RESALE VALUE,QUALITY,RIDE,ERGONOMICS, GAS MILEAGE,HANDLING,COMFORT ARE SIMPLY PERFECT.IF YOU BUY THIS CAR YOU WILL LOVE IT AND NEVER BUY DOMESTIC AGAIN GUARANTEED!THIS CAR CAN GIVE ANY CAR IN ANY CLASS A MAJOR RUN FOR THE MONEY.THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ACCORD AND AMERICAN PRODUCTS IS NIGHT AND DAY.THE FEW DOLLARS PAID UP FRONT EQUATES TO LESS HEADACHES AND LESS OVERALL COST IN THE LONG RUN.

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  Great Mileage and Affordable - 2009 Honda Civic
  By EVM - July 13 - 3:20 pm

  I was looking for the best high mileage sedan out there and I think I found it. A fun, responsive drive. So far averaging about 41 MPG, but most recent fill up averaged 43.7 MPG. Back seat is a bit tight but it fits my two children just fine. Very stylish -- I did not like the egg-like body of the Prius. Even with the hybrid battery, I think the luggage space is more than adequate.

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  2005 Honda 4-door sedan - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Laurie C. - July 13 - 4:26 am

  I have been in 3 crashes since I purched this car in March of 2005. Though slighly injuring my neck and upper shoulder areas, I escaped with no serious injuries. It is the safest small sedan on the market today IMHO. I generally get 35-40 mpg. July 27, 2006, I just turned over 10,000 mi. It is better than the 2 Accords I previously owned. I am very satisfied with my decision.

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  The best 2 door coupe - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Joe - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I fell in love with the Special Edition when it first came out. I found that dealers are not too willing to play with the price because it is a SE. I shopped around and ended up getting $2000 off the sticker price. The car is so much fun to drive. It is my first new car, and I have no regrets. Excellent on gas and a very sporty appearance. The car handles great around corners and just driving it period. I got mine in Rallye Red. It sure draws a lot of attention. The Special Edition features are great. An incredible sound system, and unique alloy wheels. The sun roof is a great feature on sunny days. It is worth the money!!! Over all it is an amazing car for the money.

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  2006 Honda Accord LX Special Edition - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Tina - July 11 - 9:21 pm

  I really like this car, the special edition is the way to go with the alloy wheels and 6 disc cd changer and audio controls on the steering wheel this car is quite a deal. It drives well especially on highways and accelerates quickly without being overpowering. It is very sporty. I had a choice between this car and the 2006 Camry and I am very happy with my choice the Camry made me feel older and it was boring. I will never buy anything other than Honda and Acura.

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  One of the best cars that Ive ever owned! - 2007 Honda Accord
  By TS1988 - July 11 - 8:40 pm

  I recently decided to part ways with my 2007 Honda Accord and trade it in for a new Kia after 5 years of ownership and it has been one of the best cars that I have ever owned. In five years time, the only major things that Ive had to do with that car are: timing belt replacement, water pump replacement, starter, and a power steering pump replacement. This car has been a truly reliable vehicle and extremely well built and Im extremely impressed by the reliability.