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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  Honda does it again! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Jack D. - March 16 - 7:43 am

  I wanted an 08 Accord but in light of current fuel prices, decided on the Civic. I wanted the EX, but after driving the EX and LX, decided there wasnt enough difference between em to justify the price variance. This is my 3rd Honda and I am very pleased with the quality that goes into them. My 91 Accord had 326k original miles on the clock when I sold it to a co- worker for $1,800!! Looked great, ran like new. I will agree with prior comments re: the road noise, it is a bit much on rough pavement. On freshly paved roads, though, its quiet as a tomb. This has a lot to do with the Goodyear Eagle RSA tires. When they wear out, Ill install comparable Michelins, which are quieter.

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  Your dreams DO come true - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Patti - March 16 - 2:33 am

  This car is just unbelievable! Ive had 8 cars in the last 10 years and this car is just a dream! It steers like a compact car allowing u turns with ease. It speeds up to allow you to get in the fast lane without making others slow down for you. I mean its just sooo awesome. It rides QUIET and smooth. It is built with creation and safety in mind and it shows. Dont let the odd location of the gear scare you!! :) Patti the best Realtor in S. Fl.!!

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  Grate SUV - 2014 Honda Pilot
  By Stanley Robinson - March 15 - 11:49 pm

  I love this SUV it save our life.

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  Not a fan!!!!! - 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By Michael Saporito - March 15 - 11:47 pm

  Just bought this car today..... I hate it already. The Stereo and information center is difficult to use and a large distraction since there are no buttons and the unit isnt aimed at the driver. There is a stability issue that seems worse when in EV mode on the highway. The car sways back and forth causing constant correction even tho it isnt windy. Overall extremely disappointing car. On top of I had to deal with typical draler bullshit. I am regretting buying this car big time the only plus is if I drive cery gentlly I get good gas mileage but then it takes 60 seconds to get to 30mph and people try to run me off the road. Also the battery never fully charges....

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  Love it - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Kristen Thorsen - March 15 - 5:31 am

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  Its an okay ride - 2006 Honda Accord
  By DAvid J - March 14 - 6:50 pm

  Very nice overall vehicle, 4Cyl, gets great mileage

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  Very classy car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By DesertDweller - March 14 - 1:50 pm

  Amazing job on this new Civic. This is a better car than my old Accord, and it costs less money. Its a knockout in looks and looks very classy in the driveway. I traded in a high performance car for this coupe, and I miss the adrenaline rush sometimes, but all in all, this car is superior in every way.

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  My Experience with 2010 Honda Insight - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Jeff - March 14 - 1:26 am

  I got a 2010 Honda Insight two weeks ago. I was considering an equivalently optioned Honda Civic non-Hybrid but my Insight was only $1,500. In addition, it gave me more space, split seats, and better interior along with the higher MPG. Sleeker modern look. Drives tighter than the Prius I test drove and more peppy. Prius rolled more in turns. More HP than the Civic gas I test drove since electric motor augments gas motor. Ive been averaging 48 MPG without much effort so I am puzzled by the EPA rating. Some reported Prius was actually getting less but Insight more than the EPA MPG. My experience confirmed this, at least for the Insight. Therefore, Prius is worth the thousands more.

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  Fit is far and away ahead of the others. - 2007 Honda Fit
  By MrsS - March 13 - 11:20 pm

  The first three days we had our Fit we put over 400 miles on it. The Fit is comfortable during trips with its "refreach mode". The paddle shifters are a lot of fun when you want to play with the road. The Fit is solid. When you close the doors, hatch or even the glove box you get a nice solid thump. The view of the road is clear with the Fits low dash style.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By StuckoND - March 13 - 10:00 am

  This may not be the most exciting car or truck Ive ever bought, but there is no question it is the smartest. Fuel economy, ROOM, 6 disk changer, moonroof, ability to handle adverse weather with AWD, and the pricetag on top. My wife and I have grown to like it more each month. This is a great small SUV for the price. Oh... Honda reputation gives us added confidence.