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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  Great truck for the money - 2009 Honda Ridgeline
  By Phil - June 26 - 12:37 pm

  This is an excellent truck for the money. Base level model has all the features youd want. It drives like a large car with a comfortable ride yet has the utility of a truck. Truck capabilities more than adequate for light duty work (towing a boat, hauling yard stuff or pulling a smaller RV) yet space and driving manners perfect for a family. This is about as close as one can get to the perfect vehicle that does everything for everyone. I have only had it for about a week and put on about 500 miles yet I am delighted with it. I have owned F150s which are also excellent trucks but this is by far a better value for someone in need of a "pleasure truck" (F150 much better heavy duty work truck).

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  Honda civics will rule the world - 2005 Honda Civic
  By sandrasmith - June 26 - 12:00 pm

  This car has so much power. I love it. I used to drive a minivan and thought changing into a car that is much lower would be horrible. It ended up being fantastic and Ive never loved a car more.

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  Well built Honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Ken - June 26 - 6:56 am

  I have had my 2004 Honda Accord for over two years. I am very happy with it. The V6 engine is very powerful which makes it great for highway passing and merging. All this power on regular gas (unlike the Nissans). This car handles extremely well and is very nimble in city traffic. The interior quality is top notch for a car of this class. My two wishes for this car are stronger brakes and heated mirrors. The problems I have had to date are that my engine check light came on at 5000 miles due to a loose emission canister and warped brake rotors at about 35000 miles which caused some steering wheel vibration during braking at high speeds. These issues were repaired under warranty.

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  Still Loving it!! - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Donna - June 25 - 1:25 pm

  I have owned my CRV for 8 months now and I still love this SUV!!! We just took the CRV on a family vacation to the beach and my sons lacrosse tournament, and my husband was VERY impressed... we were able to fit beach chairs, luggage, folding- sporting event chairs and lacrosse equipment all in the back without blocking the rear view. He was also pleased with the ease of parking in small spaces!! I was always one to avoid parallel parking whenever I could, but with my CRV, I have absolutely no problem with parking!!! This by far is the best vehicle Ive owned yet.

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  Happy Owner - 2001 Honda Civic
  By amthax - June 25 - 10:00 am

  Great car for the price. Replaced both front struts at 45K miles--after warranty expired. This is an expensive repair and not uncommon according to the dealership repair department. The quality of the interior material could be better, styling is very nice though. Overall I adore my Civic and would purchase again!

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  Love It! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By jaytee2126 - June 25 - 10:00 am

  Great little SUV! Fun to drive, rides lika my Saturn. Great for this small (51") woman, and her bigger hubby! Very competitive pricing. Excellent options included on base model. Love it love it love it!

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  More than happy with my choice! - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By Jessica S. - June 24 - 10:22 pm

  We were in the market for our first minivan, narrowing the search to a Sienna or Odyssey. Odysseys ability to load and control the DVD from the front with 2 small kids is a big win. Ultimately, though, Honda was willing to negotiate more than Toyota, with an offer below the TMV - What Others are Paying quote (below invoice). Have had the van for almost a month... no issues with noise, great mileage (avg. 21 mpg with a mix of highway/city driving), love the handling.

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  Would reconsider - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By mas - June 24 - 10:00 pm

  I would not consider another Honda until they fix the excessive road noise. Too bad because the vehicle is excellent in many ways. On a rough surface noise will prevent normal conversation with rear passengers

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  09 SC - 2009 Honda Element
  By davel57 - June 24 - 2:24 pm

  Ive been looking at these cars for some time now and I cant believe I waited so long! Very pleased so far. VERY fun to drive with plenty of power and great fuel economy. I work in an auto body repair facility and Ive seen these cars hit in all areas and they hold up incredibly well (I hope I never have to test it) and it was one of the selling factors for me. GREAT sound system, amenities.

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  Pleasure ride - 2016 Honda Accord
  By George B - June 24 - 8:20 am

  I just sold my 2003 Accord and bought another one this year ,2016. Great car .