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 - 2009 Honda Ridgeline
  By Hunter - September 18 - 2:00 am

  I just got back from hunting. Bed was full and towing a pop-up camper from Denver to Craig and back. Avg 18 mpg and that included the driving on 4wd roads to and from the hunting area. Did everything I wanted it to do. On the highway from Denver to Winter Park and back I get 21 mpg and it is so nice to drive.

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  CRX: The Sequel - 2011 Honda CR-Z
  By Brian - September 18 - 2:00 am

  For those that remember their CRX fondly, the CRZ is likely a love at first sight experience. For others, the CRZ will be a polarizing, love it or leave it two-seater that has a very unique feel. Pros: Sporty exterior look, three distinct performance personalities, exceptional and intimate cab design, lots of technical features for the MSRP, tight handling and excellent sound acoustics. Cons: Lack-luster hybrid fuel efficiency, quarter panel blind spots, mushy economy-mode performance and dated navigation. Overall, the CRZ is a great commuter car for those who are looking for a fun driving experience and a sporty look. Reasonable MPG expectations will prevent disappointment.

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  First SUV - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By maine1963 - September 18 - 2:00 am

  We researched and researched some more as we were looking to upgrade from our 2001 Kia Sportage to a family car that had significantly more room and Safety factors. We were also looking for a SUV that already had a track record for Reliability. Everywhere we turned - the Honda Pilot kept popping up in our internet searches. I am not one that enjoys going to the dealership so I found one online at a price I liked! It is a 2008 Honda Pilot 4WD VP model. Wanted to buy new but the prices are too steep. SO I bought it sight unseen through the internet through a dealer that does Home Delivery! We fell in love with all of the features and could not be happier! Will keep this forever!

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  Maximum fuel mileage and reliability - 2002 Honda Civic
  By 2620 - September 18 - 2:00 am

  In 02 was considering Jetta, Civic, Saturn. Looking for fuel economy and reliability/longevity. It delivers! 5-speed manual 39 mpg back in 2002 and still 39 mpg in 2010. No problems whatsoever. Gas and oil changes only. New brakes at 150,000. Timing belt and water pump maintenance at 170,000. Mechanic said I could probably get another 100,000 before needing to bring it in again. Its decent in Michigan snow and ice. Road noise from rear end tires or wheels is noticeable. Ride suspension is also harsh over bumps. I feel got my moneys worth. I plan to keep it another 4 years (80,000 miles) and then try to find a worthy person to be the second owner of this trusty little car.

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  As Advertised - 2005 Honda Accord
  By John M - September 18 - 2:00 am

  I wanted a reliable car with decent acceleration, looks and gas mileage at a reasonable cost. My Accord delivered on all accounts. I test drove the V6, but was impressed enough with 4 cylinder to go with that. I wouldnt say its "fun" to drive, but its not a slug either. On- ramps and (reasonable) passing are no problem. I currently have 65K on the odometer and the only thing Ive replaced are the tires (at 55K).

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  Slow but looks sharp - 2008 Honda Civic
  By egib77 - September 18 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car 4 months ago because of its eye candy appeal. Car has been very reliable with zero mechanical problems since purchase. The only issue Ive had was the driver side sun visor totally fell apart. For nearly 30 gs I would expect more performance...and for the weak performance I would expect better than 26 mpg. This car owns in the mountains!

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  Transmission failure at 98K - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By skiutah313 - September 17 - 2:00 am

  My Odyssey was a decent van until about 80K miles when the "service engine" light started to come on. I had the van dealer-serviced for all recommended work and even had belts,etc changed at the recommended intervals. Eventually the service dept. told me that the slipping was a transmission problem. I am certain this started at under 100K and the service rep indicated that Honda has had transmission issues with the Odyssey. Honda did not even offer a minimal % coverage though I followed all of the service recommendations. I WILL NOT BUY A HONDA again. I purchased a Honda because of its reputation and now I realize that Honda may not care about customer loyalty or vehicle quality.

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  Never Breaks, Great Mileage - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Jeff - September 17 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car 3 years ago in 2007 with 100,000 mi. Now up to 140,000. Have not replaced or fixed anything on it and still runs like new. The design is very nice and I like the sporty look of the 2 door coupe with spoiler on the back. Interior is very comfortable and still looks like new after 11 years. My only complaint is the acceleration is pretty weak. I really dont care though because I average 33 MPG driving to and from work in the City of Pittsburgh stuck in major traffic jams every day. On the highway I average 50 MPG using cruise control at 65 MPH. I have averaged 60 MPG before driving to Philadelphia from Pittsburgh. Its amazing how efficient this car is. Would highly Recommend.

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  Needs a Lot More to Make it Worth Buying - 2011 Honda CR-Z
  By jkisdrivin - September 17 - 2:00 am

  Let me start by saying this: Ive owned several hybrids before including the original 60 mpg Honda Insight. Currently my other is a 2010 Toyota Prius II. I am not sure if the CR-Z is any better of a car than my old Insight. You figure with the advancements in Hybrid technology in the last 10 years that this car would get something better than just 31mpg with the manual tranny. I must say that I am thoroughly disappointed with this car as I expected a lot more in a car for this money. In hindsight I should have probably bought a Honda Fit instead, save $4K in the process, and get much more of a useful car. Needless to say, Ill be driving the Prius more these days over the CR-Z.

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  Decent car but safety hazard without ABS - 2001 Honda Civic
  By bruce - September 17 - 2:00 am

  This is an OK car but feels a little tin canny and like a go-cart (not in a good way). My major complaint is braking on wet pavement or lack thereof. This car will go into a slide every time. And this is with brand new tires. ABS is a must. No way Im letting my kids use this car unless I know itll be dry outside. It even spins out when accelerating lightly on wet roads. You really have to baby it. If it has to climb while doing so forget about it. Another complaint is that the headliner fell apart at about 100k.