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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  CRV review - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By RAW - September 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought this CR-V with 26K miles and am now at 190K and have not had to do much other than oil changes, occasional brakes, tires, etc. It still runs very good. My only annoyances are that the door locks work intermittently using the remote, so I have to use the key. Also, lumbar support is almost non-existent causing fatigue on longer trips.

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  Very Pleased! - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By pithpress - September 11 - 2:00 am

  I have had absolutely no major problems with this van. Routine maintence, cleaning the electrical contacts for the auto-doors and windows (and replacing a solenoid or five). almost indestructible by the kids! Very pleased with the vans performance. So much so, we just traded in our Ford 500 for a new 2010 Odyssey to add to our little "fleet." I hope things keep going well, but I still feel I got my moneys worth out of this mini-van! Congratulations Honda!

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  Happy 2011 Ridgeline owner - 2011 Honda Ridgeline
  By Dan - September 11 - 2:00 am

  I have only have this vehicle for a month now, but I am very happy with the purchase. When I demo the rear trunk to people, they are always blown away - its great for the groceries. I have two sons around 6 ft tall and they have no problem riding in the back seat. The seats are comfortable and the sound system is great. I have not towed with it yet, and I wish the gas mileage was better (1 get around 18-19 mpg combined average). The interior is whisper quiet and it fits in my garage - a big concern I had when purchasing a truck.

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  Best Small Car for the Money! - 2011 Honda CR-Z
  By FondaHonda - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Were do I begin? We looked closely at the 10 Honda Insight & Fit, but could not help staring across the showroom floor at the bright red 11 CR-Z! Aside from the looks, we were sold on the bargain price for such a sexy well-built comfortable coupe. We test drove a loaded silver EX Navi-equipped model and were amazed at the high quality ride, materials and paint luster. After a short drive we immediately decided on the sporty red model that lured us in the beginning. The stunning good looks are complimented by a superb ride, great acceleration and 50 MPG on the highway. Even 40+ MPG on city streets is remarkable! Everyone praises the Honda as we drive by or park. The CR-Zs youthful & fun!

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  Still on the fense - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By Frank - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Just bought a 2010 Pilot at Boch in Norwood, EX-l w/res the purchase experience what one of the best I have had I would recommend if youre in the mkt go there. As for the car, its for my wife and she is very happy that we bought it. I think the interior is not reflective of the price paid (too much plastic) and I agree with the sluggish comments on the engine it sound have more pep! The tire pressure light already went on, called the dealer they said to come in to service so they can review, great. I will make sure to give an update in 6 months or so. good luck

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  Best Drive Yet! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By driver_51 - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Considering that this is my favorite car owned to date, Tenth on my list. I love to drive her daily. Second on my list is 2003 Nissan Maxima SE that was totaled prior to purchasing the Accord as a daily driver but it has out-performed everything else I have driven, I know first hand the weakness of Honda and addressed them after purchasing the car new, Brembo Sport rotors combined with Ceramic Pads makes the brakes grab when needed, coilovers and a thicker sway bar make her handle like a dream on tight turns and Bridgestone Potenzas hold her glued to the pavement. I am a true driver that takes hold of all of Honda technology, no complaints after five years.

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  First 400 miles - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By howard - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Just finished the first 400 miles. Overall liked it. This vehicle was assembled in Japan, and it is much better than another new vehicle I test drove at the dealer (Same model but made in North America). That vehicle gets a lot of engine noise when I tried to accelerate. So I guess the build quality is different in different assembly plants. By the way, I asked the dealer to add the tailgate spoiler. I have to tell you: It looks much better than without it! I also installed a Honda remote engine remote starter. Was a little bit surprised when seeing the remoter - quick big and thick. It knocked my knee all the time during the driving, so I kept it at home, i.e not use it.

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  Reliability is the key - 2010 Honda Civic
  By Bernie - September 11 - 2:00 am

  I love the Civic LX. I gave it an 8 on economy but its probably closer to a 7. Im getting 29-30 with 50/50 driving thats a bit lower than I anticipated based on what several salespeople and the sticker claimed. They claimed it was better on fuel economy than the Fit which didnt seem likely but it tipped the scales toward the Civic. I would have probably bought the Civic anyway for better comfort but Fit owners have told me that they were getting in the 35 mpg range. Im not sure that wasnt some sort of marketing ploy to bump up the sale. If youre choosing between those two look extra closely.

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  Great Car Unless you are over 511" - 2007 Honda Accord
  By reid - September 11 - 2:00 am

  When test driving, this car was exactly what I wanted. Very reliable (I had a Volvo that cost thousands of dollars a month in repairs), nice looking, safe. I planned on driving it forever. I am about 62" and it is clear after driving this car for 3 months that it is NOT designed to be comfortable for people over 511". When I drive the back of my leg is raised off the seat and requires me keep my leg elevated. I have tried every seat position and steering wheel adjustment and nothing works. Also, the brake pedal is in front of the gas pedal and requires me to lift my leg to move from one pedal to the other. This combination is extremely uncomfortable for tall drivers.

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  Honda Peaked with this car - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Sonic - September 10 - 2:00 am

  IMO, this model is the apex of the accord. Excellent use of interior and trunk space, sensible but attractive design, good all around performance from the 150 hp 4. Well equipped and comfortable. Kids are getting too big to fit three across in the back, so need a larger car. only 103k and runs great. Paint bad, clear coat peeled, my only complaint. Expensive to repaint well, stay away from the forest green color. But i think Honda has gone downhill with the accord, making it larger, softer, and less attractive with each new iteration.