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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  Smart Buy - 2014 Honda Accord
  By rac10 - November 13 - 1:56 pm

  I was going to buy the Accord coupe but the Sport was so much more car for the price. If Honda offered the Sport in the coupe I would have purchased it instead. The 2.4 engine is one of the best 4 cylinder engine made. Dont think it is too small and under power, its not. I bought this new from a high volume dealer that had the best pricing in the state. For the price nothing comes close. After driving it for 6000 miles I like it more every time I drive it. I picked the CVT over the manual, both have their advantages but I didnt want to shift for the next ten years. The performance reviews for this class, Honda comes out on top. Many reviewers pick the $6000 more Mazda 6 over the Honda.

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  Great Car. Every day (and fill up) I love it more - 2013 Honda Civic
  By dmoneyman - November 11 - 2:27 am

  I bought this car because of a need for a reliable car and it has lived up to its expectation. Looks wise its awesome. With its aerodynamic posture and sporty looks... Something you cant get with other brands. Coupe looks like its own model. Interior wise its a good mix with colors but what is most impressing is the dash and screen that displays a large amount of information. Performance wise it has enough power to pass and accelerate without you having to gun it. 140 hp and 39 mpg without a turbo? You thank it later down the road when you wont have to pay for repairs becauase the engine wont have added stress from a turbo. I love this car and plan to keep it for a very long time.

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  Best value out there - 2014 Honda Accord
  By drewbs91 - November 5 - 9:07 pm

  Honda already has an outstanding reputation with its Accord, so I had high expectations when I went to the dealer, I was not disappointed. The car is absolutely stunning to behold, with its beautiful design, and I get compliments all the time. It amazes me that for just over $20k, People think it is around $40k just by its appearance. I also was looking at Mazda and the Honda was much more well mannered and so quiet on the highway. It is like driving a nimble luxury sedan at a great affordable price.

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  LOVE this car! (But IMID clock is insulting) - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By prowler_mq5qm_ - November 4 - 12:03 pm

  Local dealer needed more used Oddys. Traded in the 2010 I bought from them and they credited me 100% what was left owing on it towards leasing a 13 CR-V. Couldnt be happier! Increased my fuel economy 75% and lowered my monthly payment by 50%. Albeit I wont own it after 36 months, but usually I buy a new car every 3 years anyway. So far, it has been a wonderful vehicle. Standard features that one used to have to buy a Cadillac to get! The only complaint I have is the analog clock display on the center IMID. I love the looks of it center-dash like it is, but I find the inclusive digital time display insulting. I can read a clock, I dont nee the digital display along with it!

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  Love my baby! - 2000 Honda Accord
  By yori2929 - November 3 - 6:43 pm

  I bought my 2000 Honda Accord Coupe from an auction dealer. Within a couple of months, the transmission become faulty. I figured Id still use my car till the transmission gave in. I even took him to the Honda service center near my home and they immediately diagnosed the transmission giving it 6 months worth of use. Here I am, over a year after Honda diagnosed the death of my Accord and hes still running. No check engine light or anything related. I do take care of him and dont abuse it by sticking the pedal to the floor, though in Georgia it is known to go way higher than the speed limit. Cant say enough great things about my baby Accord. Still very dependable being a 14 yr old car.

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  Awesome car! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By thinicely19 - November 2 - 8:02 am

  my first car, and I absolutely love it. the drive is smooth, great on gas and very comfortable. i love that there is a 6-cd player. it was very easy to navigate around in the car with the heat, a/c, settings and what not.

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  One More Time - 2014 Honda Crosstour
  By like2bike - October 31 - 8:24 am

  I had a 2010 Crosstour and now have a 2014 - the first time I have ever bought the same model twice. The comfort, quietness and practicality are compelling. Try as I might, I couldnt find another vehicle that fit my needs as well. The interior is upcale enough for clients and the backseat comfort and leg room are outstanding. Chicago winters demand all-wheel drive. I use the speaker phone a lot and the Active Sound Control provides a very quiet cabin. Unlike many SUVs, my bicycle can be stored in the back without the seat down, plus its out of sight. Gear fits cleanly into the floor storage compartment. Good acceleration and over 30 mpg highway.

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  Typically solid Honda - 2014 Honda Civic
  By dafs - October 26 - 9:12 am

  Having already owned 3 Hondas, I had a pretty good idea of what to expect from the 2014 Civic. The superior build quality is typically Honda, as is the great gas mileage. The specifications and features are pretty high on the EX model, although there are some competitors (mainly Hyundai and Kia) who might offer 6 speed trans or satellite radio for example, within the same category/price range. That said, Im a firm believer in the durability and craftsmanship found in every Honda model, so these are small sacrifices in my eyes. The car is beautifully finished overall, from the solid feel of the switches and controls on the interior, to the fit of the exterior panels, lights and trim.

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  In love with my Honda Accord! - 2014 Honda Accord
  By amyjv8 - October 21 - 11:19 am

  I love the power, the MPG, the look, the features, the drive - EVERYTHING about this car! I have never been so satisfied with a car purchase!

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  Find a better car for the money... - 2013 Honda Accord
  By atarian - October 16 - 9:01 pm

  I bought my Accord V6 in June of 2013 and have approximately 11,500 mostly highway miles. In light, early morning traffic I average 35 MPG on a 30 mile trip to work (90% highway) which is better than both my 1999 Civic 1.6L manual and ex-2002 Nissan Sentra 1.8L manual. Engine is quite powerful - several sources quote 0-60 in 5.5 seconds which is well into BMW 3 and 5 series territory. No problems so far. I purchased the "Modern Steel Metallic" exterior with the black interior. I wish I would have held out for the tan interior as the black shows every tiny bit of lint. My only real complaint is the premium stereo is not really all that premium. Great value for the money and fun to drive.