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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  Love It - 2010 Honda Ridgeline
  By Lester - August 16 - 10:51 am

  Ive had the Ridgeline for about a month and love it. Driven trucks all my life and this is the best one yet. Drive is smooth and quite. Love the gas mileage, better than EPA estimates. If Honda keeps making them, Ill keep buying them.

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  Excellent Value - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Scott - August 16 - 9:09 am

  We bought the EX V6 w/NAV new in 2004. Weve put 114,000 miles on it and so far have only changed the oil and replaced the tires! We have had no problems with the brakes or transmission. The V6 gives excellent power so we can safely pass uphill if needed. Handles great - takes tight corners without making a sound.

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  Awesome car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By benmoiralamborn5 - August 16 - 7:25 am

  Bought this car used with 78,000 miles, in little over 2 years we have put on another 62,000 miles. Change the oil every 5,000 miles religiously. Other than a new set of tires that is it. In my opinion the body styling looks better than the new models. I may look for a low mileage similar model when buying again.

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  Nice, but to long - 2007 Honda Accord
  By JK - August 16 - 2:01 am

  Nice aerodynamic design, but difficult to park. Outside mirrors are small, the rear part of the car not visible. Sunroof makes the inside ceiling to low and I had only 1 inch above my head. Squeaky Windows in street driving, although the car had only 20,000 km. Interior design all in black and plastic releases bad, unhealthy odor not enough air in the cabin, had to open Windows whenever possible. Not enough braking power. Seats to firm, not comfortable for long driving. Very good tilt & telescopic steering wheel and gear-shifter. Excellent and smooth driving on highway. Radio doesnt have good reception. After 3 months I traded it for an SUV.

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  Very disappointed! - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Signature - August 15 - 9:41 pm

  Have only had my car for a few weeks. So very disappointed in the gas mileage. 14.5 around town, 19 on highway. Spoke to our sales guy and he said it takes about 8500 miles before break in. Its only 4 cylinder. If this is the way it is, then I want to give it back! So disappointed about that.

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  Stop looking right now! - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Honda fan - August 15 - 9:32 pm

  You must stop looking for a car! The Honda CR-V is where you need to be. Hondas have been reliable for us since 2005, when we bought our first Odyssey. Now we have a Civic, fit and now a CR-V. The ride is soft yet firm around turns. However, road noise is a bit excessive.

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  2008 accord Braking Problem - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Mad at honda - August 15 - 7:40 pm

  There is a braking problem on my 2008 Honda Accord. Front brakes have a high pitch sound when you apply brakes and I had the front pads looked at and they are fine. The rear brake pads on the other hand where worn all the way down and I only have (16,000) miles on my Honda. Warranty department just turned their heads. We all know there is a problem so if this happen to your Accord (2008-2010) Please report. There has to be a recall to fix problem.

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  So Far So Good - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Racer0608 - August 15 - 5:32 pm

  After a week of ownership my initial impression is good. I had a 1993 BMW 525it. The Honda does not ride or drive nearly as well. The hybrid system does have some bumps and jolts with all the stuff going on in the drivetrain. As of now I am pleased with my purchase, Ill update the review in a year or so if things change.

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  In my Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By In my Element - August 15 - 2:21 pm

  I purchased the Element new in 2003. It was easily the ugliest vehicle I had ever seen, but after one test drive (on a dare) I bought it. Best car Ive ever owned.

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  Great For People Doing Lot of Commuting - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Officer Moore - August 15 - 1:01 pm

  This car delivers with its great gas mileage and smart designs. I am getting an average of 38 to 40 mpg/city, and 46 to 48/hwy with combined (my actual daily travel) of 44.8 to 45.7 mpg. Love the ease of use and location of controls. Tons of storage space and love the use of every nook and cranny. Only downside is location 12 v plug and could use move in cockpit area and in hatchback area. Have not found good way to mount my 80 gb creative lab mp3 player. Cup holders locations are one of the worst features. Less road noise would be a plus. Loved this Honda so much, bought a 2007 Ridgeline with 40k miles (certified pre-owned) the next day!