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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  My accord - 1993 Honda Accord
  By henochson - August 5 - 2:40 am

  Bought this car in April of 2010. It had been owned by a couple since 1994 but had been sitting for 6mons. After a jump, the car had no issues coming back to life. The five speed manual makes the most of the zippy 2.2 L. Its way faster than my moms 01 Vtec Accord! Its ultra reliable. I with 171K I drove it 3.5 Hours at 80-90 mph and over a mountain pass no probs and averaged 37 mpg. Lets just say I drive a faster, better looking, and significantly better looking and practical prius! Acon works, but it doesnt love the heat. Sunroof is awesome. Stock stereo is actually great, an aftermarket cd deck would make it excellent.

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  Exceeded my expectations - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Al - August 4 - 9:37 pm

  Ive only had my CR-V 4WD a couple of weeks but so far I love it. It handles well, brakes well, easy to park and see out of. I feel safe knowing its 4WD and it has many safety features and that it has many comforts like heated seats, xm radio, and leather. My previous car, a 2008 Accord was a nice car, but horrible in the snow so Im looking forward to peace of mind this winter. I also want to say that I love the CR-V in and out. Its much nicer to drive than the Hyundai Tucson and Jeep Liberty having tested them. CR-Vs tire and wind noise is next to none and the ride is smooth, comfortable and controlled. Bravo!

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  3 Strikes - 2010 Honda Civic
  By Jim - August 4 - 5:44 pm

  The Civic drives well, but the seats are horrible. Dont expect the backup lights to illuminate anything. The front of the vehicle is too low, dont even think about getting close to a curb. Mileage isnt bad, but not as good as my previous Corolla.

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  Love My Pilot - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By Ginnie - August 4 - 5:21 pm

  I have been driving my Pilot now for 1 months now and I dont have any complaints. It is a comfortable, roomy vehicle and I feel safe driving it.

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  My Civil Little Civic - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Mos Steph - August 4 - 3:42 pm

  I bought my Civic from a local Honda dealer in 2005, had 36,000 miles on it. I change the oil every 3000 miles. Only had to replace the battery, front brake pads, tires. Only out of the ordinary repairs were the airbag sensor (Honda replaced for free not even under warranty!), a tie rod (wear & tear), and some electrical connection that had to do with one of my headlights. Its not the most flashy, fast car but its zippy, economical, and just right for me. If I had kids or pets to haul around Id probably go for the sedan or an Accord but for now I love the coupe. Im a Honda person for life now after having an Oldsmobile & Chevy. If I had to do it again, Id get a 5 speed if available.

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  Worst Accord Ever? - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Brahk - August 4 - 3:42 pm

  Rear brakes went out at 17,000 miles & the dealer denied that there was a problem and made me pay the cost. The front brakes have squealed since 5,000 miles. Have had it in to the dealer 4 times and they never fixed it. 3 times they denied that there was a problem. The padding in the front seats is as hard as a park bench, and the leather quality is very bad. Road noise is horrendous. This is my 6th Honda and it will definitely be my last.

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  Great! - 2008 Honda Fit
  By rog - August 4 - 3:35 pm

  This car has been nothing but great! In any given week I am commuting over 1000 miles, I live in Maine so this means in snow, ice, and summer humidity and this car sails through it all! I can seemingly fit almost anything into it, and I know it is as safe as it can be while driving my daughter around. It is far and away the best car I have ever owned.

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  Lacking in many ways - 2010 Honda Insight
  By MrGooch - August 4 - 1:24 pm

  Have had the car for over a month. Mileage has been running about 42-44 commuting to work. The navigation system is not worth it, bugs and out of date database. Entered B of A, selected one a 1000 miles a way. The hybrid battery needs to be about twice the capacity, runs out of steam too soon, any grade of more then 1/4 mile, then the engine revs up, which is noisy. Road noise is not as bad as some have commented on. No XM, should be standard with Nav, can be bought as an accessory but expensive. Worst sounding stereo I have had on new car in many years. Interior materials are flimsy and cheap, push my hand against the door and the material caved in and then popped back out.

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  Pilot 2011 - 2011 Honda Pilot
  By Tushar - August 4 - 10:07 am

  It is very spacious. The space utilization and storage spaces are beating everyone in its peers. The exterior is very stylish and impressive.

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  Upset Honda owner - 2010 Honda Accord
  By Neshelle - August 4 - 6:35 am

  I purchased a 2009 Honda Accord in February 2010. My front left passenger wheel began to pop and I took it to the dealer only to find out my new car has a broken axle. The dealer informed me that this should never happen to a car this new. I am distraught. I have purchased several Hondas before and have never had this much difficulty with one. I am at a loss for words.