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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  Best in class - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By David B - July 18 - 2:50 pm

  Just purchased 2007 Pilot EX-L w/ Nav. The perfect family vehicle w/o sacrificing style and practicality. Gas mileage is acceptable for its class and size, this comming from a previous Civic owner. Overall best value for space and comfort. Decision was based between the Honda Pilot and Toyota Sienna.

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  Honda or Hondiea - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By manny - July 17 - 11:55 pm

  Seems that Honda should resolve issues of fit and finish quickly before custumers start seriously considering moving to other makes, especially those offering 10yr 100,000m war. Had front brake problems-after several attempts there was a fix with a redesigned pad that stopped grinding noise. Replaced tires at 40000. Glove boxes cant be alligned, noise around 3 doors, electrical problem a mystery- after rainstorm, no power with doorlocks, AC, lights and Info display. Some plastic interior pieces pops out. Replaced 4 interior bulbs. Hits hard over bumbs with pax tires. Mic went on navigation. Paint peeling on roof rack, water in fog light. Starting to feel tugs when cms activates.

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  I HR-V! Do you? - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Henry Stought - July 16 - 11:53 am

  It is a slow car with minimal pick-up. Gets you from point A to B, thats it. Blind spot camera is cool although I havent used it much. Small, Reliably, affordable, and a great first car. Also gets good fuel economy (about 30 mpg with the car in eco mode half the time) and only takes $20 to fill up the tank when almost empty (June 2017). Heated seats are nice when cold. Ample storage for gear and groceries. Only real complaint would be that there are no LED lights on the vehicle what so ever (I know Im picky). All in all great car, perfect for kids/young adults and easy to park.

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  Had to have one - 2008 Honda Accord
  By RoyalMc - July 16 - 11:30 am

  This is my first Honda, and I love it. The 190 hp 4cyl is much more responsive than the 177 hp. The tranny is also geared differently, as well as improved exhaust flow, and suspension over the LX(P). Torque and HP builds from Mid RPMs & up. I am averaging 28 MPG 50% highway, not broken in yet. It does have more road noise than I would expect, but other than that the car handles very well, and is fun to drive. At first the seats seemed stiffer than Id like, but after making a 2 1/2 hour trip, It felt very comfortable once I got the seat and lumbar adjusted to my liking. I really like the overall appearance silver/gray, especially with the wing spoiler and tinted windows.

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  Disappointed - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Sherri Parker - July 15 - 8:40 pm

  I purchased this mini van looking for better gas mileage than my Durango. Im getting the same mileage (my calculations agree with the electronic one) 13/16 MPG. The temp. gauge has never worked properly and am told that it was set at the factory and nothing can be done. But the biggest shock is the Pax tires. I got a puncture in the sidewall today. Pulled into a shop and was told that only Honda can replace the Pax tire because the tire and wheel are one. Honda charges $300 for a new wheel. As far as driving on the flat, I was told by Honda service that if I drive more than a few miles on it, I chance doing more damage - more money. So as I write this, Im waiting for a tow truck.

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  very happy - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By craig - July 14 - 8:56 am

  Im very happy with my crv purchase. have 2857 miles on it in just over 6 weeks. the vehicle has exceeded all expectations it drives great in the snow handled 10in of wet heavy snow with no problem . The build quality is exellent and its roomy on the inside.

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  Finally got my HR-V! - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Kathi Morgan - July 14 - 2:11 am

  After wanting an HR-V since summer 2015 (when my CRV reached 170,000 miles), they are finally a bit easier to find. I purchased an LX, which I absolutely LOVE. Compared to the other small crossover/suvs in its class, it sits higher, which is a must after driving an suv for over ten years. It also handles well, (though the ride is a bit rigid), is more spacious inside, and has intuitive controls and technology. It is my 5th Honda, and they have all been super reliable, and long lasting, with great re-sale value. After owning my HRV for 5 months, I am still pleased with it overall, but wish I had gotten leather interior instead of cloth. The cloth on the seats, headrests, and doors is not very high quality, and acts almost like a dirt magnet. It has also developed a loud squeaking/rubbing sound in the cab which I am having looked at by the dealer soon. I also wish the headlights were brighter, and the heating/AC system was stronger and more quickly responsive. I can definitely see/feel the difference in quality from my 2005 CRV EX, but still believe it is a good little car for the money. I have now owned my HRV for 18 months. I said it all in my 5 month review, though now I wished I had gotten heated seats and side mirror defrosters as well since the heater is not super strong and takes awhile to warm me and the car up. I assume because of the smallish engine. The squeaking/rubbing sound has resolved itself (?) so thats nice. I would buy this car again, it suits my budget and needs well. And, sits higher with better visibility than the Mazda 3 or other crossovers in its class.

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  Good Car - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By sl - July 11 - 8:49 am

  This car has been most reliable, and thats why I bought it. Plenty of room for loading up during trips to Home Depot - an amazing amount of space for a small car. Its a 4 cylinder, so it has enough power but lacks zip. But the car is what it is. Its functional, not hip. One weird quirk, and maybe its just me, but the car seems to be prone to having windshield cracks due to pebbles and rocks projected from other vehicles on the highway. Im 62" and I find this car to be a comfortable ride, plenty of head room. The odometer reads 122,000 miles and I just had my first breakdown, a blown head gasket. Otherwise, the only problems have been basic stuff, battery, tires.

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  2001 Honda Odyssey EX 4dr Minivan (3.5L) - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By Eli - July 11 - 1:53 am

  We bought our Odyssey used at 160,000 miles, and it runs great. We have shipped it to Lebanon and we use it there to shuttle my 4 kids back and forth to school, a 40 mile trip with 10,000 pot holes and the worst road surface (for american standards). Honestly we have to change the tires and brakes a lot but nothing major. Great car!!

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  Not what I Expected - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Heather Gordsaro - July 10 - 10:00 am

  The Honda we thought would be the dream car, but had second thoughts after comparing my sisters SUV the Mitsubishi Endeavor. That looks a lot better and drives better. Its more exciting and better looking.