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:

• 

  Better than expected - 2005 Honda Accord
  By David - April 29 - 4:06 am

  With a daughter in college, we needed a practical, economical car. Choice came down to the Accord and Mazda 3 (a good car). Decided to spend the extra for the Accord -- good choice! The car is quiet, comfortable, and handles very well. Controls are logical and easy to use. The adjustible steering column makes finding an ideal driving position easy. Knew of Hondas quality, just did not expect this car to be as comfortable as our former 92 Lexus ES 300. Handles much better than the Camry.

• 

  Luv It Luv It - 2005 Honda Element
  By Katherine - April 29 - 12:56 am

  This is the best car I have ever had. Its great for my business needs and my family needs. We have a florist and it can be turned into a delivery vehicle in no time. Its also great for my family. We have 2 children and 2 German Shepards. We take it camping or on trips and we all fit comfortably.

• 

  Luv my honda - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Honda Lover - April 28 - 11:26 pm

  Bought a new Honda not expecting a whole lot when test driving the LX 4 cylinder. Was pleasantly surprised by the power that was available! Beautiful car and comfortable interior. Fun to drive!

• 

  So versatile - 2009 Honda Ridgeline
  By greenstarfish20 - April 28 - 3:58 pm

  I looked at the Tacoma, but didnt like the pricing (had to add a whole package just to get keyless entry, another package to get tow wiring, etc). The Ridgeline has it all, standard. I really like the trunk and the way the rear seats flip up for storage. There are many small intelligent things: the heater doesnt blow cold air on you (it waits until the car has warmed up before blowing any air), the drivers window has auto-down AND auto-up, you can lower all four windows with the key fob (great for airing out hot air), and the car gives you your real-time mpg as you drive. Its fun, well-designed, and with Honda reliability too.

• 

  Best vehicle ever owned - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By very happy guy - April 28 - 1:26 pm

  Every time I drive my pilot I enjoy the experience. The pilot is not the most powerful or the fastest stopping or the smoothest riding midsize but when you add everything up it is very capable and a beautiful vehicle. hwy mileage up to 26mpg- city 16mpg--it all depends on driving habits and conditions. I love the way it looks-- love the grille-love the way it drives. Some of the reviewers are not that impressed with the pilot but it is a vehicle that I love to see in my driveway. Most people pay more for a crv than I did for my pilot. Honda has hit a home run with the pilot. Absolutely trouble free- and hopefully it will stay that way!!!

• 

  Great Investment - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Wayne - April 28 - 10:10 am

  I have driven several luxury vehicles, decided to try a civic out after hearing all the good things about them. The only thing I can say is a negative is that after 3 or so hours, it is not as comfortable a ride as other vehicles I have owned. However, it is attractive, gets 40 mpg (which is more than the sticker states), is cheap to insure and has a great factory sound system. It shifts like a dream and I have no complaints.

• 

  Awesome - 1992 Honda Civic
  By joetron - April 27 - 10:48 pm

  We bought this car with 125,000, and it has been faithful to us for 7 years and 75,000 miles. We have done standard maintenance for a 17 year old car (new muffler, changed the belts, new clutch). Other than that, nothing but standard maintenance. The car has never broken down, all the electronics still work, and it still runs great.

• 

  Its Elemental - 2005 Honda Element
  By elaygee - April 26 - 9:23 pm

  We liked the Element we bought in 2003 so much we bought another in 2004. His and His models. They are versatile, super functional and really zip around. Can cruise at 90 on turnpike or slow go at the beach.

• 

  I Love My Honda CRV - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Dr of Golf - April 26 - 6:32 pm

  This has got to be the best Honda that weve ever owned. The mileage is fantastic for an SUV-type vehicle and the space is great. The mileage compares to our old Honda Accord. Our new CRV is fun to drive and we love taking it out on the highway where it gives us about 32 mpg. We average about 25 mpg in town. Cant say enough about the great gas mileage and the fun it is to drive. Best economical car weve ever owned. Like it almost as much as our Mercedes 560SL ... almost.

• 

  Rocks!!!!! - 2005 Honda Element
  By DownUnder - April 26 - 5:52 pm

  I have had this vehicle for 5 years and it has been the best vehicle I have ever owned. 125,000+ miles and the only think I ever have to do is oil changes, tire rotation, and 1 set of new tires and brakes. VERY, VERY reliable and goes great in snow.