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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  1996 Honda Accord DX Sedan - 1996 Honda Accord
  By Duane - December 27 - 9:11 am

  I bought this car new and it has been the model of reliability. I bought it because my last car, a 1990 Oldsmobile Calais 442, was on its 3rd head gasket and multiple oil leaks after only 80K miles and wanted a car that would stay out of the shop. My Accord has not been in the shop except for maintenance items to be replaced. It is very roomy in the front, ok in the back and overall comfortable on long trips to drive of which I have taken it on many. The performance is acceptable for what it is. I like high performance cars and I would have bought the VTEC or V6 if I had the money at the time but it was not to be. However, it has competent acceleration and handling for a DX family car.

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  Honda Driver For Life - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Jami - December 26 - 8:03 am

  Ive had Hondas my whole life - from 16 until now (34). This Accord is a beautiful car and incredibily comfortable. Weve driven it from Houston to Phoenix, to OKC, and back again and havent complained once. It rides so smoothly I have to really keep an eye on my speed.

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  Great Car.... - 2003 Honda Civic
  By DaveInBoston - December 24 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car... Compared to my 99 Pontiac Sunfire GT, this car is worlds apart. Much smoother engine, transmission, quieter and a build quality that makes anything GM built look like a Yugo. She is a quick car once you know that the power is at a higher rpm... This is a car I would recommend to anyone. A pleasure/fun to drive and a great value.

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  Its my 2nd Prelude! - 1997 Honda Prelude
  By Dana - December 23 - 4:48 pm

  No one believes my car is a 97! I try to keep it in great shape and definitely keep it serviced. If only I could keep those SUV folks from running me off the road since they dont see me "down here", life in my Prelude would be perfect! But what am I to do when its time to retire this one, since Honda pulled production?? Hopefully that day wont come anytime soon...

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  Hwy MPG Overrated for this commuter - 2005 Honda Accord
  By SecondHybrid4Me - December 22 - 8:36 am

  This is my second Honda hybrid. Took my former Civic to nearly 100k miles in just under three years with few problems. Routine oil changes were more difficult on that version with 0 weight 30 not easy to find and quirky steps mechanics have to know... so far with the Accord, its a snap! My only complaint was the premium sticker price and that the fuel efficiency is nowhere close to that advertised. I am mostly drive on the highway and am averaging closer to 30 than 37. I was sold that the enhancements in hybrid technology were supposed to make this one better for increased hwy mileage than in town. Either way, Im all for hybrids and my experience has been good! Go Green!!

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  Keeps going and going - 1995 Honda Civic
  By J Bruce - December 20 - 5:46 pm

  Bought this 5 years ago for daughter in HS. She has put about 40,000 miles on it. It has been extremely reliable, and we have only had to fix routine maint items. Was in major hailstorm, so repaired all dents, repainted and added chrome / alloy 16 inch wheels. Also added Sony CD player, new speakers, and auto start / remote locks. The car still looks new, and interior is holding up amazing for a 12 year old car. My daughter still likes the car, especially since it was repainted and customized, adding remote starter. Still gets 32 MPG on highway, low insurance costs, and hardly any repair costs. Not sure how much more you could ask of a car. The v-tech engine still runs great.

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  Great Car - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Rick S. - December 20 - 2:00 am

  The best car I ever owned. I was in a major accident (was rear ended) when the car was 3 months old. Car was fixed and is still running better than many newer cars. At 117,000 miles everything except battery & brakes is orig. I hope it lasts for another 100K mi.

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  Rugged Class! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By D - December 20 - 2:00 am

  Great SUV! It is simple, has everything that one would want. AWD is seamless. Parking is dead easy. There is no other eight passager vehicle that can manouver with such ease. Gas milage is a plus. Never under 20 mpg (canadian) We live on a windy road. Body role is minimal compared to my truck and van the pilot replaces. "Happy Piloting".

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  the accord - 1997 Honda Accord
  By sonelon - December 19 - 1:56 pm

  its a pretty good car overall, but it doesnt drive smoothly and isnt comfy

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  Perfect for my needs - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By Jeff - December 19 - 11:10 am

  I dont haul gravel and bricks, but Im always hauling kids to basketball and often picking up something from Sears or Home Depot. Just the right combo of comfortable SUV-like features and truck utility for me. Its not a workhorse, but its stylish, comfortable, utilitarian, and reliable.