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 Honda is Awesome - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By TW in New Hampshire - February 16 - 1:27 pm

  I pulled her off the showroom floor in November 1999 and have for the most part put every mile on her. She is phenomenal. No Major repairs. Tires, oil changes, spark plugs, the regular maintenance. I would recommend a Honda to anyone who works hard for their dollar.

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  Best SUV I have ever had. - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By John - February 16 - 12:54 pm

  We bought this 2005 EX-L to replace a 2003 Pilot. After 57,00 miles, this has been the best driving SUV I have ever owned. The power was surprisingly peppy. It is easy to maneuver and drives more like a car than a truck. I am having a difficult time justifying paying up for a 2009 Pilot that weighs 177 pounds more, 3ft pounds more torque, but 5 less horsepower (250 vs 255). I added the tow package on myself and tow my motorcycles, Waverunner, and loaded utility trailer weighing 2000#+ with ease through Wisconsin hills. I bought an aftermarket Garmin GPS and dont really miss any of the other new gadgets. We have had a few minor problems that were covered by the warranty. Great in snow/ice.

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  Best buy for the $$$ - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Tracy K. - February 16 - 10:00 am

  This suv is wonderful! I cant say enough good comments about it. The more I drive it the more I love it. I didnt want a mini-van (mom mobile) or a full size suv(gas guzzler) but I needed something that was comfortable with enough room for 3 children. My oldest son is 62 and has plenty of leg room in the back seat. I did plenty of research before purchasing but the more I compared other suvs that were similiar in price and size the more I kept coming back to the crv. It drives like a dream and has a lot of gusto for a 4 cylinder. I would highly recommend this vehicle to everyone!

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  Excellent car to buy - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Herb McNaspy - February 16 - 10:00 am

  We went from a 91 Maxima - about same horsepower and weight. Maxima will blow the Honda away but is V6 vs. 4 cyl. Honda rides a little rougher but it handles better especially in corders. Love the leather but seat belts seem to chew up the trim when you retract or extend them. Awkward to reach between headrest and door post. Front doors do not seem to stay open at a reasonable position. Either too narrow or too wide. Comfotable and roomy. At first power seemed a little weak but it came alive at about 3,000 miles-not that we drive like they do on TV. I would buy another one.

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  2016 honda crv - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By lori goyette - February 16 - 5:51 am

  Bought it for 5 star safety rating and trunk space. Both are great. No problem fitting infant car seat with base behind 6 foot driver.

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  Beauty To Drive - 2008 Honda Accord
  By BZ - February 16 - 5:33 am

  I walked into the Honda dealership to buy the V6 model of the Accord. I saw the 4 cylinder and took a test drive, a really nice drive although could be a little quiter. I picked up one right from the showroom floor, this was a beauty I could not pass up. Definitely fun to drive.

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  Love it - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Laura - February 15 - 8:23 pm

  This is my 5th Odyssey and we love it. The lease is up next month and I have been searching for something to replace it as we no longer need a vehicle this large. I have test driven so many cross overs and mid size cars that they are becoming a blur. Nothing Ive driven meets my expectations after my experiences with my Odysseys. I am seriously considering getting another one even though I wanted to down size a little, because they have been comfortable, reliable and great in the snow and ice.

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  Satisfied so far - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By Happy Van Owner - February 15 - 7:38 pm

  I admit, no one buys a minivan for driving excitement, but Honda does a good job of making a vehicle whose main purpose is functionality seem fun to drive. It does everything we ask of it, and actually remains reasonably fun to drive. Mileage is pretty good, and park assist is a great help. Were really happy with it after 4 months of driving.

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  My Ideal Car - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Linda Keller - February 15 - 1:36 pm

  Hondas are a "family tradition". Over the last 20 years we have owned a dozen Hondas--Accords, Civics and Preludes, most purchased new. Why? Because Hondas are the most reliable vehicles with superior features, style, safety ratings and great mileage, too. My children grew up knowing the quality of the vehicles and chose to purchase their own after finishing school I currently own the 2005 EX 4-door Special Edition and this will quite likely be THE car for me. It is comfortable to drive, has a bit of a sporty look and a very superior sound system. As a "Baby Boomer" getting close to retirement, it is important to have a car that is reliable. And there is no choice better than a Honda.

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  A Very Nice Minivan - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By Shawkins22 - February 15 - 8:11 am

  So far, a typical quality vehicle I expect from Honda. After 20 years of Civics, this is my first Honda Minivan and I love it! It is replacing a 1998 Sienna. The Odyssey is feature-rich and has good looks to boot. The rear entertainment system with headphones is a godsend. The dash is a bit intimidating at first, but every day we are learning how to use another feature. I was skeptical of the zone climate controls, but the are effective and work nicely.