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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  Not Overrated - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By BonkBonk - January 30 - 2:20 pm

  I live in Minnesota - it is quite decent even on all-season tires Here is my take: performance/fun-to-drive are both 10 (for minivans). It is more precise than most domestic cars and every other minivan (incl Toyota). Comfort is an 8 due to some stiffness - the price you pay for performance. Fuel economy is a 6 - I get 19, would be nice in the low 20s. Interior design is a 9 - spartan and practical + little to break. Exterior design and build quality both 10s - best looking minivan with great fit/finish. Reliability a 9 - almost perfect.

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  Serves me well - 2007 Honda Accord
  By gws - January 30 - 10:03 am

  Everything on this car works as advertised. I get about 25 mpg driving mostly in the city. All the goodies work including the voice activation system. The A/C went bad at 3 months and it took two dealers four tries to fix it but all under warranty. My 8th Honda and Ill continue to buy as long as the quality holds up. I find it very comfortable but I do very little long distance driving as some of the other reviewers. The tires are a bit noisy but I think that is a Michelin problem. Ill try another brand when the time comes. The OEM tires have 22000 miles and still look new.

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  Very good vehicle - 2000 Honda Passport
  By pixie - January 29 - 10:37 pm

  I have had this vehicle for 5 mos now and Ive never been unhappy with it smooth ride, gas mileage average,comfortable driving, everything conveniently placed to reach, worth the used vehicle price, affordable.

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  Great Car - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Bostonlawyer - January 29 - 9:30 pm

  After agonizing over Avalon, Lincoln MKS, Camry, Taurus, Fusion, and starting my search determined to buy American, I arrived at the conclusion that this was the most car built by American workers on the market. The ride is just a step below the Acura TL, the gas economy for a v6 is wonderful, especially balanced against the power and acceleration the engine provides. The only bad thing I can say about the seats is that they are not quite as supportive as those in the Acura TL. Let me tell you, if you want the same equipment in a Taurus or an Avalon or Lincoln you will need another $7,000.00 so do yourself a favor and put the extra money in your pocket and seriously consider this car.

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  2010 crosstour is a fun car - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By vidal - January 29 - 8:43 pm

  This is the most attractive car of the year. I have had people asking about this car at gas stations and at traffic lights. I have had so many compliments

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  Surprising Value - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By zen - January 29 - 8:23 pm

  When compared to other SUVs and crossover vehicles, the CR-V ends up a better value and cheaper than other brands. I am a returning Honda customer, purchased for the reliability and ended up getting decent fuel economy, roomy interior, pleasant ride and the ability to haul around things that wont fit in a traditional car.

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  Outstanding New Civic Design - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Todd G - January 29 - 6:43 pm

  This new Civic is outstanding in almost every category. Typical Honda quality throughout the vehicle but a couple amazing features include the turbo engine. Not only is it already amazingly fast, for a Civic sedan, but when you shift into Sport (S) this car will get you out of almost any sticky situation with ease. So far we only owned the car for a month and the Apple CarPlay suddenly would not recognize either of our iPhones. Honda service had to update our software to get it working again. Also, I do find the lack of volume knobs for the entertainment center to be annoying since were all quite use to that capability. Hopefully, Ill get use to it soon. Other than that, love the car. And the gas mileage has averaged between 40 - 43 MPG with mostly highway (90%) and city (10%). Additionally, the Honda Sensing technology has been excellent. Its really great at keeping you alert when youre driving long distances. I highly recommend.

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  Best of both worlds - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By Truckguy - January 29 - 3:41 pm

  I traded in my Ford truck and my Dodge Durango thinking I could get the best of both worlds with the Ridgeline. During the first 1K miles, so far so good with the exception of mileage. The Ridgeline handles great, the AWD grips fine in inclement weather and the interior is comfortable. The storage spaces are very well designed from the sunglass holder to the pull forward center console that reveals additional CD storage to under seat storage in the rear. In terms of complaints, the navi system is not worth the extra money. My $200 Garmin is easier to use, gives more detailed directions and displays the speed limits which is great on unfamiliar roads. Save the $2K and skip it!

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  2006 Honda Civic 4-Dr Navi Auto - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Jim - January 29 - 3:06 pm

  Excellent value from a vehicle that only continues to exceed all of our expectations. Fuel economy is outstanding, averaging 34 true MPG in 75/25 city/highway use. Handling is on par with many sports cars, yet roomy enough for 4 adults in total comfort. Performance is surprisingly good in relation to the fuel economy. While not a car for the dragstrip (that would be the Si) it easily climbs to highway speeds quickly, feels safe in passing situations and climbs Colorado mountain passes without problems. While this vehicle is currently driven most often by my teen-age son and daughter, I believe I have seen the future. I will soon be trading my Lexus SUV for a 2007 Honda Civic.

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  Love This Car! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Gary - January 29 - 1:46 pm

  6500 miles, no problems at all. Handling is equivalent to a Viper in the slalom. Summer tires combined with L.S. differential had no problem in 4" of wet snow at max 35mph! First oil change at 3000 miles switched to full synthetic. Recent 200 mile trip at 55- 65mph, conservative driving, yielded an astonishing 41mpg with 2 on board! Only issues I wish to resolve are low speed hesitation when engine is cold (exacerbated in winter), and balky 3rd gear engagement particularly when cold. Have come to like the funky dash layout. Incredibly comfortable, supportive seats. Great sound from intake, exhaust, and sound system. Happier with the Si than any other I have ever owned.