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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  I want my MPG - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By tel5654 - August 1 - 6:01 pm

  I purchased my Odyssey after much research and I am very happy with my decision. I love the pep and the handling. My kids and I thoroughly enjoy driving this van.

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  Pretty good, but some annoying issues - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Evelyn - August 1 - 2:16 pm

  I have manual & had to bring it in for clutch issues 6x (free). The rear wiper only rotates apx. 60 degrees w/rear windows open you get a horrid air noise no int wipers & wipers grind on windshield crappy upgraded sound system locks are funny based on key position in ignition other than that, the car has held up well & will probably resell well also. It could have been better, but at least it never broke down on the road. I beat on it too.

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  92 honda accord ex-r sedan - 1992 Honda Accord
  By m98 - July 31 - 7:53 pm

  this car rides exceptionally smooth on the freeway and streets. the steering is also pretty smooth. on the performance, this car could use a bit more power since it is a very heavy car. i suggest that this vehicle should of been built with the honda prelude vtec motor. my accord i have done some modifications in performance and its much better than stock. passing is way way easier especially because my car is auto. other than that the motor runs pretty quiet and outside noise isnt so bad.

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  Cheap, quick and certainly not dead! - 2013 Honda Fit
  By Lars Carlsen - July 31 - 3:24 am

  This car is all about function over form, it looks like a guppy, albeit a cute one, and the cockpit is spaceship like, but the materials are more functional than luxurious. It is definitely not a powerhouse but it is Peppy in stop and go traffic.

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  Excellent Used Car! - 2000 Honda Civic
  By williamssd - July 30 - 2:09 pm

  I purchased my Civic EX 2dr 5sp used at the end of April, 2002, after graduating from college and getting my first full-time job. I drive a lot (had 22,000 on it from original owner, I now have 144,000). I have not had a single problem with it. I change my own oil/filter/spark plugs/MT fluid, but other than that I only go by what the manual says for maintenance -- astounding reliability. The engine still does not burn oil (none that I can tell with regular checks). My fuel economy during the summer stays near 36 mpg with a mix of city/hwy driving. Since relocating to Bullhead City, AZ, I have noticed that at its age the extreme heat does decrease acceleration and the AC.

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  Flawed But Fun - 2005 Honda Element
  By steve - July 30 - 4:43 am

  Overall concept is a winner but a few problems keep this from being a "10" for me. Visibility is sometimes tricky due to the thick pillars. Sun roof would be much better in the front than the back. Gas mileage should be higher for such a small vehicle. But these are minor complaints, this car is a ton of fun to drive--especially when you consider its boxy shape and weight. Acceleration is decent, handling for a four-wheeled box is reasonable and the amount of roominess inside is amazing. Its also very comfortable on a long road trip. On the whole, this is a lot of car for the money.

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  Hdt - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Gaye browm - July 29 - 10:09 pm

  Shop around

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  One of the most fun cars Ive owned - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Honda Lover - July 28 - 8:27 am

  I have owned a 1993 Accord, 1999, 2001 and 2003 civic but this CRV was just the right fit for our growning family! We were deciding between the Pilot and the CRV. Hands down, we prefer the CRV. It was $6,000 less, gets better gas mileage (5-7 mpg) and has plenty of room to spare. The flexibilty that the seat positioning offers is great! I especially like the floor in the rear that turns into a picnic/card table. If you are looking at a small SUV, look no further. This CRV gives you the room, versitility, and comfort that you are looking for and at a great price! 2007 is being re-designed and the body style is changing and NOT for the better. Get the 06 while it lasts!

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  new si - 2003 Honda Civic
  By rusty - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Thsi is fun to drive(feels like a race car)that brings me to issue #1 the steering is fine at low speeds but way to heavy at highway speed -an adjustment of the variable power steering unit will be something I may undertake.

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  Great vehicle. - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By rrm151 - July 27 - 7:53 am

  I wanted a vehicle that would comfortably seat 4 adults and still have room for 4 golfbags and luggage for a long weekend. The Pilot meets all my needs. Golfbags fit easily, even between the wheel wells. The ride is very comfortable. Owned it just 3 days so far. I do have a defect in the radio LCD display. If you buy one, make sure you look at the radio with your sunglasses on. There is a defect in a polarization layer on some radio displays. Other than the radio display, its perfect.