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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  2 row seat, leather popping out. - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By Dan - April 14 - 9:30 am

  The car is perfect. Just that I have a problem with the back seat. The leather popping out for both back seats. This also happened to my friend, who bought an EX. Is there a problem with HONDA? The leather seat from the second row popping out. HIGHLY recommended who own a PILOT with leather seat, should check the second row.

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  Reasonably good car, not a fun ride - 2004 Honda Accord
  By rs118 - April 13 - 7:34 pm

  Purchased new in 2004. Its a good all around car at a good price when new, but it doesnt really excel at anything. V6 is sort of fast, but the transmission is weak (just replaced at 75k) and handling is only average (stock suspension and tire size). Considering the lack of handling, it still rides very rough over cracked pavement has some rattles inside and out. Leather seats are fairly low grade. Carpets and roof liner had some minor defects when new, couldnt be fixed. Stereo is only average at best and was recalled and replaced. Ive had a few other minor repairs and the break pads wear quickly. If buying used, look for one with the transmission and stereo already replaced.

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  This car screams reliability, not style - 2000 Honda Accord
  By moparfan1790 - April 13 - 3:32 pm

  I bought this car from my uncle with 89k. Have had absolutely zero problems the only maintenance Ive done is a routine timing belt change (along with the water pump, which I figured I might as well replace w/ belt). Have not had the major transmission issue that seems to be common in the Honda V6 however, the tranny does hesitate between 1st and 2nd. The V6 is very quick, but I do not get very good gas mileage (20 in the city, 27 on highway) for a car of this size. Is not a head turner, but gets me from point A to point B in comfort and without problems.

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  So happy in my Fit - 2010 Honda Fit
  By Soleil575 - April 13 - 12:18 pm

  Ive had my Fit for about a week, and I have to say that I love it. Its a lot of fun to drive and unlike other cars that I test-drove, the Fit has excellent visibility. It feels solid and secure on the road - Id swear Im driving a much bigger car. One of the biggest draws for me was the flexibility in space that the car offers - those magic seats are fantastic! Im very happy with my purchase, and Id recommend it to others. In fact, my partner is thinking of trading his 2000 Accord for a Fit.

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  I love my Accord but - 2002 Honda Accord
  By kingstonian - April 12 - 7:33 pm

  I bought this car 2 years ago and it has been very reliable. Once I had a starter problem which I replaced myself. This car only have 38, thousand miles on it but already it seems like its beginning to develop transmission problems. At first I started hearing a little whirring, almost imperceptible sounds. Now its like a siren. Its takes eternity to shift from 3rd to 4th gear. When its slowing to a stop, I feel the tranny slams into a first gear. The fuel econ is not so great, but then again I live on a hilly island of St Thomas usvi.

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  90,000 miles and better than new. - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Bill E. - April 12 - 4:44 pm

  Ive owned this car since December of 02, and have enjoyed every mile Ive driven it. Honda recalled it to fix a potential transmission problem at 30,000 miles. I put new tires on it at 70,000 miles, which made it a much better car. The only other repair has been new front brakes at 80,000 miles. The car looks new, feels new, and with the new tires, rides and handles better and quieter than new. I cant find any reason to buy a new one, and plan to put another 90,000 miles on it.

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  great car - 2009 Honda Civic
  By tee - April 12 - 2:08 am

  It is a great little car. Drives well, fast, good gas mileage. Only thing I need to mention is a side miller came off from its frame on the right side 2 weeks after purchase but dealer fixed it with no charge. Highly recommended!

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  By far the best car i ever owned - 2007 Honda Accord
  By donecc - April 11 - 9:05 pm

  Car has 70,000 miles and has operated perfectly with only regular scheduled maintenance. I have driven for forty years and never, never owned a car like this. Car gets 31 on interstate and 20 driving in NYC. Replacement tires after 65,000 miles and brakes at 60,000 miles. Four cylinder engine is quick for maneuvering through new york city traffic.

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  Not bad - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Todd Sandford - April 11 - 10:11 am

  1st car I ever bought brand new. The Honda dealership acted as if they really didnt care if bought the car or not. Only the salesman was concerned. The is dependable and economical but not very comfortable for drives over 30 miles. Seats hurt your bottom, road noise is very loud, and you feel every bump. I average 31- 33 mpg mostly on interstate at 83 mph. Im sure I could get better if I slowed down some. The OE tires only lasted to about 38k miles. Never had tires wear out that quickly before. I am over-all satisfied but will not buy another due to the discomfort and the high price.

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  Satisfy with CRV - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Thrifty Buyer - April 11 - 2:01 am

  I brought this car with 62,000 mi. Of course, the dealer offered an extended warranty which I refused. Its a Honda right? So,forget it. About six months later engine light was on, and the mechanic said it was the throttle body. Really? Never replaced one of these. I took the car to the dealer to confirm but, Honda corp ageed to replace the part. Honda paid for the part ($800), and I paid for labor. The AC compressor went out at 90,000 mi. My mechanic told me there is a problem with the compressor on these cars (depending on where the part came from) Again, Honda split the cost. Overall, I love my car. I have over 102,000, and have only replaced the brake pads. Love Honda.