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:

• 

  Horrible fuel economy - 2009 Honda Civic
  By rich6139 - February 21 - 8:38 am

  I have owned 2 previous Honda Civics in the past 14 years. Got a 2009 Civic recently, and it is getting horrible fuel economy. This one is only getting average of 24 MPG, whereas my previous Civics got 36 MPG. American Honda says there is nothing wrong with the car, so now I am stuck with a gas guzzzler car. NO MORE HONDAS FOR ME EVER AGAIN !!!!!

• 

  the right suv - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By mrbx4 - February 21 - 5:53 am

  this vehicle is exactly what its supposed to be!! A comfortable family SUV with Honda reliable reputation. Picked it from Dealership in NY and drove right to VA on business trip. Highway Mileage was 22MPG driving 70 MPH. THis car did not pull to the right which i have read in other reviews Will take some time to learn all the features of the Nav. Overall it wasnt that difficult. Coming from a Audi Q7. Honda doesnt compare in handling or performance, but the difference in price on a lease is well in favor of the Honda. I recommend the Honda for what it is.

• 

  Good Truck - 2009 Honda Ridgeline
  By moman - February 20 - 4:01 pm

  This truck is a replacement for my 2007 Tundra. Not as big however it is fun to drive and great in the snow. MPG is 14 City and 18 Hgwy however I expect it to get better with more miles on it. After 3 bumpers, three radios, new tires, drive belt, and battery on Tundra, it was worth giving up all the compliments on the Tundras appearance to get a quality truck.

• 

  Winner of a car - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Denny - February 20 - 3:57 pm

  Bought it new in 1991, Buy tires when they wear out, changed oil and filter approximately every 3K. Routine maintenance done as it need some, big failure was trans computer but found a rebuilt and changed it myself for $175.00.I think it will soon go to my grand daughter.

• 

  Very sataified customer - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Mr. Murray - February 20 - 9:47 am

  Owned since new and with 196k miles have only done routine maintenance. Replaced a 1987 Legend with 265k miles just wanted new parts but in ran fine when I sold it. I stay on top of all maintenance items and have replaced the timing belt and alternator but no tranny failure .. always change fluid ever 50k. At nearly 200k the car is still "tight" with no rattles and handles like a sports car rather than a sedan. Cant wait to get my next new one but since its only about 1/2 thru its life it will be a few years. Its not for sale but if it were I hear the resale is very good. I never miss an oil change or other filter changes Im sure this makes a difference on a Honda or any other.

• 

  Its been fun - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Baka Otaku173 - February 20 - 1:35 am

  Overall my car has served me well over the course of 52K miles in 5 or so years. I only had to get new tires (with alignment), 4 new brake pads, and regular oil changes (Free of charge because of promo). My ride is well excellent with only me in the car, but when it comes to 4, the car becomes a little soggy. Overall, its been an honor owning my accord.

• 

  Insight review 2 months - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Francine - February 19 - 9:21 am

  I fell in love with the overall car and its price made it affordable. Presently not driving that much, and with the cold weather only getting about 37.6 mpg. However, I have been told that during the Spring/Fall mileage goes up dramatically with the temperature. So far, so good.

• 

  Mixed Ride - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Shariq - February 19 - 8:31 am

  I bought this car 6 years ago and its doing pretty well. The only problem we had was that the audio controls on the steering wheel stopped working. Overall a nice minivan with bunch of options.

• 

  great car - 2004 Honda S2000
  By fallcityfisher - February 18 - 4:22 pm

  What a great car. Like a motorcycle with four wheels. I have had zero problems. Handles like its on rails. Full size golf bag fits in trunk, just dont try two!

• 

  Simply the Best - 2007 Honda Accord
  By surfkitty - February 18 - 1:42 pm

  I have over 40k miles logged and not one problem and only 5 oil changes/services. Not real crazy about the styling but the overall reliability, comfort and worry free driving more than make up for it. Honda simply makes the best cars for the money!!