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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  Superbly designed and executed vehicle - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Robert Rosenquist - November 13 - 12:48 am

  I got the EX-L with AWD, since we frequently go to snowy areas in winter. The Pilot is very comfortable, the controls are intuitive and easy to operate, and the ride and handling feel solid but not harsh. The mileage is surprisingly good for a vehicle of this size, although the actual mpg calculated by odometer miles vs gallons at the gas station are about 1.5 - 2 mpg less than the calculated mpg per tank on the dashboard. Nevertheless, we got high mid-high 20s on a recent long trip over predominantly level terrain, despite having the AWD version. The materials have the look and feel of quality, the ride is quiet and smooth, and it is a thoroughly enjoyable vehicle to drive. The very back seat can easily hold two average sized adults, compared with negligible space in the very back seat in a Toyota Highlander I had compared in making the purchase decision.

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  My 2007 CR-V is excellent! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Gil Ponton - November 12 - 5:16 pm

  I really like this car, I used to drive a 2000 Dodge Durango (5.2 liters) and decided to try a small SUV. I am so glad I did it; the CR-V has great style and looks sophisticated, the ride is excellent and firm and I am getting 27 mpg. I wish the dealer had explained about the middle driver console being an option, I do not like the tray it comes as standard equipment since it looks cheap. I would recommend it to any one but I still need to drive it for a fews months yet, but so far is an outstanding machine.

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  Excellent SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Betasigman - November 12 - 4:06 pm

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned in terms of utility and function. Considering Ive owned a 89 Toyota Camry, 95 Isuzu Rodeo and 97 Infiniti Q45t, this is the one that you can take anywhere, anytime and with anything.

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  2009 Accord V-6 - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Last Call - November 12 - 5:03 am

  Have only owned the 2009 Accord for two weeks. Gave my son my 1998 Accord with 160K mi. Love the new Accord and am looking forward to driving it for at least a decade. It is a major upgrade from the 1998. The comfort and ride have improved. The handling and braking is much crisper than any other sedan under $40K. With the 6 cylinder you lose a couple of miles per gallon but the added acceleration is worth it.

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  Odyssey - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By CM - November 11 - 5:23 pm

  This is the 20th Auto Ive owned in the past 30 years, and the 6th purchased brand new. My experience so far is this is the best auto Ive owned to date. I terms of performance (especially consdering its a minivan) comfort, technology, etc. its number one. The word from family and friends that have traveled inside it is "wow."

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  2007 Accord SE - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Dani - November 11 - 4:07 pm

  This is my second accord, the first was a 5-speed and I REALLY miss that, however this car is SO comfortable and have not had a single problem with it in 2 years. I love my Honda!

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  Great Car / Timeless - 1992 Honda Civic
  By Texas Car - November 11 - 3:55 pm

  I have had my 92 for 16 years and have no plans to get rid of it. The Little Red Car has 185K miles on it and has been extremely trustworthy. I am a Japanese car tech by trade and only use OEM Honda parts when possible. The axle shafts are the originals. I have, during its life, installed the second set of boots after the originals. The rotors and drums have never been machined. I am now on the first set of OEM replacement shoes and second set of OEM pads. I am on the first timing belt, water pump and front engine seals, with new drive belts. I will be installing the second replacement belts, tensioner, valve adjust, plugs and misc within the next few days. Then, here I come 250K miles.

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  Love the 2007 Civic Hybrid - 2007 Honda Civic
  By hybridlady - November 11 - 9:56 am

  I bought my my civic hybrid after reading all the reviews. The gas mileage is lower than the sticker mpg, about 43 mpg, but still a lot better than my last car. It is definitely not for people who like speed. Itll get there, just in its own time... I test drove a 2006 with the spongy breaks and crazy abs. Honda must have read the reviews too, because theyve fixed the breaks for 2007. A great little car, excellent visibility (which seems to be a problem in most new cars!). Im 52" and am comfortable, my husband is 62" and comfortable.

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  First Time Honda Owner - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By nogaqrpham - November 11 - 7:03 am

  This is a relatively new car, as I have had it for only 3 weeks. I bought it based on the Honda name and the features. So far, the car has exceeded my expectations. I have always driven larger and heavier cars and was concerned about the comfort and ride. So far, I am very pleased with the ride and the comfort is excellent. The biggest surprise is the excellent acceleration, even in fast traffic. The 5 speed automatic works great! All of my previous cars have been mini- vans, and I also was worried about the smaller cargo area. While I have not needed to haul any 4 by 8 plywood sheets yet, I have plenty of room for most of my needs. The value is great!

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  Great car! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By George - November 11 - 12:53 am

  I bought this EX Si 2007 a few days ago. And is not too soon to say that the car is really great! Feels very strong, stable on highway. A little bit noisy on road. Suspension is a little hard but, its a civic, thats OK. The space inside is impressive and the design in and out also. I also have a 2003 Accord (6 cyl) and I dont think I will keep it after try the civic. I just love it!