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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  Glad I bought it. - 2006 Honda Civic
  By jaylieb - October 27 - 5:23 pm

  Drives like a much bigger car. Much quieter than my old Acura Integra. I love the looks of the car and the features.

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  Best Accord yet - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By swissy - October 27 - 2:56 pm

  I have been following the Crosstour online for months. This car definitely looks much cooler in person than in photos. You feel like youre driving a really nice Accord when you drive the Crosstour. This is the car for someone who wants the ample storage space and 4WD without having an SUV.

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  Honda Fit 2009 - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Warren - October 27 - 8:43 am

  We bought our Honda Fit 2 weeks ago after test driving the Toyota Yaris, and Hyundais Elantra and Accent first. So far we absolutely love our new car. We purchased the Metallic gray color and it looks great. We bought our car at Branfond Honda in Branford, Ct. and the salesmen Joel was straight forward and worked with us on price even before we came to the showroom which convinced me to go and take one for a test drive. The car rides smooth, handles great, and is fun to drive. We like it enough I would like to purchase another one soon. This is another fine product Honda has produced. My wife has an 18 year old Accord which is what helped convince us to go with Honda again.

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  First 1000 miles impression - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Blue - October 26 - 6:06 am

  I have taken this truck through snow, sleet, storm and ice in the last 3 weeks. There is nothing that was unexpected or undesirable. I did not try off-road becasue I do not intend to go thru mud. Basically, this is a truck that drives almost like a car. I looked at the other mid-size trucks, but they do not have all the luxury features.

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  Civics - 1995 Honda Civic
  By CivicLover - October 25 - 2:00 am

  I have always loved the Civic it is such a great car,and with a little effort you can have a nice, fast car. They are so easy to drive. I now have a car that i am very proud to own. There are so many upgrades for the Civic like body kits, I love all the body kits. I have even got one of my friends to consider a Civic because they are so reliable. i love Civics every one should get one if they have the chance.

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  Posers need not apply - 2002 Honda S2000
  By Da Hapa - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Simply put, this is the real deal. A true sports car that isnt for the timid. If you arent willing to drive a car, and I mean drive a car, then look elsewhere. Those looking for wood interiors, heated seats, and traction control shouldnt look at the S. However, if you enjoying wringing a car out and the satisfication of getting a corner correctly and heal toe shifting, than this is your dream car.

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  A great car for all ages. - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By vovak - October 25 - 2:00 am

  It is big, powerfull and fun to drive. I was able to fit 3 pairs of skis and two passangers with comfort. Also great for my other outdoor activities.

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  Best Choice for a Van - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By pexpert - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Looked at Sienna as we have owned 4 Toyotas. ODY beats Sienna hands down. More room, easier to operate (my 4 year old can use the power doors) DVD (vs VCR in Sienna) all the same bells and whistles and even a pretty good price. Wife (who LOVES Toyota) says this is a better van. Try it! You will LOVE it!

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  HONDA ACCORD EX V6 *BEST IN ITS CLASS* - 1999 Honda Accord
  By TRANCER - October 25 - 2:00 am

  I HAVE PURCHASED MY 99 ACCORD V6 IN JUNE OF 2001. SINCE THAT TIME I HAVE BEEN REALY SATISFIED WITH THIS CAR. THE ENGINE IS POWERFULL, THE LEATHER SEATS ARE REALY COMFORTABLE AND THE PERFORMANCE OF THIS CAR IS EXCELLENT. BEFORE I GOT THIS CAR I LOOKED AT THE CAMRY, BUT DIDNT LIKE THE BODY STYLE (NOT EVEN THE NEW ONE). I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMEND THIS CAR TO ANYBODY WHO IS LOOKING FOR A FUN TO DRIVE SEDAN WITH EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE.

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  Gets better and better - 2001 Honda Civic
  By js4927 - October 25 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Civic, I still have my 1992 with 150,000 miles on it, these are the best cars on the road.