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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  HOW SWEET IT IS! - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By SWEEET!! - September 18 - 9:33 pm

  I have had mine sine April 08 and have about 8K miles on it already, a lot of traveling out of town. However, I am very pleased with the truck i.e. its drivability, comfort,power, the rear a/c and plenty of storage inside and out. So, far not one problem.

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  Best van ever! - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By podra - September 18 - 6:16 pm

  I just bought the 2009 Odyssey it is the best van there is in the market. This Honda is well built, smooth and quiet, very powerful and it has great reliability and great value. Brought it home 2 weeks ago and no problems. Our last car was a sienna and it had transmission problems so i sold it. Always buy a Honda it wont disappoint.

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  Best Van Ever - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By hondadonna - September 18 - 1:16 pm

  We have owned four vans over the years and this 06 Honda Odyssey is the best. Last year we took a road trip from California to Wisconsin and the mileage was great, very comfy ride, kids loved the room for toys, and very reliable. No problems to report, just regular oil changes!! We will stick with Honda for a van because of the safety and reliability.

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  Great car - 2009 Honda Accord
  By sam011002 - September 18 - 6:16 am

  I had planned on buying used, but the new price was too good to pass up. With the $6000 off MSRP, I have a lot of car for the money. Great looking vehicle with most of the options I was looking for. Interior is classy. Have had the car three weeks, put on 2800 miles including one 1600 trip. Read the complaints about the firm seat. I had some concerns, but after the 1600 miles had no aches or pains, and I am not young. I think it is a great seat. I have been very pleased with the MPG. 27.7 MPG at 78 MPH. 23 MPG around town. Just have to watch jack rabbit starts.

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  Great Small SUV - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By bigsr120 - September 17 - 12:03 pm

  I previously drove a 2004 Honda EX CR-V on a lease, which I turned in about four months ago. I purchased the 2008 EX CR-V about four weeks ago and absolutely love it. It is so much better than my previous SUV in comfort, ergonomics, technology, and overall style. I am averaging approximately 24 MPG, in mixed city/highway driving. My 04 CR-V was a pleasure to drive, but this total redesign really blows it away. The safety features are terrific with full side curtain and seat side airbags. With included traction control and vehicle stability assist, I feel so much safer driving this completely redesigned version. The CR-V handles nimbly, rides smoothly, and is much quieter than my 2004 CR-V.

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  I THINK I downsized - 2008 Honda Element
  By rick259g - September 17 - 9:57 am

  bought this Element "downsizing" from a Ford Explorer with 186k miles. I have more legroom, better road visibility, passengers in back seats have more legroom than in the Explorer. Pep seems better than the heavy v6 Explorer. The gas mileage has been upsized from 15-16 MPG for the Explorer to 23-25 with the Element. Im glad I "downsized".

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  My SC - 2008 Honda Element
  By Anthony - September 17 - 9:35 am

  I work for Honda. i had my choice of any of the models that Honda has. I chose the element for many reason. Looks, style, diverse interior, upscale interior are just a few. I can honestly say that after 6 months I am still as happy as i was the day i bought it.

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  An affordable Honda Accord - VP - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Ted Detjen - September 17 - 5:03 am

  We began our search for a car by looking at Honda Civics but discovered that the Value Package Honda Accord cost only a few hundred dollars more. It comes with many useful features including remote entry, an anti-theft system, cruise control, a CD/radio, a maintenance minder system, a peppy 4 cylinder engine with a smooth five speed transmission, air conditioning, lights in the glovebox and trunk, anti-lock brakes, front and side airbags, and power windows.

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  civic 2006 - 2006 Honda Civic
  By civic - September 16 - 8:20 pm

  I like this car a lot! I just bought it about 3 weeks ago and I couldnt have chosen a better vehicle. Its very sporty looking. Ive gotten so many compliments from people. The only bad side is that at night while driving, theres a glare on the windshield from the blue light (how fast youre driving). Other than that its a great car that will hold its value!

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  dont hate if you dont know how to drive! - 2008 Honda Fit
  By i H8 dee-te-dees - September 16 - 5:00 pm

  I cant stand people who give truly bad reviews then end with but its a good little car! car handles great, gas mileage is better than sticker! trust me, my car only knows 2 speeds, park & 75. Honda really did a great job with this one, compared to all in its class and by far the fit was the best in its class hands down! better equipped than the yaris and more fun to drive than the versa!