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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  Wonderful car - 2015 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By Erich - December 24 - 11:35 pm

  Great car! Ive averaged 43mpg over 17,099 miles. Fun car to drive. I rent a lot of cars for work and my Honda is always a joy to return to. One factor to consider is maintenance. This car requires an oil change roughly once a year ( the maintenance minder will tell you, but the manual says once a year otherwise). I have been to the dealer twice in two years, which would be unheard of in a regular car. The sound from the speakers is excellent and the collision detector has saved me more than once. I love this car!

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  Honda Odyssey 2005 - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By a - December 24 - 7:53 pm

  Good gas mileage becuse of the Variable cylinder management. Comfort, head and legroom and driving position. The no flat tires take the worry out of flats and I would never, ever buy another car without the navigation system.

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  Accordo Gordo - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Caren - December 24 - 2:12 pm

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  Love my first new car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Craig - December 24 - 12:03 pm

  I just bought my first new car a little over a month ago. I purchased a black 2 door coupe and splurged for fog lights from the dealership for $500. I always get compliments about the car and how it looks. I researched about about this car for 6 months before getting it. I could not be happier. Great gas mileage and awesome stereo. I have only one complaint. My dash seems to chip off easily. I am talking about the sparkly pod segment that wraps around the speedo and stereo. I knocked into it two times and the paint literally chipped off. I was surprised due to hondas superb quality reputation. Other than this little complaint, I am truely happy. I would recommend this car to all

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  Solid, uninspried alternative to SUVs - 2004 Honda Element
  By kingchupi - December 24 - 10:00 am

  The looks arent for everyone, so be prepared to explain yourself. I think the consensus for why people buy the Element is universal, the combination of value, reliability, and versatility. The ride has no sporty intentions, so slow it down around turns. The 160 hp engine feels great, the Element never feels underpowered. Overall Im very happy with my Element. Here are some improvements that wouldnt fit below: 5) The gas tank holds 15.9 gallons, but the nanny fuel light comes on after using only 12 gallons. Abiding by the fuel light, youll be filling up after only 300 miles. 6) The recommended load capacity is something like only 680 lbs.

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  We love the Odyssey! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By kaw - December 24 - 10:00 am

  This is our second Honda Odyssey. We LOVE this van! It is so roomy inside and drives like a car! This time we got the entertainment package and LOVE the fact that the kids can listen to a DVD and we can still listen to a CD or the radio! We took our first Honda Odyssey across country last summer and it was the perfect van to travel in! I cant imagine buying a different van for our family of six.

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  Fantastic - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By TNWeasel - December 24 - 10:00 am

  This van outperforms every other mini- van we tested. We looked for six months & knew from the first test this was exactly what we wanted. The interior is roomy & comfortable. Although this is our first, it certainly wont be our last Honda car.

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  love my odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By staci - December 24 - 10:00 am

  We have owned our odyssey for over a year and have enjoyed its comfort and reliability. I especially enjoy the friendly and reasonably priced service we receive when we have scheduled maintenance. It is very easy to transport all of our children and their friends. We were not "mini-van" people before buying this car, but it has made our life so much easier. Thanks Honda!

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  I LOVE MY ODYSSEY!!!! - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By rkwmom - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I have driven Hondas exclusively for the last 16 years. There is NO FINER vehicle on the road!! I will never buy anything other than a Honda. They have no equal as far as reliability and longevity.( We have a 1998 Accord as well that my son will drive for a number of years to come.) Back to the van, it is comfortable, beautiful, and great for kids!! LOVE the DVD player!

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  my odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By loki3640 - December 24 - 10:00 am

  nice vehicle. i like the way it handles and stays together.