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:

• 

  Awesome driving experience - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Ganesh - December 13 - 9:11 am

• 

  Too many problems to enjoy! - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Lynn - December 13 - 8:21 am

  A few days after purchase, Bluetooth stopped working, clock couldnt keep time, and there was no color on the touchscreen. This happens every 5-7 days, so basically works for a week, broke for a week. The Bluetooth is interfering with my job, so its important for it to work! Honda has informed me they know about the problem and are working on a fix, but its taking so long! Also sometimes when I exit the car theres a rapid beep, a warning, but nothing seems to be wrong, I have to re-open and close the door for a normal beep to ensure cars off and locked! So far, buying a new Honda has been a huge annoyance disappointment!

• 

  Let it snow! - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Gilbrod - December 12 - 11:53 pm

  I got this because me and the wife needed not only the extra space, but also something that would not strand us when it snows. It has all the safety features we need for our two boys (2 yrs and one on the way). It yelled at my wife for not buckling up! That was awesome. The Pilot handles like a dream. Whenever I need that extra kick, it gives it to me. On the snow, it responds smoothly with no shakiness. I dont know what others had, but my wheels have not shaking going past 65. I have gone as fast as 85 with no waggle. But the road noise was something else.

• 

  The CR-V Won Over The Rav - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Rick B - December 12 - 9:13 pm

  We traded in a 1997 Rav 4. It was my wifes dream to own a new one. She didnt like the looks of the CR-V but I convinced her to take a test drive. She loved it - then we drove the Rav. Within a block she said no to the Rav and yes to the CR-V. We found the CR-V had more room but also had a more comfortable ride. The way this vehicle drives won us over.

• 

  Great Car, Not a truck - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By dman - December 12 - 2:36 pm

  The Ridgeline handles and drives very well, although the drivers area is not as roomy as my F150 was. Honda is reliable and offers just a couple of versions, making it easy to chose come buy time. The Ridgeline in bed trunk and roomy back seat are cool, but the Tonneau cover is awkward and the payload/towing capacity are very weak. Overall, a great car, not a truck.

• 

  Disgusted - 2008 Honda Civic
  By DJ in Bama - December 12 - 8:26 am

  I was transferred to a new plant which increased my drive to around 35 miles one way. I justified buying the Civic based on the 36 mpg. I have documented 8 straight tank fulls, after reaching 3000 miles, that never got over 30. This is driving 30+ interstate miles one way with the cruise set at 70mph. I carried it to the dealer and got nowhere. Wrote Honda a letter and was basically told "your problem." I have 3 Hondas in my driveway now but will not have another! If you are thinking of buying a Civic I strongly suggest you really investigate all other options first.

• 

  My 3rd Honda 2nd Accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By gpk - December 12 - 7:26 am

  I love the performance of my Accord. The grey color is awesome. Seats are awesome. Excellent leg room as well.

• 

  Hondas dont last forever - 2001 Honda Civic
  By COLOCPA - December 12 - 4:11 am

  Have owned this Civic for over 3.5 years, bought it at 60k miles and now has 132k miles. Havent had many problems with the vehicle during this time, replaced brake pads and drums and that is about it. I bought this car based on Hondas reputation and the low operating costs (good gas mileage, doesnt require a lot of repairs). I would definitely not buy a civic again. The ride is very bumpy and it isnt a fun car to drive. Also, the transmission went out at 132k miles and to repair would be over $2k. The car is barely worth that much and needs new tires, struts, and engine work so it is not worth repairing.

• 

  Recent Purchase - 2010 Honda Insight
  By William - December 12 - 3:30 am

  Read a ton of stuff before I ran out and got one. Paid invoice and am getting $3,000 back from work. I got a $22,000 car for $17,000. I love it. Ive seen many comparisons to the Prius. I skipped the Prius because it was so expensive. People who complain its not quick miss the point. I am amazed at the technology it comes with. Traction control? Climate control? LED lights? Paddle shifters? I am getting close to 50 mpg. Typical (excellent) fit / finish for a Honda.

• 

  My Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By Lynne - December 11 - 5:40 pm

  This is my 4th Honda and my favorite......... looks and feels so cool...... love the xm satellite radio included...... so glad i bought it......