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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  honda hybrid in florida - 2004 Honda Civic
  By cosaco - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Does over 42 mpg in mostly city driving consistently since purchase, by my own calculations - the gas consumption gauge overstates reality by 2-3 mpg. Battery does not charge well in hot weather here in Florida, gas mileage is noticeably better in cool weather.

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  Cant be beat for the money - 2001 Honda Accord
  By samspade77 - May 7 - 10:00 am

  I have been in the automotive industry for 12 years, and I swear by Honda products. This is a top quality vehicle that is a great all-around sedan. It is fun to drive, and the VTEC engine is quick. I drive it on HWY 5 between San Jose and L.A. This car can cruise between 80MPH and 100 MPH with great control and feel. The ride is very smooth and comfortable. I have no problem climbing the mountains, or passing other vehicles. I would recommend Accord to anyone who wants a practicle, reliable, fun, inexpensive, safe, roomey, low-maintenance, and quick car! You dont need to spend an arm or a leg for top quality. BUY a HONDA today!

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  A great car! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By maggie - May 7 - 5:13 am

  Ive had my Fit Sport for a year and 13,000 miles later I still love it. This is the first time Ive actually enjoyed driving a car. Its dependable, easy to park anywhere, comfortable for adults and children and I can put so much stuff in it. I also appreciate the fact that this car has many great safety features and an interior thats easy to clean which is important when carrying children. The Fit has redeemed my view of the powerless 4 cylinder car. It feels wonderful to drive a gas efficient car that overall looks and feel great inside and out. However, I suggest some minor tweaks related to noise and the interior.

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  My 1997 SE - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Erik Hoggatt - May 6 - 1:19 pm

  This is my baby, I take it every where. I drive it to work everyday and would not be afraid to take it coast to coast if needed. She has 230,150 miles on here and have only had services every 60,000 miles except for the timing belt replacement at 105,000 and 210,000 miles. I have the oil changed every 5,000 miles and would recommend this vehicle to anyone who needed a good commuter vehicle, I got 28.9 miles per gallon on my last tank and Im well on my way to 300,000.

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  Fair comparison - 2010 Honda Insight
  By nathan - May 5 - 11:23 pm

  Bought my Insight today for my college daughters and we took it straight from dealer to Santa Barbara for a 120 miles spin. We all loved it. All professional reviews are too harsh on Insight comparing with Prius. Insight has 10 times better driving position; better road feel; all the gadgets youngsters want (13 buttons on steering wheel plus pair of shifter paddles). Coupled with good price, this is a better choice. About accusing Insight copying Prius style, I remember this. Before Prius, there was this big ugly Pontiac. Before that, there was little cute Honda CRX. This style is for small cars. Insight has low and narrow profile to make it much nicer looking. And lots of fun.

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  Road nosie is the only problem... - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Newbie - May 5 - 2:56 am

  I am not sure if its me or the car itself. I have driven my Mazda 626 for 9 years now and I never thought I heard other vehicles passing when cruising on a high way at 65mph. But with this new CR-V I could hear every car that I pass and the ones that pass by me. I also think the road/wind noise is more. Thats my only complaint. The vehicle feels otherwise very crisp and comfort. The noise is heard only on some highways. If the pavement is a newly done one, the noise is not bad. I think the insulation by the car bosy and the window mirrors are of poor quality. I really expected a nice noise free ride.

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  Pretty good overall - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Steven - May 4 - 7:22 pm

  Too many rattles, and not great visibility. But car handles great - and the amount of interior space is more than enough. Not sure Ill buy another due to all the rattling, however.

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  reliable - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Gail Goodman - May 4 - 10:00 am

  I find the honda civic is reliable, but the noise is terrible while driving, I dont get the gas mileage, the visualble is horrible. meaning that the beam between the back and front seat you cant see.

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  Atrocious Gas Mileage (13 - 15 City) - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By John Knox - May 3 - 11:50 pm

  Overall we are a little disappointed with our Honda Pilot EX=L. This is our first Japanese vehicle - recently converting from domestic vehicles due to excessive ongoing maintenance costs, and being persuaded by the constant rave reviews of Japanese cars by the Motoring media. Gas mileage is not even close to what they claim - even with variable cylinder management. The transmission cannot handle city driving - making it necessary to drive around in 3rd gear unless on the highway. Also, ride is not that great - very truck like. On a positive note, the fit and finish is pretty good (although we did have a broken grab handle on delivery)and the interior is spacious and comfortable.

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  Disappointed Buyer - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Z. Dollar - May 3 - 3:53 pm

  Purchased car with only 31 miles. Two weeks later car was having a new steering column replaced. A week later rear of car was vibrating when I drive speeds that exceeded 40 miles per hour. Took car back to dealer. Something had to be repaired in truck area to stop vibration. Two months after this car went back to the shop and found that the steering column had to be replace again? WOW by now ready to give car back. Very disappointed in Honda customer service. I have owned several Honda products but this is by far the worst model I have ever owned. Drivers seat not comfortable, the car itself compared to other models of similar class. I rate this car a 2 on a scale of 10!!!!