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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  04 Sick speed v6 - 2004 Honda Accord
  By SIKSPDV6 - July 13 - 10:26 pm

  I have had this car for about a year and a half. The motor is very powerful. I installed koni "yellows" adjustable struts, eibach sport springs aem v2 cold air intake,megan exhaust,20 alt wheels, nitto nt555,vis carbon fiber hood and alot of other little goodys. I get the same feeling starting it every time.

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  2003 Honda Civic LX 4dr 5spd - 2003 Honda Civic
  By 2003 Civic LX 4dr - July 13 - 10:21 pm

  Got this car 5 months ago and basically love it. Ive had no problems with it thus far, and have adjusted my driving habits to pull in an average of 43 mpg (40 city, 47 hwy). Recommended car for anyone.

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  Great - 2000 Honda Civic
  By neilschmeil - July 13 - 6:14 pm

  The car is very nice overall. It could use some more power sometimes when trying to accelerate. Still in good shape.

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  CR-V small bugs - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By Dick in Ohio - July 13 - 3:59 pm

  If the TPMS illuminates, either put $1.50 in BP air pump and do it yourself, or, if convenient, drive to dealer and have him equalize pressure. This should be free. Need better sun visors, maybe builtin extensions. Good car

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  Love our ridgeline - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By Virginia - July 13 - 3:32 pm

  Comfortable roomy great storage.

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  2008 Fit Sport manual - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Amy - July 13 - 3:18 pm

  I love this car. It handles great and mileage is better than advertised. We get 34-41 mpg city. My husbands feet have trouble with the pedals. He says there is not enough room for his feet if he is wearing boots.

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  Love my honda - 2000 Honda Accord
  By kidace - July 13 - 1:30 pm

  I have 265,000 miles on my Honda and it still drives great. I have only done oil changes and replaced the tires. I recommend people to consider getting a Honda or at least trying one before buying.

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  One Day and lovin it - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By lovin it - July 13 - 12:29 am

  I have had my Pilot for 1 day i brought it at Honda east. It is certified and has a 7 year 100,000 mile warranty. Great on gas. had 50,500 miles when i brought it. My kids love the 3rd row seat. The trunk is really small when the third row seat is up. Very spacey and reliable.

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  Happy Honda Ride - 2008 Honda Accord
  By CCSLVR - July 12 - 2:30 pm

  I wanted to get a nice sedan with a standard shift. The Accord EX-L 5- speed fit the bill. I enjoy driving the car each and every day (even to work). The 4 cylinder engine is just right for quick acceleration and highway cruising. I get 25 MPG in mixed driving and 31 MPG on the highway. The ownership experience has been excellent. Dealer service is done with a smile.

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  Vibration also - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By bummed10 - July 12 - 1:48 pm

  Really like the vehicle, except for the vibration issue so many others are noting. Honda, please get a fix out for this as soon as possible. Notice after car has fully warmed up, you stop in "drive" and you are not running accessories like heater. It is much more vibration than a typical 4 cylinder. It does seem like the cause is idling too low. Otherwise, the car is really nice.