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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  Love this car - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Tallman1 - November 4 - 9:16 pm

  My previous Accord is 16 yrs old and going strong. Made purchasing a new one easy. I love the styling, especially improvements to the rear like LED tail lights and trunk mounted center brake light. The 5 spd is quick, shifting is smooth, and engine noise is surprisingly quiet. Road noise is still there. Sigh. I love the handling on this car! 33-34 mpg so far, which is why I have the 4 cyl manual. Leather seats are very nice but the navigation system is incredible. The lighted instrumentation makes me smile whenever I start this car up. Only downside is lack of headroom for my 6’4” frame... the price you pay for having the power moonroof.

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  Beware of AC compressor - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By ncgator - November 4 - 7:22 pm

  I have almost 110,000 miles and my AC compressor imploded. I was totally unaware that this was a known issue. Shame on Honda for not doing a recall for this. I called Honda and they denied any knowledge of problems. Pointed out that it was pretty well documented on the web, and asked him for the zone manager name and number. Within 15 minutes I had a call back and was told to bring it in for diagnosis and Honda paid for just over 50% of the repair. Still cost me $750 but at least they admitted there was a defect.

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  Please note during break in period!! - 2009 Honda Civic
  By Joe - November 4 - 6:56 pm

  This is a great car and I have posted before about the tire pressure, but it is important that you also DO NOT change the oil during the break in period until you get down to 10% oil change indicator. We are pushed to change the oil ASAP all the time, but on the first go around, FOLLOW THE MANUAL and get the most out of the break in additives from Honda. Just a great performing vehicle. Man, the money you cant beat the quality, reliability and durability!

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  Most reliable, astonishingly reliable - 1995 Honda Odyssey
  By belfastconfetti - November 4 - 5:18 pm

  This is the most reliable, least flaky car that I have ever owned. Seven seats in the Japanese configuration that I drive, often full, no trouble at all. MPG not great, comfort - OK, but reliable, reliable, reliable.

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  Great coupe - 2002 Honda Accord
  By benimal - November 4 - 3:03 pm

  Ive had this vehicle for about 2 weeks now. Its amazing. The only things it could use are a 5-spd tranny, and maybe a little more power. The ride is firm, but still comfortable. The seats could be a little more supportive, but are still good for holding you in the twisties. All in all, its a pretty great car. A few more options/power and it could be exceptional!

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  Second CR-V - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By chdehb - November 4 - 1:41 pm

  This is my second CR-V. I traded my 2008 in for a 2016 CR-V Touring. I love the upgrade. This model is must quieter than my previous CR-V. The cargo area is larger and there is more leg room in the backseat. I love this car and am very pleased with my purchase. Honda is a quality, dependable vehicle.

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  Happy - 1993 Honda Accord
  By John Hutzell - November 4 - 9:46 am

  My Honda has 190,000 miles and still going strong. I had to replace the entire front end and 3rd gear just went out, but I believe this was from lack of care from the previous owner. Im getting around 36 mpg on the highway. This car takes a licking and keeps on ticking

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  You can do better for the money - 2003 Honda Civic
  By JohnnyK - November 3 - 11:47 pm

  My 1987 Civic was a much better car: better MPG, rode smoother, was much quieter, had better ventilation through the dash and had more comfortable seats. This car is loud on the road (and Ive had two sets of tires - my Jeep was quieter!). I cant stand how this thing locks itself even after opening the trunk, and the seats are more sporty than comfy. The stereo is nice. We just bought a 1986 Toyota pickup that rides better and is quieter as well. Im trading this car in for a Camry or a Mercury Grand Marquis. Never again will I buy a Civic. Sure, its reliable, but so are most cars these days. My friends Accord, not much better. Sorry Honda.

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  Great Reliability and Safe Too - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Chad - November 3 - 9:14 pm

  This car was a fantastic buy for my family. After 140,000 miles and nothing more than oil changes, brakes and tires it was tragically destroyed in a pretty serious car accident. $15k in damage later and on one was seriously injured. Never had any issues with A/C... We liked this car so much, we found the exact same car and bought it with the insurance money.

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  Very Happy so far - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Randy - November 3 - 8:26 pm

  This is our first Honda we purchased our Odyssey last month, very happy so far. Took it on a road trip a very enjoyable drive, the DVD system is great the kids were very quiet the whole trip. The only thing that I feel hasnt lived up to their claim was the gas milage. I got a little less than what is stated, but not by much. Im sure they have that rated at 55mph too. Oh well the van is great.