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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  4 cyl is plenty - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Mike - June 29 - 2:00 pm

  The 4 cyl has a surprising amount of power. I came from a 6 cyl Jeep and this car still does not seem sluggish. It is much quicker than any other 4 cyl that I have owned. It is not as fast as the Altima, but gets superior fuel economy. The interior quality is great and the stereo and climate controls are easy to use. Sunroof controls are in an odd place (to the left of the steering wheel, and too low) but it leaves room for a sunglasses holder on the ceiling in front of the sunroof. This car is very roomy in front. Not quite as much room in the back as the Altima, but still good. Head room with the sunroof is still adequate for the tall (65") as long as the seat is not raised.

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  Great Car!! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Andy in Indy - June 29 - 11:10 am

  This is my 4th Accord, and the best yet. Just got it on Friday....dark red with gray interior. The extra horses in the V6 compared to the prior model is really noticeable. Great interior features.

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  Better than ever - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Cincy M - June 29 - 10:26 am

  Previous vehicle was a 2003 Honda Accord, and loved it so much was reluctant to trade it in, as I was afraid the new model would not be as good. That thought was gone forever once I drove the 07. It handles great, seems to be quieter, and the ride is luxurious. Very very happy.

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  The Luxury Car with Prius Gas Mileage! - 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By Weedo - June 29 - 7:07 am

  This car is truly way ahead of the game. Looks amazing; and much better in person even. The ride, drive, feel is excellent. Having owned Prius & Camry Hybrid, I can tell you Honda has REALLY upped the game. The Accord Hybrid rides like a mix of the Lexus quiet/smooth with the BMW steering and road feel (a good mix of both anyway...). The tires give up long before the feeling of any lean comes in. AVERAGE MPG: were averaging 51.4mpg with both me and my wife using this car for daily errands and running around. We do mostly city driving. Probably 80% city. Our Camry Hybrid, which, was an excellent car, averaged 38.x with both of us driving the car (I tend to get 2-3mpg better than my wife). Both run 0-60 in the 7s which is plenty quick for the once in a while time you need it. Whats even better is passing. If youre merging onto the freeway, say, at 45-50mph and want to get up to 70, it gets there QUICK! Nothing like instant electric power! Everything about the drivers "area" is great. Very large, comfortable seat, plenty of head and legroom (Im 63" 200lbs), the steering wheel is perfect, gauges are perfect, everything is where it should be, and with a very high quality of fit and finish. We went with black on black as it gives it a very sleek look (I always hated the tan or gray choice in the Camry Hybrid). This is the $30,440 model which we were able to buy for $25,373. An unbelievable $5,000 off MSRP. What other $25,000 car comes even close to the look, size, feel, luxury, quiet, and gas mileage? Currently none. Ive owned more cars than i care to share, and this is at the top of the list of "best cars for the money ive ever driven". Even if you didnt care about the 50mpg average, this is an excellent car!

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  Happy with EX-L - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By JB - June 28 - 11:49 pm

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  2005 Honda Pilot EX-L-RES - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By charles - June 28 - 9:23 pm

  First of two new Pilots we own. Bought a 2007 just because of how great this vehicle performs. We are a tall family and like the expansive window area. This one was hit(at 33000mi) in the rear by a 06 Infinity G35x. Totaled the Infinity but only damaged the rear bumper, tailgate, exhaust, driver, passenger seat and cross member. Honda repaired and drives straight as an arrow. Still very reliable at 49,000 mi. Need tires by winter(dealer say most pilots tires do not last this long-We drive city/hwy and mountain roads) Get 20 mpg with air conditioning on or off.

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  Keeps going, and going, and going... - 1990 Honda Civic
  By Honda Happy - June 28 - 8:19 pm

  Bought a 1990 Civic to save gas. this car has 170,000 miles on it and still runs great! Im very pleased with the durability. It has survived many years of northern Minnesota weather but continues to run like a new car.

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  I like it - 2006 Honda Accord
  By eric - June 28 - 3:13 pm

  My wife always wanted a Honda and we deceided to buy a luxury car when our Taurus broke down. The v-6 engine is very strong and the car handles great. I love the sunroof and the cd player. 48 dollars fills up the tank and that will last one week. I feel good about our purchase. Honda did a great job.

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  Honda Fit base 5 speed manual - 2008 Honda Fit
  By bob - June 28 - 10:44 am

  Great little car, when I first saw it I thought it was ugly. It grows on you, I really enjoy driving it, holds the road nicely and has averaged 37 to 40 mpg.

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  MINI HUMMER! - 2003 Honda Element
  By flowerchic - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Weve seen a few Elements out there but not many and thought they kinda looked weird but after test driving one, i fell in love with it. With a 5-speed it has more torque than an automatic, which i test drove there, and its a 4- cylinder. Youd be surprise how much power it has with the manual. After purchasing the E, i went through the forums and have seen pictures that people have added other features to it and its awesome. People who are thinking of it look at the Honda Element Forums and this will make your decision making. I JUST LOVE MY MINI HUMMER, especially with all the attention you get!