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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  Do the 2002 - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By cogo - June 8 - 10:00 am

  The vehicle has certainly lived up to my expectations. I am still excited about the projected resale value! Although the CRV is not made for difficult off road travel, I have taken it into the woods camping on several occasions without any problems. It performs like a charm.

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  It rocks!!!!!!!!!!! - 2002 Honda Civic
  By mpeace - June 8 - 10:00 am

  You just have to get one. I cant explain it. It rocks.

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  se - 2002 Honda Accord
  By samiander - June 8 - 10:00 am

  better performance...please...but looks inside and out are spectacular...reliablity will make it a keepsake!

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  I Think Im a Honda Person Now - 2006 Honda Civic
  By mwallace - June 8 - 3:33 am

  It took about two months to take delivery of my new car and Ive had it for a little less than a month. I have about 1000 miles and have gotten better gas mileage with each fill-up (about 35mpg). I love how tight and responsive the car is. It does vibrate a little bit, but not unreasonably. The acceleration is better that the 2003 Mazda6 I traded it in for and I LOVE the design, inside and out. It is also very comfortable. My mother and I bought the exact car (-color), she got hers 1st, then I got mine 3 months later. I thought I wanted a bigger car, possibly a SUV, but I am so happy with my decision. My expenses went down on all counts except insurance which went up about $15 per month.

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  Love at First Sight - 2007 Honda Element
  By Paula - June 7 - 11:33 pm

  I was in love with the element from day one, it took me until 2006 to finally take a look inside . I was hooked! In dec. 2006 my dealer found a 2007 kiwi lx manual I ordered and bought it on the spot, no test drive needed. I read different reviews for people wanting carpet, different shifter location etc. For them I say "get a normal car." the Element is not for everyone, but good for children, pets, hauling things and having fun.

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  Good car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By hondaperson - June 7 - 6:07 pm

  Bought new in 04. Nice design, spacious interior, huge trunk capacity, nice look in and out. Decent pick up when merging onto highway. Good sound system, everything conveniently placed for the driver. Never had a problem with it!

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  Excellent vehicle - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Bob Edwards - June 7 - 3:40 pm

  I bought this van in July of 07 and it has been a pleasure to drive. We have taken it on two vacations and it was very enjoyable. My wife drives it daily and she tells me this is the best van she has ever had. Wow she is happy, I am happy.

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  Love my Honda! - 2017 Honda CR V
  By Sally Urban - June 7 - 5:05 am

  Quiet, easy ride. Very happy with purchase - miss my Prius mileage but no comparison to comfort and driving experience. Needed an all purpose vehicle with all of the newest safety features available.

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  Great car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By jcw819 - June 6 - 8:39 am

  I enjoy this car in every way. It is fuel efficient, but has enough power to pass, even at interstate speeds.

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  A Gas-Sipping Treasure - 2005 Honda Civic
  By danho76 - June 6 - 12:26 am

  I bought a Certified 05 Civic EX SE A/T with 9,000 miles via Ebay. I drove it 650 miles back home and it was a pleasure. The ergonomics of the controls are stellar the comfort of the seats superb, and the driving experience a pleasure. I averaged well over 40 MPG on the freeways I am averaging well over 30 MPG around town. I love the sound system and head unit on the SE I also like the leather-wrapped steering wheel & the spoiler. All the controls are intuitive & easy to use. The ride is supple yet the car is eager and willing through corners. Fit & finish are impeccable both inside the car and outside. Even with the automatic transmission, the car is peppy.