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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  transmission - 2002 Honda Civic
  By goody2shoe1 - May 27 - 2:00 am

  i like my car overall. It gets good gas mileage and has pretty good pickup for a four. I did have to get a new transmission though it hadnt gone yet but they thought it might but it was under warrenty so they replaced it for free. Its worked great ever since.

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  great milage - 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By richard snyder - May 27 - 1:27 am

  Vey comfortable although the radio and controls are bloated

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  Great SUV - 2007 Honda Element
  By E1RMM - May 26 - 8:58 pm

  OK, I confess: I did convince the dealership to put carpet, floor mats, and the SC wheels on my E. There, I said it. Notwithstanding, I really love this vehicle. With the 18s it corners better than my 2007 Camry SE (manual) did. I am really amazed. True, it is not the most aerodynamic vehicle on the road, but itll pass. I love the versatility of cargo space usage. I can get a lot of stuff inside, like 6 foot trees, etc. It makes trips to home improvement stores a breeze. I like that it takes up less floor space in my garage too. Its odd that a vehicle with so much interior room is shorter than a Corolla. I enjoy my E.

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  longtime Honda owner - 2004 Honda Civic
  By longtimeowner - May 26 - 1:13 am

  This is my 4th new Honda I purchased this car in 12-03 I have had excellant service from the car. I think it is a good little car the quality is well above average. The service intervals suggested by Honda are long. I have had no problems with fit and finish. I could suggest this ride for anyone needing a "GOOD SMALL CAR"

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  Fit As a FIDDLE - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Don Cook - May 25 - 7:06 pm

  Purchased this new Honda after much research, and trading in my 03 Element.This vehicle is extremely comfortable and is nimble and very steady on the road. Check out Car and Driver for May 06..beats 15 other cars in the Fits catagory..Rated #1 on all levels and 50mpg on the Highway and excellent crash test results. Honda is again the benchmark for vehicles and purchase price wont kill the pocketbook.

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  I love it - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Ashlyn - May 25 - 10:43 am

  I love the car I just got. Its so nice inside. I love the leather. I would recommend it to others. It drives so smooth and is just wonderful!

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  The Best Vehicle Ive ever owned! - 1995 Honda Odyssey
  By Robert Ponce - May 24 - 11:11 pm

  And, Ive own a lot! American and foreign cars all by being in the Air Force. I used to buy and sell cars from military folks who were switching assignments to and from other bases. I worked on all makes and models on my last count approx 30 cars and a dozen motorcycles. I personally owned cars for no more than 2 years tops! Not until I bought this 1995 Odyssey in 01/1996 on a year end close out! Ive had it now for over 12 years and it has 415,000 miles. None of my friends can believe that Im still driving my white Honda Odyssey? Ive only replaced the timing belt and master cylinder and CV Joints and about 6-7 sets of tires! Im keeping her!

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  Excellent Car - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By cmf - May 24 - 3:50 pm

  The care handles extremely well. in the first snowfall, it was above average. I wish all wheel drive was an option. The heated outside mirrors was a big plus. My daughter loves the DVD. the leather is easy to clean. Easy to use fold up/down rear 60/40 split seat. Easy access to third seat even with second row middle seat in. The second row windows that open are EXCELLENT!!!

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  Third Civic - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Nookie4me - May 24 - 9:13 am

  I really enjoy my third civic, bought the 2004 ex sedan w/ manual and love it. Not the fastest, sportiest, or nicest car on the streets, however it es everything I could ask for. Great gas mileage, interior space, build quality(minus the paint), and low cost to operate the vehicle. I could have bought a $30000.00 vehicle, but for vacations, backa dn forth to work and running around town with friends. I would rather have my money in my bank account than depreciating in my garage!!! Compound interest is the worlds best invention.

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  First Honda... - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Gerald M - May 24 - 1:49 am

  It is definitely worth the extra money over a Nissan, Toyota, or Hyundai.