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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  Just what you expect from Honda - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Rob - May 20 - 2:20 am

  2017 redesigned CRV is right on the mark. I highly recommend the EXL model; it is loaded with the latest technology and features. The safety features are one of the main reasons I purchased a new vehicle. The CRV is practical, economical yet fun and easy to drive. Expect to enjoy this vehicle for many years to come.

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  I love it!! - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By newlife08 - May 19 - 11:07 pm

  In 1992 I drove a brand new GMC straight off the lot, 1st new truck ever bought, ended up with 273,588 miles when I sold it, clean as a whistle, best truck I ever bought. Did a lot of home work and decided to buy the Ridegline, best decision I ever made. I love it, parallel parks like a dream, will tow everything I need as I plan to a small trailer for my dog & I to hit the road feeling very safe and secure in the fact that what could be better than a Honda?? I havent even got a oil change yet! Plus its SO SASSY! The dealer was great service was stellar and I Love IT, better than ever.

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  Reliable, Great MPG, Perfect color - 1997 Honda Accord
  By sadtoseeitgo - May 19 - 7:44 pm

  This car was 2 years old when we bought it. Loved the look & at the time it was a good fit for us however due to back trouble I have to find a vehicle that sits up a little higher. No complaints about this car otherwise. We get about 23 MPG in town. IN LOVE with the color somewhere between silver & gold. Compared to my sisters Camry of the same year the Honda paint job has held up better. We have kept all scheduled maintenance up, so this will be a great car for its new owner. Also I think this is still a very attractive car

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  As Close To Perfection As Possible - 2008 Honda Accord
  By KUMARSYNC - May 19 - 7:16 pm

  I was shopping for a nice fuel efficient midsize and looked at Camry, Altima, and Accord. The super-large 08 Accord was a no-brainer. It seems to be inspired by the $53k Acura RL w/its massive size and well placed and engineered controls. I cant think of a single bad thing to say about this car. It handles excellent, has a rump shaken sound system, plenty of power even from its I-4 and looks to die for. This car is worth every penny and more.

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  My fit - 2007 Honda Fit
  By jbadams - May 19 - 6:47 pm

  Great sporty little car. A lot of interior room.Looks small on the outside but a lot on the inside. I put a 8 ft book case in back. The car handles excellent. Great cornering ans stability.The gas mileage less than advertised.30 mpg on highway and about 26 in town. Still ok but a lot less than advertised. In the winter time the windows fog up very easily. Very frustrating.

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  Love my new car! - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Dalia Hawwass - May 19 - 8:05 am

  This is a quality car in which luxury meets comfort without breaking the bank! So sleek and stylish with great support and has speed! Absolutely love this car and got a great deal on it!

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  "Nothing But Class" - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Scotty - May 18 - 7:50 pm

  Best in its class! I was so impressed with the EX-L that I sold my Lincoln LS to get one. This is a complete-package automobile: affordable luxury, touring ability, and fuel economy. Kudos to Honda for consistent quality and continuous improvement.

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  Great Car - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By ttranrx - May 18 - 7:30 pm

  Ive had the crosstour for 1 month now and I still love it. Ive had so many people compliment how roomy and comfortable the ride was. People have loved the new body style. If you are thinking about a new car, you should test drive the crosstour.

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  Love this Purchase! - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By Jim - May 18 - 9:43 am

  Anyone looking for a GREAT deal on an 8 passenger SUV needs to take a look at the 08 Pilot. Honda is GIVING these things away to make room for the new 09 Pilots that hit the lots over the next week or so. I was able to get my EX-L for under the TMV price and the dealer had added pin stripes, wheel locks, mud flaps and a cargo tray. I love this vehicle. Im in sales and have already driven 5k miles in 2 months and its a breeze to get in and out of. Huge storage space with the 3rd row folded down. It is noisy on the highway and the body lean in corners takes a little getting used to but the overall ride is nice. I looked at the VeraCruz, Journey, Pacifica and CX-9 and the Pilot is best

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  Good looking - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Andrea K Brandt - May 18 - 5:22 am

  We are Honda owners who like the reliability and long life of our previous Honda autos. We have not had this Honda long enough to rate many of the above catagories. So far we are happy with our purchase. The front seats are a little low for a shorter person and somewhat difficult for entering and exiting.