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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  Wow! - 2005 Honda S2000
  By S22K - May 15 - 9:33 am

  I just bought my S2K used with 50,000 miles on it. I have owned a lot of cars in my time, I change out about every 2 years, but this one takes the cake. The interior shows little wear, the trans and clutch are great, no leaks etc. I had a 06 GTI and a 06 MX-5 Miata before I bought the S2K. This car is in a whole other league from those. You simply think turn and it does it. The communication between the road the car and you is incredible. I looked at Boxsters as well, but the interior wear and the expense of upkeep is ridiculous on those. How can you not love the 6,000 rpm wail of this engine. I thought i would be hard to get used to but, once you get the hang of it.

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  Excellent Choice - 2008 Honda Civic
  By ZTA114 - May 14 - 10:03 pm

  Just purchased the civic two weeks ago, switching from a 1997 Honda Accord EX. I always found my Accord to be very reliable and well equipped, but at first I looked at companies outside of Honda including Ford, Volvo, Toyota, Scion, and Mazda. After test-driving these other vehicles, I realized how much more quality there is in Hondas. I have enjoyed every minute of my new civic, especially the gas mileage. Being that my Accord was an older model, gas mileage was average and I can really feel the difference. Even with gas at a high, it only costs me less than $45 to fill up. Love the speedometer. It was definitely hard to get used to at first, but cant live without it now.

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  I love this car!! - 2005 Honda Element
  By Jaymi - May 14 - 3:15 pm

  I purchased a 2007 Civic brand new last year and, while I loved it, it was terrible once winter hit. I traded it in for a 2005 Element and regretted it. Now, after owning the Element for about 6 months, I wouldnt give this car up for anything. I recently had to buy another Civic because of a new job with a long commute (the gas mileage is a lot better) and I feel terrible leaving the Element in the garage while I go to work. This is truly the best car I have ever owned. The Element has an incredibly smooth ride, is easy to park, has a ton of room and is great for dog owners. I can spill things and not worry about them at all!

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  Great Car and Speedy - 2004 Honda Accord
  By wes - May 14 - 12:22 pm

  I purchased the V6 Coupe b/c I needed a car that was comfortable, fast, and reliable. It also has Nav which I love (I drive a lot b/c of job). The Nav is very easy to use and I like the touch screen for all other controls e.g. AC, Audio, Nav, Trip computer etc. The car drives well, corners ok, but it has a lot of pep in it. 0-60 just under 7sec, stock. Leather could be better, drivers side bolster is showing wear, but its covered under extended warranty so I will be getting it replaced. Service not expensive, tires not bad, less than $100 each. Console does not click closed properly, started after 16 months.

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  16 years and 234,000 miles, running well - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By V Backman - May 13 - 5:13 pm

  This van has been amazing. Still reliable, still 24mpg on the highways, about 18-20 in town. Always had seat covers, so they look new. Its hauled kids, bikes, camping stuff, dump loads, lumber... everything. Still only preventive maintenance except for normal items like headlights. The ONLY problem weve had is the door seals sticking for the two sliding doors. Theyve been replaced, treated with a variety of non-stick films. Get worse after a rain. Luckily weve had a drought in CA. No reason to get another, its the reliable box.

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  My 99 Accord V6 Coupe - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Tim - May 13 - 5:11 pm

  My family has owned many Hondas, all of which have been very low maintaining vehicles, except for a big problem in my 99 transmission. The car used to be my moms. She had to replace the tranny at just below 100,000. Very disappointing coming from Honda, one of the most reliable manufacturers out there and way above German and American made cars. Now at almost 170,000 miles and up to that Ive been noticing the transmission problems again, and just today it went totally out of gear, and then back in after I jabbed the gas a few times about three seconds later. Not been a fun experience driving in fear with this car... possible my driving habits dont help it either.

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  civic ex auto 2001 - 2001 Honda Civic
  By reyes1978 - May 13 - 2:11 pm

  I got my vic brand new and the only problem that I had was the driver seat rocking back and forward, the dealer replaced the part and until now no problems was so ever. I do keep all my maintenance current,,,, great car!

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  100% Recommended! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Justin - May 13 - 1:16 pm

  Im 100% confident that the Civic is one of the finest cars on the market. The cars gas mileage is astounding. The civic is engineered to provide exceptional gas mileage as per the EPA ratings. Ive read some negative postings about the Civics gas mileage. However, I urge you to take into account that these ratings may be flawed. Superior gas mileage is not only dependent on a cars mechnical structure, but it is also dependent on its driver. Quick acceleration, driving over 60 mph, and constant breaking, for example, will significantly lower your gas mileage. So if someone is quick to say that the Civics gas mileage isnt great, I would question their driving skills.

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  First Driving Impression of 07 CRV - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By handy - May 13 - 3:56 am

  This SUV comes close as it gets of scoring perfect in all aspects in its class. Totally superb handling, comfort, style and reliability. Compared to previous generations of CVRs, the 07 is much more refined and classy as if its a 45K SUV. I would be proud to park it next to any Lexus Acura or BMW without being ripped off.

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  We now own 2 new 2017s - 2017 Honda CR V
  By DDearborn - May 12 - 10:55 pm

  This is my third CRV and they just keep getting better and better!