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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  Excessive wind noise at drivers window - 2013 Honda Accord
  By 1of9 - October 2 - 3:58 am

  New 2013 Accord seems well built. Had two issues from day one. Cloth on seats are not pulled tight. The big issue is the wind noise coming from the drivers side window at high speeds. The dealer has tried to fix twice with no success. The Honda America rep (who was the rudest, most condescending person I have ever met) said he did not hear the noise. I read tons of other people on Accord web-site with same issue. Honda has yet to rectify problem. Dealer drove another Accord off the lot to see if that car had the same problem and sure enough it did. I would not but this car unless you can test drive on a highway to check the wind noise.

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  06 Civic EX Automatic Sedan - 2006 Honda Civic
  By AlanW. - September 30 - 12:40 pm

  Love the new body style. Its very sporty looking. The standard alloy wheels really makes the Civic look cool! Handles great and the interior quality is excellent. Fun to drive and a real head turner. ABS and side curtain air bags are standard and thats what sold me(along with the gas mileage).

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  Great Car for the Money - 2003 Honda Accord
  By SI guy - September 30 - 10:00 am

  We were deciding between the Camry and the Accord for this car purchase. The Accord is by far a much better value for the money (in terms of features). The radio is great, but theres no option to upgrade the speakers. The Navi is easily comparable to that of any luxury automobile, my friends Navi in his E-class is almost identical to this one. The dash is beatifully illuminated, and it stays this way even if the headlights are not on. This car is loaded with great features and options, for a fairly low price (got it for $24K), and I would definitely recommend it. However, if the ride quality is your 1st priority - go with the Camry instead.

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  An Honest Review - 2003 Honda Accord
  By BillyB - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Have driven all the competitors to the accord. It came down to the Accord or Accura TL. The only difference between the 2 was price and ride. The Acura had a softer ride but not worth the extra $4,000. The Accord does ride a little stiffer but on the expressways it flys. Accord EX had all the same amenities (leather, CD changer, climate control, sunroof, etc.) Gas mileage? All I can say is they must have a leak. My gas mileage has been excellent for a 6 cy. Been on 2 trips and got 31-32 MPG. Around town has been 27-28. Added a spoiler to improve the rear end, although I havent disliked it as much as some. Much better value than Camry.

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  Still Going Strong - 1995 Honda Passport
  By tantrums3 - September 30 - 2:00 am

  We bought this new in 95 -8 years ago. We have not put a penny into this SUV for any repairs whatsoever! Absolutely the best, most reliable vehicle weve ever owned. Would like something newer now,just because, but will definitely get a new Passport.

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  great gas milage good reliable comuter - 1993 Honda Civic
  By bigjon - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I just reacently purchsased the car with 162000 mi. It runs perfectly and so far I am geting almost 41 MPG power and performance is good for a compact car, ride is solid and comfortable it dose have some road noise at freeway speed but it is a small econamy car what do you expect.

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  Great Small Car - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Dave - September 25 - 8:03 am

  I owned this car for a little over 2 months and put 7800 miles on it. I had no problems whatsoever and I averaged 38.6 mpg while I owned the car. I drive mostly highway (97 miles round trip to and from work), and found this car to be very comforatble. The manual transmission is the smoothest you will find at this price point. It feels like it should be in a car that costs at least $30,000.

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  Good car for those with shallow pockets - 1992 Honda Civic
  By ChillyWilly - September 25 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car after wrecking a late model luxury car. Though it has been a great downgrade, the Cvic is a good, reliable car. Its driver friendly, well-built and fun to drive. Performance is the one negative remark. Expect to be the last pulling off a light. On the plus side, Honda performance parts are widely available, if you are looking to increase horsepower. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase. 120K and going strong.

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  MORE VROOOM PLZ! - 2003 Honda Element
  By HAZMAT - September 24 - 10:00 am

  The Element shined on a recent surf trip to Mexico. The gas milage and utility features made the trip a pleasure for me. I didnt have to worry about my bros spilling beer on the seats or getting sand all over the inside!

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  Horrible Economy, Great vehicle - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By David Landman - September 24 - 2:10 am

  While the Touring is a very enjoyable vehicle to drive and ride in. The fuel economy is horrible. This is as bad as an SUV without the benefit of AWD. Dont believe the EPA estimate. It isnt even close.