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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  Update of Previous Review - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Warren H. - August 24 - 10:40 am

  Weve taken our son 400 miles each way to college this last week. The MPG was 28.5, ride was Okay at best (Im 61") the seats are not designed for the long haul. However, because we were trying to make time on our trip I was driving an average speed of 80 pushing 90 on occasion. THIS cars suspension is that of one much more expensive. Weaving in an out of traffic the handling was beeee U Teee full... It was almost as though the car wanted to be driven hard. On the downside. YOU CANNOT move a kid into a dorm in this car. No room at all for 4 passengers and cargo. 3 passengers maybe if you fold down the rear seat. The engine is buzzy at 80+ but you ignore it after a while. Still in Love. 0)

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  Not as good as represented :( - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By CAROLE - August 24 - 10:34 am

  Sorry to blast a vehicle that is so highly rated but mine has had recurring problems and they appear to be electrical. When I turn the lights on the dash lights go off the cruise control only works on occasion have been to Dealer 3 times to correct a bad tire pressure sensor-still not working and light still on the battery has been replaced twice in a year. All in all, this is my first and probably last Honda product because it has left me stranded 8 times in one year with a dead battery. My 14 yr old Quest never stranded me once...

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  Outstanding Vehicle - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Susan - August 24 - 7:43 am

  I bought my 2004 Accord new off the showroom floor. I initially bought it because of the fuel economy and maintenance history but I love driving this car. It handles great and is very low maintenance. It now has 105,000 miles on it and I still love it. The only unexpected issue I had was a headlight replacement which was relatively inexpensive. Every time I take it in for service, the service technicians try to sell me a new one because they have such a demand for used Accords. My 64" husband doesnt like it because he doesnt fit well in the passenger seat, but he rarely drives it.

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  Great choice - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By RRS - August 23 - 11:50 pm

  I did a lot of research before picking the CR-V. The interior is quite clean, spacious and comfortable. It handles great, and the power is reasonable. While I am not in love with the exterior appearance, I am very happy with my choice. The CR-V feels like it is very well made. I recommend the "door visors" as an accessory.

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  2009 Fit Sport W/Nav - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Stacz - August 23 - 9:53 pm

  This was a replacement for my 99 Blazer (Cash/Clunkers), after 3 weeks I am happy with my Fit. It is much roomier on the inside then it appears from the outside. The ride is very comfortable. It handles well, even in the rain. I am not getting great mileage, but at 24 MPG it is more than double then that of my Blazer. I got the Sport because the base model was a little too bare bones. The added features remote entry, cruise control, etc are worth it. Warning: Do not lose your keys. I wanted an extra key and found it cost over $100 for just a key w/no remote, something do to w/programming the key. I got one for under $10, but it only opens the doors, it will not start the engine.

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  Honda Reliability - 1996 Honda Accord
  By JW - August 23 - 8:48 pm

  Owned this car for 5 years so far, and it has been as reliable a car as I have ever owned. Repairs since 78k miles have included, new exhaust, timing belt and water pump, alternator, clutch master cylinder, several CV joints, horn malfunction, plus general maintenance. Overall this is typical for any car over a 70k mile span of time. The EX four cylinder has enough pep, but is not a performance engine. Manual transmission helps extract the most juice out of this powerplant. The interior is spartan but enjoyable. Instrument layout is intuitive and easy to use. Legroom in front is surprisingly good for tall people. I love this car. It isnt flashy, but its reliable day in and day out.

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  1 month old touring already making weird engine no - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Stephanie - August 23 - 4:57 pm

  I dont know whats wrong with my pilot but ive had it a month and its making such weird engine noises that started 1 week ago. Something is wrong with it

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  A/C Did Me In - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By givingup - August 23 - 4:15 pm

  The a/c, as others have reported, is the worst part of owning this vehicle. First time it broke was long out of warranty and Honda didnt give a flip this was a common complaint. Second time, still under 1yr warranty from previous work. It took the mechanic three compressors before finding one that worked without failing instantly. Third time, I just gave up and am now looking for a new car. It was my second Honda. My first was a Civic which held up well in a very bad front end collision (I walked away uninjured from a car with no front end left) which led me to stay with Honda. The a/c experience and nearly constant check engine light are why I will leave.

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  Honda We have a problem!!! - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By Jim A - August 23 - 4:13 pm

  This was my replacement for a domestic van we had owned. I think the American brands will return to the top soon if this Honda van is any indication. Van has 23k mi currently and has a series of issues. Bad fuel economy, trans problems, engine pinging. My service reps all respond to these problems like its news to me. However once you inform them of the tech serv bulletin TSB they relent. I think Honda needs to get back in the game with superior eng/ and quality. This is my 5th Honda and possibly my last. I hope Honda steps up to the plate with this warranty.

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  I love my 2009 fit - 2009 Honda Fit
  By marebear2009 - August 23 - 1:48 pm

  I must say, after having my car almost a week that I love my Honda fit. We got it, because the car I had before was a 97 civic. We had a huge accident, which led us to finding a new car for me. I am an 18 year old daughter who is about to graduate out of high school as a senior and we were looking at the new and improved 09 fit. I love the way it handles as far as steering and controlling the car. Its color just screams at people. So Im sure they will see me this time. Its very peppy as far as the engine. Dont let that little 1.5 liter engine fool you. Not only that, but I am surrounded by airbags. So I feel extremely safe. I am so glad we found this car!