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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  Lovin it - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By tenebrion - March 16 - 2:00 am

  Im about 3000 miles into ownership and completely satisfied. This replaced a 99 Jeep Cherokee, so the ride is like a Cadillac in comparison. I took it on a long trip for xmas. Its carried five grown men. Its gone through moderate mud and snow. Its been great in all those situations. The rear center headrest pops out if you decide it blocks your view. In contrast to another review, the cassette player comes in handy if you have an mp3 player.

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  Its a Beauty - 2004 Honda Accord
  By SK2004 - March 16 - 2:00 am

  Luxury at an affordable price. Honda has done a great job on this and has nicely packaged the options so you dont need to go in for anything extra. Great drive, interiors, dont settle for V4. We love this car.2nd Honda accord for us much better than the older verison.

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  Excellent truck. - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By bubba smith - March 16 - 1:49 am

  The 2017 design is much improved over the earlier Ridgelines. So far, highway gas mileage is better than 30 mpg. However, city mileage is around 16.5 mpg. Overall the average mpg meets the sticker numbers. The big improvement is how quiet this truck is! I love it. The RTL-E is really loaded with goodies, with excellent safety improvements. Really glad I bought one. Not crazy about the turning radius - hard to pull in to a lot of parking spots without backing up to get centered. The original horn was so anemic so I got another one installed - a two-town real truck horn instead of a "meep, meep" kind of noise. I wish the back doors would open even 3" wider. Im averaging 21.3 mpg overall, which is a big plus. I have gotten a number of compliments on the truck. I am really enjoying this truck.

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  Couldnt be Happier - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Steve - March 15 - 9:17 pm

  We purchased new in Feb. 2006. Since, we have driven from Washington, DC, to Fairbanks, Alaska and have driven it around Alaska for almost 2 years. Lets just say that driving conditions in Alaska are less than ideal: its Winter 8 months of the year, and most roads outside Anchorage and Fairbanks are not paved. Despite the fact that our CR/V has been less than pampered, we have had zero problems. It was also the least expensive in its class, considering that many of its standard features are options on the RAV-4.

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  Love this baby - 2009 Honda Civic
  By sandy - March 15 - 3:53 pm

  Just got through the break in period! Love this little car! I keep my cars till they die. Love to drive this car and have had other hondas 300000 + miles on them.

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  Excellent Car - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Car Buyer - March 15 - 1:26 pm

  I bought this car a couple weeks ago and I must say it is a fabulous car. I did a lot of research before buying this car and I really wanted a safe car because this is my first car. I was looking at this and the Camry and this car by far drove a lot better than the 4 cylinder Camry. It drives just as well as a 6 cylinder. The interior of the car is extremely classy looking and superb. Everything Ive ever wanted in a car and more. True luxury car for a non-luxury car price. This car has pretty much everything! Its such a joy to drive. =)

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  Best car i have ever owned - 2007 Honda Element
  By hatchva - March 15 - 12:15 pm

  I bought this car to replace a truck and a mini-van. It did that and more. Drives like a car, has the utility of a truck, and the comfort has surprised me. I have used it for family vacations, football tailgating, commuting, hauling large items to the dump, taking the dog swimming, and kayak fishing. I plan to go camping in it this spring. It is without a doubt the most useful and fun vehicle to drive and own that I have ever had!!!

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  93 Prelude 4WS Si - 1993 Honda Prelude
  By Shibo - March 15 - 11:59 am

  The 93 prelude 4WS si i think is the best that Honda has ever made. The performance is just right for a 4 cyl that dose not have a VTEC motor and the convertible is unbelievable.

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  A great car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Ahmad - March 15 - 11:56 am

  2003 honda accord is great. this car is very comfortable and has good reliability. overall fit and finish is great.

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  Still Fit - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Fit in Baltimore - March 15 - 10:32 am

  After 18 months, still am in love with my Fit. A perfect city car, but also peppy enough for highway driving. Interior has exceptional comfort and quality for the price. In the past, I have driven much more expensive autos, and am more satisfied with this car. Only downside is the rear bumper easily scratches. Would like it if Honda sold a rear bumper guard as an accessory. Ive seen them on Fits in NYC. Baltimore area Honda service centers have also been excellent. Express service takes 30 minutes or less without an appointment.