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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  What a feeling...usually. - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Jim - August 12 - 2:40 am

  My EX has been back to the dealership way too many times for hard starting and cold sputtering until warm-up. Honda says the hard start problem is a result of the emission system going through a "test cycle" periodically. I have a 2005 Lexus ES330 which hums along perfectly, without as much as a hiccup. Honda needs to eliminate this issue on their V6 engines.

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  Its just OK - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Will - August 11 - 1:30 pm

  I purchased the CR-V about a month ago and find it OK. It has horrible road noise and a very jumpy ride on rough roads. I do not like the shape of the rear side window. Gas mileage is only fair 21 around town. I traded in a 2005 Toyota Camry and in many ways liked the Camry better. The Bridgestone tires on this vehicle get a very poor rating. I am surprised that Honda would put these tires on this vehicle.

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  love the crv - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Mike - August 10 - 9:13 am

  Love to drive the car. Easy handling. Found to be good handling in the snow. Gas mileage surprisingly good. I get about 25 on long trips.

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  A Very civilized ride - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Drexel Williams - August 7 - 1:53 pm

  Its a Honda, that pretty much says it all. Nothing wild and crazy about it. Its smooth and quiet and makes for a reliable ride around town or on the hwy.

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  Not That Great - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By CRVBUYER - August 6 - 8:53 am

  I debated between the CRV and Rav4. I decided in the end that the CRV cost less to buy fully loaded. I bought the AWD leather version and added fog lights, running boards and side molding. I like the interior of the CRV but should have test driven it on the highway a little more before buying. The wind noise above 50 mph is pretty annoying and its not the smoothest ride in the world! Also, after 700 miles, still averaging only 23 MPG with 80% of that highway miles. Not acceptable. I feel like I could have bought a more powerful V6 and gotten the same type of mileage.

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  Poor gas miliage - 1993 Honda Civic
  By cecep - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I bought my civic w/ 97000 miles on it and i had it for 2 months so far but what i noticed is NO POWER and in mine it has poor gas miliage about 20 miles in mixed driving and it has a small tank so i have to fill it up ever week!

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  Beware of Transmission Problems! - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By gingermom - August 5 - 2:00 am

  After 88,000 miles of trouble-free driving, our transmission failed! The warranty appeared to be expired (8yrs./80,000mi.), but luckily Honda agreed to replace the transmission for no charge under warranty. Beware! Other than that, great family/car pooling car. Roomy, handles well.

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  2001 Honda CR-V - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By twrljck14 - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I absolutely love my Honda CR-V. I have had it for over two years and have yet to have troubles with it. Its very reliable and very fun to drive.

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  Cr-V - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Jorge - August 4 - 5:43 pm

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  Not to shabby - 2000 Honda Prelude
  By Eric Blum - August 4 - 2:00 am

  This car is not bad for the price.I just feel that for the way it looks it needed a bit more power. I feel the looks are the hook and sinker for this car.