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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  Honda Lover - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Patricia Wieczorek - March 10 - 8:48 am

  First time owning a Honda and would definitely purchase another one. Had my previous Mazda for 16 years with 315,000 miles. I am hoping the Honda CRV will last me just as long. It has great pickup for a 4 cylinder vehicle. The interior cabin is very comfortable for my long drives to work. Cant wait for the winter to try out the heated leather seats. My mechanic said he will miss me because the Honda will not need as many trips to him as my previous car. That is why I bought it because I keep my cars a long time.

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  Great MPG in OKC - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Russell - March 10 - 6:33 am

  First sedan in 10 years and we really like it. Looks great, sporty and well designed. Mostly city driving and getting on average 28 MPG. For those who say its short on room, I have no idea what car theyre in but we have a family of 3 and were used to SUVs and this really works well. More than enough leg and head room plus the trunk holds all the baseball stuff plus chairs with room for more. Never have purchased an extended warranty but I did on this one and saved 1/2 over the dealer cost by googling online and found a dealership in Rhode Island that sells them dirt cheap and they are the exact same ones the local Honda dealer sells.

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  Great car!!! - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By RALPH D - March 10 - 2:04 am

  This is my 2nd Pilot. I went from the 2010 EX-L to the 2016 Elite and I love the navigation and all of the bells and whistles which are standard in the Elite. I cant speak of the reliability yet since I only own it for 2 weeks.

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  Honey of a honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Norm raush - March 9 - 10:06 pm

  After 265000 miles car runs like new, engine terrific, trans repaired at 230,000 miles , still quite rattle free, fun to drive ultra reliable.

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  BEST CAR EVER BOUGHT - 2003 Honda S2000
  By MikeE - March 9 - 10:00 am

  What other car do you know which an electronic control panel that redlines at 8300 rpms? When you get to 7000 rpms and you feel the VTEC kick in, this car makes you feel like the pilot of an F- 15 fighter plane, the interior helps too. Everything you need to control is right at reach. The only problem I had was with my 2000 S2000 it doesnt have the option of coming with a clock, and the plastic back windshield that turns white. But that has all changed for 2002 with the addition of a clock and a glass back windshield. I get 31 mpg on average and am still putting out 280 horse! (with some mods of course)The car even has stock headers that are massive.

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  own one and youll understand - 2002 Honda Civic
  By redronin22 - March 9 - 10:00 am

  I got my Si in august and its been a blast to drive since. It handles nice and when you gun it it moves quick. Everyone always comments on the interior and it looks unique from the outside ( guinea pig comments)Over all its a great car.

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  Best family vehicle we have ever owned - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By DRK - March 8 - 12:00 pm

  I cannot say enough positive about the Honda Pilot. We are a family of four, with two dogs and have never felt more safe in a vehicle. The ride is fabulous and sure. Lots of room. Seats 8 if needed, otherwise lots of storage room in the back. The best of all in its class.

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  Converted Honda fan - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Jeffislouie - March 8 - 2:19 am

  Ive never owned a Honda before this. My previous cars were all fast, fun and sporty. When my last car began having serious problems, I decided to take a look at the Accord. The 4 cylinder model isnt a road racer, but Ive found that this car as a whole is one of the finest overall I have ever driven. Agile, light, and confortable, my problem free Accord has been nothing short of trustworthy, fun, frugal, and perfect. Would I like a big horsepower car? Sure. Would I give up my Accord in a Chicago winter? Nope. Im keeping mine for a long time. This will eventually become my winter car that I will use to supplement the sports car. Even still, my Accord drives great and is perfect.

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  Love to drive - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By ss789 - March 7 - 10:40 pm

  Short, turning radius. Drives like car, but has the roominess of a larger vehicle. Quick acceleration.

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  I love my CrossTour - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By Gnew - March 7 - 8:10 pm

  This my 2nd Honda, I just went to the CrossTour from a 2006 Pilot and I love it. It drives great and handles like a dream. I am a sales guy on the road and wanted better gas mileage, Room and comfort, I got all three with my Crosstour. The Navi is easy to use and it can get out of its own way on the highway (something the Pilot had trouble doing). The looks are Just outstanding, people walk up to me and wow is that a Honda! I cant be happier with my CrossTour.