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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  6 months and love my Fit more everyday - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Luv My Fit - March 7 - 5:33 pm

  So it looks tiny from the outside (inside its surprisingly roomy) , and its kind of ugly in an endearing sort of way; but the more I drive this car the more I love it! It is the most functional, fuel efficient, and fabulously fun car I have ever owned. My step-mom has a convertible Saab and my father has a Mercedes S class. You know what? I prefer driving my Fit better than driving their gas guzzling money pits! The Fit corners like its on rails. If you know how to properly use the paddle shifters, the car will straight out fly (because its so light). But if youre stuck in bumper to bumper traffic, just drive it as an automatic. Its unique, easy on the wallet, and flat out fun!

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  Why not an accord! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By shawn taylor - March 7 - 4:36 am

  This is my first Honda, it wont be my last either. It was clearly a decision made on quality and reliability. Honda screams that clearly. My decision has been 110% correct that I bought the perfect car under 30k.

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  Bought It and Love It - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Donna in New Mexico - March 6 - 3:52 pm

  I was driving a 98 Honda civic HX around town and a 2002 Acura MDX for the interstate. It was time to consider just one car that would satisfy the features of my old cars. I usually buy used but decided to look at the 2017 Honda CRV. I briefly considered the RAV4 but vetoed that. The reviews of the CRV impressed me enough that I bought it sight unseen and no test drive (who does that!). I got the color and model I wanted. I now have a little over 2000 miles on it and have been very satisfied. Pros: not cramped. I was afraid that coming from the MDX the CRV would feel cramped but it isnt bad at all. The trunk area handles my large dog easily. Really like the ease of dropping the rear seats forward. Like the ease of console and touch screen. Everything is within reach and intuitive. There is enough power to pass on the interstate. Was pleasantly surprised at the quietness of the ride and ease of steering. I live in rural southwest so keeping a car clean is a challenge. The desert sand color doesnt show the dirt like some other colors would. Overall it is big enough for the interstate but small enough to drive around town. The capless gas tank was a welcome surprise. With all the technology and ease of pushing buttons I laughed out load when I found the manual lever to open the gas door. Over all the safety features are awesome. Cons: I had real wood in my Acura so could have done without the plastic wood. Just doesnt work for me. The cruise control doesnt hold well on the downhill. It creeps up to 5 miles over the set speed. There is an uneven surface on the back seats when they are let down. I lower them for my dog and the fabric stretched out of shape when she stood on the seats. I am not too crazy about the leather covered steering wheel. The stitching is bothersome.

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  The best car - 1997 Honda CR-V
  By Jadwiga - March 6 - 3:18 pm

  I own this car for 11 years, and if it ever give-up on me the next one will be Honda CR-V. Except for changing things like tires, brakes, and oil of course, nothing ever stop me from driving it. It is the best car not only for the money, but because it is the best.

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  Great car - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Eric - March 6 - 1:51 pm

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  Great Car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Brandi - March 6 - 12:46 pm

  I purchased this car mostly because I love Hondas. After I bought it I realized there was a lot more to it, its a safe vehicle, (this car has more safety features than any other car that I have looked at), great on gas mileage, and a sharp looking car. I wouldnt own anything other than my Honda.

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  Best Van for the $$ - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Onlysee - March 6 - 10:00 am

  This is a wonderful minivan. My kids love the DVD system, while I love still listening to music I like up front. The interior is very spacious, and I especially like the more conservative exterior design. I bought a 2004 model in fear of an "ugly" 2005 replacement. Nissan killed the Quest with its redesign - I only hope Honda doesnt follow suit. Honda needs to change the size of the fuel reserve - more than 1/3 of the tank being full when the light comes on is ridiculous.

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  2004 Honda Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By opircam - March 6 - 10:00 am

  After doing extensive research to purchase a new SUV, we finally settled on the Honda Pilot and have not been disappointed in any way. It is roomy, for up to six persons (two children) and has the power to travel the colorado mountains without difficulty. I would recommend it for anyone, small family or large, who are active.

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  Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By 010804 - March 6 - 10:00 am

  We have had great luck with our Pilot it rides smoothly and fairly limited noise. The room is a plus.

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  120000 miles now. - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By david A - March 6 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this SUV on 08/01/2002, based on reviews from the internet. This is my first Honda. Im a Sales Engineer and travel appx. 60,000/yr. The Honda has 125,000 miles. In terms of standard maintenance (oil, trans, tires, timing belt, etc.), over the two year period, I have spent $5361.45. This is slightly more that my 2WD Pathfinder. The difference between the Pilot and the Pathfinder is the maintenance required for the AWD. I have had NO BREAKDOWNS. Despite the mileage, I feel very confident driving this SUV