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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  Mostly positive - 2006 Honda Civic
  By LKH - August 18 - 10:30 pm

  I love my little Civic. I was amazed how well it handled Floyd Hill, just outside Denver (6% grade). I was able to maintain a steady 65 all the way up. Its responsive, and it has the best sound system Ive ever had. The only things Im not wild about are the headrest (makes your neck bend more than I like) and the low slung front end, which screaches on the bump as I enter my drive. They should prop it up another inch, and move that headrest back about an inch. Then it would be the perfect car. But as is, its awesome.

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  My First Honda - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Harry - August 18 - 9:22 pm

  Im really enjoying the CRV. Ive owned Toyotas for my last 5 vehicles and may become a long-term Honda fan. This is a well designed and built vehicle. The total package was the selling point: moonroof, stereo, privacy glass, alloys, fit and finish. These were only available in the high end Outback. I go on my first road trip tomorrow and am anxious to see what the gas mileage is. Highly recommend!

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  Very Disappointed with Honda - 2008 Honda Accord
  By john - August 18 - 4:30 pm

  My Accord has more road noise than I expected. The engine is an oil hog. Uses 1 QT every 1800 miles and has since the very beginning. Honda will do nothing about it as they claim 1QT every 1000 miles is ok. Ive never had any other car do this. As far as Im concerned, I would not buy a Honda again nor would I recommend to anyone else!

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  Perfect family sedan - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Ed C - August 18 - 4:23 pm

  My wife and I are very pleased with this car. Honda really hit the mark. Good looking inside and out, comfortable and roomy, commendable performance, and excellent gas mileage. Oh, and a good stock stereo. What more could you ask for in a family sedan? Weve owned numerous fine cars, right up to a Mercedes E55. But at this point in our life, with a new grandchild and needing room and practicality, this car fills the bill.

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  Not a Fit to drive a Fit - 2009 Honda Fit
  By FredS - August 18 - 3:14 pm

  I have had the car a little over a month and it is outstanding. The only problems (if you want to call them that) is you can only get interior in black shows dirt. Does not have console. Does not come with cargo cover to keep prying eyes out. Other than that-it is great! A real thrill to drive, corners on a dime. Fuel usage is great, average 36.1 combo city and highway.

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  Best Value & Performance - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By motoguy128 - August 18 - 2:35 pm

  I compared the Nissan Rogue and RAV4 to the CR-V. For the price, I felt the EX 4WD trim offered the best value compared to the competition. It handles like a much smaller vehicle. Coming from a Nissan Versa, it often feels more nimble and easier to maneuver. The Rogue was a little more responsive once rolling, but the CR-V feels more responsive off the line.

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  31 MPG From Albany to Riverside - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By tsamoni - August 18 - 12:30 pm

  I am a new father and traded in my Civic Coupe for a family-friendly, but fun-to-drive CR-V. On a recent trip to Albany, NY to Riverside, NJ (250 miles) I averaged 31 MPG--not too bad for a car that is a lot heavier than my 35MPG Civic. This car is great for the guy who is in his early 30s, just starting a family, and who cant see himself in a minivan or a Sedan like the Accord or Camry (too old manish and boring). I have plenty of room for all my daughters stuff and enough left over for my passengers--even with a car seat installed. Overall, this is a great compromise between style and fun, and necessity and practicality. The CR-V guarantees I will be a Loyal Honda Owner forever!

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  What a blast!! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By JimmyCap - August 18 - 10:00 am

  This little yellow car flies. Ive test driven the Boxster, TT 225 HP, Z3, Z4, M Roadster (used) and wasnt in love with any of them. When I hopped into my S2000, I knew before I left the parking lot that I would buy it. I love this little car. It flies. Really fun. The irony is that I really do care about having a good stereo. But on this car, I made a huge exception because of the performance. Its that much fun. If youre thinking of buying a two-seater convertible, you owe it yourself to check out this car. Youll buy it if you give it a chance!!

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  Black Rocket - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Bill Fisher - August 18 - 10:00 am

  This car can fly. Very fun to rev up and shift quickly. Corners like it is on rails. Verrrry quick !!!!

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  My other Honda - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Adee - August 18 - 10:00 am

  We bought the Odessey a couple of months ago. I dont know why weve waited so long? I love it!! It drives like a car and the gas mileage is pretty good, way better than the SUV we where going to get. It fits my children comfortably.