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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  The Van is Great - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By pat - February 26 - 2:59 pm

  Went looking for a 2004 EX Ody due to high CR ratings. Test drove 3 & found huge range of ride quality. Test drove three 2005s w/similar mileage and all had same ride quality - vastly superior to 2004. Previously purchased high mileage 99 Ody that served us well - despite installing 2 trannys at warranty expense. Wrecked it in January & bought the 2005. Incredible ride, handling, quiet, features, kids and wife absolutely love it.

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  My new ride! - 2017 Honda CR V
  By Miss T - February 26 - 5:20 am

  I needed an AWD vehicle and drove several models. I chose the 2017 Honda CRV because I liked the interior arrangement and redesigned body style. I also like the reliability reputation of the Honda brand. The resale value is top notch. I hope my instincts prove true. So far I really like this vehicle.

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  Common sense pic, Florida car - 2008 Honda Fit
  By PROTRACK - February 26 - 3:46 am

  First decision to buy anything was a response to runaway gas prices. I immediately looked to Honda or Toyota. Honda won hands down on price and value. As a previous Honda owner , The Fit being my third I was rest assured of quality and performance. Looks are very contemporary and plain "cool". Im 49. Function was genius. Space inside was smartly engineered. Access to it was smart. This car is tight and precise. I only have 75 miles on it yet so no mileage to report on. I am like a crack addict on withdrawal trying to keep from using all of its power for fun performance driving until break in is over. Serious sports car like control at even moderate speeds. This car will dance on a dime.

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  Great car - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Mike Fucito - February 26 - 2:16 am

  I have been driving my new Polished Metal Metallic 2008 V6 EXL with Navi and Bluetooth. It all works great. The car looks great and handles really well. The VCM technology seems flawless. Everything is extremely well engineered and designed from the interior to the exterior to the engine compartment, etc. Nothing has been overlooked. Nobody builds cars, suspensions or engines like Honda. I think the controls for the navi, HVAC, awesome sounding radio, etc. are well thought out and intuitive - I do not agree with the criticism.

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  My 99 Accord EX - The car that wont quit! - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Tom C - February 25 - 11:26 pm

  I purchased my 99 Accord EX sedan 3 years ago for a second car. It had about 140k miles on it, and I figured I would keep it a couple of years to get me through a new job, etc. Well it now has 192k miles on it and runs and drives as good as the day I took it home! I have had the timing belt replaced, and installed new front struts. Other than that it has been simple oil changes and no worries. What a great car! It handles and rides beautifully, is comfortable and great on gas too. For the small amount I paid for my Accord I feel like I stole it. I dont even have the desire to get a newer car - that is how much I love my Accord!

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  First Time Honda Owner - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Jack - February 25 - 5:20 pm

  Overall its a great suv, however, Ive had two problems. The TPMS light went on two weeks after my purchase. A more serious problem occurred last week and again today. The front passenger side door has locked and wont open no matter what I do. I cant open it from the outside with the remote or from the inside with the handle. Today the back hatch locked and wont open. Im taking it in tomorrow to the dealership for repairs. This isnt what I expected from Honda.

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  Awesome Baby - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Glenn - February 25 - 3:23 pm

  I had a 1982 Accord Hatchback and then I have owned Mazdas for about the last 15 years, (626s x 2), and just traded in my MPV for Pilot EX w/ leather/Nav. ( Paid a little over invoice ) What an unbelievable difference! In the words of Dick Vitale - its "Awesome Baby". Why did I ever switch to Mazdas? The Pilots overall quality, handling, and style is superb. With 3 kids, 11, 8, and a 2 year old in a car seat, there is still plenty of room for everyone. Ill probably miss the sliding doors of a minivan for mere convienence, but such is life. Now my wife wants to trade in her Jeep Grand Cherokee for a Pilot. I got mine first. Nana nana na na :)

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  Wonderfully designed car! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Scotch - February 25 - 7:10 am

  I must add my opinion about my Civic. Its very comfortable on regular daily commutes. Easy on my back. Price was very reasonable for what I got. Style both inside and out is very close to outstanding, in my opinion, but the best thing I like about this car is its marvelous gas mileage. With the right gas blend and warm weather, above 40 mpg is mine to enjoy. Not bad for this size engine and body. Six months and 14000 miles since purchase with no complaints.

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  Civic EX - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Richard DiMauro - February 25 - 5:56 am

  The most important part of the vehicle if the mileage. The 38 mph for highway is important. Sedan, air conditioning, all extras. I would want a vehicle with a color which resists dirt and grime.

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  Style with Great Functionality - 2003 Honda Element
  By frdglove - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had many vehicles over the past 40 years and this Honda Element represents the most fun yet functional vehicle I have owned. It is spacious inside but compact outside. It has the interior dimensions of a Ford Expedition but the outside dimensions of a midsized sedan. Climbing hills with four adults I can accelerate as I want. Its fantastic!