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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  Gas Mileage to Improve? - 2005 Honda Accord
  By jfalkman - February 24 - 12:23 pm

  Bought the Accord Hybrid 1 week ago. Almost through the 600 mile break-inperiod. Wondering what other Accord Hybrid owners experience is with the MPG. Right now, Im only getting 25-27 combined city/highway. Thats a bit under the sticker - 31 city/37 highway. I drive 47 miles highway each way to/from work.

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  Love this SC - 2008 Honda Element
  By cousinvinney - February 24 - 12:13 pm

  I have driven this car from Chicago to NY to North Carolina and just love it. It really is a good city car. I am 240 lbs and this is the most roomy little car on the market. The SC doesnt have as much road noise because its carpeted rather than the rubber flooring. Mileage after 12000 miles is consistently between 18.5 and 19 city (under 7k miles15-16) always mid 20s on the road. The engine could be a little bigger - it runs at higher RPMs. The 4cyl is torquey and there is always power. Gets pushed about a little in high winds but nothing serious. Could till be a bit quieter inside. I am about to trade in a 2005 f-250 for another one - we will have a fleet i guess. Drive safe!

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  2006 Special Edition - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Gabe - February 24 - 7:50 am

  Believe it or not i traded in my 2005 Lexus LS 430. I love this car fun to drive all day around in New York & Long Island. I love that i do not have to worry anymore to hit the potholes & suffer extensive tire/suspension damages. Enjoy easy loading at the supermarket & of course regular gas instead of premium fuel.

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  Great Gas Mileage! Alot for the money!! - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By stang100 - February 24 - 5:40 am

  I just bought my 06 CRV SE and so far its been a great little SUV! Has much more pick up than I thought it would have, faster than the ford escape with v-6! Shopped around alot and nobody could beat the deal that honda would give for a suv with same features. The SE edition is worth the extra money, plus you get it back in resale value. Also very roomy inside, 72 cu. ft! Solid road feel, couldnt be happier!

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  I Love This Car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By KCMOHondaBoy - February 24 - 2:10 am

  I purchased my Honda Accord Hybrid on 7/11/05 and it has about 12,000 miles on it now. It has only been in the shop once for a recall which was a simple software update. Around the city I average 28mpg when I travel I get anywhere from 35 to 40mpg depending on how fast I drive. I do recommed this vehicle. But if you do choose to buy this vehicle make sure you get the Navigation System wish I had, since that is the only extra option.

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  awesomeodessey - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By !!!!!yeah!!! - February 24 - 12:50 am

  We just bought our 2005 Oddessey van a few days ago, but I just cant believe how awesome this minivan is. Traded in our 2002 Mercury Villager Sport-no comparison! Always heard the Oddessey was the best, and its absolutely true! We did get $$ off of sticker and the dealership made this purchase a pleasure. So much fun to drive and you can feel the quality the second you sit in it. I did my shopping and test drove all of them, and by far Honda is the best. I love my van!!!

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  Always reliable. Never unscheduled repairs - 2011 Honda Accord
  By John ayotte - February 23 - 5:45 pm

  This is a simple ex 4cyl 5 speed. Performs well, flawless shifting, great mpg. A little too large to be sporty

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  The Fit is Go! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By A Fit Owner - February 23 - 5:26 pm

  This car executes its purpose wonderfully! I have two car seats in the car and even on long trips with all of the kids stuff (such as a pack-n-play in truck), this car still has room. The transmission is wonderful, and even though it must shift down to 4th gear in the West Virginia mountains because the engine is small, it does it with grace. I have driven better cars, but none that were offered at this price point. The car darts in and out of traffic, navigates tight parking lots with ease, and is terrific on gas. The only reason why I would ever get rid of this car is if we continue to only have one car and a third kid comes along. Until then, the Fit is Go!

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  Best In Its Class! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Lopez07Si - February 23 - 12:33 pm

  I was looking for a new car under 30k. Mazdaspeed3,08 Lancer and Nissan Sentra were also considered but Hondas resale value, reliability and superb handling made it my favorite. Theres really no better car out there for this price.This car is so great on the road. The 6 spd gearbox is buttery- smooth. I havent experienced any problems with 3rd gear as many have. The revhang issue is easy to get used to. It doesnt affect my drive. Low end torque is there but once you hit 2nd and get to the magical 6k rpms where vtec takes over, itll put a smile on your face. I dont get tired of it. Exhaust note is a charm. You have to get it with the Navi. Avg.gas mileage is 27mpg. Best 31.5mpg Worst 18mpg

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  Fun to drive - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By Ceas - February 22 - 9:20 am

  I love everything about this Honda Pilot EX 2010. The interior is perfect, exterior is a little boxy but is ok. The only issue is its pulling to the right. I brought it back to the dealer to fix it. I waited around 1 1/2 hrs. to fix it and then they said they adjusted it, but its still pulling to the right. The service crew said its normal because of the road curves or condition which is unacceptable reason for me because Ive been driving for more than 20years handling different kinds of vehicle. Maybe I will just wait until they recall this problem.