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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  Our first Honda - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Michael Vande Voort - May 20 - 9:48 am

  Not as good of discounts as some other brands but seem better made than others. More quiet cabin and better driver feedback when operating.

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  Average car - 1995 Honda Accord
  By shunnyKhan - May 20 - 2:00 am

  Its a decent car. I read one review which states that A/C doent work real good. I had a similar problem with my car. The dealer changed the compressor but no improvement. Finnaly it was found that the A/C Heat switch does not work properly and I just wasted money on changing compressor. In last two years, I changed cv boots and brakes besides A/C work. Its engine is not powerful but just adequate. Roomy inside. Not real great handling.

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  Great Value - 1996 Honda Odyssey
  By SimpAllen - May 19 - 2:00 am

  Weve owned our van for 7 years, and it lived up to the Honda name. At the time we thought the 4 doors was pretty innovative, and it has been. We have had no troubles with it, and have never regretted it.

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  1994 EX Sedan - 1994 Honda Civic
  By MSisson - May 18 - 2:00 am

  We bought our EX sedan new in July of 1994 and it has been extremely reliable, easy on gas and, generally, a very positive experience to own. The engine and drivetrain have performed flawlessly. The fit and finish are first rate. Our only minor complaints are: cheap, flimsy cupholders overly large rear door pillars that restrict rearview visability and less than exceptional torque and power. The car currently has 95K and I expect it will readily get 200K or more with minimal investment in replacement parts and service. All and all a very efficient little sedan thats a little boring to drive, but always gets you where you are going.

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  Theft - 1995 Honda Civic
  By shanzon10 - May 18 - 2:00 am

  This was a great car for me, loved every mile I drove in it. Reccomendation for new buyers: Make sure to spend at least $150plus on a good alarm system. Mine is now in the junkyard because I failed to do so. Otherwise this is a great car, and good looking as well.

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  Paint and Brakes - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Tom Talbot - May 17 - 4:26 pm

  Paint is not great. I am experiencing spotty pitting in the clear coat that is somewhat baffling. The brakes have squealed since I bought the car. The dealer offered no help except to say that Honda was aware of the problem.

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  Honda Accord Sport is Everything - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Camille Mc Donald - May 16 - 5:04 am

  I loves this car alot. The fuel Economy on the highway is great. The look of this car take my breath away. I got some many compliment that i chose the best color Lunar Silver. I am looking forward to what the newer models will look like and I can only bet it will be better. Am sticking to the sport for sure,

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  The best in its class - 2000 Honda Odyssey
  By Cuzan - May 16 - 2:00 am

  Only complaint, road noise. Other than that its the largest, roomiest, safest and most reliable. Handles like a car. The sound system should have speakers in the sliding doors. Sometime the music has to be loud for the kids in the middle seats. There is lots of storage in the back of the van.

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  Good Car - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By stockarb - May 15 - 3:53 pm

  I have had alot of cars in my day..BMW , Volvo, Chevys and Fords..I was hesitant to get this auto as it is a Honda..I had one in the 80s and it was just Ok..anyway..my CRV is a great little SUV. I live in NYC and I can get into tight spots, enjoy hwy miles all in one. Highly recommend it

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  Reliable Car with CV boot problems - 1990 Honda Accord
  By Thebirdman - May 14 - 2:00 am

  The 1990 Honda Accord is a very reliable car with very little mechanical problems. The only problems you will have with this car are the cv boots and the paint. The CV boots will not last very long and the paint will fade on the hood and around the tires.