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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  Best out of 4 Honda vehicles owned since 2013 - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By KAM - February 12 - 3:35 pm

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  What Will Honda Think of Next? - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Robert G - February 12 - 3:20 pm

  Ive been researching this car and its reviews for quite some time (since early January). Boy was the wait well- worth it! This car is the best, by far, in the compact car class. I thoroughly enjoy driving it. In fact, I am on my way to grocer to pick it some milk. And when I come back, I am sure Ill need to run out for something else... you see, you have to drive this car to relate to what Im saying.

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  Love my SE CRV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Rick - February 12 - 1:06 am

  I love everything about this vehicle: Leather heated seats, 5 speed Automatic, 160 hp, 6CD/Cassette, superb looks, good mileage, roomy interior, and Honda reliability. I also think it is one of the safest vehicles with a 5 stars crash ratings, Vehicle Stability Assist, ABS, EBD, side/curtain airbags, and 4WD. Low cost of ownership and excellent resale value ... What do you need more? Yes, I got it for 200$ below invoice. Shop around!

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  This is a great SUV - 2008 Honda Element
  By Proud "E" Owner - February 11 - 6:20 pm

  The Element really stands out from the rest. It is very comfortable, durable, and user friendly. Suits all of my needs. I have a child who is in a booster seat still and its easy to get in and out because the doors open up so widely. I am in love with this car -- you wont regret purchasing one!

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  Best Car Ever Owned! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Paddy - February 11 - 3:36 pm

  This is without a doubt the best car I have ever owned. It is so unbelievably quiet you can hear yourself whisper at 45 mph. The engine alone (V6) was worth it. It is very powerful and I have averaged about 24 mpg combined so far. Unbelievable car.

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  Work Vehicle - 2005 Honda Element
  By Honda Bob - February 11 - 1:13 pm

  I use this vehicle in my business of servicing Hondas on site. I drive about 100 miles a day and have modified the vehicle with air tanks and air compressor. Also, I have my tools in the back. I installed a 750W invertor under the hood for 110V power when I need it. My laptop sits on a Jotto-desk on the right side. The backup sensors I installed really come in handy sometimes.

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  6th year Anniversary - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Argentum - February 10 - 4:07 pm

  I bought my CRV new, six years ago and Im even more impressed with it now. The car is simply a masterpiece of reliability, usefulness, economy and comfort. At 88000 miles the a/c compressor blew out. Thats it. No other malfunctions or part failures. Now at 97000 the engine is quiet, the ride is still composed, trans shifts smoothly and everything is A-OK. Even the paint and wheels still look pretty good.

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  Wow, I love my Toyota - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Rbrss - February 10 - 3:50 pm

  I am a die hard toyota gal. I am so disappointed in Toyota what they did to the tacoma. BUT! Once I saw what the 06 Ridgeline had, I was sold after a 10 minute test drive. What a machine. Bought the extended warranty too. I keep my vehicles anywhere from 7 to 13 years. I need dependablity and comfort. The lumbar is wonderful for bad backs. Not crazy about where the cruise button is. Down under the console. But so far that is my only complaint. I think the get and go is fine, I have always driven either a diesel or 4 cyl. AGAIN, my husband was right! I hate that too!

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  Just because I wanted to.. - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Ralph Robinson - February 10 - 2:53 pm

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  Just because I wanted to.. - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Ralph Robinson - February 10 - 2:53 pm