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 best car I ever owned - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By CingleMom - July 30 - 3:10 pm

  I only had my CR-V for a week and I love it. I traded my 2007 Dodge Caliber for it. This is one of the best decisions Ive made in a long time. The Caliber was horrible. The Honda CR-V drives like a dream. I wouldnt trade it for the world. I just hope that its good on mileage.

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  Better Than Expected... - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By NewCarGuy - July 30 - 2:29 pm

  After driving every small ute out there, I narrowed it down to the CR-V and the Forester. The wife preferred the look of the CR-V over the Forester. Since its primarily her car we went with the CR-V. I was most concerned about the lack of power (I drive an 09 Murano). However, it packs plenty of punch for her daily needs. Its amazing how spacious the interior feels on such a small frame. This is a perfect vehicle for driving around town, but I prefer the smooth ride of my Murano on a long drive. The handling is superb for an SUV, which makes it fun to drive. I was concerned about rear visibility w/o the backup camera, but its fine. Make sure you check out the Forester too.

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  first year review - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By MK - July 30 - 9:38 am

  First let me start of by saying that I am a huge car guy. Overall the odyssey is a nice minivan. It is a nice ride for a longer road trip or hauling people around, probably the best minivan out there right now, not that there is a very large selection available. On the down side it is far from perfect. First of when you get a car that is $40000+ you should expect better interior materials, especially on the dash. Its all hard plastic, kinda like the pre- 2007 GMs. I have owned infinities before in the same price range and the dashes were much more luxurious. Secondly the seats other then the driver side are not exactly comfortable. The backs stick out to much. The outside mirrors stink

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  Honda Reliability??? - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By Laura - July 30 - 8:56 am

  I really wanted a GMC Acadia. Loved the look, but was a little scared with all the financial trouble. I also heard the GMC was not a reliable as a Honda. Therefore, trying to get the best buy for my money I bought a Honda Pilot. BIG MISTAKE. I have had major issues with the alignment. Feels like I go in ever other week. They (Honda Cars of Katy) keep telling me the Pilot was built to pull to the right. After spending 30K+ I thought I was getting a reliable car. Now after only 4 months of ownership, the paint is peeling in multiple places. The leather is already coming apart at the seams. I thought Honda was supposed to have quality vehicles, but I am sadly disappointed.

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  Content, maybe a better word - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By vivian singleton - July 30 - 8:07 am

  Im still happy with my HR-V because of the economics, not a gas guzzler. The acceleration is fine under normal situations. However, when at a complete stop, if I accelerate quickly, it doesnt respond well or when merging onto the highway...if I press on the gas pedal heavily, it wont move out as quick as I want, but these are rare situations and now I know what to expect. The interior is quite roomy, seats are comfortable, but manual. Theres plenty of leg room, rear seats can fold down or lifted up for traveling with bulky cargo. I live in an region where winters are rough on cars. In traffic, I had to brake quickly and the car just slid. I was in an area where salt trucks arent out as often as where I live or maybe they couldnt keep up with the continuously falling snow. I like listening to music on the radio, unfortunately my car doesnt indicate the names of songs/artists automatically. The manual was not helpful on this subject. The Honda HR-V is reliable, still kind of new so its expected.

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  165,000 mile review - 2003 Honda Civic
  By abigcess - July 30 - 7:26 am

  i purchased it new back in 03. i now have a little over 175,000 miles on it. its been the most dependable car. i still drive it hard... dirt roads, 120 degree heat, 1200 mile trips in 8 yrs. few yrs ago, i was rear-ended on the freeway resulting in some extensive damage, but still runs strong despite virtually no maintenance work on it.. so far, Ive changed brake pads once, spark plugs once, air filter twice, and last few times, Ive gone over 9000 miles between oil changes. havent done any tune ups, alignment, radiator flushes, or clutch work done yet. Im averaging 32-34 miles with 70/30 city/freeway driving.

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  Still strong after 6 years! - 2003 Honda S2000
  By Dave Lucas - July 30 - 7:06 am

  I have liked the S2000 since I first saw it, prior to the first sell. It has pleasing, timeless lines and handles quite well. In fact, when I drive other cars for short periods, then get back to the S2000 - that is when I really appreciate how it handles. True, the car is not for everyone, but that is what I tried to avoid in the first place (a vanilla car). I look forward to having this car for another 10+ years - may be get a nice paint job when it starts to show its age!

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  Love the CR V - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Erica - July 30 - 6:56 am

  We traded in our 04 Chrysler Town and Country that had 170,000 (my husband drives a lot for work)for the CR V. What a great and fun to drive truck it is! Our other car is a Volvo XC90, and while I enjoy driving it, the CR V is so easy to maneuver and park that I have virtually kidnapped th CR V from my husband. It really is a great value compact SUV for the money, not to mention the Honda reliability. This is our 3rd Honda and we couldnt be more pleased.

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  Exceeding my expectations - 2009 Honda Civic
  By dave92029 - July 30 - 1:40 am

  The build quality of the 09 LX is equal to my last C Class Mercedes and the reliability will be much better at half the price. This vehicle is a solid, comfortable, quiet fun car to drive. When I pause to think about what I paid for this wonderful car I just have to laugh. The LX is a wonderful value, while also being lots of fun to drive. Im so happy that I bought this car and wonder others pay so much more for those "high priced" brands.

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  Great Car - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Evar - July 29 - 2:30 pm

  I commute 70 miles a day for work. Average 35+ MPG. I have 65,000 miles on the car and have only had to do breaks once, tires once, and regular oil changes. Much larger interior than Civics have had in the past. Dash is easy to see while driving. I took a road trip and actually got 47 MPG for 3 tanks in a row.