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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  07 CRV LX AWD - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Teresa - July 27 - 11:03 pm

  This is my 4th Honda and I am not disappointed. I love the vehicle. The drive is smooth. The interior design is simple, functional and comfortable - lots of room.

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  Mini Minivan - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Wow! - July 27 - 7:24 pm

  If you are looking for a small car with great gas mileage, lots of interior room, look no further this is it! From the outside the car looks tiny but the room inside is amazing - like a mini minivan.

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  1990 Honda Civic DX - 1990 Honda Accord
  By Jeffersbug - July 27 - 3:00 pm

  I bought my 1990 Accord DX used in 2008. It seemed like a great deal considering it only had 68K. Only serious problem is I need to add a quart of oil every 300 miles. Ive been to three mechanics and nobody can seem to find the cause. Been able to drive it 16,000 miles already without the problem getting worse. Other than that it runs great. The trunk does leak when it rains.

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  CVT transmission - Good luck - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Unhappy customer - July 27 - 12:56 pm

  Transmission died on a busy highway at 34K almost killed myself trying to get off the road. Honda had it for 12 days saying it needed a new trans and then gave it back saying nothing was wrong. Had it in again at 36K 50K 61K 81K and finally at 110k brought it in for a oil change and they finally checked my mileage saw I was over 100k and admitted something was wrong with the slipping transmission. Honda Care could care less and the case manager told me they werent willing to pay a dime for the $4600 trans the dealership said they would take 10% off for my trouble. This car should have been recalled day one. Please dont buy this car. It is a danger to drive. I have some advice sell it quickly.

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  Always a Honda - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Parish - July 27 - 12:26 pm

  With the exception of a "between cars car" I have always driven an Accord and the newest model is yet another example of why this is one of the top 3 selling cars in America. Design, quality, reliability - all top notch. Very smooth ride that will run forever at a price most families can afford.

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  New Honda Civic Si - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Joe - July 27 - 11:40 am

  A lot of fun to drive - she moves quick in traffic.

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  VCM - needs an OFF switch - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By gman - July 27 - 9:50 am

  The VCM activates/deactivates about 150 times per 100 miles. Each time it activated I lost about 2-4 mph while on 70mph (cruise control). When it deactivates VCM – all of the cylinders kick back in and I was back up to my cruise control setting speed of 70mph. Rather annoying especially when you have vehicles in front and behind you and they are at a steady cruise speed. Down to 3 cylinders is when you hear and feel an annoying growling. Then a loss of power and you lose speed. HONDA, please put in a switch to disengage the 3 cylinder mode which I believe is the issue. The 4 cyl mode doesnt seem to be a problem. From NY to FL, I experienced the same.

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  Love This SUV - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By Linda - July 27 - 9:35 am

  I love my CR-V. Going on 10 years old now and have had no major issues with it. Have only replaced battery and tires. Thats it. Have driven in 12 inches of unploughed snow with no problem. I dont even want to trade it in and would keep it even longer but 10 years old, so its time, especially with the tax incentives on new purchases.

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  great compact suv - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By gerry34plant - July 27 - 9:00 am

  this is my first suv and first japanese auto. its a great compact suv. wonderful outside view, easy to drive and park. holds large items in back. i added a few extras that i believe are worth the dollars. a cargo cover, cargo mat amd wheel locks. everything else is included in the purchase price. one item that should be changed is a variable wiper that gives more speed control.

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  Pretty much a great little car - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By CMW - July 27 - 8:07 am

  I am happy I purchased this car because I love the way it looks and drives. Very practical. Lots of compliments from retirees. Car looks like it costs a lot more than it does.