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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  Better Than the Envoy - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By jdah3 - July 27 - 12:09 am

  Traded 2004 Envoy for my Pilot. So far, pretty good. Nothing has gone wrong that affects performance, anyway. Been to the dealer for clips in front seats (seat backs were squeaking). Brakes grinding and sound horrible, but told "Theyre fine, theyre just not Honda". Passenger R side of seat doesnt heat. I still feel good getting behind the wheel. Feels very solid, sure, and safe. No issues with leather as others have had. No engine or transmission problems. Radio/nav work beautifully.

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  Nice overall package! - 2009 Honda Fit
  By hspatz - July 26 - 3:24 pm

  This car feels very roomy for such a small car for both people and cargo. Average is around 37 mph overall. On trips can exceed 400 miles (10 gallons) on a tank. Steering is fast, borders on twitchy over 65 mph. Handling is excellent with rear breaking loose slightly with aggressive driving. Suspension is somewhat too stiff for bad New England roads. Acceleration more than adequate with manual trans. Front sometimes touches at end of driveways--be careful. Engine noisy over 70 mph. 65 mph is sweet spot. A/C a little weak, but doesnt sap much power. Controls work well and are easy to use.

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  Second Fit - 2009 Honda Fit
  By judi - July 26 - 1:10 pm

  I had a 2007 fit and I loved the fast pickup, but the ride was not that great and the car started to shake at about 65 or 70 mph. I bought the 2009 and the ride is much better, but unfortunately, there is no pickup and a lack of passing power. I always was a Honda girl, but now looking to change. Spent all that extra money for navigation with no traffic.

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  What youd expect from Honda - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By jod - July 25 - 11:30 pm

  I went from a 2 row 4Runner to an EX Pilot, cloth interior. Very spacious and well laid out interior. Build quality, materials, and overall feel of the car is superb. Third row seat is surprisingly roomy. I love the maneuverability of the 2nd row seat to accomodate either seating in the 2nd row (recline feature) or 3rd row passengers (moving 2nd row forward). Big plusses are fuel economy with VCM (24mpg highway) and safety features. Pilot is 5 star all around in safety. Road manners are smooth and predictable. Engine is quiet, powerful, and refined, although a bit lacking in torque when compared to the 4.0L from Toyota. I recommend going with EX over LX, if possible.

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  Simply Reliable - 1991 Honda Accord
  By D Himes - July 25 - 10:25 pm

  Purchased brand new in 1991 and to date still driving with 291,000 miles. Simply a dependable and quality car all the way around. Handles the road very well and still has great power. Hondas are simply great cars.

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  Repairs - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By fireman2 - July 25 - 8:58 pm

  2004 was great. The design of the power drivers seat controls is horrible. Every time you get out of the van your left leg pulls on the side seat console, as for now I have no control of the drivers seat. The trans blew at 80,000 cost me over 3,000. Only really good thing -- The paint was peeling off BAD, the dealer had NO ANSWER!!! Called Honda USA In Calif, gave the VIN #, right away the rep stated that my van was manu. in Alabama and the paint jobs were lousy!!! He gave me numbers and letters and told me to call any Honda dealership. REPAINTED -- THE WHOLE VAN -- FREE!!!! Also like other owners--Had to replace motor mounts at 65,000 miles.

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  02 Civic coupe 5speed - 2002 Honda Civic
  By drew Kramer - July 25 - 8:35 pm

  I bought this car right when I got my license, and I love it. I have a low paying job and that really helps me because I only fill my tank once every 3 weeks. The engine is pretty weak, and with my 5 speed I really have to rev it pretty hard to get up to highway speed. It is fun to drive, pretty nimble with good handling. The stock speaker system isnt all that bad either. I think it was a perfect first car for me.

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  Above average small compact - 2004 Honda Civic
  By alljoy214 - July 25 - 1:56 pm

  Buying vehicles can be tough. Honda has been one of the leading dealerships that have economical cars that are reliable and fun to drive. The 2004 Honda Civic LX is very fun to drive. At the same time, bland as a banana. Overall, one of the best in the small compact division.

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  Comfortable, Quick, Great MPG! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Greg - July 25 - 1:31 pm

  I replaced my 2001 Accord with the 2006 Civic looking for better MPG and handling I got what I was looking for! It was a strange looking car at the time but since then more and more cars have the bullet shaped frame.

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  Seats from Hell - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Bob - July 25 - 12:00 pm

  Love the 2009 Honda CR-V I just bought with one glaring exception, the seats are from hell. After about a 100 mile trip they are so uncomfortable I just about traded it in with less than 500 miles total on the CR-V. Probably will not keep this vehicle much longer, cannot stand to be so miserable. Am asked "How do you like your new car?" I answer "I hate it, want to buy it!" That just about sums it up!!