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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  Almost Great . . . - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Deron Hutchinson - December 12 - 9:19 pm

  I purchased the V6 Touring Model. And I agree with other reviews and would easily recommend it as a purchase that one would be happy with and confident. But I cant give it 5 stars because the front seat are substandard in terms of theyre comfort. Not much better than a seat on the city bus . If anyone know of a solution please post it.

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  Great Car - In Most Situations - 2008 Honda Civic
  By BigJon - December 12 - 11:03 am

  Im writing this review to call out one design problem with the Civic. On a long trip the front seats are downright painful. We took a 600 mile trip at Thanksgiving, my wife (56") drove down and I (61") drove back and we both developed a pain which lasted for about 24 hours afterward. We tried multiple driving positions but to no avail. It was bad enough that well never use that car on a long trip again. We got just under 35 miles to the gallon going 80 mph and fully loaded, which was great, but again - if I had purchased this car for a lot of long haul driving Id already be looking for a replacement. Mileage around town has been disappointing - about 25 mpg.

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  Check out the new Honda Civic LV 2017 - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Anna Cipriano - December 12 - 3:13 am

  Go to multiple Honda Dealership. When they know you have time and talking to multiple dealers, they are more willing to negotiate.

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  Excellent sports car - 2000 Honda Prelude
  By Starsipping - December 12 - 2:00 am

  This was the first car I bought for myself and its been a pleasurable driving experience the entire time Ive owned it. There hasnt been a single instance of mechanical fault, and I still turn my head to look back at my car when I walk away--and even after 3 years I still feel a swell of pride that this car belongs to me. I havent seen another car with such nice exterior looks anywhere near the price range. I got leather seats installed-- I recommend this highly.

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  review - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By 135 - December 12 - 2:00 am

  great reliable, good on gas, needs more power, not very much pick up.. brakes could be better

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  poor fuel economy - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By stephen - December 12 - 12:30 am

  My 2007 had problems in manufacturing. Within the first 350 miles it had an oil leak. At first it was assumed to be the oil pan gasket. Continue to leak and was found to be the left engine seal. The problem was, they had to wait to get a special part so they could remove the engine in the new 2007s. Apparently, they had not planned on removing the engines so soon. Also, the mileage advertised indicated 23/30 read the fine print. It says, 19 to 26 in town. According to the dealer after the first oil change "we will see". Do not anticipate much more. I am getting about 16.8 in town. Good luck

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  Absolutely indestructible!! - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By Matt Williams - December 11 - 4:38 am

  I have 135k on the car. I use Mobil 1, which is likely one of the reasons the car burns zero oil. However, the reality is that Honda engines are extremely reliable, regardless of oil used. The only issue, after 17.5 years, is a cosmetic one -- Hondas from this time frame rust, and mine is no exception. It has started on the front of the rear wheel wells. However, since I cant see the rust while I drive, Im ok with it. Would never buy anything else.

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  Take a test drive, you might like it!!! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Ant W - December 10 - 3:36 pm

  This is my first SUV, and so far I like it. I heard quotes like "it drives like a car", but I find that the AWD makes it feel somewhat like a truck in that as soon as I ease off the accelerator the car will not coast at the same speed like a sedan. Engine has plently of power when fully loaded, but I have not tried towing yet. The ride is comfortable, and quite at lower speeds. At highway speeds, the tires "thump" when traveling over breaks in the pavement. Not sure if its the bridgestone tires or the design of the suspension. Handles superbly. First road trip averaged 18.5 MPG during the new car break in period. Anyone looking at a SUV should test drive. EX has all features I needed.

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  The V-6 Vibrator--Dont Buy! - 2013 Honda Accord
  By frogee - December 9 - 12:11 am

  After five months with the extremely annoying vibration from my Accord, I traded it on a 2010 Infiniti G37, taking a big financial hit. Honda says the vibration is "normal", as in normal for a 3-cylinder car, that is. Unfortunately, this condition was not apparent on the test drive, so be forewarned if you are considering purchasing the V-6. Variable Cylinder Management may yield very good MPG, but at the expense of a terrible drive experience. I have requested compensation from American Honda, but am not optimistic.

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  Three problems - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By cybernut04 - December 7 - 10:00 am

  This is my third Honda. Ive been surprised at the decline in quality. 1) Increasing number of rattles (still under 6,000 miles). 2) Extremely uncomfortable front seats - cannot use for commuting or long trips. 3) The "fire issue" - my first oil change at the dealer resulted in a "double- gasket", an oil leak, and smoke (but no fire, thankfully)