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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  love my CR/V - 2012 Honda CR-V
  By rodney musgrove - December 30 - 5:48 am

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  What A Deal!!! - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Anthony Santagato - December 30 - 2:54 am

  Go To Edmunds.com before you buy/lease to save a basket of money.

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  I love my CRV!!!!!! - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Christine Pagan - December 29 - 10:19 pm

  Great SUV for the money!

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  VERY VERY NICE TRUCK - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By jc101 - December 29 - 6:03 pm

  This truck is not was i expected. I assumed the 160hp engine would be slow and not enough for my lead foot. But i was wrong this car is fast enough. I think maybee the gas tank could be bigger, less frequent pit stops. But ALL in ALL CAR Is great and no regrets so far Yes i know the shifter is a bit strange but you get used to it.

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  S2000 - 2003 Honda S2000
  By wheels - December 29 - 5:56 pm

  This is my SECOND 2003 S2000, and its flawless like the first! Its a blast to drive, top up or down. It always draws attention.

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  Great Car! - 1992 Honda Accord
  By Dan - December 29 - 5:07 pm

  I have owned this car for a year and just recently had to preform a major repair on it. Oil got into places it shouldnt have which really lowered performance. Since the repair this car has been excellent! It drives and accelerates like it never did before! Its roomy, fun, and comes with plenty of features. Easy to see out of as most of the car seems to be all windows. Parts of of quality and it is a solid ride. With 147K miles, I cant complain!

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  Best Civic Ever Built! - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Steve - December 28 - 5:16 am

  This is the best civic ever. I think its even better than the Accord. It handles amazing and accelerates very smoothly. The interior is nicer than my Benz. Absolutely love this car.

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  2016 Odyssey - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Sylvia - December 28 - 1:14 am

  Do your homework by shopping around online before making your purchase and wait until the right vehicle at the right price comes up. Our timing was perfect and we got an excellent deal. Were very happy with your certified pre-owned vehicle!

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  Awesome Sports Car! - 2009 Honda Civic
  By Malcolm - December 28 - 12:40 am

  For just under 22K in 2008 when they first came out (its a 2009 remember), this car has been great! Its a sedan; so a family car that I have gotten up to 32mpg in! Five people can be worked out and 4 can be comfortable in the race-inspired seats. The seats go with the sweet interior, great sound system, almost heads up display, and all the buttons on the steering wheel. But its also a race car! Stiffened suspension on the 17s and a 200hp engine work well to make a very fun practical car thats great for everyday!

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  Love my Fit! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By sftc824 - December 27 - 9:52 pm

  Love driving my Fit! It does fit anywhere, and is very comfortable inside. I have two six foot sons, and they say there is enough room. I took four basketball players to a funeral and they all fit!