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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  Great Mileage and Affordable - 2009 Honda Civic
  By EVM - July 13 - 3:20 pm

  I was looking for the best high mileage sedan out there and I think I found it. A fun, responsive drive. So far averaging about 41 MPG, but most recent fill up averaged 43.7 MPG. Back seat is a bit tight but it fits my two children just fine. Very stylish -- I did not like the egg-like body of the Prius. Even with the hybrid battery, I think the luggage space is more than adequate.

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  Angel Car - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Sean Hunter - July 13 - 7:01 am

  This car is more than perfect. Sure the break pads wear a little. But the soul of the car is unstoppable. Once in a while, people get stuck with a Honda that has been through a flood, or had an engine rebuild in Puerto Rico. But for those of us who are multiple Honda Owners, who have seen the light, there is no other choice. This particular car that I own now, I bought in 2008 with 80,000 miles on it already. Im up to 100,000 now a year later, and this car is begging for me to take it X-country. Not a SINGLE PROBLEM. I am a road jockey and I know what a thoroughbred feels like. Honestly, I want to go back and give it 10s in every category, but I dont want to lose my credibility. -)

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  2005 Honda 4-door sedan - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Laurie C. - July 13 - 4:26 am

  I have been in 3 crashes since I purched this car in March of 2005. Though slighly injuring my neck and upper shoulder areas, I escaped with no serious injuries. It is the safest small sedan on the market today IMHO. I generally get 35-40 mpg. July 27, 2006, I just turned over 10,000 mi. It is better than the 2 Accords I previously owned. I am very satisfied with my decision.

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  navigation not working and idle stop as well - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Ari Castillo - July 13 - 1:39 am

  after paying close to 50K the dealer can not still find whats the problem with the idle stop and navigation. since first day the navigation signals bars are in red sometimes in green but when is in red it looses actual location. I live in washington DC so I expected to have the green bars all the time. the iddle stop does not work after 1800K it stop working. If someone has the same problem please let me know

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  Dont Buy This Honda! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Tiffany - July 13 - 12:23 am

  I bought a 02 CR-V with 20,000 miles on it. My AC broke at 65,000 miles. I paid $150 to have it fixed. Broke again 2 months later. Honda quoted me $1000+ to fix it. Im STILL making payments and cannot afford to replace it. Not fun in 100 CA weather. Ive always sworn by Hondas. Even my Honda mechanic said "I dont know why you have so much trouble with this car you take such good care of it." It has electrical problems, the stereo had already been replaced when I bought it. Cruise control works when it feels like it. The rear door latch mysteriously stopped working. The cup holder is broken. Interior door panel by the window fell off. I baby this car! COME ON HONDA. REALLY???

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  The best 2 door coupe - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Joe - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I fell in love with the Special Edition when it first came out. I found that dealers are not too willing to play with the price because it is a SE. I shopped around and ended up getting $2000 off the sticker price. The car is so much fun to drive. It is my first new car, and I have no regrets. Excellent on gas and a very sporty appearance. The car handles great around corners and just driving it period. I got mine in Rallye Red. It sure draws a lot of attention. The Special Edition features are great. An incredible sound system, and unique alloy wheels. The sun roof is a great feature on sunny days. It is worth the money!!! Over all it is an amazing car for the money.

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  2006 Honda Accord LX Special Edition - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Tina - July 11 - 9:21 pm

  I really like this car, the special edition is the way to go with the alloy wheels and 6 disc cd changer and audio controls on the steering wheel this car is quite a deal. It drives well especially on highways and accelerates quickly without being overpowering. It is very sporty. I had a choice between this car and the 2006 Camry and I am very happy with my choice the Camry made me feel older and it was boring. I will never buy anything other than Honda and Acura.

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  One of the best cars that Ive ever owned! - 2007 Honda Accord
  By TS1988 - July 11 - 8:40 pm

  I recently decided to part ways with my 2007 Honda Accord and trade it in for a new Kia after 5 years of ownership and it has been one of the best cars that I have ever owned. In five years time, the only major things that Ive had to do with that car are: timing belt replacement, water pump replacement, starter, and a power steering pump replacement. This car has been a truly reliable vehicle and extremely well built and Im extremely impressed by the reliability.

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  A solid choice - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Stu - July 11 - 6:42 pm

  A very good car. No problems except for a grinding noise in back window when raised or lowered. Warranty covered it. -Lots of interior room. -Good (not great) mileage. 25/26 city, 33/34 highway. -Smooth 4 cyl. engine. -Nice manual tranny. -Should last for a long time! -Nice, intuitive controls.

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  Very Impressive for an Accord - 2007 Honda Accord
  By FJT - July 11 - 4:43 pm

  Ive owned Hondas ever since and have been happy with them but wanted to try the luxury version so had my eyes set on the 07 TL. At first, I was reluctant in considering the Accord but with gas prices on the rise and after doing multiple researches, reading reviews and such, I gave it a try. Ive had it for 2 wks now and am enjoying every minute of it. I avg 33.6 mpg mixed driving with A/C, navi, and CD on! It has good acceleration, enough power, smooth and quiet ride. I recommend this car to anyone looking for comfort, functionality and efficiency. Honda has lots of standard features that other manufacturers offer as options.