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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  Disappointing - 2004 Honda Accord
  By jp1234 - October 6 - 10:00 am

  Overall this is a great car, but a few major flaws have made me an unsatisfied owner. My Accord EX now has just over 3,000 miles and rattles like a ten year old jalopy. The rear seat, headliner, driver and passenger windows and doors, and dashboard all rattle all the time. I am actually embarrassed to have passengers ride in my new car. I have owned two problem free Honda cars in the past and was really excited to get my new one. I bought this for its quality, and now I am dissappointed because of it.

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  Reliable? - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Mugen - October 5 - 2:23 pm

  I purchased my Accord "new" for reliability. At 6000 miles the flyweel bolt came loose and got stuck in the clutch, then my AC would come on and off without being turned on -- requiring 4 visits to repair. Now, the radiator fan comes on and stays on all night, killing the battery. This one must have been built on a Monday.

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  Good Suv - 2005 Honda Element
  By John - October 1 - 6:43 pm

  Overall very good SUV, sold an expedition and have been very happy with the honda. Great interior space and easy to keep clean.

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  Good not great - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By dick williams - October 1 - 10:48 am

  Car is really nice. Material is a little below the quality that I expect from Honda. This is my third new Honda. I am 6-1 and my head is very close to the headliner even with the seat low. The Lx does not have this issue because there is no moonroof. A few small rattles and squeaks from a new car. Stereo has really hollow sound. Center console could have more storage and the "cubby" under the console is pretty useless. This is my wifes car and she loves it. I tolerate it and would rather drive my 07 Prius.

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  Great SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Frank - October 1 - 8:43 am

  I had a CR-V for the past 5 years and loved it. When it was time for a new SUV I was ready for another CR-V but test drove the pilot and bought it the same day. I have had it for 5 weeks and no problems. I can tow my 2 kayak traler with no problems. I have also taken it on the beach and it handles well. My only complaint are the tires. They could have been more agressive.

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  We like this car - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By CRV Owner - September 30 - 6:53 pm

  This car was the perfect mix of a minivan/SUV, priced good and room for our two kids. The only downside is the interior scratches easily (plastic sides in the back and dash). We love to drive it, and the gas mileage is very good.

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  Generally great but a few details lack - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By cm - September 30 - 2:36 am

  Some things overengineered (the heating/air-conditioning is confusing to operate). Non-adjustable armrests are a nuisance (adjustable armrests are only available with leather interior). Gas mileage better than expected.

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  as advertised - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By ken003 - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Expect exactly what Honda promised with this vehicle. A wide, solid, roomy and reliable car-based SUV. No flash here but lots of value. Mediocre gas mileage, good sound system and high residual value. Dont expect to take on any z-4s through the curves but will likely quash most other mid- size SUVs with its standard features. The large "P" is however for practicality rather than passion. Enjoy!

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  Smartest Buy In Its Class - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Neal - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I thought long & hard before purchasing my CR-V. Other models considered were the Tribute, Liberty, Sorento, and RAV- 4. Along with Toyota, Honda has superior reliability in this class. My CR-V has the perfect balance of what I need in a vehicle - high build quality, excellent drivability, AWD when I need it, good looks, and a spacious interior. Power could be better, but the VTEC makes the most out of what the CR-V has. Weaknesses? Stock tires are junk. Radio is weak in performance and reception. Auto trans selector is located right behind windshield wiper controls, causing the grabbing of wrong controls at times. Gas mileage is not as advertised.

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  Good car - 2002 Honda Accord
  By IchPokhudezh - September 29 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car for 6 months now but I still cannot find fav position. The seat height adjustment is practically useless for me - Im used to much lower seats. 5th speed is a little too far to reach. Gas pedal has a half inch of dead travel, which bothers me a lot whereas all others seem unimpressed by this problem. Seats are rather uncomfortable for longer trips and/or aggressive driving. Michelins lose grip in rain/on wet surfaces. They do not hydroplane, though. Sometimes I hear a window rattling sound but technitians could not find the reason for that. Otherwise an excellent choice for a commuter car.