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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  Still Loving it!! - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Donna - June 25 - 1:25 pm

  I have owned my CRV for 8 months now and I still love this SUV!!! We just took the CRV on a family vacation to the beach and my sons lacrosse tournament, and my husband was VERY impressed... we were able to fit beach chairs, luggage, folding- sporting event chairs and lacrosse equipment all in the back without blocking the rear view. He was also pleased with the ease of parking in small spaces!! I was always one to avoid parallel parking whenever I could, but with my CRV, I have absolutely no problem with parking!!! This by far is the best vehicle Ive owned yet.

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  Does what its supposed to - 2000 Honda Accord
  By T Kirwin - June 25 - 10:00 am

  With regular maintanence, I have had zero problems. What it lacks in power and racing qualities, it makes up for in ease of driving and quality workmanship. Honda has made an extremely dependable and enjoyable car.

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  Happy Owner - 2001 Honda Civic
  By amthax - June 25 - 10:00 am

  Great car for the price. Replaced both front struts at 45K miles--after warranty expired. This is an expensive repair and not uncommon according to the dealership repair department. The quality of the interior material could be better, styling is very nice though. Overall I adore my Civic and would purchase again!

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  Love It! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By jaytee2126 - June 25 - 10:00 am

  Great little SUV! Fun to drive, rides lika my Saturn. Great for this small (51") woman, and her bigger hubby! Very competitive pricing. Excellent options included on base model. Love it love it love it!

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  1st Honda- very disappointed - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By C - June 25 - 9:41 am

  I thought Honda was supposed to be one of the best... well what happened? Do they not check out everything before they sell them? 1st time I turned on the A/C I got a horrible smell - then fog (not condensation) of course the service dept didnt believe me when I called, but oh wow, now they do because it is sitting in their shop. They have no idea whats wrong.

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  Great Gas Mileage - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Jason - June 25 - 12:11 am

  My LX gets 25 in town and up to 31 sometimes on the freeway driving about 5 miles above the speed limit usually. Cruise control really helps w/ the gas too. I really enjoy the car. It is not like driving a Mercedes or something but most of us dont anyway so big deal. It has great room and the seats are comfortable. Totally worth what I paid and reliable. Some people may just not be satisfied or dont tell the whole truth.

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  Must have been built at 4pm on a Friday - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By No2Honda - June 24 - 11:18 pm

  Cant believe this is a Honda! I have the same issue other owners have complained about: pulls to the right. This alignment issue may also contribute to the various steering wheel vibration issue at high speeds. Also many squeaks and rattles throughout the car. I even have interior panels coming loose already! I am so disappointed in my 3rd Honda. Not what I was expecting, at all. Should have bought a Toyota/Lexus... Honda, you just lost a future customer!

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  More than happy with my choice! - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By Jessica S. - June 24 - 10:22 pm

  We were in the market for our first minivan, narrowing the search to a Sienna or Odyssey. Odysseys ability to load and control the DVD from the front with 2 small kids is a big win. Ultimately, though, Honda was willing to negotiate more than Toyota, with an offer below the TMV - What Others are Paying quote (below invoice). Have had the van for almost a month... no issues with noise, great mileage (avg. 21 mpg with a mix of highway/city driving), love the handling.

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  Would reconsider - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By mas - June 24 - 10:00 pm

  I would not consider another Honda until they fix the excessive road noise. Too bad because the vehicle is excellent in many ways. On a rough surface noise will prevent normal conversation with rear passengers

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  Somewhat Disappointed - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Somewhat Disappointe - June 24 - 4:37 pm

  Before buying the 09 CRV, I owned a 2000 CRV EX-L, a 1996 Honda EX, and a 1990 Civic (Honda owner for 19 years). I really loved those cars, but not this one. It averages about 18mpg (inc. hwy), the temperature controls have to be reset each time, I wish it had an analog dashboard, and there is a serious hesitation right before acceleration. The mirrors are skewed in some way which makes it difficult to park--I have no problem like this in any other car. The steering is a bit stiff, and Ive developed tendinitis from gripping it, and the ride is bumpy like it has sports suspension. The floor of the cargo area is flimsy cardboard. Am thinking of trading it in for a Forester or RAV4. Sigh.