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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  Nice Honda SUV. Practical and Powerful. - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By Techmine - June 24 - 4:17 pm

  Last month I bought my new Pilot and am impressed with the practicality and overall design of the vehicle. Interior shows excellent space management. Leather seats are big and comfortable. All the controls on the dash are good except the A/C buttons. I love the backup camera. It makes life very easy (especially while parallel parking). Turning radius beats most cars including my 02 Maxima! RES comes with upgraded sound system which is also wonderful. Storage options in the cargo area are also good. Like the tire pressure monitoring too. The drawbacks are mileage (even with VCM), road noise and vibrations (only sometimes) due to VCM. Still waiting for first long drive. In city MPG - 16-18.

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  09 SC - 2009 Honda Element
  By davel57 - June 24 - 2:24 pm

  Ive been looking at these cars for some time now and I cant believe I waited so long! Very pleased so far. VERY fun to drive with plenty of power and great fuel economy. I work in an auto body repair facility and Ive seen these cars hit in all areas and they hold up incredibly well (I hope I never have to test it) and it was one of the selling factors for me. GREAT sound system, amenities.

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  Happy Pilot Owner - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By amypf - June 24 - 10:22 am

  Ive owned my Pilot for about a month now and I love it more every time I put it in drive. It is really smooth and comfortable. I love the the ipod control through the radio, bluetooth capability and great turning radius. For me it is the perfect size. I often drive with 7 passengers (+13 year olds) and it holds them perfectly. I had read previous reviews complaining about the glove box, now I understand - even the manual doesnt fit in it. Its only good for McDonalds napkins.

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  VP 2.4 - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Enrique - June 24 - 8:47 am

  2006 has noticeable road noise. After new tires (Michelin), doesnt start as well. Its like Honda wanted to save money by building a lighter and cheaper car. Well it is made in America...

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  Pleasure ride - 2016 Honda Accord
  By George B - June 24 - 8:20 am

  I just sold my 2003 Accord and bought another one this year ,2016. Great car .

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  Love my new hybrid! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Selina - June 23 - 5:18 pm

  Just bought a used Accord Hybrid! I love it so far. Averaging 33 mpg. Handles great and has awesome brakes. Love having the 255hp when I need it, and the hybrid components when I dont!

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  Very disappointed - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By Danny - June 23 - 2:27 pm

  I got this brand new 2009 Honda Pilot EX-4WD about a month ago. So far, my experience with this new Honda Pilot became kind of a nightmare. I found this car was built by cheap workmanship made in Canada (or USA whatever). The interior parts are not aligned precisely and some are falling apart after 7 days of purchase. I had to take back my car to the dealer twice to have them fix my dash board assembly, and theres still about 1/8" of gaps between the parts. Also, the front passenger seat developing strange noise if someone sits on it. This car ALSO started to developing engine noise. When I step on gas pedal, theres some kind of metal-clicking noise comes from the engine. Too many to list.

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  EX-L 2008 So far, so good... - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Kevman - June 23 - 2:06 pm

  Got my EX-L 2 weeks ago. First tank of gas highway driving 34MPG. Very happy with that. Seat not the most comfortable, but OK. Needs Lumbar support. Pickup not too good, but to be expected. Alot of fun to drive. Should have auto-dimming mirror on EX-L model.

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  SWINGIN LITTLE CR V - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Donald ROSS - June 23 - 10:29 am

  I like the larger size tires, would recommend them. We are older and it is easier to get in and out of. The radio is great, enjoy sirius and all the options. Would have liked to have had the auto rear door opener. All in all the car is great, has a great ride and easy to handle. Plenty of horse power, get up and go. All around, a nice car and very quiet in the cabin.

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  my honda - 2007 Honda Accord
  By jean - June 23 - 4:26 am

  I am very happy with my purchase of my second honda. I replaced my 1990 honda and am thrilled. It drives as smooth as glass. It handles beautifully. Am anxious to get my gas mileage count.