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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  Tire pressure monitoring system - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By TPMSpain - May 30 - 12:40 am

  Purchased the van less than a week ago brand new from the dealer. The next day the TPMS light came on. Took it to the dealer and two attempts to repair it. At least they got the TPMS light to go off. The next day the light came back on. We have 160 miles on the van and 60 miles of that is "test drive" mileage from the tech attempting to repair it. Not the best customer support. We must take it back again this week for a 3rd attempt at repair. Not enjoying the van so far as it will be in the shop 2 of the 7 days we have owned it. Any TPMS stories or solutions out there?

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  Great all-around vehicle - 2007 Honda Civic
  By MyFirstHonda - May 29 - 11:50 pm

  I have only had my EX sedan about a month, and currently have about 1000 miles on it. Thus far, I am averaging about 29 mpg, having driven pretty close to 50/50 city and highway. The car performs very well, is not overly noisy (certainly not for an affordable compact car), and has not disappointed in any way. The 5 speed auto trans shifts very smoothly, and keeps nice low rpms, even when cruising at highway speeds (pulls about 2250 rpm at a steady 70 mph). I would rate the build quality as very high, fit and finish is neat clean with very tight tolerances, no squeaks, rattles or odd noises. Having the AUX stereo jack is wonderful (works perfectly with my iRiver player).

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  New crv - 2017 Honda CR V
  By Jeff M - May 29 - 8:04 pm

  Great car but the voice controls for the radio and navigation aren’t as user friendly as I’d hoped. My F150s voice controls are perfect. Honda’s....not so much.

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  Great Car - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Jake T - May 29 - 8:03 pm

  First off, through Mercury insurance the SE is cheaper than an EX and an LX. Dont know why or how but it is! For 1500-2000 more we could have purchased the EX, but for better rims and a moonroof it wasnt worth it. We went from a 2004 Civic to this, and must say that its the best decision ever. Love the new body style, especially the upgraded rear tail-lights. The Graphite Pearl color is flawless as well.

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  Honda Civic - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Honda fan - May 29 - 6:16 pm

  Replaced a 1998 Integra with a 2006 Honda Civic. Many improvements from the last time we were car shopping. The new Civic is fun to drive, cool instrument panel display! Very smooth transmission, quiet engine, power everything, excellent gas mileage. This car is very spacious inside, its well built and looks stylish inside and out.

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  Bought for 15K+ Trip - 2010 Honda Accord
  By Jerry - May 29 - 3:00 pm

  Bought my Accord EX-L for a four month trip we had to cut shot after six weeks. We will finish in about 2 months. Traveled about 6K and got about 29 mpg overall for the trip. It got better with each tank full and we had a car full of stuff and driving 70 mph. Ride very smooth and comfortable. Plenty of space for us and all our goodies.

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  Had to have - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By RTDjr - May 29 - 11:16 am

  I had to have a new truck as the wife just got a new mini van, and I didnt need a van any more, so I got a Ridgeline. I am a big guy, 64" 300 lbs and needed something big feeling without the gas gussling effect. Drove the Honda and had to have it. Comfort is top notch, XM radio is awesome sounding and all the toys I could ever need and want. Gas mileage is a little less than I figured. About 16mpg in town, 20mpg on the road, but still better than a Trail Blazer I had. I got the extra fender flares that really add to the look of the truck, gives it that he-man take no stuff look with a trailer package. No towing yet but cant wait to try. You need to drive one.

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  I love my Si - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Will - May 29 - 3:53 am

  The new civic Si is a fun great car. From its aerodynamics, to its power, Honda has really taken the civic to a whole new level. I recommend this car to everyone.

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  SPACE CLOUD - 2004 Honda Element
  By CUPCAKE - May 29 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS A DREAM ITS SACIOUS TURNS HEADS AND KIDS LOVE IT TOO. GET ONE OR AT LEAST RIDE IN ONE U WILL LOVE IT.ITS ECONOMICAL EASY TO KEEP CLEAN WHAT OTHER VEHICLE CAN U THOROOUGHLY CLEAN ABD SHINE IN 20 ITS GREAT.

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  One awesome minivan - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Greg Stewart - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I have driven many vehicles in the past, mostly cars but after test driving the honda oddessy I knew I had to own one. The oddessy is one awesome minivan, fun to drive and excelent road handling.