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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  Best Van around for family of 4 - 1995 Honda Odyssey
  By Great Van - September 30 - 8:22 pm

  Wish they still built vans this size - Mazda finally made one with the Mazda5. Ours has 228k miles with only two problems in its history - brake master cylinder and radiator (plastic cap cracked - replaced with all metal double row HD model). Towed a pop-up camper, delivers 26+ mpg, comfortable, bullet proof reliability

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  Big Suprise In A Small Package - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Spindoctor - September 30 - 6:43 pm

  Took ownership on 9-24-07. The Honda CR-V is a joy to drive. Tested 10-12 other vehicles. It has a smooth, quiet ride and for a 4-cylinder the car has surprising pickup. My first impression of the car was when I opened and shut the door. Solid. No vibrations and no hollow sound. Sounded just like the doors on a Lexus-RX 350. Second impression was when I went for a test drive When the salesman drove the car up for us I thought he turned off the motor Much to my surprise the car was running when I got into it. Nimble and smooth was my experience while driving the vehicle. With Hondas reliability, resale value and the cars gas mileage I dont think I could have made a better choice.

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  A pleasant surprise - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Peter Gorshe - September 30 - 3:46 pm

  I have driven Hondas for many years because of their quality and reliability. Yet the 2008 was even better than I thought it would be. I especially like the performance, stability and comfort. I find the criticism of the dashboard controls to be unfounded. The controls are convenient and they make sense. The car is very responsive and drives well in all road conditions. I was able to get 33 MPG on a recent trip. Interior is very roomy and comfortable. All displays are very easy to read. The only negative is that it doesnt have an outside temperature reading, which I really miss. A great car and a great value.

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  What you would expect! - 2007 Honda Accord
  By me - September 30 - 1:30 am

  Very nice, capable and competent sedan. Excellent fit/finish. Had for a few weeks and the Honda quality has been quite prevalent. The 3 L V6 is very zippy and makes this vehicle extremely nimble. Not like a big-clunky sedan. Handles more like a sports-sedan (not high-performance but fairly tight). Have been averaging about 24.5 mpg on regular fuel (mostly highway). The automatic shifts smoothly and is a nice compliment to the whole package. The 17" alloy wheels give the vehicle a nice steering, handling feel and look. No blind spots in all sight-vision views & lines (like some pillared sedans). The graphite pearl coat exterior paint looks very rich. Thought this was a better car than Camry.

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  Best Safest Suv Made Hands Down - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Pilot king - September 29 - 10:06 pm

  I have Had my Pilot for almost three years now and I still love getting into it every day. I had a Toyota Rav-4 before. The Pilot is the most comfortable, safest, reliable vehicle I have ever driven. I drive 350 miles round trip to my beach house and after 7 knee operations this is the only vehicle that can get me there pain free. If you read a bad review about the Honda Pilot it was probably a rare lemon which can happen with any vehicle.

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  Great Value. Legendary Honda Reliability - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By RiskPro - September 29 - 9:28 pm

  This is a fantastic SUV for the average middle class family that wants virtually no service issues or maintenance requirements. Not to mention the 4wd which is good for those times us citi-dwellers need some help in the mud or snow and the 2nd and 3rd row seats fold away.

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  Great Car - 2008 Honda Fit
  By perseverance8 - September 29 - 12:20 am

  I have had my little fit for about three weeks now and am lovin it, it is a great little car for a small family, the comfort is very good as I am 6 2" and I fit quite comfortably, the power from the 1.5L VTEC is quite adiquite, and the maual shift is silky smooth, I would have liked to have seen more durable carpeting but the quailty is still superb (remember this is a Honda), the first time I filled up I calculated right at 37 MPG 50/50 city/hwy driving which im very happy about. I think honda has put together a winning package that will put a smile on your face whenever you take it for a spin.

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  My Hybrid - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Denny - September 28 - 10:43 am

  Traded a Buick Lucerne during the 4 dollar gas crisis last summer. Even though it is now $2.50 it was still worth it. The car delivers the promised mileage plus if you drive it right. Accelerate slowly, stay at 70 or below and you will get 45-50mpg. On a recent trip with a tail wind and flat road we got 53mpg. On a recent 1,500 mile drive I was just as comfortable in the Civic as I would have been in the Lucerne

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  A Nice Reliable Car - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Stenodactylus - September 28 - 2:52 am

  I just took over my moms Accord. Its a pretty nice car. The seats are reasonably comfortable and its got a decent sound system and good gas mileage. I feel very safe in this car, and I use it as my daily driver and commute car. Its pretty fun to drive, but Im coming from driving a mini- van, so I dont suppose my vote means much in that area.

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  Wonderful Car and Easy Buy! - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Jessica Stratton - September 27 - 4:47 pm

  Best purchase I have ever made. My husband and I just moved to Columbus and were so nervous about buying a car. We did some shopping around at dealers and always came out feeling completely ripped off. Then we tried using Edmunds price promise. Best choice! We selected the car we wanted and then just found a dealer near us. Asked all of the dealers near us for quotes and then went and got it! Saved thousands through Edmunds and we are differentially going to use it when we have to buy our next car. :) As for the car...its a Honda. Great ride, great placement of controls, looks so cool driving :) Also crazy adjustable. I am 5 foot and my husband is over 6 feet and we both are able to fit in the car perfectly! I am completely thrilled with my buy still months later and dont see that changing soon.