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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  Another Great Honda Vehicle - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Ken - September 17 - 9:26 am

  My 2010 CR-V is more than I thought it would be. It handles great and has a lot less road noise than my Civic. At 1500 RPM in high gear it has a low hum coming from the drive train. There is a big blind spot directly behind the car, this is because of the high rear window. I am averaging 19 city and 26 HWY, and hope this improves. There is plenty of power with this new engine and it response well. Interior is great on looks, and the lay out is great, sound system top of the line. This vehicle has a lot of class, and my wife loves driving it.

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  Her car - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Richard Jones - September 17 - 12:52 am

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  suggestion - 2004 Honda Element
  By bruce and barbara - September 16 - 10:00 am

  we were driving a eddie bauer expidtion fully loaded needed something to pull behind our motor home. have completely fell in love with this car. my wife has a jaquar, but would rather drive my car.

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  i dont know - 2004 Honda Element
  By asdgha - September 16 - 10:00 am

  It is good on snow days because i can take my children to school right away with no delay. It is very easy to clean on my own iside and on the outside. I like the subwoofer that is sitting inbetween the driver seat and the passanger seat. I know that it picks up good on the acceleration because i am always trying to get out ahead of other cars.It turns very sharp and is easy to get around the corners. It is fun to sit out in the car and watch the stars through the sun roof.

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  HONDA VS TOYOTA - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By MIKE E - September 16 - 10:00 am

  I DROVE BOTH MINIVAN AND FOUND OUT THAT THE HONDA DROVE BETTER. I ALSO LIKED THAT IT USED REGULAR GAS

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  Not a Liberal and love my Hybrid - 2004 Honda Civic
  By GEOTRACY - September 16 - 10:00 am

  Why are they still making gas only motors?.... This car rocks, its fast and good looking too!!!

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  My Honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By pricero828 - September 16 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car in December and have loved it ever since. It drives as good, if not better thank a BMW or Lexus. The touch-screen navigation system is phonominal and easy to use. The controls are clearly marked. Seats are comfortable with ample room. Large, spacious trunk for storage. Would buy another in a heart beat. If anyone is not sure about buying one, DONT WORRY! THIS CAR WILL KEEP YOU HAPPY AND SAFE!

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  Best car ever! - 1991 Honda Accord
  By mrsdesertkitty - September 16 - 9:15 am

  I love this car. I bought it on the back lot of a dealership as is. Only changed a few normal parts. Battery, thermostat, ignition switch, and main relay. Still drives like its brand new at 144,000 miles. The antenna does not work and cup holders in a bad place. People laugh but I will own this car for my entire life. Thank you Mr. Honda!

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  SI-----Super Intense - 2006 Honda Civic
  By DCM - September 16 - 9:03 am

  I am so glad I bought this car. Not only do I get great gas mileage, but man is this car fun to drive. I totally love everything about this car. It is fast, handles great, comfortable, and it looks fantastic. If you want a great sports car for a low price. I suggest you buy a Honda Civic SI, and be satisfied like me. I have not even pushed this car to see what it can really do yet. I am still breaking it in.

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  Excellent Value - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Steve - September 15 - 6:23 pm

  We purchased our 2006 Honda Accord LX SE 5 speed after driving and comparing it to comparably equipped Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima and Mazda 6. We found that the Accord compares most favorably overall when compared to the competion. Its ride, handling and performance of the I-VTEC 4cyl is tough to beat, its a very comfortable good handling quiet, fun to drive sedan. Our experience with Hondas has been very positive, our 98 Accord which we still own, has over 90,000 miles and has its original clutch, rear tires and front and rear brake pads. No problems whatsover and it returns around 30mpg in mostly in town driving, we think this 06 model will do even better.