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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  What happened Honda? - 2009 Honda Accord
  By richard - June 16 - 1:43 pm

  The drivers seat is very hard, and hurts the thighs. The Accord gets fair gas mileage. The carpet looks cheap I can see the lining of the carpet. The audio system sound is not very impressive. At 180 miles my brakes needed to by repaired, warped rotors. A lot of noise, road as well as rattles. My previous car was a 03 Honda Accord EX. Miss that car!

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  Frugal Downeaster - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Frugal Downeaster - June 15 - 10:43 am

  My criteria was simple - an economical, inexpensive, high quality vehicle that could carry a companion, a bike, a kayak, personal "stuff" and not require a small mortgage payment when I stopped for gas. The Fit is all that and more with a 5 star insurance rating and is actually fun to drive - - especially around town, or on curvy back roads. Honda has proved that "inexpensive" doesnt have to mean "cheap". This vehicle has more secret storage spots and room than many SUVs Ive driven. Oh - - and did I mention 32 to 38 M.P.G.!

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  Crash Survivor - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By pray4me_99 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  We purchased our new Pilot with safety in mind when our new baby girl came into the world. We also have been long time Honda owners are are quite impressed with the reliability and service we have received. Recently, while heading home from working all night my husband nodded off at the wheel and we rolled our new Pilot twice. I am thankful to be able to be here to record this review and give top notch praise to Honda for the construction of this vehicle. My husband and I walked away with only minor scratches.

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  Great Economy Car - 2001 Honda Civic
  By civicpam - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I got my Civic brand new my senior year in college and it has been a great car for the low budget. It is reliable and gets great gas mileage. The comfort of the car leaves a lot to be desired. Especially uncomfortable on long trips (at least in the front-I dont know about the back). But, a good car all- around.

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  Fourth Accord - 2003 Honda Accord
  By RichK - June 12 - 2:00 am

  Car handles beautifully but has more road noise than 97 Accord I traded in.Transmission very smooth.Ride well controlled.

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  Everything good but rear windshield - 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By hondafan888 - June 10 - 11:36 pm

  I am happy for what I picked especially the mpg about average over 44 mpg for my first tank of gas. For all Accord hybrid: Please pay attention to your rear windshield, Have you see any object or image of waviness, curving around like you are in a steamy hot desert???? My Honda service manager, advisor all seems happen only on Hybrid. Honda wont do nothing if you all dont complaint it. I cant see ant straight line behind me!!!!!

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  Quirk with 3rd gear - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By Penny - June 9 - 5:10 pm

  Very, very disappointed with the gas mileage. City is 15-16; havent done much highway, but it was 18 once. As I approach 3rd gear (around 38-40 mph), there is a surge forward with the van, even if I dont have my foot on the gas at the time. Asked service person, and he said that unless the red light comes on the dashboard, they cant diagnose it. I wish I could trade it in, but I need the room for carpool for my grandchildren. My husband has had 5 Accords, but this is my first and last Honda! Bring back my Toyota 4-Runner!

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  Dissapointed Overall - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By Got Poor MPG? - June 8 - 8:46 pm

  14,000 miles so far & MPG is crap, all highway driving, no matter how fast or type of terrain no better than 21, far cry from 28 on sticker. Going in tomorrow for power steering issues & transmission that is slow to respond when starting out. Had problems several problems with an 05 so traded it for an 07, should have traded for a Domestic. Honda should be held responsible for the misrepresentation of the gas mileage!

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  A good mid-size SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By tws - June 8 - 5:26 am

  Have owned the vehicle for 2 months. Overall, a very good value in terms of form, function, and economy. Have had no problems pulling 4300 lb. boat & trailer although I would not tow a heavy load over mountains.

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  The Pilot works just fine!! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Atlanta Pilot - June 5 - 2:00 am

  Got my new LX Christmas eve. Quality Honda product. Loads of room and very easy to fold seats down. Mileage is about 21 on the highway. Interior styling is spacious... has lots of console room with storage space. It does drive big but the Pilot is a big vehicle. The engine is very quiet.