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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  Battery drain issue - 2012 Honda Odyssey
  By Ody-driver - May 25 - 10:40 am

  We really like our 12 Odyssey, and if it werent for the annoying battery drain problem weve had since we bought the van new, we would have rated it a lot higher. The dealership admitted to me there was a design problem, and I should lock my van when parked in garage, or to make sure the dome lights were switched to Off instead of on Door as this somehow deactivates a circuit that remains energized. It still doesnt seem to help as the battery has been weakened enough after being killed a dozen times, so now if I know I wont be driving it for several weeks, I hook up my battery charger.

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  Honda Ridgeline - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By E. Gray - May 23 - 2:40 pm

  Just drove the Ridgline 2,700 miles. Front seats very comfortable for ten hours of steady driving. Ride comfort was pleasant. Avg mpg 21 incl mostly interstate at 65-70 mph. Loved the lockable in bed trunk. Recommend this Honda product for anyone needing the usefulness of truck for small homeowner type jobs and one not requiring a comfortable back seat.

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  Passing the test - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By joyce - May 22 - 7:53 pm

  Made a 4000 mile trip to Nova Scotia this summer pulling a camper with no problems at all. Didnt even feel much drag going up the hills. Love the car and the room for kids. Dont have the DVD but a lap-top works just as well in the back seat. Gas mileage wasnt bad considering the load and supplies. Cheaper tow package would sure be nice (about $1000.-ouch!). Dealer said transmission, etc. may not be covered if it wasnt a Honda installed item. Car handles great. Just a few minor complaints that I can live with.

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  Front Seats are the biggest let down - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Bill Egge - May 22 - 11:57 am

  We have been a Honda family since 1987. Today we are retired, and as we enter an era of long-distance driving, our orthopedic and spinal surgeries dictate that our new car MUST have orthopedically correct seats (aka "multi-contour" in many circles). Much to my dismay, when at the dealer, I discovered that the Elites driver seat has only a two-way lumbar support (in and out), and the passenger seat has no lumbar support at all. Worse, the passenger front seat, although power, only goes front and back, not up and down or tilt. BOTTOM LINE: The Pilot Elite seat comfort is below par for the luxury SUV segment. It looks like our days as a Honda family will soon be over.

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  Competent, not spectacular - 2009 Honda Accord
  By arun11 - May 22 - 9:06 am

  When I researched this car, complaints seem be centered around VCM, uncomfortable seats, road noise, and brake issues. 300 miles after I purchased this car, I am yet to experience issues in any of these areas. VCM seems to work fine; Ive driven up and down hills and on straight roads, speeds up to 70 mph, and transitions are far less noticeable than gear changes. I do not consider road noise an issue as long as you dont compare it to a Lexus. I am yet to experience any issues with the brakes. Overall, seems to be a well built car, handles far better than my old Camry, and am reasonably satisfied with it.

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  Respect the van - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By oddity - May 21 - 11:46 pm

  This van is light years ahead of my 2005 Dodge GC in terms of styling, refinement, driving experience, safety, and comfort. It is also light years ahead in terms of monthly payment, but you get what you pay for. My family of six loves it. This vehicle drives wonderfully. Steering is precise and overall handling and maneuverability is fantastic. Backup rear view camera is great once you learn to trust it - much easier to parallel park. I bought this van for many reasons, but Hondas reputation for build quality sealed the deal. I hope it holds up to its reputation.

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  Family Vehicle for Everything - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Evan - May 21 - 1:30 am

  This is an excellent choice for families on the go that often take children on long trips. The seats are comfortable, the visibility is great, and the power/ fuel economy trade-off is just about right. May feel a bit clumsy at high speeds, but its always secure ride. It is annoying that you have to get leather to get most of the extras (sunroof, Vehicle Stability Assist) but the value is definitely still there. The third row is far more liveable in Pilot than the Toyota Highlander.

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  The Best SUV for your $ - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Neal Golden - May 20 - 10:00 am

  I bought another Honda CRV only because it reliable and I gave my old CRV to future wife. My old CRV have 182,000 miles on it and never gave me any trouble. When I bought this car the dealer ask me if I wanted to take it for a test drive. I simple told him "NO". He look at me like I am crazy. I told him that my old car was driving like a charm. I felt there was need to test drive it because it reliable and dependable. I got my money worth on my 1999 CRV and I am expecting it to drive to 300,000. I am hoping the quality doesnt slip with my new Honda CRV compare to my 1999 Honda CRV since it was made in Japan. The only thing I am not crazy about is the emergency brake

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  THIS ACCORD IS A JOY TO DRIVE - 2005 Honda Accord
  By harchie - May 20 - 10:00 am

  IVE DRIVEN TRUCKS FOR THE LAST 25 YRS,SO IN RETIRING I WANTED A SMALL RELIABLE CAR AND THIS IS THE ONE TO HAVE . IM SO SATISFIED WITH JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING THAT I PLAN ON KEEPING IT FOR A LONG TIME THE 4 CYLINDER 24 VALVE IMPRESSES ME FOR ITS PICKUP,QUIETNESS AND SMOOTH AUTOSHIFTING

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  Excellent Value - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Anthony - May 20 - 6:13 am

  Great riding truck, I had a Jeep Grand Cherokee prior and it had a lousy ride. The Pilot styling is plain looking, it could use some more chrome like the MDX chrome door handles and chrome running boards. The Pilot really shines with interior space. I have two kids and the extra room is great. I know Honda will continue improving this competitor envy SUV.