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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  A step up from the last gen Si - 2012 Honda Civic
  By flamike772 - October 26 - 10:33 am

  I totaled my 2009 Civic Si Sedan, I was T-Boned by a full-size SUV doing 40+ MPH, the Civic Si held up superbly, so I knew I wanted another one. So now I have had my 2012 Civic Si Sedan for a bit and can comment on it over the 09. Its a big step up, not only in looks, but in power, the torque is very noticeable and the ride is smoother. Not as sporty as the 09 but grippier than a regular civic, my Wife enjoys the ride more and its more comfortable on the road. The upholstery... the 09 has softer plush-ier fabric, but I actually prefer the new fabric due to pet hair and it seems easier to clean as well. I miss the higher redline of the 09, but the 12 feels less of a "chore" to drive.

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  After over 333,333 miles... - 2005 Honda Accord
  By lexter - October 23 - 1:13 pm

  This is my third Honda Accord, and my accidentally best choice. Much more improved paint coating and rust protection. The car looks like new even now. Good acceleration in tough road situations. A fair 29-30 mpg, mostly on highways. Very comfortable seats. Superb ergonomics, which makes the car so appreciated during a long travel. The car is a nightmare for a car salesman or an example of an excellent workmanship.

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  2nd Fit purchased new - 2012 Honda Fit
  By heffelz8 - October 22 - 10:52 pm

  The wife and myself owned a 2008 Fit while living abroad in Europe. When we moved back to the States, we purchased another Fit. For a compact car, Honda really managed to cram a whole lot into this vehicle without making it seem over-done. Fit and finish is quite nice, along with the overall design. This car works, its practical, very lively to drive (with the stick) and very fuel efficient 36 highway and 33 in town. I am 66" 210 lbs and fit very very well in this car. My knees dont hit anything on the way in or out. Loading height is great whether youre 52, like my wife, or my size. I would buy a 3rd fit if I ever felt so inclined to get another family member in one.

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  2007 ex AWD Atomic Blue Element Automatic - 2007 Honda Element
  By sarasmydog - October 21 - 10:54 pm

  Although I bought it used in 2012 about 6 months ago with 53,000 on the Odo, it has been very worthwhile in just about all catagories although Im used to V6 power in other vehicles it is still "peppy" enough for me although I did wish it got better gas mileage or maybe it is I am just not used to it? Overall in 99.9% I would give it a definate thumbs up. Its been very dependable and durable and I cant wait to try it out on the snow this year in NE Iowa. Of course I was almost sure I would love it? Its a Honda and they are known for reliability!

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  Love this van!! - 2012 Honda Odyssey
  By brittanyx3 - October 20 - 3:05 pm

  For one I am young, but have 3 kids 4,6, and 9! I was very hesitant on getting another mini van after i got out of my 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan about 2 yrs ago! But i love this van! I dont feel like I am driving a mini van! The kids love the space that we have now after coming out of a 2010 Kia Forte Koup! They can move!!! The vans design is fabulous and love the 3 seats in the middle row! This is my first Honda ever so pretty thrilled with it so far! The drive is smooth! You dont even know its running after you start it! Has alot of power and love the electric doors and trunk! If you are looking for a good quality van this is for you!

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  Great car! - 1998 Honda Prelude
  By josh1189 - October 18 - 1:17 pm

  I bought my 1998 Prelude Base Coupe 4sp. manumatic with 74K miles on it in 2006 as my first car. LOVED it! It was the best car I ever owned. In the year that I had it, I only replaced the O2 sensor. Not bad. The reason I had to get rid of it? It cost me too much to keep it. I was only 17, not making much money and couldnt afford the low profile tires (stock wheels, mind you), the premium fuel and, of course, the insurance company ate me alive. I didnt do my homework before I bought it. So, if you can afford the cost of ownership, this will be a great car.

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  Does it even have a check engine light? - 1998 Honda Civic
  By funk53daba - October 10 - 8:25 pm

  I really dont know, now that I think about it. I found a nice one-owner with 124K. After two years it has 175K and the only thing that has not been routine maintenance has been some rust thru the exhaust system. Thats it. Brakes/tires, fluids, filters, and spark plugs. Thats all Ive had to touch. Everything works. Ive owned a lot of high mileage cars b/c I prefer them for various reasons but this one acts half its age. It also beasted thru the Appalachian mountains loaded with myself and about 250lbs of military gear, so dont underestimate the power under the hood. And I average 35 mpg.

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  Love my new Odyssey - 2012 Honda Odyssey
  By 82d - October 10 - 9:05 am

  Ive had my new Odyssey for a month and am very satisfied. I find the 5 speed transmission very smooth and would not recommend spending an additional $4000 just to obtain a 6 speed and another 1 MPG. I averaged 17.8 MPG on my first tank of gas per the on board computer (17.86 based on actual fuel consumption). This was with 100% A/C and city driving. I miss the middle row Stow and Go of my former Grand Caravan, but this is a small price to pay given the quality of this vehicle.

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  Brandon Honda -- great dealership - Civic sedan great car - 2012 Honda Civic
  By valcarter - October 5 - 9:30 pm

  We purchased a 2012 Honda Civic Sedan and we are very happy with it. The folks at Brandon Honda in Brandon, Florida were great. Our salesman was Tony M.....he was a jewel. Totally wonderful experience. If you are in the area and want a great buying experience, call Tony at Brandon Honda

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  exl w nav coupe - 2012 Honda Civic
  By adansereau - October 4 - 6:29 am

  I have had the exl nav coupe now for 6 weeks and about 1500 miles mostly city and averaged about 30 to 33 mpg. traded a 2010 coupe for this one. This car is quiter, more comfortable, and has more mid range torgue than the previous one. The leather is top notch and seats are great. The electronics from nav to i mid screen are easy to use and radio functions displayed are really nice. This car feels very luxurious. Its sporty, looks good, has cool electronic dash with lots of color and looks very upscale and space age. This was a good choice and i am very happy with this car.