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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  Fun car, but... - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Robert - March 6 - 7:40 am

  Not exactly the low-cost of ownership vehicle advertised. I just had to replace brake pads @ 9,900 miles to the tune of $270 out of pocket. Ive owned many new cars in my lifetime and never replaced pads under 10k miles. This was a disappointing experience, so I have written a letter to American Honda. There are other similar complaint visible on the web. Honda needs to make improvements to the brake pad materials. Other than this, the car is comfortable, fun to drive and fuel efficient.

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  Potential Problem - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By John/Show me state - March 5 - 10:00 am

  We got this Pilot a month ago and we have a problem with front passenger side struts. Suspension system is same as their Mini van except for it is mounted different on the Pilot. When we went over a bump struts were making a noise. Honda mechanic says the strut might have been mounted wrong. When you test drive go slowly over a bump with air and stereo turned off listen for it.This problem is new and only been found in a few Pilots. Honda seems very concerned aboutit.

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  Good to go!! - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Marineone - March 5 - 10:00 am

  This Honda Accord is a great over all purchase. The interior I have is aftermarket leather, in which is higher quality than the manufacturers option. Gas mileage is great. I can drive from L.A. to Vegas and back on one full tank of gas and still have some left for the work week!! This Honda is good quality and craftmanship in comparison to some other cars in the same price range.

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  5 months in my Honda Ridgeline RTLNAV - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Jeff Skimel - March 3 - 3:03 am

  I drove a Lexus RX300 for 5 years and we needed a new primary vehicle. I always wanted but never had means of hauling light payloads, such as plywood, furniture, etc. I wanted a rugged vehicle, my wife still wanted comfort and goodies like the Lexus. We both like SUVs. The ridgeleine was the answer; combined all we want and need into one vehicle. I love this truck. The lockable truck is beyond useful- the composite bed is a good quality feature. The NAV system is great and has already saved me time- very reliable. The rear cabin is spacious according to passengers. The drive is responsive, peppy, and fun, albeit a little bumpy on bad roads. I recommend the truck- we parked the lexus.

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  Ready for move to College - using the Honda Piloot - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Sukhi Sawhney - March 1 - 5:26 am

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  Good but overated - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Fuad - February 28 - 10:46 pm

  This car is very good looking but the interior quality is rather questionable. Lots of cheap interior plastic makes the interior fragile. The gas mileage is pretty good and the power is adequate. I have a K&N cold air intake system and it helps.I actually had many complements about its looks. Its comfortable on long trips and is fun to drive. If you live in an area with many many potholes, I dont recommend you get this car because it will not take them without a flat tire or other damages.The rear visibility is an issue that you have to deal with if you intend to buy the coupe. I wish I waited a bit longer for a Mazda 3.

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  Accord Jr. - 2002 Honda Civic
  By bclov - February 28 - 8:26 am

  Comfortable daily commuter that can easily be used as a primary vehicle. Very dependable. Almost same size as the Accord for thousands less. Decent power, mileage and styling.

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  Pilot after couple of months of driving - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Zaffi - February 28 - 5:46 am

  I tested in snow by taking it for a spin, and it maintained its grip on the pavement. Engine sounds powerful and responsive. My biggest issue is with the mileage claim. Honda say 17/22, and I have consistently getting no more than 18 miles on mostly highway drive.

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  I chose to give my money to Japan - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Lewie Tillman - February 27 - 8:00 am

  Overall, a great little car. I wish it was a "peoples" car, but I think its as close as we are going to get. The power is good, although the hesitation on takeoff was hard to take at first until it taught me that that hesitation meant more money in my pocket in fuel savings. Down here in Florida the a/c shutoff at dead stop isnt going to go over well. Nonetheless, in winter, spring and fall it will be manageable and, there again, save bucks. One reviewer said a/c stays on out of Econ mode--I will try that. My overall mileage has been around 43 mpg by the cars calculator. It has a really solid, comfortable ride and tight steering. I think I may be falling in love again.

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  So so - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Sharon - February 26 - 8:03 am

  I find my Honda to be uncomfortable to drive, it doesnt have a lumbar support adjustment. The head rest lean too far forward, I actually took the drivers off. Great fuel mileage.