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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  Improve engine and road noise, then A+ - 2007 Honda Civic
  By jr - June 11 - 9:13 pm

  Very good handling with ample power. My grade-school boys refer to it as their "Hot Wheels" and love riding in it... quite zippy and fun to drive. The sensitive drive-by-wire accelerator takes getting used to (jerky, hard to launch gradually and smoothly); the automatic transmission feels intrusive or hesitant at times. My only major gripe is the road/tire and engine noise; Honda should add some more sound insulation and it would be the PERFECT choice in this category. Otherwise, its an excellent value and Im very pleased with it overall!

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  Whats not to like? - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Freetrog - June 11 - 5:26 pm

  I dont think Im your typical buyer - I drive a special edition Porsche 911 and I wanted some utility to carry stuff - dog, golf clubs, and occasionally people. My options going in were Lexus GX470, Porsche Cayenne Turbo, or the CR-V. I know - a crazy mix. I looked at BMW, Mazda, Subaru, etc. I bought the CR-V as I felt it had the quality of the BMW, solid structure (good handling), spaciousness, and fuel economy (light carbon footprint). I couldnt be happier - it has everything an more that I need and want in a vehicle of this type. Engine is sufficient for my tasks, handling is nimble, brakes great. Visibility is good, comfortable and economical - can it get any better. Very pleased.

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  My Accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Charles Brock - June 11 - 1:20 pm

  The major downside for me was the realization that this is a "performance" car, not a fuel economy car. It gets 23 to 25 mpg in town and 32-34 on the hwy. Good performance, not the economy I assumed hybrids would get. I love the performance, the power of acceleration, the fact that at idle the engine shuts down. At 6 ft. 3 inches, I have plenty of head room. I love the car and am very happy with it.

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  A Fun SUV to drive - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Gordon - June 11 - 12:06 pm

  I really love to drive this SUV fast, It felt like flying a airplane, while most other SUV would felt dangerous.

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  Cant beat it - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Jehu 222 - June 10 - 9:55 am

  This is my second 2002 accord. I wrecked the first one. I just use as a daily commuter. I couldnt be happier. I bout it with 103,000 miles on it. What other car can you buy with 100k and still be confident? It now has 151k and it rides like new. All I have replaced is a spring in the clutch that broke (250) and a wheel hub (180). The interior is simple. I will say for this year this accord is about as big as the new civic. For 2001 and 2002 I would stay away from the automatic transmission 4 cylinder, They had problems. My manual doesnt slip. Also I see accords here and there with bad fading paint but mine is holding. I just got my wife an 07 accord based on edmunds reviews. She had an 03 Camry and everything was dying at 150k. So I can confidently recommend this car. Oh and average 29-30 mpg mixed. (432 miles per tank)

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  Switched from a RAV to a CRV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Toto - June 10 - 3:10 am

  I am happily surprised with all the standard equipment that comes with the SE. It does not compare to the RAV 4 in this regard. I also find the CRV to have much better pick up than the Toyota. I am glad I made the switch

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  Excited about a minivan - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By jeff - June 10 - 12:43 am

  What is not to love. We have 4 kids and our only options at this point are suburbans or Minivans. We looked at Chrysler T&C, Toyota and Honda... Honda was a no brainer! It has plenty of horsepower with our whole family and a incredibly smooth ride. For the family who needs a "touring" vehicle with all the bells and whistles this is the car. The sound system is excellent ( I have 2 teenagers and it is very important). it is also important to have teenagers to show you how to use the nav system.

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  Beyond Expectation - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Mary Mediate - June 9 - 7:43 pm

  Driving this car is like going to heaven. You will want for nothing. It is amazing in every way. It has bells and whistles I never knew it had. The car is human and perfectionistic. It drives well, the satellite radio is awesome and it has the comfort of home. I am thinking about living in my car.

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  Own 4 Elements - 2005 Honda Element
  By We own 4 Elements - June 9 - 3:59 pm

  Love this car. Currently shopping for the 5th in our family. Everyone who rides in ours buys one. This car is a blast to drive and VERY comfortable. Will own this for 10 years.

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  Best car Ive ever purchased! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Satisfied Customer - June 9 - 6:23 am

  I just purchased an Accord Sedan (fully loaded) with leather seats. I was originally in the market for an Acura and compared the both and chose the Accord. They are very similar as far as engine and design on the inside. The difference to me is the body style. I really really love my new car. It rides smooth, roomy, great horsepower and maintains the road well. I put it on the road a week ago and road noise is not a problem. This is the best car Ive ever purchased. It took me two years to make up my mind in what would be my next car and I wouldnt have it no other way. I get compliments and praises everywhere I go. The black on black, 2008 Honda Accord Sedan EX-L V6 is MY new Lexus!