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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  43 MPG! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Phoebes Mom - March 14 - 3:33 pm

  I love my Fit! Her name is Phoebe, because her color is Lunar Mist, and I decided that she should have a lunar name, so she is named after Saturns 18th moon - Phoebe. Took a drive to friends, who live over 150 miles from me, and Phoebe got just under 43 MPG round trip! Called my mechanic to find out if this is possible. He said yes. I love this little car, and I couldnt be happier with it. If you are looking to get a great small car, you will not be disappointed.

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  40 mpg - 1996 Honda Civic
  By BPM, Maine - March 14 - 11:37 am

  Great point A to B car, excellent for city driving. The 96-00 Civics are some of the best used cars around. Inexpensive to own (purchase price, Ins. cost, repair, fuel etc.). ***The SOHC engines can be prone to connecting rod bearing failure at high mileage.***

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  Short rough ride - 2016 Honda Civic
  By joe martin - March 14 - 10:00 am

  As the owner of two civics-06,10, I took my family to test drive a 16 model- 4door EX. I am old school, so I was freaked out by the fact that this car has NO key. You touch the door handle and it unlocks, you put your foot on the brake to start it-with a button!! The ride was ROUGH!!! Much rougher than the the ride of my 2 door ex, and 4 door LX(with 204,000) miles on it, mind you. Very disappointed. Drove it straight back to the dealer.....so so disappointed. So now I have to just get a used Accord. BTW we also drove a 16 Accord LX-the ride was MUCH better, but was with the vibration when accelerating, and sitting at a stop light about!! I guess I am being too picky folks. but I expected a lot better vehicle. Hell I own 2 of them, I know they have been good cars for me....but I have serious doubts about the new ones.....

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  Sporty Chick CUV! - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Kari - March 14 - 9:21 am

  Absolutely designed for a women. Love the purse spot in front of console & steering wheel is sized right. This CUV is built vault-like solid, from solid door closures to 1st class switchgear w/ great tactile feel. CRV has the nicest interior between the Forester & Rav 4 (by far). Dual temp controls work great & is fantastic when my husband is riding along. Gas mileage is lower than expected avg 22mpg. Only complaint is you feel all road imperfections.

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  Excellent Car!! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Krystal - March 14 - 8:22 am

  I traded in my old 00 Hyundai Elantra for this 06 Accord and I couldnt have made a better choice! I drive a lot, about 15k each year and the seats are so soft and comfy I could sleep in them! I definitely love the sunroof, steering wheel controls and black interior. Lots of compartments for storage as well. Obviously, isnt that great in the snow, so sadly I must trade in for a SUV soon. Otherwise I would keep this baby forever!

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  Family car - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Heather Johnston - March 13 - 11:50 pm

  We are very comfortable with 2 boys in this car. I love my Honda.

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  Love this car! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Judy - March 13 - 11:40 pm

  This is my second Accord Coupe..the first was a 1994 which ran quite well, just fell in love w/the design of the 2003 when I took my 80 year old aunt to purchase a Civic. Beautiful car, quick, even for a 4 cylinder. Only drawback, Im quite short and the side view mirrors obstruct my vision. Not so w/the 1994 Accord.

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  JUNK JUNK JUNK - 2009 Honda Ridgeline
  By Honda Hater - March 13 - 11:02 pm

  Why I purchased this car I will never know. Look Honda has great compact, coupes and sedans.....but trucks???? They should leave it up to others. MPG is 10 at best. Interior is all plastic, cheap looking and rattles. Sun roof seal leaks in water if only glass is closed. Cant wait to get rid of this piece of junk. Only good thing is the stereo system w/ nav. Only 20 more months to go on lease. Then Im running for a Tundra (real truck).

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  In Love With This Civic - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Katy - March 13 - 10:48 pm

  I love this car! I never have any trouble starting it even in very cold weather, it handles great in the snow, it can be kinda noisy but I can live with that. The best part is that I get 36 mpg in the city and close to 40 on the highway! Ive always loved Hondas for their durability and longevity and this car is no exception!

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  Terrific - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By mold - March 13 - 9:04 pm

  This car met my expectations for a mini- SUV perfectly. I also shopped the RAV4 preferred the CRV and have not regretted it. 20-21 mpg in town... 24- 26 mpg highway. No problems in 31+k miles. I have stuffed lumber and furniture into it but also know that it has size limitations and is not a truck.