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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  Rock solid, smart choice - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By blautens - May 2 - 2:00 am

  Its not the fastest, its not the biggest, its not the best handling. But it has the best combination of those categories in the small SUV segment (at the moment). Resale value and reliability are about the highest you can get in its class. It feels like the solid, quality, well designed and assembled car that it is. Great steering calibration. Super useful interior with easy rear seat folding.

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  Our First Honda - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By SJC Sr. - May 1 - 4:26 pm

  Have driven it for two months now. Love it. Feels like a larger vehicle and the handling is great. Has taken some time to adjust to the 4cyl, but is enough power for us. Getting 21 mpg doing real short trips and 26 mpg on longer runs.

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  1st Time Mini-Van Owner - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By April - May 1 - 12:42 pm

  I absolutely love the ease of use on the Odyssey. The electronic doors opening for my kids, the lazy susan for storage. The DVD rear entertainment system is a must for kids. There is lots of room for storage and the drive is very smooth.

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  Comfortable and reliable - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Kim Bell - May 1 - 12:29 pm

  Great reliable vehicle.

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  Just Purchased - Sand Color - 2017 Honda CR V
  By Lawrence Storey - May 1 - 11:47 am

  Exterior color is new and excellent!

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  Very reliable car - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Dave - May 1 - 8:15 am

  Bought with 70K miles now has nearly 260K miles,and still has original engine and 5-speed manual clutch. Even at this age, doesnt burn any detectable oil between oil/filter changes every 3K. 33 mpg reliably on hwy. Can drive for 14 hours, and get out of the car feeling fairly fresh, good lighting for night driving, very reliable, paint has held up very well, solid brakes. Accelerate to at least 5K RPM before downshifting and you drop to 3K RPM, still inside the power curve where things happen quickly even for a 4cyl. Greatly appreciate the reliability, low maintenance, comfort, power aspects of this car.

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  Update after 3 years of owndership - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Kevin Tate - May 1 - 1:23 am

  I have now owned the vehicle for three years and continue to be impressed. It now has 78K miles and has yet to have any major problems. I drive a combination of city and highway and still get about 22 MPG. The only two issues Ive had pertain to the stereo and ABS brake light. At around 40K miles, the stereo and A/C backlight went out. The local dealer said Id need an entirely new stereo unit ($900+) and acted as though it was a common failure. After a polite email to Honda Corp, I got a new stereo for free. The other problem I continue to have is the ABS brake light. Occasionally, it will come on, unless Im at the dealership.

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  2007 Ridgeline - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By Bill - April 30 - 10:56 pm

  This is my 3rd Honda, and wont be my last. The Ridgeline is typical Honda for creature comfort and practicality. Those that need the hauling/towing capability of a full size truck need not apply, but for those of us that only occassionally need the usefullness of a truck are quite happy with the Ridgeline. I didnt buy this vehicle to do heavy towing or off-roading, but to do the everyday things like going to/from work, running to Home Depot, picking up some groceries, carting the kids to practice, etc. It is very comfortable for me at 64". The exterior appearance is a bit unusual, but nothings perfect. Dependability? Theres a reason Honda doesnt offer roadside assistance!

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  Why do they do that - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Pinhi - April 30 - 11:57 am

  I had been planning on a 2007 CR-V but decided that I should drive a couple others before making a decision. I drove the Pilot and loved the ride and power. I knew then that I was kidding myself into thinking I would be OK with the CR-V acceleration. I picked out an LX. I didnt have much need for the extras that came with the EX. I prefer the cloth interior and it doesnt bother me to insert another cd when I am done listening to one. I am actually more of a talk radio type. I do miss the automatic light shutoff. I have to wonder why Honda would have that feature on the LX Accord and not on the LX Pilot. Exiting the back seat seems clumsy.

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  Love my First Honda - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By NorseViking - April 30 - 9:56 am

  I bought 2007 CR-V LX after driving a Ford Explorer 2-door sport for 10 years. What an improvement! The Explorer handled and rode like a pick- up truck. Parking wasnt very fun with wide-turning radius. The CR-V is smooth, zippy, and easy to park. Its also easier to view out the back window than my Explorer. Gas mileage is better by 10 mpg.