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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  Civic Hybrid - Awesome MPG! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Brien - April 23 - 5:06 pm

  I bought my Civic Hybrid about two months ago and have put over 5000 miles on it already. I live out in the country and do a lot of highway miles but also work in the city. For my last 150 miles (which was almost all highway) I got ~57 mpg. Over all for the ~5200 miles Ive driven, Im getting 48 mpg! Ive had no issues at all and the Civic has enough pep for getting on the highway, or climbing hills. The mileage started (during the first few weeks) around 43-44 mpg, but has continued to improve. As a driver with a hybrid, you can become more concerned with mpg than mph. Ive learned to drive slower to enhance my gas mileage.

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  V6 06 6spd - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Dave215 - April 22 - 1:53 pm

  After testing a few cars in its class I decided to buy this one due to the price and general feel of the car. It doesnt have as many of the frills as others (Maxima, TL, even 07 Camry SE) and doesnt have as much HP and torque, but was a nice ride. Theres enough power and the style is conservative but sleek. Probably the only gripe I have is that the clutch is a little funny. I thought it was just my lack of skills with a stick but after letting a few of my buddies drive it and after driving a few other cars, I realized that its the cars problem. I read a few forums and other people stated the same problem. 1st and 2nd gear is a bit picky about the way you shift and release the clutch.

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  02 5 speed - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Altoon - April 22 - 7:43 am

  So far I like nearly everything about this vehicle. My only complaint is that I could use a little more leg room.

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  Excellent Buy - 2005 Honda Element
  By Keith Cochrane - April 21 - 11:33 pm

  Must admit took me a little bit to get used to the shape of the Element when I first looked at it at the dealership, but when I took it for a test drive I fell in love with it. The element is the most practical, well though out vehicle that I have ever purchaced. I definitely recommend this vehicle for any age or lifestyle!

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  Its perfect for me - 2003 Honda Element
  By dcoopster - April 21 - 10:00 am

  Since I go to the beach or car/camping nearly every weekend it is perfect. If you remove or lift the backseats you have a flat surface to sleep on and its long enough with the seats pushed forward for someone well over 6 feet to lay down no problem. Its so easy to clean out sand, dirt and dog hair. This was the vehicle I was waiting for. Also the 4wd is great in rain.

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  Great SUV except in the curves - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By LarryL - April 21 - 10:00 am

  Honda got it right with this one! The vehicle ives up to the rave reviews that it has been getting, with excellent Honda quality throughout. Just a reminder, this is a SUV and not a car; you need to slow down on the highway exit ramps!

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  CRV EX hasnt let us down - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Markus Maximus - April 21 - 10:00 am

  Put 500 miles on it in the first 3 days. We cant wipe the smile off our faces...

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  Honda Supreme - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Carole Tillett - April 21 - 12:40 am

  Ive driven mini vans for a very long time and my Honda is by far the best looking,handeling, and safest then any of the others. Its comfort is beyond reproach too. I will never buy any other brand. All others would be a downward step. As you can tell I am completely sold on Honda products. Non other compare.

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  Best truck ever. - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Tom - April 20 - 11:16 pm

  Traded in the Tacoma and I couldnt be happier. The Ridgeline is better in every way. More interior room, wider bed, more power-better for towing, less interior noise and the ride is soooo much smoother...oh yeah, theres a trunk! I tend to get a new vehicle every other year and this is by far my favorite of any car or truck I have ever owned.

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  Awesome car! - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By tommy - April 20 - 10:29 pm

  I love this car! It looks good, good gas mileage, quiet and being a honda I know it is reliable! It has side impact bars and front and rear crumple zones, which makes it pretty safe for me and my 2 year old! I would recommend to any small family!