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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  Great little car - 2007 Honda Civic
  By aih312 - April 20 - 7:53 pm

  We bought this car as a second car. Its excellent and gas and drive.The only problem is the tires. They are below average. Spend some extra cash on a pair of better tires like michelin or toyo..trust me it makes the ride so Much better and quiet to..

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  I Love My Car - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Betcha - April 20 - 11:53 am

  I just bought my First Honda last month! Let me just say after a little Saturn this ride is awesome! The care that the dealership took in helping me find my perfect car made the whole thing worth it. I love driving a manual car and even though it is only a 4 cyl it has plenty of power to get up and over the flint hills in KS. My daughter is looking forward to me handing this car down to her when she is ready to drive in 3 years. I love the color of Moroccan red. Fun and sporty car for an older mom of two girls that doesnt want to grow up!

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  Just bought it - 2009 Honda Civic
  By Rob M - April 20 - 2:26 am

  Just bought this car yesterday. Very impressed with this car. This is my 4th Honda product and I cant say anything bad. I bought this as a second car. My other car is a 2002 Acura TL-Type S. The Civic obviously isnt as plush, but is fun to drive.

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  Sensible - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By effica - April 20 - 1:06 am

  Just a perfect blend of everything - looks, power, efficiency, reliability! Just right! Everything is sensible.

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  Great car - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Ian - April 19 - 6:16 pm

  Love this car. Tons of room inside. I can easily fit in it front or back and I am 64". I can put my bike in with the back seats down, and I dont even have to remove the front tire. Moved my whole office in one trip too. Super easy to park, and am getting lots of admirers.

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  No complaints - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By dinosaur - April 19 - 5:34 pm

  Traded up from a CRV and love the Pilot - to sum it up, great value with no weak points.

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  Just What We Expected - 2007 Honda Element
  By Dave Carroll - April 19 - 3:51 pm

  The day we bought our car we bought a puppy. This is a perfect puppy car. The back door in halves allows us to reach in and giver her a treat wthout the big door hassle. We run around here with the dog or go to Colorado with the dog. It is just right. I have had 14 Lexus cars and SUVs. Why spend the dough? This works and runs like a clock but at half price. Im a fairly tall guy and when it is cold I opt for a hat. This baby has room for me with room to spare. I like the wash down interior. My EX has the higher quality seat covers front and back. Tough durable stuff. I just came from the lumber yard. Didnt even have to pull my trailer. It is a PRACTICAL fun vehicle.

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  What a CAR!!!! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Jason - April 19 - 4:03 am

  This is the best car I ever bought. Everything about this ride rocks. There is so much space inside. Everyone should buy one. The interior is incredible. The outside is stylish. The gas mileage is incredible. Whats not to like. Well, I guess the 109 hp engine is the only down side... but, that equals the rocking gas mileage. Buy one... you wont regret it.

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  Nice improvements over 16 model - 2018 Honda Odyssey
  By David - April 19 - 2:45 am

  Lots of new tech features over previous model. The darn thing drives itself if there are road center and shoulder lines. Very nice. Ride seems to also be quieter than the 16 model, larger wheels probably help as well. Good value, especially with all the new gadgets. Priced about the same as previous model with many additional features.

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  Love my Odessey! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By doragirls - April 18 - 1:24 pm

  It drives great and love all the space it allows! Like most touring buyers the tires are not our favorite thing about the van. But if one does their research they know that the tires are not cheap....$250 a tire. But it does run flat and with kids that could be worth the trouble! Tire company could make up and help with the cost so that we as consumers will not feel cheated! Love my van and love Honda for making a great Mini!