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 Minivan - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By RV - February 16 - 10:58 am

  This is my first Honda experience. A very reliable well built car. Has many features but always wondered why they couldnt have a back-up sensor (versus a camera) or a windshield wiper fluid sensor, common features on American made vehicles. One of the few minivans still in production. My biggest complaint in the navigation system, which was outdated the minute I drove it off the floor. The system also tells you that you have arrived at your destination when you are still at least a block away. You cant get the back up camera without buying the navigation system. I carry a plug in portable system for navigation.

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  Sport Honda - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Brian Lew - February 16 - 10:01 am

  Outside of vehicle is very sporty had great lines. Dont be so excited about the interior /design if vehicle

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  Best buy for the $$$ - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Tracy K. - February 16 - 10:00 am

  This suv is wonderful! I cant say enough good comments about it. The more I drive it the more I love it. I didnt want a mini-van (mom mobile) or a full size suv(gas guzzler) but I needed something that was comfortable with enough room for 3 children. My oldest son is 62 and has plenty of leg room in the back seat. I did plenty of research before purchasing but the more I compared other suvs that were similiar in price and size the more I kept coming back to the crv. It drives like a dream and has a lot of gusto for a 4 cylinder. I would highly recommend this vehicle to everyone!

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  Excellent car to buy - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Herb McNaspy - February 16 - 10:00 am

  We went from a 91 Maxima - about same horsepower and weight. Maxima will blow the Honda away but is V6 vs. 4 cyl. Honda rides a little rougher but it handles better especially in corders. Love the leather but seat belts seem to chew up the trim when you retract or extend them. Awkward to reach between headrest and door post. Front doors do not seem to stay open at a reasonable position. Either too narrow or too wide. Comfotable and roomy. At first power seemed a little weak but it came alive at about 3,000 miles-not that we drive like they do on TV. I would buy another one.

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  From a 3 series to a rich burner... - 2008 Honda Accord
  By ken90004 - February 16 - 6:20 am

  An Accord isn’t anywhere close to 3 series on many facets, namely performance, but sadly to say, in others, it surpasses. The 4 cylinder lacks performance and handling and the gas saving is only minimal. Option for the V6 if it is an option for you. I drive 140 miles daily, and found the comfort the best feature. The controls are logic and easy to use. I did notice the traction control is something lacking at times. What you are getting, most of all, is Honda’s reliable. Something BMW still struggles with.

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  Tippy Truck - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By ADM - February 16 - 5:56 am

  We bought this vehicle mostly because we disliked it the least. Coming out of driving only cars, I am appalled at how poorly this thing handles. Steering response is so slow mushy that I feel like I am sending signals to the engine room ("hard aport!") whenever I make a steering adjustment. Also, I was very surprised that the 6disk CD changer does not play mp3 encoded disks. On the plus side, the build quality is excellent, the engine is quite and responsive and the seating arrangement is very versatile

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  2016 honda crv - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By lori goyette - February 16 - 5:51 am

  Bought it for 5 star safety rating and trunk space. Both are great. No problem fitting infant car seat with base behind 6 foot driver.

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  Beauty To Drive - 2008 Honda Accord
  By BZ - February 16 - 5:33 am

  I walked into the Honda dealership to buy the V6 model of the Accord. I saw the 4 cylinder and took a test drive, a really nice drive although could be a little quiter. I picked up one right from the showroom floor, this was a beauty I could not pass up. Definitely fun to drive.

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  Love it - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Laura - February 15 - 8:23 pm

  This is my 5th Odyssey and we love it. The lease is up next month and I have been searching for something to replace it as we no longer need a vehicle this large. I have test driven so many cross overs and mid size cars that they are becoming a blur. Nothing Ive driven meets my expectations after my experiences with my Odysseys. I am seriously considering getting another one even though I wanted to down size a little, because they have been comfortable, reliable and great in the snow and ice.

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  Satisfied so far - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By Happy Van Owner - February 15 - 7:38 pm

  I admit, no one buys a minivan for driving excitement, but Honda does a good job of making a vehicle whose main purpose is functionality seem fun to drive. It does everything we ask of it, and actually remains reasonably fun to drive. Mileage is pretty good, and park assist is a great help. Were really happy with it after 4 months of driving.