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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  Better than I had hoped for... - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Matt - February 3 - 8:23 pm

  I am in the military and I use this little car for every bit of versatility you could imagine. I can easily haul 4 (yes 4) 200lb co-workers around with me and have no noticable drag on the engine. It is an energetic car that that reminds you it can be fun to just go for a drive. I have used 2 tanks of fuel with a real world combined Hwy/city driving mileage of 35mpg. The stereo sound superb; deep roomy glove compartment; every control easily reached from the drivers sitting position; friends compliment of how much leg room is in the back seats and one of my taller friends even was amazed to get in the back seat and have plenty of head and leg room. More than the front seat of his car :-)

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  Daves New Honda - 2016 Honda Accord
  By David Weiland - February 3 - 3:52 pm

  I have been leasing Honda cars for over 15 years. By far this the BEST Honda Accord. I cannot think of anything negative to say. Once you test drive it, you will drive it home for sure. Thanks Honda for a great car.

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  Perfect for a 1st time driver - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Smart Wins - February 3 - 12:24 pm

  I bought this car approx. 3 months after I got my license almost 3 1/2 years ago, and I was smitten when I got behind the wheel. If your a 1st time driver, or a person who just wants a car to drive, and isnt concerned with "fun" driving this car is 100% perfect for you. But for myself, now I want more power, and huge fun factor when Im driving, so off to the 08 G35x

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  Smooth roomy ride - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Lorraine Wilson - February 2 - 7:01 pm

  I read the reviews before buying. Seems like the main negative comment was acceleration. I dont have any issues with that. I love the heated seats. Its comfy, great on gas and looks nice. My negative comment is not enough storage compartments in the front.

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  Powerful and comfy - 2010 Honda Accord
  By Dave - February 2 - 12:26 pm

  I have 2000 miles now, and loving it. The V6 gives effortless acceleration, and very silky smooth sounding. The ride is very comfortable and bumps are well suppressed. However, the road noise is pronounced, but still not bad. The Accord handles better than the Camry. The Coupe styling is much better than the sedans.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By dmoore - February 2 - 10:00 am

  The Honda Pilot is really a gem. We just took our family to North Carolina from Ohio and it was truly a comfortable ride. We traded in our Chrysler MiniVan for this and have no regrets. With two out of three kids in a child restraint seat, the second row still has plenty of room for an adult. The only thing I can say negetive about it is that the third row is quite compact and unless you are a small adult (like 52 and under, you would not be too comfortable. Otherwise, its a great choice for a family and anytone who likes to travel.

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  Perfect and Practical Car - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By R-Z-G88 - February 2 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car not so long ago, however I am convinced that I wont buy anohter car for a long time to come. The interior is very spacious and also extreemly useful - there are 22 storage compartments. Since it is a Honda it is definetly reliable and durable. The performance is nothing compared to a sports car, but suits the car perfectly. The fuel economy is very reasonable - 23 mpg. It is a very well built and fun to drive car.

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  2003 Honda CR-V - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By hawaiiguy - February 2 - 10:00 am

  Love it--though have had it just a few months. Only gripe is back window when reversing--difficult to gauge when/if contact will be made when doing parallel parking. Have ordered the backup reverse mirror from hondasuv.com

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  Bad - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Not another Honda - February 2 - 10:00 am

  Bought the car new. Has been in the shop 16 times going on my 17th. I have never had a car with so many problems. This will be my last Honda. Trying to get Honda to buy it back b/4 going to BBB.

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  Amazed!!!!!! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Der2455 - February 2 - 10:00 am

  I had looked into many other cars in this category, and the Civic EX was by far the most impressive, after learning about the almost non-existant depreciation rate, it seemed like a no brain-er. Love the new dash!