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 Investment - 2005 Honda Civic
  By English Matt - March 16 - 9:24 pm

  Ive had my 2 dr VP Honda Civic for nearly two years. Its great fun to drive, has never had a mechanical problem, and still gives me great mileage even around the city. In addition, 5 years into my financing agreement and Im in a positive equity situation which should improve month-on-month over the next few years. A great investment, a great car.

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  AWESOME CAR - 2006 Honda Civic
  By drums98 - March 16 - 2:23 pm

  Had a deposit on it in Oct, finally came in late Jan 06. It looks great, inside and out, feels great, sounds great. I love driving it. Have made several long trips with out a problem. Drove to Key West and back from Pensacola, also up to Virginia and South Carolina where I live now. Great on the highway, great around town. Very fun on windy mountain roads ;) It is very quick, if need be, handles like a champ. I absolutly love this car!

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  What Subaru? - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Dennis Carlson - March 16 - 6:13 am

  I traded my 04 Subaru Forester XT for the Ridgeline. My wife asked me if I regretted that decision and I responded with "what Subaru?". The Ridgeline rides and handles like a sedan but has the utility of a AWD pickup. The interior is luxurious, spacious, and has numerous nooks and crannies for storage. After driving it for 5000 miles I couldnt imagine life without it.

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  Nice Entry - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Josh - March 15 - 10:01 pm

  Great truck for a first stab at a new market. This truck has amazed me far beyond my imagination. I have hauled everything from a bed load of concrete to my sons nursery full of furniture. It handled beautifully. By far the best mid size truck on the road. More room inside than nissan and toyota. Im still amazed at the payload capacity of the RL even without a solid rear axle. 11000 miles, two oil changes and not a single problem to report. I love all the cool features that you cant get with other trucks...Honda seems to think of everything.

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  good transport - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By openseat - March 15 - 9:15 pm

  its a good car for the commute. i wouldnt keep too many passengers in the back. the design is a nice change from other sedans and suvs.

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  Love my little red sport car - 2004 Honda S2000
  By claude from florida - March 15 - 8:12 pm

  Fell in love when I saw it in the showroom, love has not stopped, its an attention getter, performs like a regular car when you want and its like a bat coming out of hell when you want it to be one. Truly a great car. My seat where stolen once, desirable item I guess.

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  The good old days.... - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Gary - March 15 - 5:02 pm

  If you are looking for a driving experience like the muscle cars of days gone by...then look no further! The acceleration of the V6 will put a smile on your face when your head is pinned back against the headrest and suddenly its the 60s and 70"s again! Power band keeps pulling past 125mph and more if you have the courage to take it there! Of course you get all that Honda is famous for too, ride, handling, quiet, great sound system, comfort, safety and of course style! After all, if you are a Honda person ..... there are no substitutes! Honda folks know what I mean. Nice job Honda....2017 Accord V-6.... best rocket yet!!

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  1995 wonder car - 1995 Honda Odyssey
  By david knick - March 15 - 4:58 pm

  i have 209000+ on my honda that had 52 miles when i bought it // runs like a top// on hwy @60 mph i have gotten 31mpg with cruise and "light braking and gas pedal// i have taken out both rear seats// plenty of room for luggage and shopping// car has been hit twice once in drivers side/fellow said he did not see red light// crush rear door and part of drivers//head on hit on drivers side // air bags went off// lucky guy i am

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  Beauty - 1997 Honda Accord
  By dove21 - March 15 - 2:00 am

  This is the first Accord I have bought and I just love it. The look is so sleek and smooth. It handles very nice and I am so happy to be the second owner of it. The elderly couple only had 48900 kms on it when I bought it last April. Very stylish car!

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  Killer Tomato - 2003 Honda Element
  By CSB - March 15 - 2:00 am

  Only had our orange Element for a week, so not long enough for meaningful commentary on experience. So, far however we are pleased with performance. The ride is more typical of a truck in that you feel the bumps. But, its utility aspects are what sold us. Very useful vehicle at a reasonable price.