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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  My last car! - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By Ted Person - February 8 - 10:22 am

  Love it!

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  Great Car - Great Price! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By teaguerc - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I have had my CRV for 2 weeks now and I cant say enough good things about it! I went from being a mom in a mini van to having my identity back! This vehicle is built well. My husband suggested I look at the CRV and initially I didnt want to because it looked so small from the outside - but then I sat inside! My friends husband who is 61 even sat comfortably in the drivers seat and the rear seat, even sitting behind the driver with the seat all the way back! Fun to drive. Great vehicle.

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  15,000 Miles - 2004 Honda Civic
  By stadtlad - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Ive got 15k miles on this thing now and so far so good, not one glitch except for a slight rattle in the headliner at certain rpms. Other than that its performed flawlessly. I was a little skeptical about not changing the oil until ten thousand miles but it seems to be OK and hasnt burned any that I can tell.

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  4th Accord and best one yet - 2003 Honda Accord
  By paul1707 - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Owned several Accords, 97, 98, 00, now an 03. Loved the 00 the best until this car. It has plenty of leg room inside for me at 63", great performance, proven Honda reliability and build quality, excellent resale value. The 03 has more of a European feel in the handling and the seats. Owned this one for 13 months now and it is the best.

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  Best V6 Coupe For The Money - 2004 Honda Accord
  By In the business - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I have been in the Automobile Business for more than 18 years and have had the opportunity to drive just about everything out there. If youre a practical buyer and not so concerned with image, the V6 Honda Accord Coupe is the best buy for the money. Its powerful, luxurious, highly relaible and depending on how savvy a car buyer you are, it can be had for thousands less than its nearest competitor.

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  2nd Accord within 8 months - 2010 Honda Accord
  By CrtJones - February 8 - 7:16 am

  I purchased an 09 Accord in July of last year. I was unable to locate the one I wanted with navi at the time. I loved that Accord so much that I upgrade to a 2010 with Navi 8 months after buying my 09! The car is comfortable, handles like a dream, and is worth the money. Ive had no problems and have recommended the Accord (both 09 and 10) to many friends.

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  Great family vehicle - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By dkdriver - February 8 - 5:43 am

  We had an 03 Pilot 4wd with 50,000. Totally truouble free, but so many more features on the 06 with no extra cost! Especially like the new safety features, the voice navigation (with great voice calendar option) the sliding third row so taller kids can now be comfortable in back, etc... We are not yet getting comparable mileage - used to get 17.5, now at 16, but only have 1500 miles on it so far.

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  A Great Midsize SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Very Good SUV - February 7 - 8:26 am

  The Pilot is an awesome midsize SUV. Although built like a car, its very sturdy, solid feeling. Very refined. Strong engine power w/smooth transmission. Gas mileage is very good if you dont gun the throttle. With 5 people (some large sizes included) and some light gear, Ive managed to get 21.4 on a 360 mile round trip doing speeds up to 80 mpg. Very good for its size indeed. Quiet on the go. Super visibility and comfort to spare. Good handling with firm but comfortable ride. You should definitely check out the Pilot if in the market for midsize SUV. Glad this one is mine.

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  Best Minivan out there! - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By jenchap418 - February 6 - 9:50 pm

  We absolutely LOOOOVE this van. The ride is smooth, quiet, and enjoyable. The quality is amazing. This is our first Honda and we couldnt be happier with it. In the past we have owned Toyota vehicles and the quality doesnt even compare with a Honda. We were almost sick that we almost bought the Sienna before looking at this van. Now, our kids (2 & 3) tell everyone they need a van like Mommys.

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  Vehicle color and aesthetic? - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Sarai Kashani - February 6 - 3:20 pm

  Color of vehicle makes a big difference in this car in terms of aesthetic.