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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  Love ,love, love this car! - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Christina Small - December 26 - 7:29 pm

  When I was looking to purchase a new car I quickly came to the conclusion that I wanted a small to mid size SUV and narrowed my search down to the Lexus NX or the Honda CRV. I choose the Honda CRV and have been very happy, the CRV cost less then the Lexus but, has all the luxury features the Lexus has.

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  Former Astro owner - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By GurneeBuyer - December 26 - 6:23 pm

  I have driven 300,000 miles in my 2 Astro vans, without major problems. But I always felt that I wa driving a truck. The Odyssey gives a car-like firm, well controlled drive, has good sight lines, and is comfortable. But I am amazed at the wind noise; at highway speeds you need the radio on to drown it out.

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  Love my Accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By BCV - December 26 - 11:50 am

  I have the Accord Coupe EX-L with 4 cyl, all the bells and whistles. I have bought more than a few new cars over the years. This is the first vehicle that I have had that has not had ONE problem requiring dealership attention. Brought it in for its 15K check up and that has been it. The 4 cyl is very powerful, smooth, very economic and the 5 spd manual a breeze to shift. I love the exterior and interior styling, though I know some do not. Just wish they sold their European award winning diesel engine in Canada (in the Coupe of course).

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  Put the minivan away! - 2008 Honda Fit
  By tcanders - December 26 - 8:40 am

  We bought the Fit last fall as a commuter vehicle and have since used it almost exclusively. With gas >$4 we now leave our Sienna in the garage except for trips with more than 4 of us. The Fit just took our family of 4 (children 6 and 9) and all our gear on a 2 week 4300 mile trip west. It handled the mountains and 75 mph on the interstate just fine and 32 to 41 mpg to boot. The lower economy occurred at 75 mph into a strong head wind. This car drives bigger than it is, handles well, and the paddle shifters are fun when pushing the car on curvy roads. Im 62" and I was comfortable for all 4300 miles. Sure enjoyed the mp3s across the many miles of fields and cows...

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  2005 touring - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By R Busby - December 26 - 8:03 am

  We wondered what the hype was about and discovered that what is being called the "Mercedes of minivans" is an accurate description. Not since our Mercedes have we owned such a quality vehicle. Definately worth the investment.

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  8 month review - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Cargo2 - December 26 - 6:33 am

  Have owned this car for 8 months now with a 50/50 mix of city and highway driving. City/highway MPG averages about 31. No problems whatsover, this car continues to run well and look good. Still very happy I bought this car. This car offers the best all around package.

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  Excellent Value - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Brian - December 26 - 2:46 am

  I now have 15000 miles on car. Superb body structure and build quality. Paint quality amazing for production vehicle. Quiet, comfortable, reliable. Excellent fuel economy for its size: 29 mpg. avg. I drove Camry, Fusion, Aura...Sportier than Camry, Much better build quality and interior design than either Fusion or Aura. Reliabilty should be top notch: I have 220000 miles on 1991 Accord that I still own.

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  Love my pilot - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By sheri baptista - December 25 - 9:46 pm

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  Too soon to rate some ??? - 2017 Honda CR V
  By Janet - December 25 - 8:40 pm

  I have shopped around for almost a year. Bought a beautiful black on black touring all the bells and whistles. Miss one thing. CD PLAYER. some of us buyers,are old school. Love every single time I get behind the wheel. Look forward to many good years of service with many a trip to take in the future.

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  My first Honda....definitely NOT my last - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Steve Rodman - December 25 - 2:55 pm

  I never owned a Honda auto until last month. The car is everything and more than the great reviews from my friends who have a Honda. The auto press is absolutely correct in their rave reviews of this car.