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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  Very Satisfied - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By DrStick - November 25 - 1:36 pm

  Purchased the 2005 CRV SE after looking at most of the competition. Had a high mileage trade-in that delayed the sales process but we finally came to an acceptable agreement Went to the Seattle Auto Show and looked at all of the smaller SUVs like the CRV and nothing comes close to the quality at the price I paid. Did the soundproofing for $250 and really cant tell the difference but Im satisfied with the noise level. Not sure about the tire noise that I hear - this is my first SUV so I guess I expect some level of road noise.

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  In my element with the Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By ray - November 25 - 1:21 pm

  Recently retired and traded in a small pickup for an Element. Great vehicle! The plastic cladding on the exterior has protected me from a lot of rock hits. I have had it in a snow storm at Tahoe, camping at the coastal redwoods, hauling dogs and/or people and road tripping so this is a very adaptable auto. Added a trailer hitch for external bikes and a roof rack for a kayak. I will be keeping this Honda until Honda comes out with a diesel or hybrid 4 cylinder.

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  Coolest box ever!!! - 2006 Honda Element
  By Dagackster - November 25 - 11:28 am

  Never thought I would own one of these things, but when they became available with the body colored panels I just could not resist. Not only was I impressed with the look of the Element, but I was blown away by the amount of room in it. It is a great car to own if you have kids because not only can you wash the floors, but the back seats are far enough back that they cant kick the front seats. If you are skeptical about this car please go look at one at your local dealership and you will fall in love. My wife even fell in love with it after she cursed me out all the way to the dealership.

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  Love It - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Jim - November 25 - 10:36 am

  Our first honda and we really like the accord

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  16 years old and still runs near new - 1990 Honda Accord
  By Cruiser - November 25 - 8:15 am

  I purchased my 90 Accord on the advice of one of the dealers mechanics. Good move on my part! After 16 years, except for usual maintenance, all I have done is had the auto transmission rebuilt ($1200)and a radiator ($250). I still get 28-32 mpg. Some of the clear coat has come loose, but the paint gets a good rating from me too. Mine was made in Japan, not USA manufactured. I dont think it makes a difference. Overall rating 9! Would I buy again? Yes (but you do get what you pay for). If you plan on keeping what you buy, this is a good deal drive it til the wheels fall off. If you are going for flash and want to trade every few years, buy a Corvette.

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  Love my Element!! - 2003 Honda Element
  By Sarah - November 25 - 7:55 am

  I am 47 years old and have always seen cars as simply a way to get places. I have never actually "loved" a car before. I love my Element!! I love the outdoors and lugging my kayak around is never a problem for me now. The seats are so versatile: I moved my daughter to and from college 3 years running by removing the back seats and loading it up- and you know how much girls bring to college! It is easy to get my elderly parents (both are 81) in and out. It is fun to drive I have the 5 speed and love the location of the stick. I had one of the first ones in my area and was stopped on the street many times to tell people about my car. It is easy to clean as no carpets! I love my Element!!!

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  It Has It All - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Brian Hall - November 24 - 6:42 pm

  Great vehicle. Drives like a small truck, just like all other SUVs Ive driven. The 9-speed transmission is very smooth and responsive. The push-button gear shift takes a little getting used to. Wish there was more leg room in third row, but its better than most of its competitors. No problems with any of the tech in the car. Wife does conference calls for work while traveling and has nothing but praise. Kids love the heated captains chairs. Despite my frugal nature, this vehicle is worth every penny and will be enjoyed long after the payments are done.

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  Good little Honda - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By nonye - November 24 - 3:49 pm

  I love everything about my Honda-CRV with the exception of two minor things. I did not like when my antenna broke off, but it was probably broken off by someone. Not Hondas fault. I also grew less in love with the manual transmission by the day. Seven years later, Ill admit it, Im lazy and Ive shifted enough. No more sticks in my life. Of course, this isnt Hondas problem. This car is a GREAT winter car. Even in 10 inch snowfalls, I couldnt get stuck.

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  Great New SUV - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Steve - November 24 - 3:36 pm

  I have had this car a total of 1 day. I previously had a 1999 CRv and have owned 7 Honda/Acura cars/suvs. The build quality is greatly improved over the previous CRv, plenty of fun gadgets, heated leather seats, moonroof, ABS, Tire pressure monitor, mpg gauge, XM radio with MP3 player line in. Lots of Airbags (hopefully will not be used) Overall, Nice design and shape and the fit and finish, like all Hondas, is great.

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  Love this car! - 1999 Honda Civic
  By cbsayer - November 24 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car after owning an Acura and absoltely love it! Its been nothng but wonderful. It gets great gas mileage and has never given me a problem. I bring it in every 3000 miles for an oil change and take it once a year for a tune up. I would recommend to anyone who wants a reliable, fun to drive, and easy to maintain car!