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 the 2007 Civic Hybrid - 2007 Honda Civic
  By hybridlady - November 11 - 9:56 am

  I bought my my civic hybrid after reading all the reviews. The gas mileage is lower than the sticker mpg, about 43 mpg, but still a lot better than my last car. It is definitely not for people who like speed. Itll get there, just in its own time... I test drove a 2006 with the spongy breaks and crazy abs. Honda must have read the reviews too, because theyve fixed the breaks for 2007. A great little car, excellent visibility (which seems to be a problem in most new cars!). Im 52" and am comfortable, my husband is 62" and comfortable.

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  First Time Honda Owner - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By nogaqrpham - November 11 - 7:03 am

  This is a relatively new car, as I have had it for only 3 weeks. I bought it based on the Honda name and the features. So far, the car has exceeded my expectations. I have always driven larger and heavier cars and was concerned about the comfort and ride. So far, I am very pleased with the ride and the comfort is excellent. The biggest surprise is the excellent acceleration, even in fast traffic. The 5 speed automatic works great! All of my previous cars have been mini- vans, and I also was worried about the smaller cargo area. While I have not needed to haul any 4 by 8 plywood sheets yet, I have plenty of room for most of my needs. The value is great!

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  Great car! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By George - November 11 - 12:53 am

  I bought this EX Si 2007 a few days ago. And is not too soon to say that the car is really great! Feels very strong, stable on highway. A little bit noisy on road. Suspension is a little hard but, its a civic, thats OK. The space inside is impressive and the design in and out also. I also have a 2003 Accord (6 cyl) and I dont think I will keep it after try the civic. I just love it!

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  Family Tested for two years - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By daveeman - November 10 - 8:52 pm

  I raised my two babies in a Caddy DeVille. At ages 5 and 8 it was time to trade into a minivan. Uggg! After months of research, Honda kept coming up on top. My mom has a 2002 with 155k miles and still drives like new. So, decision made. It is no where near as comfy as the Caddy. But I cannot compare it to a Caddy because, well, that wouldnt be fair. The van drives tight. It has good acceleration when asked. The interior has so far been kid-proof. The automatic side doors are a must for kids. No worries of them flinging a door open into other cars when parked. I put almost 20k miles per year on it. It is doing well and I hope to run it for many more years, and still profit

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  What a Bummer! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Michelle - November 10 - 4:40 am

  I have owned Accords for 12 years, and I was SOOOO excited about the 2008. Only a few months later, I had issues with dash noises (still not fixed after four tries), and at 20,000 miles, the rear brake pads needed to be replaced. According to the service department, this will continue indefinitely (at 300.00 dollars a pop, it isnt a cheap prospect). We also had transmission issues that the dealer "couldnt duplicate". It was choppy and noisy. We recently sold the car for a Ford Fusion. We wanted to ditch it before it isnt worth anything at all. Honda refused to fix the problem with the brakes, couldnt hear tranny probs and after 4 tries stopped dash rattle with fuzzy black tape.

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  Four years and going strong! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By tdr_honda - November 9 - 5:12 pm

  I purchased this 2004 Pilot EXL-RES new in October 2004. It now has 70K miles and still runs and looks great. I never keep a vehicle for more than 2 years, but this one is a keeper! I have had no problems with it and it runs as good today as it did when I bought it. I keep it well maintained and clean, and in return it just runs and runs. I am probably going to trade my other car, a Suburban, in for the 2009 Pilot. I would highly recommend this vehicle - I have owned many, many Hondas and this one has been the best.

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  Best Car I Ever Had! - 1993 Honda Accord
  By Best Car I Ever Had - November 9 - 2:23 pm

  Ive had Volkswagens and Studebakers, but out of all of those cars, this is the best car I have owned. My husband bought it a week before my son was born. Now after 11 years of ownership, it still runs strong. The seats are comfortable and durable, my son loves the back armrest a lot. I love the space in the back (its a station wagon). It has never left me stranded on the freeway. Ive driven state to state in the car and when the gas reserve light comes on, it gives me a lot of time to go tank up. But now, the paint is fading (its dark red), its getting worn out and its time to go.

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  Highly Reccomended - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By Curly - November 9 - 12:17 pm

  In 20 yrs owned 3 GM full sized trucks then Suburban. Needed to go back to PU. Tired of American quality vehicles and associated repair bills. Finally went Honda. Ridgeline has been in shop for scheduled maint only. 55,000 miles and everything still works. Drives like a car - golf clubs fit in rear trunk. Whats not to like? Reminds me of a bulldog, ugly to look at - and I love it unconditionally.

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  Ricer for life - 1999 Honda Civic
  By SiR boy - November 9 - 10:00 am

  My first car. Honda quality and reliability with a plethora of aftermarket parts. Drives easy and has the right amenities. Worth every penny and can move with a touch of the gas. Slap on a b20 block and youre pushing 200hp

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  best suv in it class - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By mikemoco - November 9 - 10:00 am

  nice god power and low in gas 86 or up