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 best Honda ever! - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By joeydee75 - October 31 - 5:10 pm

  Ive owned five Hondas since 1983 and I have to say that my Mocha Metallic 2009 Pilot EX-L is quickly becoming my favorite one. Its car-like and quiet ride has surprised me; its roominess for 8 adults impresses everyone. Its a slam-dunk choice, especially for the goodies you get for the money.

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  great car! - 2000 Honda Civic
  By manso - October 31 - 9:30 am

  I have had it for a year and I have saved lots of money on gas. I have only had to do normal maintenance on it! I have peaked up to 46 miles a gallon, but stay around 39-44. (I dont pass 2500 rpms) It has treated me very well and hasnt hurt my pocket book too bad. I would recommend the standard only, it has saved me from a few tight spots that an automatic wouldnt. It has a weak engine, but it is easy to manipulate with a standard and handles well. Remember though, this is a compact so it isnt the smoothest ride nor the roomiest, but I dont mind it.

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  I just love it! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Kathleen - October 31 - 2:36 am

  I looked at the Mazda3, the Tc and the Civic. The quality of the Civic was what got me. It felt like a baby Lexus inside. I would rather have had amber illumination for the instrument panel and the drivers seat is too big for my 51" frame. The lumbar support is way too high and the head rest is too far forward but I love the manual pump lever to raise the seat and all of the nook and crannies are excellent! I wish for an outside temp, but the dash controls for the stereo and the air are beautiful. The ivory interior is stunning with the varying shades of ivory - very classy. The lines of the exterior are so fresh. Mighty peppy too. I wish I had farther to drive to work! Fun!!!!!!!!

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  Great car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Jmmel - October 30 - 8:40 pm

  What a great car and so different from the previous model. Its so quiet but still has that sporty feeling. I love it and wonder why I dont see more on the road.

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  Honda Hybrid - 2005 Honda Civic
  By ymshelanu - October 30 - 1:50 pm

  Doesnt quite get the mileage "promised," but even though I drive it every day, Ive only filled it five times since I bought it - almost four months ago!

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  Simply Amazing!! - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Canadabeef - October 29 - 11:48 pm

  Weve had this truck for over a year and it never ceases to amaze us. We do a lot of long-distance driving and with the Ridgeline, its a lot of fun - even with the cold winters in the north. We look forward to the snowstorms now! Were pushing our 50s so weve had a few vehicles in our past and this is the best yet!

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  Awesome Vehicle! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By NAVI - October 28 - 11:16 pm

  My last three vehicles were purchased brand new and this was my first Honda and definitely will not be my last! Wow, what a car! I have the 2.4l engine and find it has plenty of speed for me. The car handles great, is a blast to drive, and is getting the gas mileage as advertised. The interior is appealing and the exterior is total eye candy! I love my 08 Accord Coupe!

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  great car - 2006 Honda Civic
  By butternuts - October 28 - 9:26 pm

  I really like this car. I am getting 31 miles to the gallon, and it is really comfortable for a civic. The seats are quite nice. the styling rocks.

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  There is nothing better than this!!! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Omer - October 28 - 4:46 pm

  I have owned a BMW before I can attest to the fact having a reliable car is more important than having an fancier car. This car is a very simple car thus everything works as advertised. I have owned this car for almost 3-yrs now and I havent had a single mechanical problem. Also trade-in value of this car is about $11000 even though I only paid $14500 for it about 3-yrs ago. This is not a performance car but it is an everyday winner. You can easily own this car for 10-yr worry free with regular interval oil-change and stuff. Just remember Hondas specialty is engines and these things live forever. I just love Hondas.

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  so far so good - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By michelle - October 28 - 3:30 pm

  We traded in our 2002 explorer for this car. The Explorer fell apart LITERALLY so we decided the Pilot gives up all of the comfort of the Explorer with the reliability of a Honda. So far we love it. Very roomy and so much storage. The kids love it as well. Cup holders everywhere for them.