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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  Fits just right... - 2009 Honda Fit
  By motogenius46 - October 30 - 6:03 pm

  I had an 89 and a 97 Honda Accord before this so Im a bit of a die-hard Honda automobile fan. Ive been eying the Fit even before the new model change and I am glad I decided to get it. Its no hybrid, but I still enjoy the mpg I get from it - and its cheaper. Its fun to drive, the Magic Seats are functional/practical, not only is the car bigger than it looks, all the windows make it feel even more spacious. Its got a great engine and the car runs great. Anyone complaining about comfort or performance needs to be reminded that this is not a sports/luxury car... its a compact car that is great on fuel economy, looks good, fun to drive, and reliable - its a Honda. Drive it and see...

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  Love my Green Toaster - 2008 Honda Element
  By Rob - October 30 - 5:12 pm

  I was looking for an all around vehicle for hauling stuff, commuting, and occasional 4wd needed when camping, but didn’t want a truck and this car fits perfect. Always loved the ‘funky’ looking unique design on the outside, but was surprised how big this small SUV is on the inside. More headroom and driver space than my wife’s Suburban. Great for moving furniture, trips to Home Depot, Costco, etc. Consistently get about 22 mpg (not bad for an AWD box), although I drive fairly conservative lately due to gas prices. Thought the rear moon roof was weird at first, but nice to see out of when using seats as a bed. AWD makes this a real blast to drive on dirt roads! 6 months and very pleased.

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  Noisy Accord - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Jim - October 30 - 4:24 pm

  I had a 93 Accord and loved it. Then I bought this 2007 top of the line EXL- V6 and am not really happy with it. First, the rattling/vibrating when car is cold. Wind noise is lower than my 93 Accord but still could be improved. Then the disappointing fuel economy - 25 mpg. Then the interior. The dash board seems to have 20 pieces put together and each has a different shade of black/grey. The center console door (below the radio) broke and wont push-lock anymore.

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  Guys, buy one before you get married. - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Mako1969 - October 30 - 3:05 pm

  This two-seat roadster fits like a glove, and it makes a mere trip to the grocery store exciting. Recaro seats hold passengers in firm comfort, and the dash board mounted controls are all a finger touch away from the racing inspired steering wheel. Performance suspension/steering and 17" low profile tires provide plenty of feedback from the road, and it corners like its on rails. Acceleration and braking are superb. Gas mileage is fantastic for a performance car and it of course is built with the legendary Honda reliability. Overall, the blend of styling, performance, and fuel efficiency cannot be beat for the money. Like the title says, guys, buy one BEFORE you get married!

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  Best All Around Car !!! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Jose - October 30 - 2:26 pm

  Best Vehicle every made in space & gas saver. Best all around family and sporty car..... All around best dealer customer service on the vehicle.

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  Happy owner - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By alex - October 30 - 1:16 pm

  I recently traded an 06 Pilot for the 08 Odyssey EX-L, and I am very happy with my choice. The Pilot is probably one of the best mid-size SUV around, but with a growing family I wanted the versatility of a mini-van. I did a lot of research and I found that the Odyssey was the best bet for reliability. I find it to be very comfortable too, and the exterior styling beats the Sienna any day of the week.

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  Lack of Oxygen - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Nickel99 - October 30 - 11:03 am

  Purchased the car new and currently have 53,250 miles. I have enjoyed the car and it has performed up to Honda quality and reliability standards except for this recent experience. Both of the oxygen sensors failed at the same time and had to be replaced at 53,000 miles.

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  Good but ... - 2006 Honda Element
  By Rob - October 30 - 4:16 am

  Good car but not Honda quality nor design. Cheap plastics are easy to scratch. Car does best on smooth surfaces.

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  Solid 4 cylinder engine - 2005 Honda Accord
  By SayWhat - October 30 - 12:13 am

  Honda Accord is by far the best midsize sedan, even better than Volvo s60. Stepped down to regular 4 cyl for better mileage and no regrets.

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  Almost in Love - 2009 Honda Accord
  By dps130 - October 29 - 10:10 pm

  After many test drives, Avalon, Camry, Altima Coupe, Jetta - I traded in my Maxima and purchased the Accord Coupe V6. My second Accord in 4 years and I must admit the styling is a knockout. The black on black is a beautiful combo. Handling, comfort, dash layout, ergonomics - top of the line. If you took off the badges Im sure people would not know what it is - this isnt your folks Accord. Only complaint is the variable cylinder concept. When cruising the car feels like it is skipping, missing, sputtering. When you give it some gas the puppy jumps. I love it but would have preferred a manual. I do miss the Bose sound system in the Maxima. Overall a great car at a great price!!