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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  Used S2000 - 2002 Honda S2000
  By PoiNtBlaNk - October 19 - 8:50 pm

  From the first day I purchased my 2002 Honda S2000, its been nothing but pure joy. I bought it certified preowned with 16,000 miles on it in Nov 05. The S2000 is definitely not a watered down sports car. When people ask what size the motor is, I reply that its a 2.0L inline four. At that point in time, a certain look on their face says "ehh...its probably slow then." Boy, if they only knew. I give them a ride, and a few trips into Vtec and theyre hooked. Not to mention this is in a straight line, Id probably make them waste their lunch on a windy road. The S2000 isnt the most comfy car in the world, but its one of the funnest. True sports cars should be nothing less than fun

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  Love my new CR-V Touring AWD - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Amy Atkins - October 19 - 4:17 pm

  I am totally in love with my new CR-V. The safety features on the Touring model are amazing! I was on the fence about trading my Toyota Highlander, but am so glad I did! This SUV is just awesome!

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  I LOVE THIS CAR! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Aimee Riley Mcffee - October 18 - 9:40 pm

  The 2004 Honda Civic EX couple has been my stalwart baby car, the first I ever purchased on my own. Shes dependable, very economical and never had a problem with her. I have maintained her exactly according to the recommendations in the owners manual and she performs like a champ day after day. Whether in the city or on a road trip, shes a dream. I highly recommend this car. The only reason I even consider moving on (to another Honda, of course) is because its a two-door coupe and my family is expanding. This car is a single person car and super fun to drive!

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  Awesome Truck!! - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Steve3589 - October 18 - 7:15 pm

  I have had all of the big 3 and they just dont compare to this truck! Love the ride and handling of this truck! Has great power too! Bought mine in May for $21,600, awesome deal!

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  Great Buy - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Wolfgang - October 18 - 3:40 pm

  This was a pleasant surprise! The estimated MPG were 40 town and 43 hwy. I filled up after 1 week of driving and overall MPG was 49.7. The Dashboard instruments are easy to read and use. It handles the road better then the Prius and is better looking as well. What sold me was the cargo space was more then ample especially with the back seats folded forward. Give this car a solid 10.

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  This car is a TEN - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By lpritchett - October 18 - 3:16 pm

  The Honda Crosstour had ALL the features that both my husband and I were looking for. We purchase cars for longevity and truly shopped and test drove a quite a few models. Absolutely love this car! I have never received as many compliments on a car as this one and have noticed other people "checking it out" when driving on the highway or when its parked in a parking lot. I tell everyone its like riding in a Rolls Royce!

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  Excellent Car!! I would buy another one! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Shakira - October 18 - 12:03 pm

  Ive had the car for over 2 years and absolutely love it, only had one problem with the oxygen sensors.

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  Good Vehicle. - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Hugh Rye - October 18 - 10:24 am

  This vehicle drives and rides like a mid-size sedan. Turning radius is more than anticipated for a vehicle this size. Its brakes are superb however, I dont use it for towing. Acceleration is acceptable and drive train is smooth. Was dissapointed with gas mileage. Could be a few mpg better. Middle arm rest needs to be re- designed to allow it to come farther forward for greater comfort and to make the internal compartments more accessible. Usual Honda reliability so far. We have three Hondas.

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  Best honda dealership ever - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By abcab - October 18 - 2:00 am

  Great vehicle from an excellent dealership

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  Solid as Usual - 2002 Honda Civic
  By TomDalldorf - October 18 - 2:00 am

  The 2002 Ex replaces my 96 Accord LX which I racked up 120,000 miles on in 5 years. It is just a comfortable with better fuel milage. The engine revs high, but for the price it can not be beat. I am very happy with it. It is by far the best bang for the buck out there! You can get more, but you must pay a lot more.