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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  Impeccable Machine - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Gabriel - August 21 - 6:50 am

  This is the first car that Ive bought that I have been so impressed by. When I drive it, I truely feel as if I am one with the road and the car responds to my every move.

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  Fun car for a family sedan - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Mark - August 21 - 12:43 am

  We replaced our 95 Camry with this Honda, and no regrets!! Whereas it is roomy inside, you dont feel that you are on a boat. This can not be said of the 2006 Camry. No problems whatsoever in the 5 months we drove it.

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  Great car! Perfect for my long commute! - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Jonathan - August 20 - 9:12 pm

  I purchased this vehicle off a lease. I have driven it two thousand miles since purchasing it and it has been great. I love this car. Despite gas being $3.30 a full tank only costs me 32 dollars and lasts over 300 miles.

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  2009 LX-S Manual - 2009 Honda Civic
  By craig stambaugh - August 20 - 7:36 pm

  I test drove just about every competitor with the idea I did not want a Civic. After 5 weeks and numerous test drives there was only one choice; the Civic. Handling, MPG, styling and the track record of the Civics reliability won out. The only car that came close was the Mazda 3. The LX-S comes standard with 16" alloy wheels, small spoiler and "SI like" seats. The fit and finish are excellent. I got 34.1 mpg on my first tank (2/3 highway). The car handles like a dream and the manual trans is typical Honda, smooth as silk. My Civic replaces my sporty 1994 Ford Probe (Mazda mechanicals) after 201,000 miles. Trust me, all things considered, the Civic is the best car in its class.

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  Love at first sight - 2009 Honda Fit
  By goodheart - August 20 - 4:20 pm

  I saw this "sensational blue" FIT in the show room while I was waiting on my Preludes front light to be replaced. It does have two personalities; very cute outside and so much room inside. Drives like a butter and hugs the curve like a cat. Oh by thy way, the views from inside are magnificent- nothing will be on your way.

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  Honda Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By wamlam - August 20 - 9:57 am

  I enjoy driving this van, it is easy to handle and I DO NOT worry about my young children opening the door while we are riding down the road. The ride is smooth and bumps are unheard of in this van.

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  Noisy speakers - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Carla - August 20 - 7:47 am

  We absolutely love this car. Very comfortable ride, kids love the DVD entertainment system. The 60/40 seat fold is wonderful. Not too much space left if the third seat is up. Overall, its great!

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  Sweet Ride!!! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By DSL - August 20 - 6:26 am

  So far so Great! You wont find a smoother V6\6spd combo. Trust me! Why spend thousands more for other "luxury" brands? Honda has smashed the competition with this car. Plenty of speed, creature comforts, and most of all refined like none other.

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  Driving in HD! - 2003 Honda Element
  By Nicole - August 19 - 8:49 pm

  When I first took a test drive I immediatly fell in love. I was always afraid of driving suvs. I always drove compact vehicles but was tired of asking people to help me get and move stuff. Now with 2 large dogs, I had to bite the bullet and nothing seemed realistic to me, and I always thought the element looked cool. Umm, the turning radius on this is sick. No need to do a 3 point turn, just turn! It is like driving in high def, I feel like its a movie. Such a great car, no need to speed because you enjoy driving so much, and usually I hate being the one to drive but now I love it.

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  Great driving van - 2018 Honda Odyssey
  By Phil Cote - August 19 - 9:52 am

  We love our new Honda. We have owned three Hondas; 2000,2011, & now 2018. This is a great family car; it can hold 8 people & carry lots of luggage. The ECO gives great gas mileage. Entertainment technology offers a full range of accessible items for all passengers. Shop around for pricing; use the internet to find best pricing in your surrounding area.