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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  great - 2016 Honda Accord
  By ABE AMIRGHOLAMI - September 1 - 12:43 am

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  Airbags failed to deploy - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By nguyenlp - August 31 - 10:51 pm

  I loved my Pilot the whole time I had it. Recently I was involved in a accident where I rear ended a sedan and another SUV rear ended me. myself and the other 5 passengers were all safe, but my airbags failed to deploy none of them. My radiator was busted, but still no airbags. I filed a complaint with Honda, but have not received a response. The NHTSA is also looking in to the matter. My insurance company told me that I hit above the airbag sensors. Im no expert on sensors, but rear ended a sedan! My radiator was busted! The only thing I want to know is where were my airbags when I needed them?

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  exceptional value - 2007 Honda Accord
  By trent - August 31 - 8:00 pm

  Was in the market after surviving for a year driving an 07 Yaris-poor handling for New England winters! Drove the Accord and we were convinced that we made the right decision. Gas mileage is consistently 25+ mpg. Handling is quick and secure. Winter tires/wheel package (Tire Rack) with standard VSA make driving in Vt winters a breeze. Unbeatable combination of power/performance and value .

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  Near Best of the Best - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Paul - August 31 - 4:49 pm

  I have owned 3 Hondas before this one, and this one tops them all. I bought this EX used and it has not had one single engine problem in 1 year. I am 511 and it fits me like glove in front and back. Besides the manual clutch jamming very rarely, its a smooth ride. It is slightly loud on the road, but you learn to ignore it because it can keep up with any car on the road. On a trip to LA I drove 70 mph and got 33.33 MPG over 410 miles. When I drive slower I get about 35 mpg. This is a great reliable car! My next car will be a NEW civic whenever that day comes. :)

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  I love this car! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Ashanti - August 31 - 1:27 pm

  This car is the best in its class. It has the perfect blend of luxury and sports car. The acceleration is amazing! I feel that my 2004 model compares to any 2008 model car with its performance. Im a young college student with a car thats affordable on gas, and has a classy, forever young look to it. I will grow with this car for sure and just know that it will last me through grad school!

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  First Ricer - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By Joe Dokes - August 31 - 9:52 am

  no passenger arm rest....usb wont work with android.......no lights on sun visors.........the four bannger runs well at 80 around 2300rpm with acceleration left.... Drivers seat is comfortable for long trips...... no random play with thumbdrive but a 32 gig formatted to fat 32 will work with usb cable.......Bluetooth works ok.

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  Hard to beat this car. - 2015 Honda Accord
  By Bob - August 31 - 12:29 am

  Not a soft ride

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  2008 EXL Odyssey - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By Rich - August 30 - 4:58 pm

  The Odyssey achieved 26.8 mpg on 1500 mile trip with AC set at 72 degrees, speed 65 mph, cruise on, tire pressure 35 psi, some hills, some stop and go, 91 octane gas. 25.0 mpg commuting to work, mostly interstate with some stop and go. I drive in eco mode as much as possible. Michlelin LX4 energy-saving tires sing badly on some types of concrete highway but otherwise acceptably quiet. Comfortable long distant hauler which gracefully replace our 96 Lexus 400 due to Odyssey tradeoffs in size, seating height, features (nav).

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  Great Value and Fun for the Money - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Missouri Man - August 30 - 3:50 pm

  Ive owned 7 Accords, and this version is absolutely the finest yet. Ive also owned Mazda, Toyota and Ford, but never found a vehicle as refined and reliable as Honda. I purchased the Accord Sedan V6 with the 6 speed manual transmission, and this baby can move!!! Great ride, control, and comfort. Highly recommended!

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  Less than thrilled - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Artman - August 30 - 11:33 am

  Today is my CR-Vs 4th birthday and I have noticed fading paint, rock chips on the nose that have started to rust, and scratches all over the car. This alone will bring my resale value down at least $2000. I will take the vehicle into Honda but Im sure they will not take care of it. I would recommend not buying the midnight blue pearl color. Better yet buy a Toyota.