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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  Best vehicle ever own - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Dan - August 14 - 2:16 pm

  I bought my CR-V SE back in Nov of 2004 and still own the car today with 61,500 miles. So far I have been very please with my CR-V because there have been no problems. I change my oil every 5000 to 7500 miles with Amsoil motor oil. I services the transmission myself every 15,000 miles. Its easy because it has a drain plug just like changing the oil. I highly recommended any type of Honda vehicle to anyone because my has been so reliable, my mother and brother both own a Honda. All three of our cars get great gas mileage better than what the window stickers says. I am thinking of getting a new Honda CR-V Turbo Diesel when its comes in late 2009 as a 2010 year model because of the better MPG.

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  Great car, but the brakes are terrible. - 2003 Honda Accord
  By stburt - August 14 - 1:36 pm

  This is the first new car I have ever owned. It is taken care of meticulously. It has 40000 on it, the brakes have been done twice, the head unit once, and there is a rattle on the pax side. Its fast for a sedan. Louder than it should be on the highway. Its comfortable in all seats. Would I buy another one? Probably, but Ill look around.

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  This is quality - 1997 Honda CR-V
  By Patrick in KC - August 14 - 12:01 pm

  We are now into our 11th year with this gem. We have 158k with only minor maintenance (new radiator, 2nd battery). This car is an absolute joy to drive and is excellent in the snow/rain. This is the best vehicle I have ever owned and would recommend a Honda to anyone. I will own it until it dies.

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  Excellent - 2008 Honda Fit
  By HONDA FIT - August 14 - 11:26 am

  I really enjoy this car. The space is incredible. Use in my work with lots of equipment. Highway mileage is much higher than reported. Ride is a bit rough.

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  Great Except for Fuel Economy - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By Mike - August 14 - 8:59 am

  This vehicle is superior in almost every way except for fuel economy. Operating cost for gas alone takes away the other cost savings of ownership.

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  Love it! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Cheryl - August 14 - 3:13 am

  I love my Pilot! The fact that it automatically goes into 4wheel drive is wonderful. I dont have to even think! I do wish it had the automatic headlights as my minivan had, but Ive learned to turn them on. Thats the ONLY complaint I have. Id pick this one again!

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  Honda Pilot 2017 - 2017 Honda Pilot
  By Steven Marles - August 13 - 10:48 pm

  Kelley Blue Book value award. Elevated technology on board with collision control and warnings

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  Not that small - 2008 Honda Fit
  By DAN BELL - August 13 - 7:57 pm

  My new Honda fit look small but is huge inside, very smart design. Very quick consider 109 hp. Gas mileage so far 30-32 mpg mixed city & highways very stable at any speed especially on curves, it handles like any other car I drove before. Honda did a excellent job on this model

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  Best in its class and then some - 2007 Honda Fit
  By eldaino - August 13 - 3:06 pm

  This car is everything you can ask for in a small, fuel efficient vehicle. and then it goes a step further. it offered handling and steering feel that is superior to the civic ex coupe and is trounced only by the si in terms of handling prowess. The controls are logically placed, the interior is top notch and a few steps ahead of all the cars in its class, that being that it also the oldest design. Economy is great, i average 33mpg mixed spirited driving, and maintenance has been very cheap. no major issues so far, as is typical in a Honda. Other sub 17k cars make you feel embarrassed or even bad getting into them everyday. You look forward to the drive with the Fit.

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  poor miage - 2008 Honda Fit
  By mitzie - August 13 - 12:53 pm

  I recently purchased my Honda Fit for the gas mileage, I was told it would get about 40 with a standard transmission. I really wanted an automatic. I have filled the tank twice and I am getting about 34 miles a gallon .. I am doing a lot of coasting and I am very disappointed. otherwise the care is great but gas counted. I was told the echo or yaris got about 40 also