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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  Excellent Value!! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Gordon - July 13 - 6:46 am

  Ive only had it for a few weeks, but I am very impressed with it. I am rating reliability and fuel economy of 9 only based on Hondas reputation. I havent gotten to really test the fuel economy. Sure it wont perform like a sports car, but compared to its main competitor, the 06 camry, it blows it away in terms of style, standard features, and performance/handling. This is definitely a lot more fun to drive than the camry. The engine is quiet and the cabin is well insulated for noise. Build quality is superb, the controls feel very solid and the doors make a very satisfying whack when you close them. :) The seats are comfortable and provide solid support. I paid 18,926! Excellent value!!!

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  06 Civic Seattle - 2006 Honda Civic
  By troman - July 13 - 4:40 am

  I made a point to purchase a Japanese model with a VIN that starts with a J. Paid almost full price for the 4DR EX Auto. Chosen for reputation, style, and gas mileage. It is really fun to drive and handles well. The ride is smooth and its easy to maneuver and park with great visibility. Its feels light and seems to float a little on the road but its comfortable for day trips. I was impressed at how quiet the car is while driving.

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  90 Accord EX High Miles - 1990 Honda Accord
  By New2Honda - July 12 - 8:56 pm

  I bought a 90 Accord EX Sedan from a private party. This has to be the most dependable car I have ever owned! It has 210,000 miles and runs like its brand new. I use this car in a 140 mile daily commute and I trust it 110%!

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  Cant Go Wrong with a Pilot! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Coleen - July 12 - 11:19 am

  I purchased my Pilot in Jan of 2006, and its the best decision Ive made. Prior to purchasing, I researched every SUV out there, and test drove a few. This vehicle drives and rides like a luxury car! It doesnt feel like youre driving an 8-passenger vehicle, has more than sufficient power, very roomy in front and middle rows for large adults, great cargo space, and looks quite stylish. I have the EX-L model loaded with everything. Kids LOVE the DVD player. I love that they can listen with wireless headphones and I can play my CD or Radio! Leather seats remain beautiful and are easy to clean up! Not a single hint of mechanical problems! Drives great--everyday!

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  Love it! - 2016 Honda Fit
  By Coach Leathrum - July 12 - 12:04 am

  I love my cute new car. Ive only owed it for a week, but its been great. Easy to drive, comfortable, plenty of storage despite its small size. Easy to park and maneuver in small spaces. Feels fine on a highway but clearly it isnt a luxury car. My biggest complaint is the small capacity of the fuel tank. It is cheap to fill, but is required every 350 miles. Given its great mpg its disappointing how often it need to be refueled.

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  08 Accord EX-L best car fot the money - 2008 Honda Accord
  By jibnayman - July 11 - 5:36 pm

  This car I would well recommend to any one. It feels like you are driving a quality computer on wheels. If you are looking for a car that is affordable and well built this is the car for you bad gas mileage

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  S2000 Outstanding - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Bob - July 11 - 1:51 pm

  This car is exactly what it is supposed to be, a performance roadster to the utmost. Honda didnt try to appeal to everybody with this car, just the serious minded drivers. The seats are perfect, the sound of the engine perfect, V-Tech perfect. I tested a Boxster S, and a new MX-5 before I drove the S2000, and I dont know who would pay twice the price to get a Boxster when you could have a better car with the S2000. The Mazda just cant touch it, and I used to own a Miata. Rigidity, is amazing for a rag top. This car is just flat out fun to drive. I had to buy one before they stop making them. This is the most fun since I had my Triumph Spitfire back in the sixties. Thank you Honda.

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  Better than expected - 2002 Honda Insight
  By Steve - July 11 - 1:16 pm

  This car accelerates better than I expected. I thought itd be a dog, but its much quicker than I thought it would be. The only problem Ive had is with the odometer. Its stuck on the current trip mileage and wont return to overall mileage, so Ill need to get this repaired so Ill know when to change the oil. Ive been cross country with this car half a dozen times or so, I wish it had cruise control, but thats not an option. The ride is a little more harsh than most cars, but Im used to it, and going long distance is no problem. I can get the advertised 65 mpg highway IF I drive 55mph, but I just drive it the normal hwy speed and get about 50 mpg hwy. Overall I get 47 mpg.

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  Great Choice. Great Value - 2006 Honda Element
  By VegasRobb - July 11 - 10:54 am

  I decided to test drive the Element on the advice of an Element owner I met at the local Mini Cooper dealership. I liked the look of the Element. I remember reading a review that the Element was a combination of a "Mini Cooper and a Hummer". I cant say theyre wrong. From the moment I sat down for my test drive, the Element just felt right. The car has been wonderful. I enjoy driving again and my friends say that Im always smiling when they see me driving around town. For the price, the Element comes with quite a bit in terms of built-in features and provides a good amount of value. Make you sure want the EX *or* the EX-P look. I like the uniform color over black fenders.

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  Best for the long haul - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Mack Easty - July 11 - 8:43 am

  Extraordinarily reliable and economical. After 193,000 miles I am getting the same gas mileage as when I bought it. Will get 33 mpg on 80 mph trips. Roomy and comfortable. Love the styling. I wish the current Civics looked this good. Very comfortable. A bit loud in the cabin at speed. Car has always been somewhat sensitive to crown of roadways and will tend to drift to lower side of canted road. Has been this way since purchase. Likely due to the aggressive steering geometry which gives the car its sharp handling. Ive improved this by using different alignment settings than the Honda recommendations. Very well made car throughout. Upholstery appears in perfect condition with no tears or visible wear after 10+ years and almost 200,000 miles. Great sound system. I highly recommend this car as a choice for a used vehicle. From what Ive read, the new Civics are not providing this kind of reliability, although they surpass this model year in performance.