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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  Finally decided on the Honda!! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By BigBlue - June 9 - 2:00 am

  I spent the last few months reading Edmunds, CRs and other mags to help me decide which new car to go with. I test drove the Mazda 6, Accord, Altima (v6), Maxima, Highlander, and the Acura TSX. I really wanted the Mazda 6 - However, the "rust" issue scared me away. Came down to the Accord vs the Altima - basically I could get either one for the same monthly payment. I went with the Accord since it was more "practical". I just bought it 4 days ago and Im very happy with my decission!! I love the inside fit and finish of the Accord. It actually looks and feels a lot like the TSX. But, you get a V6 and more room with the Accord!! Im very happy with my decission.

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  Great Value - 1995 Honda Civic
  By Jami23 - June 8 - 8:59 pm

  I have owned my civic for 10 1/2 years. This has been one of the best purchases ever. I have had no problems with my car. The only work that has needed to be done is basic maintenance and an axle replacement. I hate to part with it but I am thinking of buying a new one.

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  Just Hummin along - 2004 Honda Insight
  By Freda Ruth - June 8 - 2:52 pm

  Buying this car was the smartest thing I have ever done. I bought it just before the gas prices exploded. Thanks HONDA! I love to drive it! I parked in A very small parking place. the three men sitting on the bench watching me gave me a standing ovation when i got out of the car.

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  Near perfect for the price. - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Sam - June 8 - 12:13 pm

  This my first Honda purchase. The Fit is the absolute most fun you can have with 115 HP! No matter what speed you are going, there is always more "get up and go" when you need it. A high quality small car! Without the high price. If you are in the market for a fuel saver but also desire peppy performance with great utility this car is the only way to go. Bravo Honda!

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  CRVs are awesome - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By crvkid98 - June 8 - 8:36 am

  This car is awesome. I bought a 98 and it is great. Runs and looks like it is brand new. Dont listen to the commercials. CRVs make Sportages look like garbage.

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  Happy w/ the Purchase - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Brian - June 8 - 5:16 am

  I bought this vehicle for my wife. It is our first SUV. We went from a Mitsubishi Galant and I have had several pick up trucks. My wife loves this thing and so do I. I am pleased w/ the engine, smooth ride, and the overall features and roominess of the vehicle. Looks great and rides great.

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  Strong after all - 1995 Honda Prelude
  By Oscar - June 8 - 2:59 am

  After 80,000 miles since I bought still running strong, got 160K miles now and still faster than many cars out there .. even in 2006 still turning some heads and getting compliments ... not bad for a 12 y.o. car =) I bought ricer tailights painted red/white and looks great now, also the 94 accord rear lip, helps.

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  2004 Insight review. - 2004 Honda Insight
  By Gordon Shepherd - June 8 - 2:41 am

  For economy, the only car I feel could beat the Insight would be an electric car recharged with solar panels. Its aerodynamics makes it almost uneffected by wind for safety as well as energy efficiency. Only drawback is that it carries onlt 2 people, but the space is very ample and comfortable for those 2 people. I know I can race any car on the road to the end of our tanks, and win. The place where it wins the nicest is at the pump at every fillup.

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  In just a few weeks.. - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Xavier311 - June 8 - 1:13 am

  Excellent vehicle! Yes, it doesnt stand out in a crowd of other SUVs (in terms of looks), but thats not why I bought it. The interior is extremely high quality and very functional, and the smooth ride is great! The steering (handling) could be a little better, as it does feel a bit bulky at first, but after getting use to it youll never notice it again. Acceleration is slow at first due to the AWD, but then quickly picks up speed. The ride is so smooth, that you sometimes dont notice how fast youre going. Overall, a great vehicle whether you have a family, or are looking for a roomy mid-size SUV.

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  06 Civic Si - 2006 Honda Civic
  By J Rod - June 8 - 1:00 am

  This has to be my favorite car to drive. Its Very comfortable, gets good gas mileage, let alone the LSD equipped 6 speed mated to the 2 liter I-Vtec engine... What more could you ask for?