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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  Ridgeline RTS - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By D Benton - July 14 - 1:14 pm

  This is an excellent truck. It is fun to drive, built very well and Honda as a company has been very proactive to survey me. I love it!

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  Good bad and ugly - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By param - July 14 - 12:59 pm

  Based on several reviews I bought Odyssey without much thoughts. It is a good van for family. But, now I have 900 miles in the car with an awful 10-11 miles/gallon city + fwy. I saw some others also complains about low mileage of odyssey. while my friends 2008 odyssey gives 21 mpg city + fwy in my driving. I took it to the dealer and they asked to leave the car for 3 days for fuel test with out any compensation for replacement car. In general the odyssey makes lot of noise.

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  Still on the fence. - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Steve Thompson - July 14 - 11:20 am

  This is a well thought and engineered out product although pricey. Plenty of interior room, great styling and economy. It is so solid however the front seats are a bit too hard and uncomfortable. Even with full power adjustments Im ready to get out of it after 50 miles or so. The locking and waterproof below bed trunk is great idea. The truck does seems a little top heavy in turns. Maybe Honda could offer a Sport Package w/6-Speed and 50 series tires and wheels. The power is marginal for the engine size and torque as compared to other trucks in this class. The add-on parts for this truck are ridiculously high, such as $600 for a hitch, and $500 for running boards!! I mean come on!!

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  No torque, no facotry rim options..... - 2003 Honda S2000
  By VsPeC - July 14 - 2:00 am

  This car has no torque, who is willing to rev the car to 7000 rpm everyday just to get the horsepower and torque of a V6? Consistent high revs will lessen the life of the engine. Have no idea why Honda would do this. High horsepower is nice, but torque is nicer.

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  2000 EX Accord - 2000 Honda Accord
  By troyanf - July 14 - 2:00 am

  Truely a fine vehicle for the money! Havent driven a car yet that can beat the all-round quality (driving performance and comfort especially) this car delivers. If youve never driven one, you must try it.

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  As expected - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Kevin - July 13 - 11:17 pm

  This car is a horse. No problems to speak of. Battery might need replacing by winter. Rides smooth and quiet and has plenty of power. Tons of room and everything is laid out properly. Excellent ergonomics from front to back. Too bad no LX RES package offered anymore.

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  04 Sick speed v6 - 2004 Honda Accord
  By SIKSPDV6 - July 13 - 10:26 pm

  I have had this car for about a year and a half. The motor is very powerful. I installed koni "yellows" adjustable struts, eibach sport springs aem v2 cold air intake,megan exhaust,20 alt wheels, nitto nt555,vis carbon fiber hood and alot of other little goodys. I get the same feeling starting it every time.

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  2003 Honda Civic LX 4dr 5spd - 2003 Honda Civic
  By 2003 Civic LX 4dr - July 13 - 10:21 pm

  Got this car 5 months ago and basically love it. Ive had no problems with it thus far, and have adjusted my driving habits to pull in an average of 43 mpg (40 city, 47 hwy). Recommended car for anyone.

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  Great - 2000 Honda Civic
  By neilschmeil - July 13 - 6:14 pm

  The car is very nice overall. It could use some more power sometimes when trying to accelerate. Still in good shape.

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  CR-V small bugs - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By Dick in Ohio - July 13 - 3:59 pm

  If the TPMS illuminates, either put $1.50 in BP air pump and do it yourself, or, if convenient, drive to dealer and have him equalize pressure. This should be free. Need better sun visors, maybe builtin extensions. Good car