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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  The best Honda yet - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By BillC - July 8 - 1:32 pm

  The new CR-V is a pleasure to own as well as drive. Ive owned it for over a year and still look forward to driving it. I get up to 32 mpg on the highway.

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  Traded an Audi! Glad I did. - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Carlo - July 8 - 1:10 pm

  This has to be the best small SUV on the market. The ride is by far the most comfortable. Looks wise I love the "upscale" look. I got mine in black and its just awesome.

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  No problems yet - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Debra - July 8 - 11:50 am

  I have owned the 2006 EX-L since Dec. 2005. I just took it in for its first maintenance check and there were no problems found. I have just been doing regular oil changes up to now. I noticed a buzzing in the power steering - there is a service bulletin to replace the power steering reservoir which will be done at no cost. I call this my comfortron - it is easy to drive and a smooth ride. I love the turning radius which means great maneuverability. My best gas mileage has been 20 mpg and worst 16 with an average of 18. I suspect the "ECO" is a scam. I have had no trouble with my air conditioning. I bought and live in Canada. I also love being able to open the doors with the remote

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  A Rattle Box!! - 2009 Honda Civic
  By goozemann - July 8 - 8:13 am

  Ive had no problems with the engine, but everything inside this car rattles...the dash, the door panel....and it drives you insane!! Poor, poor fit and finish. Sounds like loose change is inside the door. Took to dealer and of course they drove it on a smooth road and "couldnt reproduce". Also when steering wheel is in upper position, cant see the odometer. Automatic locking everything also drives you insane when getting groceries etc. out of the trunk and back seat...the doors keep locking (found a way to disable the rear door auto-lock, but the trunk eludes me. When you close trunk, doors automatically lock...then you have to unlock them again!

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  Unbelievable Value - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Connecticut Man - July 8 - 7:20 am

  Just got the car a month ago. Originally read that it would be too small for me. Im over 6 feet tall. This car is big enough for me and people taller than me with no problems. It has huge interior and cargo area. It performs like a sports car. Unlike other people reviewing this car, I have no problems with road noise at 80 mph, and can hear the radio just fine. It has a stiff suspension so on bumpy roads, these will transmit into the cockpit, but on most good roads the ride is quiet.

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  2005 Honda CR-V owners rating - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Lincoln - July 8 - 4:10 am

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  2005 Honda CR-V owners rating - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Lincoln - July 8 - 4:10 am

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  Must buy civic version. Better than 2001 - 2000 Honda Civic
  By Great Car. - July 8 - 12:48 am

  Driven the car to San Diego from Bayarea and to Reno. Gas mileage 33- 37 MPG is comparable to Civic Hybrid 41 MPG (had 04Hybrid). Do not bother to purchase Civic hybrid cos it will not get even close to 45 MPG let alone 50 MPG. Sold it and bought yr 2000 for the better power and better driving experience than my other 4-dr 01 EX. Not sure bout Civic EX 2002-2008 version of Civic.

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  1st time Honda owner - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Chuck D. - July 7 - 11:23 pm

  Purchase the 2007 CRV because of the new styling. The vehicle has not disappointed me. There are a few things that I wish it include. Automatic head lights, Rear seats that folded flat. Overall a great car. We were driving a full size SUV that was fully equipped. There are some bells and whistles we miss.

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  Car - 2017 Honda Accord
  By tammie domma - July 7 - 9:07 pm