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:

• 

  Finally - 2009 Honda Civic
  By Jimmy z - June 27 - 3:20 pm

  I have been looking and test driving Civics for the last 2 years and finally decided on a Crystal Black Pearl Coupe, it was on the showroom floor. I almost went with the LX-S, but decided that for an extra $1,300 I would rather have the sunroof, UBS connection with a great stereo, 4 wheel disc breaks. The car is very fun to drive and rides a lot better than the coupe a test drove. Will see how good the mileage is.

• 

  Honda Odyssey Touring had to have it. - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Winston Hawkins - June 27 - 6:43 am

  We have loved our Honda Odyssey and have taken it everywhere. Our dealer has been great with anything warranty and non-warranty related. This vehicle is like a sports car and is a blast to drive. Its hard to believe that this vehicle averages for us around 24 MPH while packed down with two children and all our gear for vacation. We will buy another one.

• 

  07 EXL-V6 - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Tug - June 27 - 5:20 am

  Exceptional car. Great performance, handling, gas mileage, build quality, very comfortable. Better looking cars out there, but the more I drive it, the better it looks. In my opinion the best car for the price, hands down. Resale is second to none, may not find out for some time though.

• 

  Should have bought one sooner. - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By MEM, Hamilton NJ - June 26 - 10:46 pm

  Previously owned two Hondas (Civic and Accord). Had the Accord for 14.5 years with 165,000 miles. Took a break for a few years from Honda but recently purchased a certified used 2004 Honda Pilot. Love it! Glad to be back in the Honda family!

• 

  Honda is one of the best - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By VINNY PERSAUD - June 26 - 10:26 pm

  The Honda Pilot rides very comfortable with a quiet engine that performs very well. In addition to the roomy interior with third row seating gas consumption is economical. This is definitely one for the entire family, unlike the Benz ML 350 which is disturbingly uncomfortable when it comes to handling and performance, but safer with lots of body steel.

• 

  Nice Car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By pauldan - June 26 - 9:46 pm

  went from truck to this car,ride is great,acceleration is super Most fun Ive had driving in years. Front seat heater switches should be moved, always being put on accidently Thats my only complaint. Great car

• 

  Lovin every minute of it - 2005 Honda S2000
  By RPM Jack - June 26 - 5:56 pm

  This car is a real head turner, its like sitting in real sports car. The manual transmission is a lot smoother then I thought it would be. Im the envy of my friends and neighbours. I looked around at many diiferent vehicles and for the price and quality especially being a Honda, dont look at anything else.

• 

  Poor Mileage - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Not a happy camper! - June 26 - 5:23 pm

  I have only had the car for less than a month and I have filled up at $40 + 5 times so far. My R/T to and from work miles is 60 per day, I filled up on a Sunday night, drove to work (commuter lot) 27 miles away and return on Monday, missed Tuesday, and Wednesday and I am already at 1/2 tank. I must go back to the dealer. I am not getting even 16 miles to the gallon, something must be wrong. Tested with no air, windows closed, sunroof closed and at about 60 miles per hour and its like the gas is just leaking out somewhere. Dont buy this car if you have to commute!

• 

  much better than the first one. - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Erik - June 26 - 11:26 am

  Had my old fit for 2 years and liked the multifunction seats and gas sipping ride, so to go for the new one wasnt difficult. Much improved and drives a lot more than a normal car, better springs and wider axle stand gives a smoother ride. Took the at in BASIC trim, makes fewer revs in top speed and more miles to the gallon as the manual or sport autom. Add cruise control to it so its even better for the wallet.

• 

  I Love My Maroon Box - 2008 Honda Element
  By Abe Glaser - June 26 - 10:07 am

  After driving a Toyota Tundra TRD for three years I found that I could not work our of the high bed. I need a covered vehicle that would hold some merchandise and double as a pleasure car. The rear seats can lay down or come out if necessary. I love my Element. It gets the sticker gas millage and a bit better. The car is comfortable and roomy. My daughter owns a Pacifica and claims the Element has way more leg room. My auto insurance cam way down due to the improved safety features of the Element.