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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  Great Car - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Loyal Honda Owner - February 25 - 2:50 pm

  Great SUV! I did a tremendous amount of research before purchasing. For the price this vehicle had the best standard features (interior). Further, this vehicle even cornered better than a 2007 Camary. I have no regrets with my purchase and recommend it highly.

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  Winner! - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Mike in Albany - February 25 - 8:19 am

  A truly excellent car all the way around. Keep it maintained and you will be very, very pleased.

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  Greeeeeeeeeeeeeen!!!!!!!!! - 2000 Honda Insight
  By Jeanne - February 24 - 12:55 pm

  This car has given me a new perspective on vehicles in general. While Ive always tended to make prudent purchases to fit my lifestyle, this ones been the best so far. While the car handles like a bat-outta-hell, gets mileage worthy of boasting, and has been comfortable and reliable for me, I realize its not for everyone, especially those with children. I own a retina-fryingly green Insight, and find that it does have what designers refer to as neck-break appeal. Mileage exceeds that of most hybrids, 54-79 mpg, depending on conditions & driving. Every friend I have shops, hunts & dreams about that better car to own in his/her future. I feel no need to do so. Im thrilled with this car!

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  perfect - 2003 Honda S2000
  By chile1955 - February 24 - 2:00 am

  I am more in love with this car every time I drive it .The way it performs in all repects in unbelievable.

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  Great Car - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Kenny - February 23 - 10:53 pm

  The car is a lower-end car that feels like a higher-end car. I feel like the interior is stylish and comfortable. The performance isnt the best, but it is adequate, and I didnt buy the car for performance. The ride is comfortable and quiet. The gauges are bright and everything is easily accessable. The car has plenty of leg room and head room (which is unusual for a Civic) and the seats are firm, offering plenty of support. The clutch is great and the car shifts smoothly. I was a former Honda hater who has now changed my ways. I will be buying Honda from now on.

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  Bought a 17 for my granddaughter. Mines a 15 - 2017 Honda Fit
  By Andy Shriver - February 23 - 4:50 pm

  My granddaughter loves her 2017 LX CVT Fit. She reports it is super economical, claiming 40 mpg, and says the light controls make it very pleasant to drive. Not a coincidence, I gave my 2011 Sport 5MT to her husband when I bought a new 2015, and he loves his, too. My 2015 6MT has 17-inch Kosei Racing wheels with 215/45-17 Dunlop Direzza Z2 tires, and it stays with Porsches on twisty roads. I do wish it had more horsepower for passing other vehicles when sport driving. Theres plenty of power for all other types of driving. In fact, its 0-60 of 7.9 seconds is nothing to be ashamed of.

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  2006 Honda Civic EX Coupe - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Richard - February 23 - 4:50 am

  I love my Civic Coupe. Just the automatic transmission sometimes wants to hesitate on take off if you dont come to a complete stop. If a red light turns green and you hit the gas before you have reached a stop it will kinda lose its train of thought and take just a few seconds before it finds the right gear. Go figure. Other than that, 44 MPG on the HWY. You go Honda with your Civic. Thanks.

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  I Love my Civic - 2004 Honda Civic
  By MattB3901 - February 22 - 1:26 pm

  The wife and I bought a 2004 civic new, and love it. Fit and finish are excellent. Fuel economy is great I have averaged 37mpg (better than window sticker). I have put 58k on it in 18 months and only had to change the oil and buy a set of tires. This is the best car for the money. We bought it new for around 16K. Reliable and comfortable, and safe to, I was in two accidents and both times walked away fine (not fender benders were talking serous crumple zone work-6K in damage). The civic is a great commuter car.

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  Excellence - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Roger Millnitz - February 21 - 4:55 pm

  Ive owned my Accord for 4 years now. Its only required the normal maintenance, with the exception of new brakes, front and rear. Its been a great car, and fun to drive. Its interesting to compare this with the first Accord I owned...a 1986 LX. Id drive up into the Rockies at 45 mph, tops! This car cruises easily up the slopes at 70 mph, and isnt breathing hard. It has a sumptuous feel to it today, even four years after I bought it. Id heartily reccomend an Accord to anyone whos quality conscious.

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  Excellent vehicle - 2005 Honda Element
  By Ann Curran - February 21 - 12:01 pm

  We have been 100% satisfied with our Element and are thinking of buying a second one when our other car dies. The Element is practical, well made, reliable and fun to drive.