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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  A great vehicle - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Frank - December 2 - 2:47 pm

  I have about 41,000 miles on it now, and it looks and runs like new. Knock on wood, there have been no problems. Folding down the seats and hauling heavy loads is a cinch. It is also easy to pack nine of the family into it, with plenty of cupholders and outlets for MP3s. There is a lot of road noise, and I seldom use the radio at highway speed because of it. Otherwise, it is comfortable to drive, dependable and convenient.

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  Good Van Good Gas Mileage - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By Jay R - December 2 - 6:33 am

  Getting on average 19-21 MPG with mixed driving (including hills). Most of the time the ECO light is on and I dont jump on the gas (not that you need to). Power steering pump and left front ball joint had to be replaced w/in 1st year, but dealership stepped up. Overall we are happy. My wife liked it b/c it drives and (interior) feels like her 2003 Accord.

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  Handles Great in Bad Weather - 2001 Honda Odyssey
  By Mrs.C - December 1 - 10:21 pm

  We purchased our Odyssey new from our local Honda dealership. We have been satisfied with our van except for the noisey brakes. We took it to the Honda dealership several times while under warranty, but they never corrected this problem. We chose to take it elsewhere and have been more successful but still not perfect. It has been a great vehicle for our young family, especially the power doors. Very convenient for small children and full hands. Overall, a great van for us.

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  ?? - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By mom of three - December 1 - 10:11 pm

  My entire family has enjoyed our 2005 Honda Pilot. The high safety ratings are a must for us. We owned a Honda Odyssey prior to this vehicle. It was totaled when a semi 18 wheeler slammed into the rear end of us. With the protection we had during the accident, I think I will always buy a Honda. We were skeptical about the Pilot at first but we have not regretted it for a moment. During our vehicle shopping experience we drove several SUVs, including the Mercedes. None of the others compaired to the Pilot. My fourteen year old daughter is hoping she will be handed the keys when she gets her licenses in a couple of years. So..... it must be pretty cool to teenagers too.

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  Handling - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By ed legarsky - December 1 - 7:48 pm

  Great handling and ride, well thought out interior.

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  Example of good engineering. - 2005 Honda Accord
  By BMS - December 1 - 12:10 pm

  This car is very well-thought-out. Interior is very comfortable, ride a good compromise between handling & smoothness. Engine is very quiet & smooth for a 4, except for a slight vibration at about 900RPM (3-5MPH), which I am told is "normal" for this car but is mildly annoying. Quiet on highway, except for slight, nconsequential road noise on rough pavement. Steering feels sporty for its size on the highway, although in this regard my 94 Accord was a little better. The car feels more powerful than it is. Overall, this car does everything well and nothing poorly and is, in my opinion, the best overall choice in its class.

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  I wouldnt give my Pilot up for anything - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Sivilay Thiphakhinke - December 1 - 9:32 am

  I have had my Pilot for over a year now and it still runs as well as it did when I first bought. I love the way it handles. The AWD is great and it makes me feel so much safer. Ive driven other SUVs and the Pilot is by far, my favorite. My niece even went out to get herself one after taking mine out for a test drive.

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  Great Car - 2005 Honda Accord
  By DB - December 1 - 3:23 am

  Wanted the sedan but they dont make the V6 with a manual in the sedan. So I bought A saphire blue Two door with black leather interior. The car is my 4th Honda and they only get better. This car still pulls from 65 mph in 6th gear! 17in wheels and nice.

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  Accord is fantastic - 2008 Honda Accord
  By johnboy - November 30 - 9:03 pm

  I have had this car for 2 months and is every thing that i need. Very peppy engine great fuel mileage 28-30 combined. I looked at the Malibu before purchase and the difference was huge. There is a great difference in the engines, gee i wonder why Honda runs 4 cyl in the INDY CARS! I am still trying to figure out the complaints on the road noise, very little that I here. Keep up the great work HONDA This is a great car!

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  A Great Car to Drive - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Steve - November 30 - 7:40 pm

  I bought my Civic Hybrid in January of 2006 and have been thoroughly impressed. Since the Spring, I have been averaging 50 mpg, which is a good mix of city/traffic and highway miles. I also have the navigation system and find it invaluable. This car is great.