Honda Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.47/5 Average
31,869 Total Reviews
Make Overview:

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:

Showing 10571 through 10580 of 31,869.00
  • 4 Transmissions to date!!!! - 2003 Honda Civic
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    We bought our 03 Hybrid Civic new we currently have put 105,XXX miles on it. The transmission "judder" started at 22,XXX miles, had that trans replaced (w/a rebuilt one) at 25,XXX miles, then that was replaced at 35,XXX (w/a new one) & received a extended warranty for 75,XXX miles for that one. Now we have just got the car back with a remanufactured Trans at 105,XXX miles. We are not able to get any help from American Honda The current "Case Carrier" is a snide, rude, arrogant. The dealer is going to do his best to help. If anyone has a similar story or good contacts to help please let us know, to ALL who read Honda "reputation for reliability" is GONE!!

  • Great little car - 2007 Honda Civic
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    I owed this car for 10 years. It was purchased new and primarily driven by my mother and brother. The dealer honored issues that were well out of warranty like: re-painting the car twice and replacing the sun visors. It has been a great car. Weve driven it 86K miles

  • Best vehicle yet owned (Im 60) - 2014 Honda CR-V
    By -

    Dealer quality was a major factor here: this was 3rd Honda purchased new - all of which came with a "Platinum Package" providing free oil changes, state inspections and other great discounts. Have learned that package is no longer offered ( too good a deal). Maintenance costs of all Hondas Ive owned has been very low, so far with this CRV its been the best. Love the car in all aspects except for noises: rattles and jingling in the back and annoying plastic clattering noises in dash/windshield area. Dealer has not been able to find easily, and Im not willing to tear the interior panels apart to find what it is at this stage. Other than noises, I have high hopes that the CRV will last to 150K miles.

  • Awesome Truck! - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
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    Best mid-size truck on the market. Great in heavy snow, and traction/control/handling is better than big 4x4s due to independent suspension & awd drive. I drive almost daily in lake Tahoe area with great ease. Drives like a car, but its a truck. No maintenance issues either. Over 42k miles, and only in the shop for regular maintenance. 3.5l 24- valve, v-tech power is exceptional it down- shifts on slight hills due to high overdrive gearing big 4x4 diesels (Ford, Chevy, Dodge) eat my dust/exhaust so no power worries for future owners. The big-3 auto makers better get their act together soon I can see the Ridgeline evolving into a truck w/more capability than any 4x4 on the market

  • Not worth the hype - 2005 Honda Accord
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    I purchased my Honda Accord because I know Honda has a good name, but I am disappointed with the overall performance. Perhaps I should have gotten a V6, because you have to "gun" the car to get it to go and the tachometer is well over 2,000 rpms even at lower speeds, like 50 mph. The Camry is probably a better choice, provides a much smoother ride and better acceleration.

  • Best car ever! - 1991 Honda Accord
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    We bought this car new in 91 and just yesterday bought a new car to replace it. This is by far the best car weve ever owned and has been a reliability champ. Rust through in the rear fenders due to climate and winter driving are the only issues weve had over 17 years owning it. Honda is best car manufacturer in terms of reliability and quality, hands down. We just bought a new Pilot yesterday and I would be shocked if we dont get the same quality and reliability out of it as this Accord. Were donating it to charity since it still runs perfectly and still has years to go. Unfortunately, trade-in value is negligible at this point, so better to give it to a needy soul than a dealer!

  • best car ever - 1991 Honda Civic
    By -

    Guys, this car is amazing. Been in the family since the beginning. Ive learn to drive in it and Im still driving it. Although its an automatic it doesnt matter. The engine is 1200 cc. Never got breakdown and mileage : 245k! Sure will reach 300k without any repair. And its an old style, I mean little electronic only muscle! When there is a problem, you know what to do.

  • Great little CRV - 2006 Honda CR-V
    By -

    Purchased Memorial Day 2006. Replaced 2004 Silverado. Performs normal household hauling duties quite well. Taken a couple of short trips with excellent results. Consistently good mileage. Comfortable for four adults. Great egress. Great visibility. Plan to have it for many years.

  • pretty good deal - 2005 Honda Element
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    I purchased my Element brand new. It has really been good to me overall. the only problem I have is with gas mileage. I love my Element except for the mileage. It handles well and does very well in the snow.

  • Great lil car - 1999 Honda Civic
    By -

    After a lot of research, reading and having only $5000 to buy a car with, I went for this 99 Civic EX. I can say I dont regret the decision. I bought it with 150K on the clock and it starts / runs just like a brand new car. Very impressed. I have a feeling I will get a solid 75K to 100K more from this lil car before any major replacements will be needed.

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