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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  Not as much pop, but overall a great car - 2009 Honda Civic
  By KR - August 11 - 11:06 am

  I previously owned a 1.8 Turbo Volkswagen Jetta that had some serious pep for a 4cyl engine. However, the thing was falling apart and overall my experience was poor. I was drawn to the Civic because of its reputation for reliability, fuel economy, and its nice design. After nearly 3,000 miles on the car, Im happy with my purchase. Its not as much fun to drive as the Jetta, but the 5 speed manual offers some excitement and better all-around control over the car. I ended up going with the EX-L because on the 2009s its the only version that offers stability control (VSA). Also, its worth noting that Im relatively tall (64"), and I fit very comfortably in the drivers seat.

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  Civic Slicker - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Don M. - August 11 - 4:56 am

  Ive found this Civic 4-Dr surprisingly comfortable, easy handling and fun to drive. Its 5-sp manual/clutch combo is about as good as it gets; light, positive and smooth. Its engine is not noiseless, but is smooth and pleasant, with a good usable rpm range, from 1500 to 6700. The interior is well thought out, with storage everywhere. It is fitted with conveniences previously found in only more expensive cars. The navi and XM radio are a delight, and the carefully calculated mileage of 36.5 mpg for its 11000 mile life is extraordinary. Fit and finish are excellent. Doors shut lightly and solidly. I wouldnt trade it as a driver for anything I can think of...or Id be driving that!

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  Love this car - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Kunal S - August 11 - 2:23 am

  Such excellent mileage. I get easily 47 MPG in city and freeway combined. Price over mileage is excellent.

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  Bullet Proof Engine! - 2000 Honda Accord
  By AccordOwner - August 10 - 9:20 pm

  Little things like the trunk release and gas door latch as well as the sun visors are well designed and have a sturdy feel to them. I drive this car like I hate it, and have over 51k miles on the engine without a hitch so far. Keep up with the sched maint and expect this car to last you a long time. The highway gas milage is great (~27mpg) even driving at 85mph, but if you enjoy the added power of VTEC around town expect about 17mpg.

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  Great gas car - 2015 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By James - August 10 - 7:14 pm

  Its a great car.

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  i love my car - 2001 Honda Accord
  By pk - August 10 - 7:08 pm

  I have had my V6 Accord since she was brand new. I drive a LOT - nearly 30,000 miles per year, and I havent yet had a problem with this car. Even after putting diesel in the gas tank (gas stations fault) she just keeps on keepin on. The service department at the dealership has always been courteous and helpful when I take her in for scheduled maintenence. I have nothing bad to say about my car.

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  Near Boxster performance for $32k - 2005 Honda S2000
  By Aaron - August 10 - 3:59 pm

  Faster than other roadsters costing tens of thousands more (Z4, first generation 986 Boxster S, Audi TT, last generation SLK), and still able to hold its own with the latest Teutonic offerings, the S2000 is the best deal going. Add to that impeccable reliability, great styling, and good gas mileage and you have a recipe for the perfect roadster.

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  The Fit fits - 2013 Honda Fit
  By Kamehameha - August 10 - 5:37 am

  Ive owned my Honda Fit Sport for a month, and am a big fan of it. The car is very practical - it can hold a lot of stuff in a small package. But its also really fun to drive, with quick, nicely weighted steering, a firm but well composed chassis, and a very good manual transmission with easy, precise feeling throws and an easy-to-learn clutch. It functions excellently as a city car, but it also shines on secondary roads heading out to the country. The engine is small and at super-highway speeds, the car is underpowered and a bit noisy, but if you do the bulk of your driving below 70 mph, its a wonderful, simple, and fun solution to a lot of transportation needs.

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  Reliable great looking car at an affordable price - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Nancy G - August 9 - 3:20 am

  I had it narrowed down to the Honda Civic and the Mazda 3. I found the Honda drove better. My previous car was an Infiniti and this car is very comparable at a much more affordable price

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  This is a great vehicle - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Love My CR-V - August 8 - 12:12 pm

  I love the reliability, quality, and everything about this vehicle. Honda has done a good job, I never worry about this car. With 44000 trouble free miles I am looking forward to being able to pay this vehicle off and drive it for a year or two more. That is how well it drives now. I couldnt be happier! All I have done is put front brake pads, resurface the front rotors, and tires. It is also great in the snow!