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 suv - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By nbgurl - January 23 - 10:00 am

  I have only had this vehicle for a short time and its my first Honda suv but my 4th Honda. it is a great vehicle to drive and comfortable to drive. i would buy another. No complaints here. Keep up the great work Honda!!!

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  overall safety - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By bobby baisden - January 23 - 10:00 am

  great driving, good price, bad gas mileage,need over all safety rating.

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  Just Got It... - 2004 Honda Civic
  By ImNtoxicated - January 23 - 10:00 am

  All in all, its a car. Nothing more and nothin less. I had a Monte Carlo SS and totalled it. So a Civic was kind of spare of the moment. It really wasnt what I wanted. No one can complain on the gas milage of the car (BTW I just picked it up this morning). I did notice that once I break it in, I will be able to haul butt in this car, it sits at 3,000 RPM and its doing 75 MPH! Redlines about 6600 RPM. On the plus side you can drive a Honda in the ground for years and it will still run great. Two people I know own Hondas with over 300,000 miles and they still run great.

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  return to Honda civic - 2004 Honda Civic
  By June - January 23 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my first Honda in 1999, great car. Had the idea that a small SUV would be a better vehicle for me.Purchased a Ford Escape in 2003. I kept this auto 7 months returned to a Honda Civic with great pleasure even though I had to take a loss in original costs. I have saved in the long run with fuel mileage alone. I love my Honda Civic.

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  Buy it and modify it - 2003 Honda Accord
  By jamesspears - January 23 - 10:00 am

  I have an aftermaket intake and exhaust system as well as many suspension items. I now get 32 MPG on the highway and 28 around town with over 240+ HP. I installed a carbon fiber hood and tinted the windows on the nighthawk black car and the appearance is incredible.

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  Amazing Value - 2016 Honda Civic
  By carlos c - January 23 - 8:54 am

  Pros: * Turbo engine pulls strong * Engonomics, Comfort * Brakes bite hard and quick * Lost of standard equipment * Looks upscale * Gas milleage * Price Cons: * CVT

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  Trying to bond with my Hybrid Accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Sarita226 - January 23 - 5:43 am

  I own the Accord hybrid with navigation system because I have no sense of direction. There are a few turns left to be desired with the Navi, but thats not an auto flaw. This is a terrific car, but I have not yet bonded with it, 17 months later, and I dont know why. If I could figure out what other car Id prefer, Id sell this one and buy that one. I often forget to lock the car, not yet accustomed to the electic locks and key

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  Our First Honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Scott - January 22 - 9:46 pm

  I think well stick with Honda from now on. During our warranty period, we never had to take it back in for anything. After 2 years and 50,000 miles, the only thing weve had to do was change the oil!! We are addicted to the GPS NAV system. We are also now sold on XM Radio - we couldnt drive without it! We dont use the voice commands because there are so many to learn and the system is slow to respond. I can either speak to turn down the volume and wait 10 seconds, or I can just reach for the knob. The only downside I can think of is that the 2nd AC charger in the center console doesnt work. SMOKER BEWARE - there is no lighter or ashtray!

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  It is a keeper - 2008 Honda S2000
  By iownans2000 - January 22 - 8:56 pm

  If you want a fun car, this is it. However, it is NOT an every day car. I have owned several sports cars, the last being a 350z. The S2000, is much more fun than the Z, has a better road feel and is easier to drive. However, the inside is tight and there is not much leg room. If this is your 3rd you will want to drive it often. However, if this is your primary car, you will wish it had more room.

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  Great SUV for under $30,000 - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Musky - January 22 - 8:11 pm

  I purchased this vehicle for my wife who stays home with our 1 year old son at the time. So I wanted safety number one and the ability to haul everything you must take when traveling with a toddler. The Pilot does a great job in all respects. It made the 8 hour drive to North Dakota much tolerable with its large cabin space and also large cargo area with the 3rd row seat folder down. It rides high so you would not want to make any sudden moves on the highway as it does seem a bit tippy, but on the other hand you need the clearance in Wisconsin if you are ever to make it up north. I give the Pilot props for comfort and cargo room and negative for fuel economy tippy feeling.