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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  Excellent small SUV - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By wyf - December 21 - 2:00 am

  Have about 18000 miles on my 2002 CRV EX and only experienced one check engine light problem when I hit a pothole. The dealership resolved this in no time. (Resetted the computer chip) Otherwise this vehicle has been terrific in terms of reliability, driver confidence, quality and style. I am constantly getting compliments from passengers and passers-by when they get in/see my silver CRV for the first time.

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  Never again - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By cpass - December 21 - 2:00 am

  First Honda. Big mistake. Rattles and squeaks over Western PA roads. Problems starting in cold weather. Rear brakes cause major concern. They get stuck and heat up until they smoke. The rear wheels get so hot from the brakes, you cannot touch them. Seems worse when very cold outside. Seems like the emergecy brake gets stuck on. When they get stuck, brakes cause the car to feel like it is driving over rumble stips. Dealer cannot figure it out after several repair attempts. Claims Honda cannot figure it out and no problems reported by others. Unsafe. Trading it in with disclosure.

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  Great van. - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By VR - December 21 - 2:00 am

  This is just a great van. However, with competition from Nissan (styling) and Toyota (AWD), who have finally got the disappearing seat, it race is even now. Hopefully the next model will address it.

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  Best SUV - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By justinebum - December 21 - 2:00 am

  We feel safe in this SUV. I was driving 75 mph on the highway and a car swerved into my lane, I had to quikly move and swerve to the left into part of the median. I felt in full control the entire time. It is very roomy. The third seat has little leg room for adults, but is great for the kids. It drives very smooth. The kids have asked me why I shut the car off at lights. I tell them its not off, we just have a really nice truck.

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  Great Car - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By JoeCarguy - December 21 - 2:00 am

  Great car for the price! Very dependable and easy to handle. Not the best ride quality but you only paid 20K for it so dont expect luxury car ride. Adequate acceleration, good exterior/interior design Lots of space Shop around and negotiate a good deal!

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  Qualtiy concerns - 2002 Honda Civic
  By kelseyparker - December 21 - 2:00 am

  Great gas mileage (40 mpg highway) and fairly decent drivability are the only good thing about this car. Had nothing but problems. Was in shop 5 times after only 4 months driving. Had to replace front and rear shocks, remove dash and insert foam to eliminate extensive rattling (still rattles). The whole bloody car rattles. Gear shifter pops out of gear, brakes make horrible metallic pop when first used, clutch and brake pedal squeak like rusty door hinges, etc, etc. Serious quality control issues.

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  Biggest piece of crap I have owned - 2002 Honda Civic
  By jayse - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I really like the car minus all of the things that have malfunctioned with it. The fuel sending unit was replaced a month after purchase. The left front damper, left front stabilizer link and the right front strut assembly have been replaced. The AC compressor went out about 34 thousand miles, the alternator went out at around 41 thousand miles.

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  not the gas saver we need. - 2007 Honda Fit
  By trsheel - December 20 - 10:05 pm

  We like the Honda for its loading room. We are not getting the mpg that the dealer said it would 30+! real world mpg is 25 city & 28 hwy when we got it new the mpg was better, We fill the honda is a city car only!! the ride is too rough for a long road trip- over 100 miles, cheep sets, and 63- 250lbs not much set under you, I had an maz 323 1987 that road better!!

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  Dash sensor error - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By Jaxnana52 - December 20 - 7:00 pm

  Twice I have had an issue with the sensors giving every error. This is due to the sensor compartment getting wet. Dirt time driving in the rain. Second time after a car wash. I am told they will order parts and replace the unit. But since others are having the same issue. Honda needs to take another look at this area of the design. I paid cash for my vehicle, I love the truck. But will not put up with this issue.

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  Excellent Family SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Monika - December 20 - 5:30 pm

  I never thought I would buy an Van much less an SUV but Honda proved me wrong. Their vans and suvs in mho are the best on the market. Thanks for making an SUV that seats 8. Having 5 in our family gives us the ability to go on long trips and have room for everyone and our stuff. Now you have a truck and my husband is actually considering buying it. He never wanted a truck before.