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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  Never stranded for 10 years - 1995 Honda Accord
  By Pete - October 7 - 5:11 pm

  Bought as certified Honda with 35k miles. This Accord wagon has never left me stranded. It always started with the exception of one time in the driveway due to an old battery that was defective. I perform regular maintenance, 7.5k mi synthetic oil, 90k timing belts/Water pump, 30k transmission service Honda Z1 ATF, regular brake and other fluid changes. Car runs like new. In the past 3 years have replaced both CV axles (Boots cracked), exterior drive belts (were original), ABS reservoir (leaking seal) and HVAC Evaporator. Also over 10 years replaced two sets of tires and two sets of brake pads and two batteries. Have CD changer and put 4 new 4-way Pioneer TS-A1682R stereo speakers.

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  Nothing impressive, but it gets the job done. - 2013 Honda Fit
  By John - October 7 - 3:10 pm

  I bought this vehicle for the cargo space and for its bare bones nature. I bought a Honda for their "legendary" quality in the small car market. Maintenance for this vehicle has only entailed routine oil changes and 1 set of tires at this point, but this vehicle is barely broken in at 29,000 miles. Should be noted, another reviewer commented on having to replace the A/C in their Fit before 30,000 miles. I am currently replacing my A/C compressor in my 11 Civic with 59,000. This could become a theme with Honda as this is far to early to be replacing these parts. My main problem with this vehicle is fuel economy. I expect 35 - 43 mpg in a small vehicle like this. When SUVs are starting to get over 30 mpg, a small vehicle like this should be pushing 40 mpg, but it doesnt. I use only ethanol free fuel, as there is a slightly better bump in fuel economy, but I still wont get better then 34 to 36 mpg on my daily commute (mostly highway at 60 MPH). I should note that this is while driving like a grandpa and utilizing as much drafting and coasting as possible. On long drives (upwards of 2 hrs) I have obtained 42.1 mpg while traveling between 55 and 60. This car will drink fuel at speeds exceeding 65 mph. MPG drops drastically during the winter, Im sure it is due to the quality of fuel and the cold temps in NY, but I tend to average 29 to 32 mpg. Acceleration is just plain poor. Dont expect to pass a slower vehicle on a 1 lane road at 55 mph, unless, of course, you have a mile to do it. I havent driven the newer 130 hp Fit (2016), but I have to imagine that the additional 13hp makes a huge difference. HONDA PAINT SUCKS!! I have a 2011 Civic and 2013 Fit. The civic is color blk and the front of it looks sand blasted. The Fit (red) has stood up better, but I have made it my mission to protect it. I will leave large gaps between me and the car in front. Still, with these vehicles, the paint chips every time a small object hits it. I have read countless reviews where people complain about this. BEWARE: HONDA PAINT Greatest feature(s) is the average fuel economy display. I still calculate manually with each fill up, but it is nice to have an idea of how your doing. It has caused me to drive much slower in a continuing effort to beat my "high score". I also like the windows as you have almost zero blind spots. I call this vehicle the fish bowl because you have more window than car. Nothing impressive about this vehicle. I had the arm rest installed in mine and switched out all the lights, except headlights, for cree LED lights solely because the out dated incandescent draws too much power and lacks the brightness. The heater during the winter will take 10 minutes to warm up, so I am usually close to reaching my destination before I have substantial heat. I installed a trailer hitch on mine and pull a small 4 x 8 trailer from time to time to the hardware store. This makes the vehicle incredibly more useful. Some reviewers have commented about sway while operating in windy conditions. This vehicle will travel wherever the wind blows. It is a constant fight to keep it straight, which should be obvious due to the bubble design and light weight. Snow handling is great. I drive in NY states snow belt and Im often fighting icy/snowy roads. The stock, narrow, wheel rims give you excellent traction. I havent needed snow tires as an all season has worked just fine up to this point. One down side is your road clearance. I often bottom out on snowy roads and always risk the possibility of getting stuck. Car seats are difficulty to get in the vehicle and deal with, but this tends to be the case with all compacts and sub compact cars.

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  Fun Little Car! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By JJJJwill - October 7 - 2:46 pm

  I have had this car a couple week now and i love driving it everyday. This is the second SI Ive own and really like Honda vehicles. The 4door sedan has enough room for my family of 4 with 2 car seats in back. I have been getting on average about 27 MPG and that is with some hard driving every now and then. The beauty about the car is that you can have a fuel economy car and then rev the engine a little higher and get a quick ride. The engine sounds great when your get above 5000 rpm. The 2 tier dash takes a little getting used to but definitely stands out from the crowd. The premium stereo sounds pretty darn good and the interior has a nice fit and finish. Very happy with my SI.

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  Im Loving It! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Sunflower - October 6 - 5:19 pm

  Ive had my car for 8 months, and its been great. Its zippy and fresh. I had a 2005 and I upgraded when the new 2007s came out. I do not regret it. The leather seats are more luxurious, and the inside finishes give the car a luxury feel. Would definitely recommend it.

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  Accord Leather is cheap! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By GHaris - October 6 - 2:11 pm

  I have a 2006 Accord EX/Leather and the leather on the Accord is cheap! I wear dress pants to work and now the leather on the driver seat has little white marks (or holes) where it lost its black color. I drive the car for about 30 minutes each day. My office pants rubbing against the leather should not cause it to lose its color! The other issue I had is the AC condenser was damaged by road debris because it is made of soft material and there is no mesh or grille in front to prevent debris from flying in.

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  Honda CRV 2007 - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By sdc - October 6 - 9:51 am

  After owning an 01 Accord EX, 03 Pilot EX/L and 05 Pilot EX-L w/Nav we decided to give the 2007 CRV-L w/Nav a try. I would not have considered it if the wheel was attached to the to the rear, what an improvement, the styling is great. We took it on a trip( round trip, 1800 miles) the CRV performed as we expected-great! The Nav is system is right on the money, what an improvement on the nav system in the pilot.

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  Nice, but Somewhat Over-rated - 2005 Honda Accord
  By rick - October 6 - 5:23 am

  Fun to drive, great mileage on the highway, but in town, it is overrated. I get about 24 in town. Nav feature is great and with the exception of a few new subdivisions, it has exceeded expectations. Mine just got recalled for electric motor battery problems.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Michelle - October 5 - 9:13 pm

  I am SO happy with my purchase. I debated between the Sienna and the Odyssey for some time and I am very glad I chose the Odyssey. Feature for feature, the Odyssey is a much better value. The ride is very smooth, steering is tight, seating is comfortable, and the brakes are very responsive. Having never owned a foreign car before, I feel I have been missing out. I am sold on Honda.

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  2005 Touring R&N - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Christopher Compson - October 5 - 9:09 pm

  A good value overall - almost a luxury vehicle for less money with far more versatility. Never have gotten less than 20 mpg to any tank although, admittedly, most miles have been over the road. Will get 28 (or better) when driven at 65 mph - mileage will drop markedly if driven faster. Power is adequate. Ride is almost too harsh with just a driver aboard but much better when fully loaded. Road noise is excessive on concrete surfaces. Vehicle has not had any reliability issues or exhibited any quirky behavior. PAX tires are wearing fine at 36,000 miles and are an attractive safety feature. Lack of telescopic steering wheel has been addressed on 07 and newer models.

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  Love it! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By lvchick - October 5 - 3:42 pm

  I didnt fully appreciate my CR-V until I got stuck with a Trailblazer for a rental car. The car is beautiful this is a vehicle that is comfortable enough for long road trips. The standard features (sunroof, 6 disc CD changer, mp3 jack, multiple storage compartments, etc) are endless. I have the AWD model and get 23mpg in the city. Safety features are top rated. And its a Honda--you know itll last! For my lifestyle, (camping, off-roading to get to hiking trails, the dog, the kids, etc.) this is the perfect vehicle. Not only would I recommend the CR-V, I would buy another one.