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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  my honda hybrid - 2004 Honda Civic
  By jimzey - September 20 - 10:00 am

  The vehicle handles extremely well.

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  Awesome...upgraded from a 1988 honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By uccipdc723 - September 20 - 10:00 am

  This car ia a dream. Navi is awesome and I never get lost anymore. Leather interior and very spacious! Handles like a dream, the same if not better than the audi and bmw that I test drove. Everyone who sees and rides in this car is impressed at the comfort, appearance, ride, navi system, voice activated functions, and style. This is a top of the line Honda with all the features you could want. For the price ($26,600)you get a fully loaded car. For a BMW at that price you get a steering wheel and 4 tires. BUY THIS CAR!! I am not really sure how it will handle in the snow but Im sure Ill be fine

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  DONNAS OPINION - 2004 Honda Accord
  By GYPSY - September 20 - 10:00 am

  ONLY PROBLEM I COULD FIND, WAS THE INTERIOR CLOTH COLORS ARE "TOO LIGHT" ESPECIALLY FOR YOUNG ONES IN THE FAMILY. TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE IS A DREAM, THE OPEN HIGHWAY SAYS IT ALL. IT IS QUICK & RESPONSIVE. IM HAPPY WITH MY PURCHASE.

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  fun car - 1998 Honda Prelude
  By Yeuk Chun Lee - September 20 - 2:00 am

  this is a fun car to drive.although the price might be little high, but everything is worth it.

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  2007 crv ex 2wd is awesome - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Scott - September 19 - 8:46 pm

  Have only had it for about 100 miles but my wife and I love it.Researched all medium priced suvs and decided on the honda.Do not let the 4 cylinder scare you off until you drive it. Plenty of power.

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  Awesome 10s - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Mac - September 19 - 7:46 pm

  I have the Civic EX sedan. This car is truly the master of all cars in its class, and even surpasses the higher priced Beamers et al. The ride is smooth, it handles bumps in the road quite well and even with the sun roof open, its still fairly quiet. The controls are not difficult to understand or reach. The NUMEROUS standard safety features made me purchase this car over everything else, and of course, the fuel economy. Its quite roomy too, my 6 foot 5 cousin was able to drive it comfortably. I previously owned a 99 civic sedan and its amazing how different both are. In two words, Awesome Tens!

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  Strong little car - highly recommended - 1994 Honda Civic
  By driver in Atlanta - September 19 - 2:00 am

  I got this car new in 94, and it has been with me through marriage and kids (though it did get demoted to 2nd car status with coming of the 2nd child). It is still very fun to drive and VERY reliable. Not the best highway car, but great for around town and quite OK for shorter trips. Rear hatch and fold-down seats make this a very versatile hauler, too.

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  A superb car - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Maddog - September 18 - 4:56 pm

  I have read reviews complaining about rattles and premature wear and tear on the interior parts. After 7 months my car is rattle free, vault solid, and the interior is flawless. It handles better than I expected and it is really fast.Itis still a pleasure every time I get in the car - I find reasons to go driving in spite of the current gas prices.

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  Great Car, not getting the gas mileage - 2007 Honda Accord
  By silvia - September 18 - 1:20 pm

  Love everything about the car. The gas mileage is not panning out. On highway best mileage so far has been 27 MPG. On street stop and go I have gotten as low as 14 MPG.

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  Better Gas Mileage Than Expected - 2010 Honda Insight
  By lovemynewinsight - September 18 - 11:00 am

  When I went to buy a new car, I was looking for fuel efficient and economical. I tried the Prius, but didnt love the way it handled and couldnt handle how expensive it was, even used, especially if you want some additional features. I was very pleased when I drove the new Honda Insight. The handling is great. It is comfortable. Extra features (I got the EX) dont add that much to the price. So far I look forward to driving my car every day. And I am getting over 50MPG (I drive entirely in city), versus the 41 average that is advertised. I no longer rush to get where I am going- instead I enjoy playing the game of how to get better MPGs.