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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  Where were you all my life - 2006 Honda Element
  By BOXERMOM - May 13 - 6:04 pm

  I have been thru at least 6 diferent SUVs trying to find the perfect car for my, work, dogs, and camping trips. The 1990 Trooper came close, but this car is perfect. The dogs love it, I love it, and my lead foot loves it. Took it to the snow at Brian Head, Utah. AWD works great. Had chains, didnt use them, and climbed those 12,000 feet mountains like a regular mountain goat. Next trip Glacier national park. Like the seat in 2007 more, since seat belt is conected to seat and not door post.

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  Very good purchase! - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Terese Brady Mendez - May 13 - 10:53 am

  Needed to replace a 2007 Honda Accord Coupe with a similar car with a lot less mileage, and this one fit the bill. The 2009 has significantly more interior space. The engine has a bit less power/pick-up than the 2007, and the noise level inside the cabin is a slightly higher. Im currently having a problem with the "Check Fuel Cap" light coming on intermittently and randomly, but the dealer told me there was no indication in the "black box" as to what is causing this. This problem is in process of being corrected, perhaps via a new fuel cap. Overall, this car is comfortable and reliable and has a bit more of a sporty look than the 2007 version. Definitely am satisfied with the purchase.

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  Love my pilot! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Bedwards722 - May 12 - 11:14 pm

  We now have 23,000 miles on our Pilot. We pull 2 Harleys on a trailer from time to time. It performs very well and is a very comfortable traveling vehicle. Weve even taken the in-laws with us on a trip. They found the back seat very comfortable and room for baggage. Lots of AC/DC plugs. Took laptop, cell phones, and used the 12V to play DVDs.

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  Really enjoying the CR-V - 2018 Honda CR-V
  By DD - May 12 - 10:22 pm

  I thought it would be a bigger adjustment to downsize from the Odyssey now that I no longer am regularly driving a teen around, but its been fine. The ride is steady and I love the active safety controls.

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  Great car! - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Milo - May 12 - 1:33 pm

  Great car!

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  Our first Honda - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Debbie K. - May 12 - 9:49 am

  This is our first Honda. The drive is quiet and smooth, fuel economy is decent, and the A/C chills quickly. All in all we are pleased with our latest purchase.

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  A truck for the rest of us - 2018 Honda Ridgeline
  By Byron Buck - May 12 - 4:30 am

  If you have modest towing needs and value safety, comfort and efficiency in a mid sized Truck, look no further.

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  Beautiful car - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Nancy Mcdonough - May 11 - 11:43 pm

  I did a LOT of research and took a LOT of test drives. This is a wonderful car. It has a fantastic drive, and is very comfortable! Ive never bought a sedan, and I have no regrets with this car. It is truly my dream car.

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  The Most Reliable Car Out There - 1995 Honda Civic
  By mer - May 11 - 8:12 pm

  I have had this car since 1995 and I can say hands down this is the most reliable car I have ever had. It has not broken down once. I have taken it for regular maintenance repairs and some work on the A/C and that is it! It is not the best looking car in the world but it is fun. It also not the most powerful car but it has good fuel economy, well with the new fuel efficient cars it is no longer the best but it is good. Overall, I really love this car, I will always try to buy Hondas I have to say it is a great car.

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  The Complete Package - 2007 Honda Element
  By SC in Charlotte - May 11 - 1:52 pm

  Thank you Honda for releasing the SC! The SC resolves the two main issues we had about the Element (unpainted surfaces and the rubber floor). Overall, we are very satisfied with our Element SC. For our needs, it is a complete package. The fact that you do not see one at every corner makes it stand out even more. Why drive a boring mini-SUV when you can get the complete package w/ the Element.