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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  77,000 miles and counting - 1999 Honda Accord
  By 6thgenaccord - June 18 - 2:00 am

  Got a Honda Accord Ex sedan in Apr. 99 and it is a wonderful investment. The only gripes that Ive had were like the guy in the previous review said, I got scared when the engine stalled when I was in the left turn lane. Everything died and I was luckily able to make it to my Honda dealer after restarting the car 10 times. Honda fixed it free of charge though cause it was a recall. That happened when the car was at 60K miles. Now, its at 77K and still running well. I just wish now it had more horsepower

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  Wouldnt drive anything but a Honda - 1999 Honda Accord
  By BruceF - June 18 - 2:00 am

  I really do love this car! The styling still looks current, and its fun to drive. It gets great gas mileage, and it has plenty of room for me and four friends. It is a great car for my commute back and forth to college. It provides the functionality of a sedan with the sportiness of a coupe. Ive never had a serious problem with it other than the brake switch going out-- the brakes still worked, but the taillights didnt come on. It was repaired under warranty. Other than that, it has not given me a single problem. Ill drive it till the wheels fall off.

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  Anti-SUV - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By WOOF - June 18 - 2:00 am

  I read all these reviews.. I wonder what people are thinking saying "add leather, paint the bumpers, navigation systems,etc." Adding fluff just adds to the price. The middle of SUV means utility.. its refreshing to see a real utilitarian vehicle. We have not seen them since the demise of the true Land Cruisers prior to 1990. I owned 2 and they were simplicity and quality. A work/play truck. This is no truck, but the general idea is there. Use it, thrash it, and have fun with it,knowing you didnt sell the farm or are selfishly depleting the enviroment and parking spaces.

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  An Excellent Car to Drive! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By G. Grant - June 17 - 8:43 pm

  This is my fourth Honda from Steve Hopkins Honda; is a Honda Civic Two Door Coupe; handles really well, is extremely comfortable, gets 30 miles in the city; 38 on the freeway, and is fun to drive!

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  Fun to Drive - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Cindy Rider - June 17 - 10:10 am

  I had decided to buy a Toyota Rav 4. Several people I knew had one. However, when I drove it, and then compared prices with the Honda CRV, it didnt compare. For less money and a quieter ride, I could get a 6 cd changer and all wheel drive on the Honda. The Rav 4 was not nearly as good a value and the interior was not as comfortable as the CRV.

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  Best Car I have owned - 1999 Honda Prelude
  By tdsd - June 17 - 2:00 am

  I have owned Bug eyed Sprites, MGB, TR4,Lotus Turbo Esprit, 1964 Mustang, Dodge 1967 R/T, and many other performance cars. I worked for a Mercedes and BMW dealership picking up cars for service. I drove almost every model they make. I can only say the my 1999 Prelude is more fun to drive than any other car I have owned or driven. It is just fun.

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  Almost no room for improvement! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By RenoS2K - June 17 - 2:00 am

  Ive always been a die-hard fan of the 8-cylinder engine. I was even going to get a Vette, ... until I drove the S2K. It is so much fun to drive and attracts all the right kind of attention. Just what youd want in a sports car. I compared it to the Z4 and the 350Z, and there was just no comparison. The S2K is a better car for a better price. The 04 Honda S2000 is a great value as well as a great performer. I strongly recommend it.

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  S-2000 is a good choice. - 2004 Honda S2000
  By drk - June 17 - 2:00 am

  Extremely fun car to drive. Tracks extremely well in hi-speed corners. Tremendous power once rolling because the VTEC engine develops its real power at mid to high rpms. The hard molded convertible boot cover is of little practical use (takes up much of trunk when not installed) but I think it does look good on the car.

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  Jans 1st SUV - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Janis gallagher - June 16 - 7:54 pm

  Just realize that SUVs get poor gas mileage vs a car. But if you live in an icy/snowy climate and have to get out it a must. This particular SUV is even fun to drive.

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  I will never buy American again... - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Sandi - June 16 - 7:00 pm

  I just purchased a 2007 LX V-5 4 door sedan. It handles superbly, and I feel 110% safe in this vehicle. I highly recommend it. I had a Chevy Malibu and it doesnt even compare. Honda is in a class by itself -- the Japanese have outdone themselves. Great V-6 engine, fast as lightning, terrific sound system and overall comfort. Run, dont walk, to your nearest Honda dealership. Awesome driving experience!