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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  WOW - what a car! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By us3 - March 27 - 9:30 pm

  We drove all the competitors and this car stood out above the rest by far. I also have a 2000 Civic, but this car is like a totally different make in comparison. It is very stylish and seems like a luxury European interior. I am completely satisfied at this point and highly recommend taking one for a test drive - you wont be disappointed!

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  My Civic is pretty G - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Thug Life - March 27 - 9:12 pm

  I have been driving this car for about nine months. I have to say it is quite premium. It looks very nice, is easy to work on, and is fun to drive. Like other reviewers, I really like the lack of power steering and the driving feel it brings. The car is easy to work on and has a lot of tuning potential. Also I get well above 35 MPG in the city.

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  Classic Sport - 1999 Honda Prelude
  By Gock - March 27 - 11:59 am

  This car is excellent for those looking for something fun. Although the interior is bland and the car is a portly weight, its mostly a silent killer. A little heavy to take 90 degree turns with ease, but if you take it on a curvy backroad, you see its true power. Take it on a sharp curve at speeds even a WRX would be scared of and the Prelude laughs at the curve and eats it for breakfast. Interstate driving is like a cakewalk for this car, easily passing any car with a quick downshift or two. Stop- and-go driving is a little boggy but still spirited. Also very quiet! The added reliability and high-quality materials make this car a smart buy for anyone wanting something fun!

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  Best Car Ever!! - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Jabuitra - March 27 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car 4 and a half years ago and put 82,000 miles on it. Nothing ever broke on the car. Just oil, gas, and 15k miles interval service. This is by far the most reliable car in the industry. I installed an aftermarket Typhoon air intake system, which boosted the V6 engines power by at least 10%. Changed original tires at 71,000 miles. Original brake pads (I actually took it to the dealer to have them replaced and the dealer told me they still have another 40,000 miles to go). Nothing breaks in this car!!!

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  a good little buy - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By rbreen - March 27 - 10:00 am

  Overall,I love driving our newcrv. My main disappointment is that the gas mileage has not turned out to be as good as posted. I do like the drive and the extra power you put into the vehicle and the side airbags add to my feeling of safety. It takes hills much better now. I love the 6-cd changer. Overall, we are very happy with the vehicle. The only down side is that I think our dealer sells them for too much.

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  Great Minivan - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Mommmmmy - March 27 - 10:00 am

  I love this minivan. We were looking into the Ford Windstar as well. Both have great features, but the Odyssey has some extras and great resale value. If listing pros and cons, the Odyssey definitely wins.

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  Best Honda Civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By George956 - March 27 - 10:00 am

  It has been a pleasure purchasing this car

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  Perfect Compact SUV - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By W - March 27 - 8:31 am

  The size of the vehicle and available cargo space are perfect for my lifestyle. I live in a pretty busy city where parking can be a problem but I also needed cargo space for the activities that I engage in. I absolutely love the aesthetic and performance of this car. I initially had an issue with the headlights not operating but the service center of the dealership took care of it right away!

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  Happy So Far - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Peter - March 27 - 7:56 am

  Bought this car used and have put a few thousand miles on it so far. Gas mileage is great in and out of town. EX trim is very nice and I get many compliments. Accelerates and handles exceptionally well. Interior is fairly nice, but dials for climate and audio feel cheap. Long trips get a little uncomfortable, but I bought it as a commuter car, so I knew what I was getting. No major problems yet and looking forward to having this car a long time.

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  If you dont need to tow a house... - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By truckin - March 26 - 3:44 pm

  Great truck! Rides like a luxury sedan and handles like one too. Honda build quality is excellent. Ive owned only domestic trucks since I learned to drive and this one tops them all. It doesnt have the payload or towing of the others, but like me, not many need to be able to tow a house. Gas mileage is pretty good for a 4wd truck (19 mpg combined - not broken in yet). Innovative features are great (in bed trunk, composite bed). To complete the package, the safety features are top notch. Six air bags, stability control, traction control, ABS - what more could you ask for? Only complaint is that it is a little goofy looking, but when your behind the wheel, you forget all about that.