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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  Almost Perfect - 2003 Honda Accord
  By ryanmiller98 - May 2 - 10:00 am

  After driving a Passats (wagon & sedan), Outback, Forrester, Camrys, Lexus RX300, Honda CRV, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, the Accord was hands- down the most exciting and enjoyable vehicle we drive. The V6 is incredibly powerful, although, there is a little bit of a lag before it feels like the "afterburners" kick in at mid- speeds. My wife is really in love with this car.

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  Great on Gas and looks good - 2015 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By Herman Rodriguez - May 2 - 6:08 am

  I work with my car doing share rides Lyft and Uber I drive at least 10 hour a day 5-6 day per week and I only fill the tank once a week, great value it allows me to keep my more of my money in my pocket not the gas tank

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  If MPG Is What You Want ... - 2008 Honda Civic
  By mrmark99 - May 2 - 4:40 am

  Purchased on 12/31/07 in time to still get the $2,300 tax credit. I drive a lot of miles (25,000 a year), so gas mileage was my #1 concern. I have 11,579 miles on the car now and it has been fabulous. My gas mileage was in the 40-43 range for the first two to three months due in large part to breaking in the car as well as the Illinois winter I was driving in. Since then my gas mileage has gotten better and better as the weather warmed up and the car began to get broken in. My last 7 tanks of gas have gotten me 51, 50, 51, 50, 53, 52 and 51 MPG! I drive on the interstates with the cruise set at 65 mph and I neither accelerate nor brake hard in the city in an effort to maximize my MPG.

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  This is not the Civic I once knew - 2007 Honda Civic
  By GMart] - May 2 - 1:13 am

  Wonderful car. Got 35 miles per gallon on first tank, half highway, half city. Well designed and plenty of room, stylish, good energy. Just cant see the front end

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  2007 HONDA ODYSSEY EXL - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By BOB - May 1 - 3:56 pm

  Pleasantly surprised at handling and comfort of this minivan after trading in my Lexus GX470 for it. Need seating for grandkid visits. 8 passenger option a real plus. Would have bought the Touring model except for the run flat tires.

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  My First Civic - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Great Civic - May 1 - 1:16 pm

  I needed a dependable car for work that had good gas mileage. I usually purchase larger cars - the gas guzzlers made me look at hybrids which lead me to the Civic. The difference in gas mileage versus the price difference for the car, coupled with the loss in trunk space as a result of the hybrid, lead me to the gas powered automatic. So far I can say, while I think this car could be my last Civic (built well) it will be the begining of my relationship with Honda and the Civic.

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  Bought new - 1998 Honda Prelude
  By phil/pshephard - May 1 - 2:00 am

  The ATTS really makes this car handle well, but it does prevent you from doing significant power upgrades. Iv been driving it for over 5 years, and still love it!

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  2003 Pilot EX w/ DVD System - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Codyandgomez - May 1 - 2:00 am

  See entries below.

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  Wonderful Van - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Onlysee - April 30 - 6:26 pm

  Great Van! I traded in my 2004 Odyssey EX-RES for the 2006 EX. I love the re-design, and I couldnt be happier with my new vehicle. The ride is smoother, handles better, and has more cupholders than my family could ever dream of using.

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  great commuter - 1992 Honda Accord
  By shannwarr - April 30 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car because I drive 80 miles every day to work and back and didnt want to depreciate my Z71 or Infiniti. The car had 176,000 miles when I bought it. It had some body damage, but ran like a top. The car now has 189,000 miles and still meets smog standard and gets 29 m.p.g. on an automatic. Honda builds an awesome car!!