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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  Future Classic - 2002 Honda S2000
  By Mavic - January 15 - 2:40 pm

  Above all else S2000 is meant for fun, driving fun. Its not the fastest. It is one of the best handling with excellent brakes. To accomplish its main objective, it has an engine that begs you to push it harder. Its chassis dares you to dive into the turn a little faster. Like a mistress its not good for more mundane things like picking up your mother in-law from the airport. It excels as a second car that you take out on the weekends and nights when the journey is meant for the soul. This is a sports car. Be sure what you ask for.

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  Great Van - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By NLJJS36 - January 14 - 10:26 am

  The new honda with 200 miles got 24 MPg on our first trip. This van is fun to drive, and love the voice activated navigation, the DVD and the XM radio.

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  HONDA - 2005 Honda Civic
  By LindzHonda - January 14 - 8:26 am

  I love my car. I have bad experiences with cars in the past. For the price of a new Honda, you just can not get a better car.

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  excellent overall car - 1991 Honda Accord
  By deathbytech - January 14 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car alittle under 2 months and I love it. I bought it used at 152000 but the previous owners kept it in very good shape. Its extremely driver friendly and very stylish. The stock stereo that came with it was lacking but technology has advanced much with this feature. I got a nicer deck for it and the stock speakers arent bad. I plan on getting aftermarket speakers as well. Overall, this is an excellent car with lots of space for hauling equipment (Im a drummer) and unbelievable gas mileage.

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  Fun little car - 1994 Honda Civic
  By bddevries - January 14 - 2:00 am

  The car handles extremely well. Not a lot of engine power, so having an manual transmission is a must for adequate performance. Very reliable.

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  One week old - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Bob Eckert - January 14 - 1:37 am

  I have not had this car long enough to read the manual (very small print) but hope to do so within the next 2 years if my eyes hold out.

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  Steel Blue - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By zoolander - January 13 - 7:43 pm

  Great all around vehicle. I traded in a 2004 VW Passat (4 Motion 6 Cyl) for this truck. It has tons of room in the cab and enough power to spare. Id like to see an 8cyl version for some serious power. I bought the optional tonneau cover and rear splash guards (I think the rear splash guards should have been included) Over all I love this truck.

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  I love this car! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By steve - January 13 - 7:06 pm

  Purchased with options. noticed after driving the car for about 3 months that the gas milage actually increased by about 5-7 miles to the gallon after valves seat. Now getting range of 38- 42 on highway and 32-36 in city. This car is very fun to drive and handles excellently, taking corners like it is on rails! The larger tires on the LX makes a real difference compaired to the VP or DX.

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  More than worth the money - 2006 Honda Civic
  By allmylife10607 - January 13 - 6:36 pm

  I bought this car with only 12 miles on it from the dealer brand new. I commute 52 miles a day to work, plus recreational driving. With over 29,000 miles on it so far, Ive had no major issues and love it. It works great for commuting with the ability to keep the engine quiet, but vtech is ready to kick in when you want it. The cars ability to accelerate so fast also comes in handy when youre getting on the highway in a tight spot. I plan on keeping this car for years to come, turning it into a show car eventually. I have the 18" upgrade rims and love them, as well as low profile tires and an aftermarket exhaust that makes it sound mean.

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  2005 Honda Accord EX-L Duffs - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Duff Evans - January 13 - 2:43 pm

  The automobile Industry should follow in the foot steps of the Honda. They have it all together and the others should take notice and build a masterpiece like the Honda Motor Car Division has. In my own words the best most safe and solid car on the road today and that is not exaggerating at all. Driving this car everyday gives me a safe feeling that I know I am going to see my family at the end of my day. Thanks for building such a great Automobile Honda :p)