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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  Honda Converts! - 2005 Honda Accord
  By RolTra - November 29 - 2:03 pm

  Having ownen 8 cars with the time span of 10 years, I feel a bit experienced on what the middle class car lover would want in their next investment. Toyota always one step ahead, be it in styling, or toys, this year I was I was attracted to the Honda products and after test driving the Accord, was convinced the 2dr, roomy, sport yet elegant design was ALL me! This car has bought me over, and depending on long term performance and quality, I belive I am now a loyal consumer of Honda.

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  Civic Commuter - 1998 Honda Civic
  By Jay - November 29 - 1:29 pm

  I bought my Civic with 21000 miles. I now have over 109000 miles with no major issues. The manual transmission hasnt given me any of the issues that other people describe with their automatics. I replaced the exhaust within the last year, but if you live in the salt belt this is to be expected. I also replaced the original battery last winter, it was 8 years old. The car handles well, but is no BMW.

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  Most economical & reliable car so far - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Anders Seits - November 29 - 12:35 pm

  The 1999 Honda Civic LX 4-door I bought new and have owned for over 6 years has proved to be the most economical and reliable car I have owned so far in my life. I am 60 years old and have owned Fords, Chevrolets, VWs, and a Mitsubishi Galant. The Honda Civic might not be as comfortable and roomy as some of them, but it has been an excellent, reliable, cost-efficient car for city and highway driving. The only repair so far has been the replacement of the interior blower fan, because of worn-out bearings. Current mileage is 78,000 miles.

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  Good family car with young children - 2006 Honda Element
  By Supply18 - November 29 - 9:04 am

  The Element is a good car for the money. The floorboard is rubber, not carpet which keeps spill stains away. It is easy to clean and looks ok with running boards. The rear seats are raised so you can actually see where you are going from the back seat. It is easier to see when changing lanes compared to other SUVs I have driven. Gas mileage is better than most SUVs, but still not great for a Honda.

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  My 5th and best Honda - 2005 Honda Element
  By Sold on Honda - November 29 - 8:19 am

  The Honda Element is functional and great to drive. With XM radio, I have lots of music choices, too. Ive hauled furniture and boxes and taken people on sightseeing rides in the area. Great visibility for all, since the back seat is raised. Enough power and stability for me, too. And only 6 inches wider than my last Honda Civic. I especially like the molded pieces on the front and back fenders. Gas mileage is okay for a heavy vehicle. I traded in my 2000 Honda Civic Coupe and find the Element seating to be more comfortable. Good maneuverability.

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  Element is an Excellent Family Car - 2007 Honda Element
  By William Grandy - November 28 - 11:09 pm

  Excellent interior features. Great leg room for children. XM Radio is a huge upgrade over basic auto radio. This a great choice for familys with 2 small children. Functional with personality. A better city car than FJ Cruiser. Visibility takes getting used to. Definitely needs upgrades like fog lights and roof rack to complete the package.

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  Best choice - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Hennypennies - November 28 - 7:56 pm

  We compared several minivans. The ability to get leather and the optional 8th seat pushed the Oddessey over the top. We were torn about the Rear Entertainment System and Navigation System, but love them both and they make the car extra-fun. A home-run for Honda.

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  Second CR-V - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Joanne - November 28 - 6:18 pm

  Recently traded in my 14 yr old CR-V. Im a confirmed Honda customer and was unsure of whether to buy another CR-V or Accord. I test drove both and though the Accord was a bit more superior in acceleration, the CR-V won out in comfort and roominess. Was very pleased with the quiet interior as my older CR-V was always noisy. My only complaint is the black carpet -- It would be nice if Honda gave you a choice of at least one lighter color. I find myself needing to vacuum almost every day. The black shows every little thing you bring in on your feet! Love the leather interior!

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  5 months and counting - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Jan from WI - November 28 - 11:23 am

  My 05 Accord turned over 10,000 miles this week & Im still very happy with my investment. This is my 3rd Honda purchase, 1st Accord. The reliability Ive experienced from my Hondas keeps me coming back & loyalty with the dealer keeps me getting a good deal. Since 1977 my family has owned a combined total of 7 Hondas with my latest purchase - I drove 5 of them. Honda was my first car & though Ive tried others, I know its the best value! I did a lot of research and drove a number of other vehicles, but I knew that Id be getting the best for my money from another Honda. Going from a 5 speed to an automatic worried me, but Im totally satisfied with the performance. GO FOR IT! REALLY

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  Excellent Car - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Benjamin - November 28 - 10:32 am

  I bought this car when it had 55,000 miles and have had it for 5 years. The ONLY problem Ive had was the starter went out, besides that I have just done regular maintenance and it has been extremely reliable. I previously had a 1993 Civic that just wouldnt die, either. Again, no problems. Ill be a Honda guy for life, this is the most dependable car on the market, you wont be disappointed.