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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  I love my Hatchback Sport Manual - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Mrcarlosvega - September 22 - 7:49 pm

  Very impressive car! I have had cars that triple the price and I am impressed! It feels quick, stable around corners. 90 mph on the highway is rock solid. It is really a Fun car! Years back I read something true. It is funner to drive a slow car fast, rather than a fast car slow. Only negative, the mirrors create a good amount or wind noise at speed. The plastic handles to close the trunk are really plastic and delicate.

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  First Non Jeep/Dodge - 2007 Honda Element
  By Michael - September 22 - 2:50 pm

  Finally recieved it last night after a month wait. Driven about 80 miles so far and its great. I test drove an 06 LX automatic, but ordered the 07 LX manual because I feel that manuals are more enjoyable, and I liked the added standard features and changes on the 07 model. The element is roomy, and drives well. I like the addition of the standard door lock remote, side curtain airbags, and the fact that the seat belt now retracts into the seat. Have not yet figured out gas mileage, but I know its better than the Dakota I had. The manual shifter is well placed, easily reachable, and shifts well. I am very pleased so far, and would recommend to friends and family.

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  CR-V a mixed blessing - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By jb - September 22 - 2:06 pm

  Runs great on highway and in mountains. has low frequency level noise at 45 and 60 MPH. Started vibrating at stops now too. oil filter position guarantees spillage into frame. road noise higher than expected IPOD option pretty quirky easy to go 12 hour travel day with this

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  Way better Than NISSAN - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Herb Nyman - September 22 - 9:07 am

  Shop for price

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  Honda CR-V - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Railcarmechanic - September 22 - 9:04 am

  I have taken many trips with my CR-V. It is comfortable to drive whether you are the driver or a passenger. I average 24 MPG, combined driving, with a high of 29 MPG on a long road trip. Other than normal maintenance, I have had no problems with my CR-V.

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  awesome sports convertible - 2005 Honda S2000
  By alan p - September 22 - 8:45 am

  this is my second s2000, leased first. now purchased. will own until the day i die. that good. if you want performance, love a manual trans and enjoy convertible, get this car

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  Its a Civic - 2007 Honda Civic
  By mhbthr71 - September 22 - 3:36 am

  I put a lot of miles on any car and purchased soley on the gas mileage. Traded in my Element which now I wish I still had. After driving the Civic for 9 months now, I am not so thrilled. Gas mileage average 38-42 mph, but the car is not comfortable at all. The seats are hard and very limited adjustments to try and make them comfortable. No cup holders in back or arm rest in back. What was Honda thinking. Basically, I feel this is a way overpriced commuting machine. Not kid friendly, not long trip friendly. Honda also falls short in the "fun to drive" catagory. Corners horrribly, tire squeal. Listen, I dont drive like Mario Andretti. I was suprised at the poor handling.

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  Loving my coupe...the green machine! - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Wisdom Warrior - September 21 - 9:42 pm

  I am truly amazed at the improvements over the last generation! This car swayed me from an Audi A3. It is classy, refined, agile and quiet. I chose the LX because it has all the features i need without alot of fluff. It has loads of technology, even in the base model. I love how it handles and the Sport mode gives the engine a nice growl! There are discounts on this hot coupe, so haggle when you purchase! The only changes might be adding sport paddle shifters ( a little inconvenient shifting from sport to drive mode) and making mud flaps standard to keep my beauty clean! (I am adding them myself, as I bought them with the car and did not want to pay for installation. )

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  Great Car - 1998 Honda Accord
  By jenni - September 21 - 8:21 pm

  Bought this car new and have been very pleased. It still looks great. Has only needed normal, routine maintenance until recently. Replaced cat converter at 100K miles and now need new struts at 101K. The only other frustrating mechanical problem is that one rear door no longer opens, and it will cost a lot to tear out the door panel to fix. Other than that, I would highly recommend purchasing this car!

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  best I have owned - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Doc Smith - September 21 - 1:06 pm

  I traded my 2003 Ford Expedition at a significant loss to get into this vehicle. We have taked several long trips as a family (with 2 teenagers). Everyone in the family is thrilled with this vehicle. Mileage averages 21/mpg which is excellent - I have owned a Hummer and a Suburban. Handling, acceleration are also excellent.