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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  brenda - 1994 Honda Civic
  By brendaf - September 4 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car with 77,000 miles and drove 500-1000miles a week. I now have 270,000 miles and it just goes on ticking. I have had few repairs one head gasket, thermostat and other minor repairs. It is a reliable car when you are a person that knows little about repairs. I dont think I would ever want to buy any other can then a Honda.

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  Truly is fun to drive. - 1995 Honda Civic
  By New Civic lover - September 4 - 2:00 am

  Just purchased a 95 Civic DX coupe. I have read reviews like these ones, with such great reviews and good reports. I did my research before purchasing and I was NOT dissapointed what so ever. Consumer Reports rates Civics as being fun to drive and reliable, being one of the most appealing reasons why I bought it. The car seems like the gas gauge never even moves after hours of city driving. The car is very zippy and handles great. The styling is a nice plus. Dont like the fact civics are everywhere??? Well think about this, everyone has civics because they really are great cars.

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  best suv for 8 seats - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By karen jenkins - September 3 - 10:53 pm

  For an 8 seater, leather seats, sun roof, awsome sound system, step boards, very nice floor carpets, cup holders, second row seat tilt back, leg room in third row( unlike Jeep Commander)xm radio, great handling, eco into 4 cylinders, cruise, radio control in thge stearing, heated front seats, second and third row fold down different ways, excellent horse power, great driving visabilty, nice car.

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  Love it! - 2016 Honda Odyssey
  By S. Levine - September 3 - 4:06 pm

  Great car- so practical and utilitarian. Im still super-happy every time I get in. Hope to drive it for many years to come!

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  A GREAT TOY - 2003 Honda S2000
  By TODD ONEILL - September 3 - 2:00 am

  ITS A GREAT CAR TO HAVE AS A TOY. I REALLY DONT KNOW HOW IT WILL DO IN SNOW? THATS WHY I KEPT MY SUV. COMFORT OK BUT SOME CONTROLS HARD TO REACH IE. GAS CAP RELEASE AND GLOVE COMPARTMENT. BUT WHERE ELSE DO YOU PUT THAT STUFF? OVERALL FUN TOY!

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  Overall a excellent vehicle to drive - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Big Phill - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Iv done all types of custom work to the vehicle. Very fun to drive!!!

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  2005 Honda Pilot - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By KRByrd - September 3 - 1:56 am

  If you have ever owned a Honda, you will recognize the feel and the performance in this vehicle. It has three rows of seats and it comfortable in every one. You have great visibility and plenty of power to get you anywhere you want to go. It just "fits" perfectly. I even towed a large trailer and I couldnt even feel any difference in the performance of my Pilot.

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  # 1 Minivan - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Jase - September 2 - 1:56 pm

  We just bought the Odyssey 2 weeks ago. We love everything about it!! It is truly a luxury vehicle. We always said we would never drive a mini-van but the Odyssey looks great and drives great as well. It has a very smooth, quiet ride. Its great for the kids. Plenty of room and storage! The DVD is wonderful to entertain and keep them quiet. Plus unlike a lot of minivans, the Odyssey offers a ton of storage space behind the 3rd row seat. Love the Odyssey!!! Best buy yet!!!

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  Love it - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Nicole - September 2 - 11:56 am

  Got my SUV 3/06 and I love it. My husband and I are expecting our second child and wanted something with space but didnt want a caravan. This definitely will do the job. Very spacious third row. Second row easily fits 2 car seats with plenty of space. It has great crash testing ratings which was a big factor for me. I cant say enough about this except it was worth every penny.

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  Better then most,best buy period!! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By sounthala - September 2 - 4:13 am

  So far it rides and handles a lot better then all the other vans in the market. I love that 255hp it has. It has some luxury feel to it from the inside as well, it has many useful features that you can truly use, and I also like the fact that they offer the underground kit which gives it a sporty look. Im a little speed demon myself and I had that van almost up to 130 mph and if I kept going it would have gone up more - thats one awesome van.