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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  Great Car for under $20K - 2003 Honda Element
  By laizer - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I have the EX AWD 5 speed model. This is a very fun, high "utility" SUV. It accomplishes everything I need. It has plenty of room for cargo, gives me AWD when the bad weather comes, has kid friendly floors and seats, and is very affordable. This unique car fits my needs better than any other car on the road. The automatic is under-whelming, however the 5 speed makes a world of difference. This car is not as plush as my girlfriends Lexus RX300, but then again the price is 1/2 that of the Lexus and these 2 cars are not really comparable to each other, but you really cannot find another car even close to the price range that will do what the Element does.

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  who let the dogs out - 2003 Honda Element
  By crazygirl - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I just got my Element and I love it. It is the best Suv I have ever had. It has a great sound system, comfrotable seats, passengers have plenty of room. It is charming in a funny way.. Its so ugly its cute.. I debated buying it for about 7 months and couldnt resist the urge. Im glad I did, I couldnt be any happier. I love the fact that not too many people have them. Man! are they missing out... It is a joke in my family to call it the Dork mobile.. whatever to that. It is the best, and I love it,

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  My first SUV and love it. - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By PatrickC1026 - August 6 - 10:00 am

  This is my first SUV and Im still driving my 92 Honda Prelude. Although there is no comparison with Prelude, the Pilot handling and power is awsome. Ive driven my Pilot to Mexico/San Diego, San Francisco bay area and Las Vegas and it never complained even with the full load to Mexico.

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  My new car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Shortykins - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this car for only a month now and so far I love it. For the price I got it for, I was very satisfied with the standard features it came with, such as CD player, sunroof, and VTEC engine. However, I do not like the fact that the seats constantly have lint on them, the car gets shaky once you hit around 70 mph, and that leather wasnt an option. Also, being short, I find that the headrests in the backseat do obstruct view somewhat. Aside from this, this car has exceeded my expectations!

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  What a great car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Rich JC - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I drive more than 150 miles a day and this car is quiet smooth and comfortable. On top of that, I get between 45 and 50 miles per gallon and more than half of the trip is at 70 MPH. The car now has over 9,000 miles on it and so far I have had no unscheduled maintenance and no failures. Ive driven into the mountains, out to the desert, and all over town and I look forward to my daily drive.

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  You Cant Go Wrong - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Connecticut Yankee - August 6 - 7:53 am

  Have had my Accord for 3 months. Was going to buy new Explorer but gas prices changed my mind. Once I test drove this car I was hooked. For a 4 cylinder car I am surprised at the comfortable and peppy drive. Recently went to Cape Cod and averaged 34mpg. Overall, Ive been averaging about 25 mpg. For the money, I do not think you can find a better value. The nav system is great. Also test drove the Altima. It was a tough decision, but the Accord is a better looking car and slightly bigger.

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  Honda Touring Odyssey - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By John Raglow - August 6 - 2:40 am

  Provides a very comfortable ride, great excelleration, excellent millage and very reliable. Service at the Honda dealership has been excellent.

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  S2000 - 2003 Honda S2000
  By Fantom - August 6 - 2:00 am

  I have owned sports cars for 30 years and this is the finest automobile that I have driven. It handles and accelerates superbly.

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  i LOVE MY S2000 - 2003 Honda S2000
  By dilbert - August 6 - 2:00 am

  IM IN LOVE WITH THIS CAR. I GET SO MANY GOOD REPONSES FROM PEOPLE. I DRIVE IT EVERY WHERE. iF YOU WANT A SPORTS CAR THIS IS IT...ITS A PURE SPORTS CAR.

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  TOP JAPANESE ROADSTER - 2003 Honda S2000
  By NINO - August 6 - 2:00 am

  EXCELLANT HANDLING AND GREAT POWER IN A FOUR CYLIDER. FUN IN THE MOUNTAINS