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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  minor items - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By P - August 21 - 1:21 pm

  I like my CRV. Perfect for a small family car. I can drive 3 or 4 teenage girls around in it comfortably. Its pretty good in the weather on wet or snowy roads. The clock is so high on the dashboard that it is always in the sunlight and I can never see what time it is during the day. I wouldnt want to use it if I lived in the mountains though. The engine is 4 cyl. and it does well until I have to go up hills. Then it seems to strain the transmission and no gears seem to be a good fit. Poor visiblility on the drivers side blind spot but if you get the mirrors just right you can compensate for it. But it is reliabile and fits in with my commuting suburban life style.

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  Roomy - 2003 Honda Element
  By David - August 21 - 12:55 pm

  Its roomy. Its tough. Most people cant believe the space available when the seats are folded up or removed. The armrest on the passenger seat should be standard. That would be a plus.

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  Very pleased - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Mack1212 - August 21 - 10:00 am

  Traded in my SUV for this car because gas was killing me. MPG is incredible in this car. Between 35-40 on the highway.

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  Wow! What perfect timing to buy a hybrid - 2004 Honda Civic
  By ScottM - August 21 - 10:00 am

  Im getting 45 mpg.

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  GREAT CAR - 2004 Honda Accord
  By SFarrow11 - August 21 - 10:00 am

  I reciently owned a 2003 Honda Accord LX Sedan. I traded it in for the 04 EX V6 6MT Coupe; only because my wife purchased a family SUV and there is no need for another family car. I owned it for a little more than a year and put over 26000 miles on and, and never had a problem once. The car was flawless. Great ride, great power for a 4 Cyl, and outstanding fuel economy. Best in its class.

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  UPGRADE - 2004 Honda Accord
  By SFarrow11 - August 21 - 10:00 am

  I reciently traded in my 2003 Honda Acoord LX Sedan for the 2004 EX V6 6MT coupe model, and I couldnt be happier. Not that I didnt adore my previous Accord. But I couldnt pass up the great deal. I was looking at the Acura TSX for a replacement since I already owned an Accord, but the Accord was a better value. I strongly suggest this car to anyone.

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  I Expected More - 2004 Honda Accord
  By CarBuff - August 21 - 10:00 am

  OK Car. Drives well. Not particularly outstanding in anything but better than most $26,000 Japanese cars. However, worst dealer service ever encountered. Dealer lied about performing repairs. Really left a bad taste for Honda products. Also, rattles everywhere especially from the rear shelf.

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  Traded Cadillac for Honda! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By deco drive - August 21 - 10:00 am

  I traded in my loaded Cadillac CTS with Nativagion today! AFter constant problems with the CTS and GM just manufacturing horrible vehicles with worse service, I couldnt take it anymore. Today, I saved over $10,000 on a car that has more acceleration, though a little less horsepower, every bell & whistle I can imagine, absolutely a blast to drive and I could not be happier. The dealer was fabulous and I am absolutely satisfied!

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  Overall great vehicle - 2018 Honda Odyssey
  By Erica Milbourne - August 21 - 8:23 am

  We have only had it for a month but dont have any real complaints! The only thing I really miss is the middle row seats laying down flat. The new model only tilts forward and slides.

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  CVR has all the latest - 2018 Honda CR-V
  By Gary Morgan - August 21 - 8:16 am

  Its fun.