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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  What a blast! - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Puzman - July 4 - 10:30 pm

  This is my 3rd Civic (85 DX, 91 Si). For around 20K, this car is an unbeatable value. The drivetrain is incredible- smooth shifts (with the exception of 5th-6th) and the engine spins like a turbine. Rev to the top of the tach and you get a crazy rush of acceleration; its more addictive than crack. Cornering is flat and direct, the handling and the build are very tight, the stereo and interior are great (I happen to like the digital speedo), the seats are incredibly comfy, and the fuel economy has been great (two fills thus far- 27.5mpg and 29mpg avg). Top that with Hondas reputation for reliability and this is a no-brainer.

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  Great - 2001 Honda Civic
  By bagman69 - July 4 - 9:38 pm

  From purchase to the present our Civic has been both a pleasure to drive and a pleasure to maintain. There have been no problems (let alone major ones) in 3 years of driving this car. For drives to our daughters place (4 hour drive through hilly terrain) this car gets 35 to 42 mpg (winter/summer). Every three months I take the car to my Honda dealer for oil changes and recommended service.

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  The only choice - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By sause - July 4 - 7:12 pm

  This is the best overall value in the class. We traded a domestic van that we enjoyed very much and listened to the hype about the Honda. We drove it and bought it after doing the diligence of looking around.

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  Great Car - 1992 Honda Accord
  By Marilyn - July 4 - 4:01 pm

  I like the car a lot, its easy to drive and has worked almost perfectly for all 14 years I have had it.

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  Great Student Car - 2001 Honda Civic
  By kSpriss - July 4 - 12:10 pm

  This is a good first car. I bought it off a family member. Fuel economy is EXCELLENT, highway driving can see upwards of 45 MPG. The engine is weak at low RPMs, and passing power isnt the greatest. This isnt too big a deal for a relatively gentle driver for myself. Steering is EXCELLENT; the car is very nimble and easy to steer, with a very logical and intuitive feel to the wheel. I always feel in control of the car.

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  Big Bang For The Buck - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By SHARON - July 4 - 10:00 am

  I recently purchased the Honda CRV, EX. I had previously owned a Subaru Outback Limited Wagon with all the bells. Unfortanely, the bells broke and everything was very expensive to fix. I drive over 2,500 miles a month and have been enjoying my new car each mile. It gives me the room and power I need to feel both comfortable and safe. I would strongly recommend this vehicle. The only suggestion I would make is that they upgrade the interior. The fabric selection looks a bit cheezy.

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  Pleasant Surprise - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Johnsonr - July 4 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for a vehicle that could be used around town, be economical, & allow me to haul 2 Great Pyrenees dogs around. The CR-V EX fit all of the critera that I needed, & included a few niceities. The build quality was good & it gave me a few extras that I had not anticipated. Overall both I and the dogs love the vehicle and the opportunity to go places in an economical fashion. I highly recommend for frugal users that want a good quality car at a reasonable price.

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  The Greatest Car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Joi Moore - July 4 - 10:00 am

  I bought this vehicle as a replacement for a 95 Ford Contour, and from now on I will forever buy Hondas as long as I live. The performance of this car is awesome!

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  Great Car Except for Vibrations - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Richard Barkins - July 4 - 10:00 am

  After doing a lot of research online, I decided to go for the accord. Its a great car over all, except for the steering wheel vibrations. It vibrates in idle, not sure if I should take it in or not.

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  LEADEROFTHEPACK - 2004 Honda Accord
  By GARBONIO - July 4 - 10:00 am

  FIRST HONDA EVER PURCHASED AND WILL MOST LIKELY REMAIN LOYAL TO HONDA.THE ACCORD IS PLEASING IN ALMOST EVERY ASPECT THAT IS IMPORTANT TO THE MIDSIZE SEGMENT BUYER.