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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  Honda 2016 Sens Accord - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Orlando Armaswalker - April 27 - 5:07 am

  Road sensor is very good, though it puts too much distance between you and the car in front of you, annoying drivers behind you.

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  1st one to buy - 2005 Honda Accord
  By David - April 27 - 2:30 am

  I bought my car on 2/18/05 (who can top that)and got a great deal. The experiance have been great and since that time i have put 11k miles on it due the fact that i drive practiclely all day 6day a week. The best city was 25mpg and highway 39mpg. I love when I stop and it switches to electric... complete silence.. The speed is excellent, and i had to prove that to a few drivers who want to test me. luv it

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  Honda Civics keep on going and going - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Bill Favors - April 26 - 4:13 pm

  We had a !985 Honda Civic Wagon that once we took it off the dealership lot it never had to go back it was so dependable. No recalls or warranty issues to deal with. I cant say that about Ford or GM prodicuts unfortunately

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  Love It So Far - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Ol Pilot - April 26 - 3:46 pm

  So far, the Ody is great, Comfortable, quiet and solid build quality. Its too early to judge mileage since its less than two weeks old, but it doesnt seem too bad so far. (EPA estimates are somewhat unrealistic, anyway.) Very good acceleration, tight, responsive handling, excellent brakes. Accommodations are user friendly. The dealer was very professional, good buying experience.

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  Worth the money!!! - 2014 Honda Pilot
  By Mouli - April 26 - 3:21 pm

  Bought a 2014 pilot and have been happy with it so far. Took it for a road trip (1K miles) and the ride has been wonderful. My kids enjoyed the space at the 2nd row seat. Controls are easy to understand. Only downside I would write is the squeaking noise on the front doors and looks like I am not the only one having this problem reading thru various blogs.

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  Simply the best - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Kerch - April 26 - 8:26 am

  Awesome car. I would say SUV, but it isnt. If you are looking for a vehicle to tow a ton of stuff, go 4 wheelin in the mountains and mudding and stuff like that then get a Jeep. But if you want a real, practical auto got going around town in, picking up kids, and making peoples heads turn, then this is it! Good power, beats the Toyota RAV-4 hands down! Great, great car! I have NO complaints! Awesome ride!

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  Hate to sell it - 1990 Honda Accord
  By bobby24j - April 26 - 2:00 am

  Bought it new for my wife. Its been the best car Ive ever owned, which includes Buick, Chevrolets, Fords, Chrysler, Nissan and a few others. Ive never had a major mechanical problem...only routine maintenance, including oil/filter changes every 3,000 miles. Its got about 116,000 miles on it and drives like new. My wife wants a new car just because she wants a new car (go figure...its a genetic femaie thing). When that happens, I might just keep our 90 Accord because I like it so much.

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  great - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By doml816 - April 26 - 2:00 am

  very superb, and very exciting to drive

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  Great Car - 2015 Honda Accord
  By Tabert Talbert - April 25 - 10:49 pm

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  Honda Accord LOVE - 2013 Honda Accord
  By Tonya Lynn - April 25 - 12:38 am

  This is my fourth Honda. Honda has really improved throughout the years. I couldnt be happier with owning a Honda. This is my 4th one so far! Great value for the money and looks just as nice as a Lexis!