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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  Drive one and youll want one. - 2006 Honda S2000
  By Hyytekk - June 1 - 12:05 pm

  The designers and engineers at Honda just seem to have considered and optimized every detail. The car is responsive as a go-cart and theres nothing short of installing a supercharger that can improve its acceleration. Its styling is understated but aggressive and it doesnt try to look like a bat-mobile. Getting in the car is like putting on a glove. You almost wear the car instead of sit in it. But still it feels spacious and open unlike a Boxter that I had. I have the Rio Spa Yellow metalic color and the car seems to turn heads and elicit kudos even when next to much more expensive models and name plates. Just walking up to my car puts a goofy grin on my face. This car is drives me!

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  8 - 1998 Honda Accord
  By Janice Govostes - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Engine light comes off and on all the time have taken it several times back to the dealer and they put it on the computer and nothing is wrong light goes out for a while and back on againe

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  What a pain - 1994 Honda Accord
  By avp83 - June 1 - 10:00 am

  My car is 98000 miles now. The engine rattles very loud, (very annoying)... Steering is very light (easy to loose control).. but overall, car is very reliable..

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  Pilot review of trip to Vegas - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By PALJB - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Looking for 2 years then this came out, bought it over Highlander. So much more roomy, 5 of us to Las Vegas with luggage, cooler etc., tons of cargo area, was able to see in rear view mirror too. Air is soooo cold, love the center console. Took 7 large basketball players for three days to games, no complaints, even in third row, there feet were squished but they had no problems. Got so many looks when picked up at valet at hotels, people pointing on street, it was great. I love the white and cloth seats, after leather it really is more comfy and cool. My son loves the subwoofer.

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  Struts and Springs over and over Again - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Brian Shoots - June 1 - 10:00 am

  I have been selling new Hondas for several years and have never been disappointed until this 2001 LX sedan. I have had squeaks, creaks, and rattles since day one. I believe all the springs and three of the struts have been replaced to no avail. My first two Hondas were stellar; this one has been dreadful. Gas mileage has hit 40 on extended drives, but hovers around 27 with gentle city driving.

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  S2K---top of the class! - 2006 Honda S2000
  By 4TUNES - June 1 - 8:04 am

  This is by far the most fun vehicle Ive had, and Ive owned a lot of cars. Its one of those cars that when you buy one youre part of a family. Other S2K drivers wave when they see you. Its like an old VW or a Harley.

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  New to honda - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By brian - June 1 - 5:40 am

  Love this car. All the features are great. The backup camera is awesome, and highly recommended!

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  Best Fun Available - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Walt Ney - June 1 - 1:00 am

  Went to try out a new Civic coupe, but also drove the Si. Couldnt leave dealership without it. Its black and has all ground effects spoilers, hence draws lots of attention and comments. Im 61" 240# and it fits better than any car Ive had before. Ive taken 3 passengers in it on over-night trips and no complaints yet. It begs to be driven hard and fast. Im constantly trying to find new 2 lane roads to explore. Ive more confidence in its handling than in any other car Ive tried. I really like its styling, inside & out. Its now my favorite toy and I spend a lot of time in it. The best money I ever spent. Id really like to have another one set up just for racing.

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  Best CRV ever owned - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Daniel - May 31 - 5:07 pm

  This is the best CRV I ever owned I used to own a 2002 CRV and I gave that car to my mother. The 2005 CRV that I own now drives and rides better than the 2002 CRV and also gets a little better gas mileage. The five speed auto transmission makes the CRV runs faster and improve gas mileage. I like everything about this CRV there too many to list.

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  GREAT RIG - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Brad - May 31 - 3:33 pm

  I do have a little bit of a hard time saying that I drive a mini van however the pleasure in driving the ODDIE outways this issue! My wife and I drive all over the country for work in our Honda and really believe it must be the best vehicle for long trips and hauling luggage. We always look forward to our next long drive in Oddie.