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 buy - 2003 Honda Civic
  By DjY887 - February 2 - 5:16 am

  I purchased mine in Aug 2004 with only 3400 miles on it. Excellent choice for my 40 mile highway commute. Im seeing a steady 38 mpg. Very happy to find a car w/o AC or electric windows..always a costly maintenance issue. Excellent build quality inside and out. Fun to drive. I gave up the utility of a Ford Ranger for the economy and reliability..absolutley no regrets. I would like to see the sedan get the HX package

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  Love the S2000 - 2001 Honda S2000
  By Austin S2000 Owner - February 2 - 2:00 am

  You wont regret buying this car. It has Honda resale value and Honda quality. I havent had a bit of trouble with the car in 2 years. Its more fun to drive than you can imagine and hugs the road beautifully. Theres nothing like shifting into 6th and sailing past everyone...especially when they think theyre actually going to overtake you! Great for rides in the hills and on curves. Amazingly low road noise and I never get tired of having the top down. Buy one today!

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  This is my first Honda - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Therese - February 1 - 11:36 pm

  Had a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee for the past 7 years. Was thinking of a new one, but test drove the new CRV. It was love at first sight. Reminded me of the BMW, that I cant afford. Has a lot of get up and go for a 4 cylinder! I got the Borrego Brown (Gold). Has a lot of storage area. Ive only had it for a few days (am I anxious) but think this will be a long time love affair!

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  Good big car - 2009 Honda Accord
  By igor - February 1 - 3:53 pm

  Bought 09 Accord EX V6 (cloth) in April. It was a replacement of my 2004 V6 Toyota Camry after total. Accord is a bigger car, which I dont necessarily like, but I did not want another Camry and was unsure about Malibu due to the situation with GM. I like the performance and comfort of the car. No problem with seats. There is definitely much more noise than was in the Camry, some say this is because of tires, some say it is due to glass. MPG is average - seems like my previous Toyota was better. VCM is annoying with downshifting and slowing down. I do not know if it really improves MPG - I shift to neutral downhill and it runs faster. ECO light is annoying and distracts attention.

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  Honda Element, Fun, Inexpensive, Roomy - 2005 Honda Element
  By poohhbearr - February 1 - 3:23 pm

  Its a fun little SUV. A lot of extra space.

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  Great Car - 2005 Honda Civic
  By JeanneG - January 31 - 10:26 am

  I have owned approx. 15 different cars from BMW to Ford. This is my second Civic. My first I sold after 8 years of problem free driving. This Civic has all the bells and whistles and I couldnt be happier. I am a value shopper and this has the be the best car for the money. Quality and value all in one.

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  Could Hardly Be Better! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By GMESETMTCH1 - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Having owned a 2001 makes it easier to draw comparisons between the two. Obviously, I liked the 01 or I wouldnt have purchased another S2000. I didnt think it could be possible but Honda produced an even better car the second time around! Better looking and less "edgy" is the best way I can compare the two. More refined is applicable as well. This car has to be the best value in this market segment, bar none!

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  Great van, minor improvements needed - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By esdewerth - January 31 - 10:00 am

  This is our 3rd Honda and we shopped around a long time before deciding. I love the power sliding doors. The make it so easy when carrying two kids to get the doors open and get them in. There are additional features that I would have liked (that were not offered at all) such as a sunroof, outside temperature gauge, power rear lift door, and power passenger side seat. Overall though, I would buy Honda again and again.

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  i love my pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By bernieluv - January 31 - 10:00 am

  i love this suv.the ride and style.the tan interior look so nice with the red.i soooooo please.the dealership was so nice and pleasant.south shore honda ny.

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  THE BEST CAR! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Chrisj John - January 31 - 10:00 am

  I love my new 2004 Honda Accord...I bought the EX , 4dr,4 cyl engine with leather and XM satellite radio built in..wow! I owned a V-6 Accord...but this new Accord is wonderful- great response, speed, hadnling and very comfortable interior..new arm rest moves forward for more arm comfort, the cabin space is wider..giving a more open feel...with access to radio/cruise control functions on the adjustable steering wheel...XM Radio is GREAT..the 6 speaker sound is TOPS....the ride is quiet adding to the enjoyment of the "CD quality audio" offered by XM radio...LOVE THIS CAR!!!!