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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  Excellent... - 2003 Honda Accord
  By cxvargas - October 17 - 2:00 am

  ...car. Our first choice was the Passat, but the Accord won because of price, reputation for reliability and features. The stereo on this car is far superior to the VWs optional Monsoon. Also, we saved thousands of $$$$ with basically the same features as the VW and the dealer experience was far superior. Our Accord is not a sports car but is a comfortable driving machine and Im sure should keep the same serene ride and quality for years to come. This is my first Honda and so far they have won a customer for our next purchase.

• 

  I love this car ..... - 2003 Honda Accord
  By nerdy girl - October 17 - 2:00 am

  I was in an accident which totaled my 2002 Accord and therefore had to purchase a new car. I was a little skeptical of the new exterior design of the 2003 Accord Sedan but once I arrived at the dealership, I changed my mind. They are so much sportier looking and the interior design is great! Plus, it has much more power than my 2002 and holds the road better, probably due to the wishbone suspension in the front as well as the rear. This is a great car!

• 

  Our 5th Honda - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Speedbird - October 17 - 1:03 am

  EX V6 with leather makes this a great value luxury vehicle. Great highway ride. Brakes superb. MPG seems to be better that 30.

• 

  honda to hyundai to honda - 2016 Honda Accord
  By socalcurl - October 17 - 12:36 am

  Before buying this car, you need to put into perspective what size the engine is and what your realistic expectations are for that car. (Ive had 8,6 and 4 cyl. cars) Then think about the tires, if you get 19" tires you have less sidewall/absorption and you will feel more bumps on the road. Now for my review...This sedan handles very well for a mid-size car and Im talking about suspension over bumps, cracks, pot-holes, crowned roads, steering, cornering, stopping, turning radius etc. For 185hp, it accelerates beautifully when merging and changing lanes. The transmission doesnt kick, skip, hesitate etc. when Im slowing, coming to a complete stop, or accelerating like the 2015 Chrystler 200 that I rented. That was scary as I am sensitive to odd engine/transmission noises. The seats are ok and I havent driven the car over 800 miles so I cant make a fair assessment but I can say that the lumbar support is my favorite in a drivers seat. WOW, the led fog lights really light up the road, love em. When I opened the door, the first thing I noticed was the trim, its very classy and pleasing to me. Then the leather trim with fabric seats was a good decision that makes us EX owners feel good about having some leather ;). I had leather before and I liked that I could clean it easily. It has plenty of room for elbows and arms, which is important and the back passenger can have comfort as well. Another thing I coveted were rear vents, and when I sat in my new car that was an awesome surprise! Bluetooth sound is clear, no "huh, what did you say?" in my convos while I drive. The Carplay is an excellent idea because you dont need to wonder about who texted you or where your phone is. Does that make sense? Oh and the lanewatch, I really like that idea, sometimes theres too much going on and I forget to re-re check, so its a nice plus. Im still exploring the car and so far Im enjoying it day by day. The radio has good sound and Im glad I have the tweeters, which I noticed were not in the Sport or LX. I gotta hear my BPM.

• 

  honda to hyundai to honda - 2016 Honda Accord
  By socalcurl - October 17 - 12:36 am

  Before buying this car, you need to put into perspective what size the engine is and what your realistic expectations are for that car. (Ive had 8,6 and 4 cyl. cars) Then think about the tires, if you get 19" tires you have less sidewall/absorption and you will feel more bumps on the road. Now for my review...This sedan handles very well for a mid-size car and Im talking about suspension over bumps, cracks, pot-holes, crowned roads, steering, cornering, stopping, turning radius etc. For 185hp, it accelerates beautifully when merging and changing lanes. The transmission doesnt kick, skip, hesitate etc. when Im slowing, coming to a complete stop, or accelerating like the 2015 Chrystler 200 that I rented. That was scary as I am sensitive to odd engine/transmission noises. The seats are ok and I havent driven the car over 800 miles so I cant make a fair assessment but I can say that the lumbar support is my favorite in a drivers seat. WOW, the led fog lights really light up the road, love em. When I opened the door, the first thing I noticed was the trim, its very classy and pleasing to me. Then the leather trim with fabric seats was a good decision that makes us EX owners feel good about having some leather ;). I had leather before and I liked that I could clean it easily. It has plenty of room for elbows and arms, which is important and the back passenger can have comfort as well. Another thing I coveted were rear vents, and when I sat in my new car that was an awesome surprise! Bluetooth sound is clear, no "huh, what did you say?" in my convos while I drive. The Carplay is an excellent idea because you dont need to wonder about who texted you or where your phone is. Does that make sense? Oh and the lanewatch, I really like that idea, sometimes theres too much going on and I forget to re-re check, so its a nice plus. Im still exploring the car and so far Im enjoying it day by day. The radio has good sound and Im glad I have the tweeters, which I noticed were not in the Sport or LX. I gotta hear my BPM.

• 

  The Best Car - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Bill - October 16 - 10:23 am

  I absolutely LOVE my 06 Accord with navigation and XM radio!! The ride is so quiet and very smooth! I am a large man ( 280 lbs +) and find the Accord roomy and comfy. My gas mileage is excellent ( average 28 mpg)....I can recommend this solid, reliable to anyone!!

• 

  Wonderful Car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By scarhill - October 16 - 4:30 am

  I purchased the Honda EX Coupe in Feb 2003. Had it on a lease for three years and 40,000 miles. Never the slightest problem with the vehicle. Decided not to purchase as I have two other newer vehicles, one a Honda and one a Toyota, and I no longer need a third vehicle. I have had my share of American nameplates over the years. Most of which I didnt want after a couple of years. On the other hand, it was a sad day when I turned in my Civic. Based on my experience with the 2003 Civic, I will, without a doubt, point my daughters to a Civic when the time comes for them to buy a vehicle.

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  Prelude Love - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By Brandy - October 16 - 2:00 am

  The Prelude is a practical sports car - classy and reliable. It is such a fun car to drive!

• 

  LOADS OF FUN - 1995 Honda Prelude
  By HONDA BOY - October 15 - 2:00 am

  NEVER ANY PROBLEMS AT ALL, ALWAYS RUNS, FUN TO DRIVE AND AUTOCROSS. CAR IS AWESOME

• 

  Good family car to own - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Jeremy - October 14 - 1:13 pm

  All I can say is that I am very pleased with my Honda experience. Back in 2001, I traded in my 1990 Honda Accord EX for their latest model Accord EX-V6. I had some problems with my 1990, but mainly because I was taking my car to poor garages. Anyway, Ive had nothing but success with my 2001. I purchased the extended 100,000 mile warranty, but so far, no problems. Replaced the tires at about 46,000 miles with new Bridgestone Turanzas; they swapped out the 6-CD changer because the laser started skipping, but no mechanical problems so far. I have to replace the rotors soon because I like to slam on the brakes in traffic a lot. I guess Im somewhat of an aggressive driver. Great ride!