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 Car - 2002 Honda S2000
  By cntrlflgrrl - September 23 - 2:00 am

  Great all around! Especially for the price. I still smile everytime I get in.

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  Great van, Chrysler gas mileage - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By Redlinez - September 22 - 12:40 pm

  Weve had the van a few months now, love driving it and the kids love it. Great seats, stereo, handling, and power. The interior plastic scratches easily, the gas mileage with stop and go has stayed at 17.5-18.5 period. My Town and Countrys averaged 19. That is about the only gripe I have. Love the ipod plug in.

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  Why? - 1998 Honda Accord
  By WhyNot - September 22 - 10:00 am

  After owning my trouble-free 98 Accord for almost 4 years, and in the market for a 2nd vehicle, I tried to make myself buy something other than a Honda; once I did the pros and cons of the Accord with everything else out there-when price, value, performance, and comfort do matter-its still the best thing going. The 4 banger is quick, surprisingly roomy-both front and rear for my 50 something, 62" body. Result, there is absolutely no good reason not to buy this car. Honda makes the best, most balanced, family, fun car in the world. Check the data. Why? Why Not?

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  this has been a GREAT car - 1997 Honda Civic
  By earmenta - September 22 - 10:00 am

  This car has been perfect for me. It is now going on 6 years old, and so far I have had absolutely NO PROBLEMS with it, not even minor ones! And I just passed 80,000 miles! Often times I will drive this car 1,000 miles in one weekend, and its held up just fine and I never worry about it. If you want a dependable, low-maintenance car, get a Honda. They will last forever and are a great investment.

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  As Expected.... Excellence! - 2002 Honda Civic
  By mjawt - September 22 - 10:00 am

  Wow, Im impressed! A lot of my friends drive Honda Civics and they have had no problems at all with them. My former Oldsmobile gave me a lot of financial burden. The 2002 Honda Civic is a BLESSING! My dealer also sold it to me for $14,450. What a bargain for a reliable, quick, fun to drive, economic, and durable car. An investment not to pass up!

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  Nothing better in 94 - 1994 Honda Prelude
  By dynasty - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Didnt really like it when they first came out, but after driving it. . .OH MY GOD! This VTEC is quick and it handles incredibly well. I have taken mine to 135mph on several occasions and I have taken a few fwy interchange ramps at 100mph! Z-rated tires necessary but no suspension modifications. I consistently beat Boxsters - no joke! If youre thinking about getting one, do it. If youre thinking about selling one, dont because theres nothing out there that can compare to this for the price.

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  THE BEST RIDE ON THE HIGHWAY - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Jessica D. Harris - September 22 - 1:25 am

  Purchased a 2017 Honda Civic....it was my second one due to the first 2004 Civic being totaled in an auto accident. My, how things have changed over the years. I loved my 2004 Civic, but I guess all things works for the good. The 2017 Civic is more than I could ask for in an automobile.

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  THE BEST RIDE ON THE HIGHWAY - 2017 Honda Civic
  By Jessica D. Harris - September 22 - 1:25 am

  Purchased a 2017 Honda Civic....it was my second one due to the first 2004 Civic being totaled in an auto accident. My, how things have changed over the years. I loved my 2004 Civic, but I guess all things works for the good. The 2017 Civic is more than I could ask for in an automobile.

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  No Complaints Here!! - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Kane - September 21 - 11:56 pm

  I love my 2006 Honda Civic. Its a comfortable car to drive. It actually does great on gas which is quite helpful these days.

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  Nice new ride - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Stella Velsor - September 21 - 9:57 pm

  The dealer we used gave us an excellent price & was really good at dealing with us. Very customer oriented.