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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  Cant go wrong - 2007 Honda Civic
  By J & K - August 26 - 1:26 am

  Purchased in May, already 4000 miles (two long road trips), couldnt be happier. Yes, there are faster, flashier cars out there, but for overall practicality you just cant beat the Civic. Were actually looking at getting another. Its true, close to 40 mpg on the highway, about 30 or so in town. Granted, it doesnt have the pep that some may desire, but heck, its a 4-cylinder! The power, however, is plenty sufficient for merging onto the freeway, driving uphill, etc. And did I mention the gas mileage!? The EX of course has the sunroof as well as stereo controls on the steering wheel. The mp3 jack is a great feature as well. Honda is just doing it right. We love it.

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  my baby - 2005 Honda Element
  By molly - August 25 - 10:13 pm

  I would advise everybody to buy this or any honda. It is the greatest. It drives smoothly. When you make turns it doesnt tilt. Back seats are so roomy that my 6 foot Uncle has plenty of room to stretch out. The inside is so easy to clean out its so funny. The big thing about this car is that there is soooo much room (legs, storage, back seat). All I can say is that you need to go test drive one and you will see that it is a car you need to get.

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  Its Greaaaaaaaaaaat! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Pilot Man - August 24 - 10:00 am

  Just Purchased My Honda Pilot and man it is nice. It Drives like a car and has the room of a minivan. The third row seating is great and the DVD entertainment system is great for the kids. This car is a great buy. Deal was OK, not much off sticker but did get some. Glad I waited for the 2004 which includes Heated seats and mirrors.

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  First SUV, probably the last! - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By VASteve - August 24 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my 2004 Honda Pilot EXL w/DVD and absolutely love it. Fuel economy is great for a vehicle this size, V6 is strong, and handling is amazing. Turning radius exceptional, and brakes very firm. Interior has simply everything you want for a family vehicle including safety, entertainment, and comfort. A week after I bought the Pilot, I had to dash out of my city to flee from an impending Isabell with my family, pets, and luggage. After 330 miles of driving on congested, windy, and wet roads; I would drive nothing else. Overall, the 2004 Pilot EXL epitomizes the saying, "it aint braggin if you can do it."

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  sporty and affordable - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By joeymac - August 24 - 10:00 am

  the honda pilot is a very cozy and comforting car. as a wife and a mom the car is very convinient. it is very easy for me to put grocerys in the back,and to wash clothes. i would reccomend this car to any person to drive. i feel extremely safe in it.

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  Let me be the first for one time - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By sxz4871 - August 24 - 10:00 am

  Am I really the first? I finally got my 2004 Pilot a few days ago and it has been great. Honestly I havent driven a lot so I cant really comment on the gas/mileage part. I havent experienced any annoying noises that were reported by some other users, although I doubt they had made any changes in the new model (mostly luck I guess). It was well designed, very comfortable and great handling.

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  First Honda and Im happy - 2004 Honda Accord
  By baer757 - August 24 - 10:00 am

  Being in sales I drive a lot of miles over the course of a year. Ive had my 2004 EX-L for two weeks and love it so far. For the money the comfort is great. Im getting about 30 miles combined highway and city miles which I thought would be around three or four miles higher, however; in all fairness I need to check it on a dedicated road trip to see if it improves.

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  No Better Car for the Money - 2004 Honda Accord
  By jco - August 24 - 10:00 am

  Smooth ride, powerful 4-cyl, 36mpg on first tank of fuel, there is no better car for the money. The leather car we bought with XM radio seems like it fits more in a entry level luxury class than a family sedan. For 23K OTD you will not find a better buy. No complaints whatsoever.

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  No Problems - 1990 Honda Accord
  By rspill - August 24 - 2:00 am

  Solid, reliable car. Very few problems, low maintenance. Purchased new, I now have 175,000 miles on it. Replace front suspension plus expected brake and timing belt repairs.

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  236000 miles later - 1990 Honda Accord
  By jstanton - August 24 - 2:00 am

  Always started. Corners with the best. Over 230000 miles and still going.