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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  S2000 - simply a blast to drive - 2004 Honda S2000
  By carman101 - May 18 - 2:00 am

  In general the car is lots of fun. Plenty of power and the sound of the engine above 4K is highly pleasing. Complaints about the low end torque are hardly noticed with the rev-happy engine.

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  awsome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By //////////////////// - May 18 - 2:00 am

  this car is great.i have had this car for less than a year and i already know thatthis car is sporty and great to drive as well as comfortable. If i had to get another car i would get the honda s 2000.

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  Love this car!!!! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Sarah W - May 18 - 2:00 am

  This is the best little sport coupe on the road, and the price is just right!

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  honda S2000 experience - 2004 Honda S2000
  By michael muniz - May 18 - 2:00 am

  i enjoy the vehicle alot its an eye grabber.the honda S2000 takes turns like no other vehicle that i have driven.

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  s2000 - 2004 Honda S2000
  By puffngeorge - May 18 - 2:00 am

  handles nice,nice power, could use some more thoe.all around very nice neat comfurtable ride made from honda. I would buy another S2000 anyday. I would recondmend thid car to any one.If you like hondas then this is definaantly the car for you.

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  A beauty - 2004 Honda S2000
  By spunk - May 18 - 2:00 am

  Fantastic car....top notch. This is the perfect car for guys who need speed and looks. They look even better when you put a hard top on them.

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  honda - 2004 Honda S2000
  By LaurenBartram - May 18 - 2:00 am

  its awesome !! i love it we drive it every day n its good for other things too if u know what i mean ;-)

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  AWSOME CAR - 2004 Honda S2000
  By mikem3412534 - May 18 - 2:00 am

  This car is a wonderful verry comfortable car. I would sugest it to everyone!

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  Best Bang For The Buck - 2004 Honda S2000
  By plittie - May 18 - 2:00 am

  This car is the funnest car to drive for under 35K bucks, no doubt.

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  Best Car Ive Owned - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By LFPV - May 18 - 2:00 am

  This is a great vehicle - reliable, built well, great mileage, no maintenance problems throughout the almost 3 years Ive had it. Not too big, not too small - Just Right!!! Granted it may not be the most powerful, and its not a serious off- road contender, but I must admit these were not important issues for me personally. If you want a little more than a car to drive around in, the CR-V does the job well.