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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  expected more - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By mrbuick - July 19 - 2:00 am

  left dealer lot and got on highway,van shakes at 60mph,so much for pre delivery inspection.seat heater marginal at best,radio controls in steering wheel and window switches on doors are not back lite at night.have to fumble around to use.also seat heater switches are in terrible location and do not cycle off with key each time used.acc power plug on front dash in terible location on floor.first time import car owner was told honda is #1,well i guess they still have a lot of homework to do on the odyessy. not worth the money for level of trim and features.

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  I LOVE IT!!! - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Honda#2 - July 19 - 2:00 am

  This is my second honda, the first 199K, Lord bless, this one will take me over 200K.

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  2003 Civic LX - 2003 Honda Civic
  By ChadSWA737 - July 19 - 2:00 am

  Finally Honda improves fit, finish, and build quality closer to new VW Jetta and Passat. The 96-2001 Civics felt cheap, and had poor build quality. Ever had to replace a 5spd transmition in a 97 Honda Civic? I did. Only gripes I have after 3000 new miles on the 2003 is that the power steering to heavy/muted. Honda listen up..... No car of this price or quality should be without ABS. In short much better than the previous model, however Honda still needs to sit the Civic and the Accord for that matter next to a VW Jetta or Passat and compare every detail. Recomended if money is an issue.

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  Fuel Capacity - 2003 Honda Element
  By Lori Slavich - July 19 - 1:40 am

  While driving this vehicle is really fun, and the space inside cant be beat, I am getting only 21 miles to the gallon and despite what the tank capacity is supposed to be, the gas guage reads EMPTY at 260 miles.

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  Yellowjacket - 2001 Honda S2000
  By markndfw1 - July 18 - 4:29 pm

  We just purchased a used yellow S2000 in Houston. We are so happy with the car and it is so much fun to drive. It complements our G35 6MT sports car. There is nothing like a convertible and Honda quality is the best.

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  Not A Car For Snow - 2008 Honda Civic
  By palominogirl - July 18 - 8:33 am

  I bought this car in the summer and absolutely loved it until winter hit. I have the standard low profile tires that come with the new models and have had nothing but trouble in the snow. Last winter I had to get towed out of the middle of the road in 6" of snow (I had a Cavalier before that which would have had NO problem going through it).This winter I got stuck in a driveway and almost at my works parking lot. I have zero traction on it. I am going to try to get more winter appropriate tires for it in the next week and give it one more winter.If I do not see improvement I am trading it in for either a Ford Escape or some other 4 cyl. SUV. I cant afford the risk or the towing.

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  Good - 2007 Honda Civic
  By DD - July 18 - 12:20 am

  The car is incredible, the handling and performance of that vehicle would keep youre mouth shut, the sound of the I- Vtec motor is more than Great. Honda should be proud of this beauty.

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  Nice safe vehicle - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Amanda L - July 17 - 4:06 pm

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  One of the best car Honda came out with - 1997 Honda Prelude
  By Pha - July 17 - 3:11 pm

  This is the car I wanted ever since it came out in 1997. Now I finally have one. I use to have a 92 civic hatchback vx with a swap and it cant even compare to my prelude. The prelude handles better, looks better, and has the power all in one. I get compliments on it all the time. Its not a car you see everyday on the road. And its not a car everyone has like a civic, integra, or accord. Buy one you wont regret it.

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  Honda beats Prius - 2010 Honda Insight
  By Tom - July 17 - 6:06 am

  I drove both and hands down the Insight drove better and was more responsive than the Prius. Very enjoyable ride in the hybrid era. I really enjoy the way that the car encourages you to drive with efficiency. The stereo rocks and the car is smooth and sleek. Nice to have a car that stands out and has a great look, especially the front and rear design. I am very happy with the decision to buy this car!