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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  Good car, good value - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By David - October 16 - 3:51 pm

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  Do yourself a BIG favor---get an Accord - 2008 Honda Accord
  By cousinvinney - October 16 - 2:56 pm

  The best dealership on the planet, and a car that is as close to perfect as you can get. I am negotiating a trade for another presently and the depreciation is minimal. I seriously doubt that I could lease for the price that I am about to trade. The car is superb, performance, styling, quality, engineering, fit and finish -the whole banana ! The only hiccup I can report is that I think that the seats in our 2008 Odyssey are a bit more comfortable. Dont get me wrong, the Accord is a comfortable car, I am just a big guy and the seats just feel like they could use a little more of something. Do yourself a favor and get one of these for yourself.

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  Great Car-Love it - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Nicky - October 16 - 10:03 am

  This is a great value for money car and flawless.... I am a working mom of an infant and couldnt have asked for a better car for myself. Great interior which gives a nice luxury feel and love the way it drives. Go get it.

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  honda needs a truck - 1998 Honda Civic
  By cns7 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  A vehicle with the ability to let you forget about the hood release and jus drive. Normal maintenance is as simple and minimal as any car since the model T and comfort is good even for my 64 frame.

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  Best: And Cheaper than a Lexus - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Bob Allen - October 16 - 10:00 am

  It only took one short test drive to convince us the CR-V was the car for us. Weve taken highway trips that were as comfortable as any sedan. It has been used to haul all sorts of things and never needs babying. Our first Honda but it sure wont be the last. Now if I can just get my wife to look at the S-2000 during a test drive.

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  2003 Civic Hybrid - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Mark C. - October 16 - 10:00 am

  The Hybrid is here to stay! After waiting about two weeks to get the color I wanted, I finally brought home my new Honda Civic Hybrid.I have only driven it for a few days, but every time I drive it, I love it more and more.It is everything that I expected.This makes Honda #5 for me and it is the only brand vehicle that I will ever own. Thanks Honda!

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  Lots of whistles and bells - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Gwen Davis - October 16 - 4:15 am

  Be sure to evaluate the seats before buying. These seats are on the narrow side and thus not comfortable for some people. My hips and legs are cramped after a ride of an hour or more. The front seats are power and have many possible adjustments. Im hoping to find a position that does not leave me so cramped and uncomfortable.

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  2000 Accord EX Coupe - 2000 Honda Accord
  By CMcFadden - October 15 - 8:50 pm

  I love the way this car drives. It accelerates quickly and easily. I often have to watch myself because Im doing 60 mph before I realize it. Highly recommended.

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  This is a great car. - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By HBS - October 15 - 3:23 pm

  When the power went out for a week in St. Louis last summer, and gas stations were shut down for miles, I traded driving our Escalade for a Honda minivan, and have never again worried about how Id access enough gas in an emergency. My 4 kids love it, its comfortable to drive, the GPS gets me everywhere - "nearest shoe store" I say, and it pops up on my screen. Honda is so reliable, comfortable and safe, that Im okay with driving a minivan. The later models are an improvement over the original ones - no more transmission problems and the automatic doors dont get stuck anymore (we owed a 99 model for 4 years).

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  Impressive Vehicle - 2003 Honda Accord
  By KTate - October 14 - 4:50 am

  Overall, I am thoroughly impressed with my Accord V6 Coupe. The power is addictive and I find myself speeding too frequently. The interior is well-designed with everything within reach. Cabin noise is moderate--its not as quiet as a Lexus, but the firm Acura-like ride does produce some road noise. Fuel mileage is average (about 20-22 mpg) but like I said, I drive it too fast. Its very comfortable to drive and driver fatigue hasnt been a problem--even on long trips. The Honda engineers have really thought of everything for a $27,000 car. It will definitely not be my last Honda.