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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  Rating the 2016 CR-V - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By joe lo - October 14 - 2:58 am

  Too new for any complaints

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  love it!!! - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Fadi Kalach - October 13 - 7:49 pm

  This is the best civic ever made. Well designed, roomy, powerful, very responsive to steering. The car feels like hugging the road. I love the CarPlay; my map application shows on the screen as if you have a navigation system built into the car. The turbo engine is a little noisy, but I love the sound when l step on the gas pedal and the turbo kicks in. The only option I got is the side molding for the doors to minimize the dents caused by cars parked next to you. Well done Honda!!!

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  Great Car! - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Penny - October 13 - 1:50 pm

  I love the car! I wanted a small but roomy SUV. After researching and comparing all the midsize SUVs for 4 months,I choose the Honda CRV. There are a lot of standard features that I wanted and would have been optional on the other brands. I feel I made the best decision!

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  So excited about my new Honda - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Faith - October 13 - 12:56 pm

  It was a wonderful price and I really dont feel like Ive just purchased a car that is almost three years old. It is so comfortable! I have enough room for my children. It is fast and fun to drive!! Its a little too easy to speed though, because it runs so quietly! I think its a beautiful car. You cant go wrong with a Honda!

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  One sweet car, once again - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Ron - October 13 - 5:40 am

  Had a 2004 LX and enjoyed it greatly.When I went to buy a new one in 2005 the price had gone up so much I bought a nice American car. Honda made a deal again this year, I am so glad to be back in a Honda. Fit, finish, handling & gas milage are unequalled in supposedly "comparable models."

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  Love it - 2010 Honda Accord
  By Ed - October 13 - 12:30 am

  Bought my Honda in Dec 2009. Was deciding between the Toyota Camry and the Accord. I am very glad I chose the Accord. Havent run into any problems yet. Absolutely love the ride, handling. Road noise is not as bad as others say and havent had any problems with the brakes yet.

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  Excellent Choice - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By ench88 - October 12 - 2:00 am

  This is our first mini-van after being a sedan and SUV family. We test drove Toyota, Dodge and Honda before buying. The ride is very smooth, power/acceleration are excellent (compared to my SUV=underpowered pig), average 23 mpg (if you keep your foot off the floor). The interior is outstanding! Leather is plush, seats are comfy, kids have PLENTY of room, and the DVD is great for long trips. This vehicle is a lot more practical than any SUV Ive owned and Honda quality is second to none. Dodge was truck-like and the interior looked cheap while Toyota was nice but their pricing and options are ridiculous.

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  Supreme SUV - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Braddah - October 12 - 2:00 am

  Actually we bought the vehicle Jul 02. Its a fantastic SUV. We just recently returned fm San Francisco back to San Diego and averaged 22.5 miles to the gallon. One time we got 23.5! In and around town approximately 17+. Its smooth riding and a pleasure to drive. No problems so far! Honda gets you in before anything has a chance to start.

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  Price and Quaiity = Honda Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Jholm - October 12 - 2:00 am

  I put a lot of miles on this car in a short amount of time. Quality is very inpressive and reliabiity cannot be matched. I have owned three different SUVs and the Honda was the least expensive and by far the best. The only downside to the Honda Pilot is the road noise. We plan on trading for another Honda Pilot.

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  Perfect, but not perfect - 2003 Honda Accord
  By younglawyer - October 12 - 2:00 am

  A bit big-and-bulky in its feel, combining the solidity of German steering with, well, rather pedestrian and comfortable performance. But the interior is absolutely perfect, the car is quiet, and, as an everyday car at this price, it is hard to imagine doing better.