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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  Buy This Van! - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Jeremy - September 20 - 5:20 pm

  This van is great. We put 2000 miles on ours in the first two weeks of owning it. We took a road trip the second week. I cruised at over 90 mph and it drove better than my 2000 Suburban. The passing ability in this thing is unbelievable. The reason I bought it though, was of course, for the kids. Its really easy for my 2 and 5 year old to get in and out, especially with the automatic doors. Im not sure yet how good or bad the mileage is, but the range is great.

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  Great Car!! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Happy Harold - September 20 - 2:56 am

  I had been shopping for a new or late model used car for about a year, I wanted a luxury car because of all the extras. I checked out the Honda EX with leather and Navigation and my search was over.If there is a better car it must cost a lot more. It is the only car I use that I can get into without bumping my head, (I am 78 yrs old and have a Volvo wagon and a Mercury Villager Van) I am very happy with this goodlooking comfortable car.

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  2005 CRV LX Review - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By montydfw - September 19 - 3:56 pm

  The 2005 CRV LX vehicle is great. Engine very smooth and power is adequate. No problems with vehicle. Body is solid and very roomy inside. Seats are comfortable but could be improved (lumbar support), particularly the back. Tinting is a necessary in Texas and must be added. Turning radius is tight. My wife loves being able to store her purse between the front seats under the tray. By the way, this is my second CRV. I have a 2004 CRV LX for my wife. I liked it so much I bought one for myself. I was attracted to the Ford Explorer 2004 because of the great incentives being offered but rejected it because of gas mileage (17 mgh in city) and larger size. Im happy with my decision.

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  Great Value for a Performance Sports Car - 2005 Honda S2000
  By Bob Hall - September 19 - 7:20 am

  Tremendous value for the money compared to the competition. Great performance and great fun as an occasional driver. Too loud, too small and too harsh a ride to use as a daily driver, especially on the interstate. Buy it for what it is, a true performance sports car, and you will love it. I would definitely buy again (and I plan to keep forever).

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  Great Buy - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By ellisl49 - September 19 - 3:53 am

  Traded in a 2003 Odyssey with leather/entertainment system. The 2003 was excellent, but the 2006 has made significant strides in ergonomics, ride and ammenities. This van cruises effortlessly. It is roomy and seems to ride smoother. The best van on the market bar none.

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  Great value - 2006 Honda Accord
  By brad - September 18 - 9:10 pm

  I have driven my Accord 2,000 miles in less than 2 weeks and love the car. It has gotten 32.9 mpg to 36.2 mpg which is very impressive. The 4 cyl 5spd manual transmission has more than enough power for me and zooms 80 mph with no problems. If this Accord continues this performance ill never own anything but a Honda from this point forward.

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  too nice - 2007 Honda Civic
  By samascl - September 18 - 6:33 pm

  the cars is great, the fuel economy is good, so far i love the car, looks good, and it is a reliable car. i truly recommend get a honda civic. i got a vw beetle before, brand new an full of problems...from now i will always read about the car that i will get, but i do not think i am going to purchance another car in along time.

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  Soooo fun to drive Honda Rules! - 2007 Honda Accord
  By RangerFan4ever - September 18 - 2:03 am

  I got this 07 accord after turning in my 04 accord coupe. I was looking to just upgrade to a coupe with leather, but after looking at the 4 dr I noticed the nice style. And after I test drove it, I realized it was just as great as a coupe. I only wish the tires were a bit quieter and less wind noise. But one has to remember youre not in a vacuum sealed place, and its not like you are driving a Ferrari or Maybach. Still you cannot beat Hondas quality!

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  Great CRV - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Chester Colvin - September 17 - 7:50 pm

  I really like this car. The more I drive it the more I like it.

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  I would buy another one - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By paulette51 - September 17 - 4:53 pm

  I loved my 2015 Honda. This is why I bought a 2016 Honda. The only thing I didnt want this time was the navigation system. Instead, I bought a $89 Garmin, which out performs the integrated system, and saves a lot of money. Thank you Edmunds for assisting me in my purchase.