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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  2008 Milano Red Fit, Sport - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Pasadena, MD - July 29 - 1:13 pm

  When going to the Honda Dealership I was looking into purchasing a Civic. I only wanted to spend $ 15,000.00 on a car. I noticed that I was not geeting rims, spoiler or fog lights with the Civic. The sales repp showed me the Fit and I was worried because I have never heard of it. Come to find out the Fit had better seats and better options in than the Civic. The Fit is really comfortable and sporty looking. I have been very happy with it. The 1st day I took it to work the whole office was asking whos red honda is parked out side? Its very nice. I have been able to haul stuff to the dump. My Father In Law has been reading the reviews and really loves the car himself.

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  I love my Civic - 1995 Honda Civic
  By Chrissy - July 29 - 5:53 am

  I have a 95 Civic and absolutely love it. It was recently stolen and I thought I would never see it again, but 2 months later it is back. I couldnt even find another car I loved as much as a Civic. They are small, fast and fun to drive. If I could spend any more time in this car- I would.

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  2006 Civic EX 4 Dr - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Charles S - July 28 - 10:23 pm

  I have had my new civic for about 3 weeks now. This car is a great value for a young family, where driving a mom mobile is just not satisfying. Its great fun to drive, although it does lack the power I expected. This car does not feel or look like it costs. I think anyone who has owned a Honda previously would love this car. We stepped down from looking at Accords to buy this new Civic. I honestly never thought I would be driving a Civic. Its a Honda... you get what you pay for. The new safety features and size increase were crucial in my decision making.

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  Dont buy any other SUV - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By PAUL - July 28 - 6:06 pm

  I was going to wait until i had owned my Pilot a month before writing my review - but in this case - why wait! This may well be the best Vehicle (SUV) on the Planet - i traded my 2005 Odyssey (which was the best Mini Van in the world) - loved that one. I expect my Pilot will exceed even that experience. the look, ride, quality, quietness in the cabin, are all superior.

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  Great Little Car - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Rachel - July 28 - 3:53 pm

  The Fit is a great car for people on the go. Driving it to work everyday, Ive been getting mpg in the low-mid 30s. The little freeway driving Ive done so far has been in the mid-high 30s. Being so small, its a breeze to parallel park. Its also a pretty quiet car. The visibility is amazing and the slanted windshield makes it feel like a much bigger car.

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  Cant ask for better - 2005 Honda Accord
  By mvspenny - July 28 - 12:33 pm

  In my years I have owned many cars nothing better then this. Ultra reliable, great milage, great car that fits everybody and everything the size is great, not to big that parking in the city is a problem but big enough to fit everything

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  My Black Beauty - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Christine Zealand - July 28 - 1:46 am

  We went from a 2011 Honda Civic that had elusive periodic issues with the ignition. We adore the CRV. Once in a while at a stop light I notice some vibrations, but nothing to get upset about. The back up camera, right side indicator/safety camera, dash, roomy size and the gas economy are fabulous. I was worried I would spend more in fuel costs, it has worked out exactly the same as the wee Civic, so I am very happy. The heater does take longer than I had hoped to warm, the wipers are somewhat awkward and washer continues to drip.. there is also a dead spot for the fluid, right at the passengers eye level-frustrating. We are also experiencing an exhaust smell in the cabin on vent.

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  Awesome - but the tranny sucks - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Tiffany - July 28 - 1:13 am

  I really think this car would be one of the most perfect ones out there, BUT... the auto transmission in the 6cy lacks the spunk and the fun. Bad hesitation from 2-3 or what I call a lazy shift. Also a hesitation if you need to pass on the freeway too. Honda, Get this resolved and you will be on top with this car. One the good, not, the inside in the EX-L is awesome, I feels like a jet airplane cockpit. Fit and Finish is excellent as well.

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  Love my car! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By kat2800 - July 26 - 10:00 pm

  I will never buy anything other than a Honda again. I love the style, the pickup (great for a 4 cyl), and the overall quality of the parts. The ride is very smooth and VERY quiet. The light shines through the glove compartment and at night it drives me nuts. I brought it to the dealership and they said that there is nothing they can do. It is quite irritating.

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  1st Timer - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Honda Virgin - July 26 - 9:00 pm

  This vehicle is just what the reviews say it is. Safe, great handling in the snow, quiet and well designed. I am disappointed with the mpgs but the overall quality of the Pilot makes up for it. Having moved from a van, I was hoping for a few more crossover options, auto-close rear, rear windows that open, dusk-on lights and mid-row seats that recline a bit more especially with the DVD system for the kids. The layout is well thought out with all the needed instruments at your fingertips. The ride is so much more smooth than most SUVs the purchase was a cinch.