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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  better than expected - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Willie - June 18 - 4:43 am

  I have owned this truck for about 1 month now. I am very happy with it my old truck a 2005 f150 which was eating me up in fuel costs but I still wanted a big cab. I got it in this honda but gave up some bed room. Smooth ride and well built have been getting 20+ mpg on hwy and 17 in city. Going on a long trip to Oregon 1800 miles will know better after trip.

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  The C-47 Cargo Plane of hatchbacks - 2016 Honda Fit
  By Rich - June 17 - 5:24 am

  I went to a recent auto show with my eye out for something to replace my venerable ford ranger pickup with cap. I had 3 criteriums. It had to be economical, it had to have easy entry and exit and...it HAD to have the capacity to allow me to carry my road bike INSIDE. I went over these points with the sales gal. She excused herself for a moment and when she reappeared she was wheeling 2 traditional frame city bikes (courtesy of two of the guys theyd hired to keep the vehicles shining) Lowering both the rear seats, she grabbed one bike and -handlebars first- guided it in to the Fits cargo area. Rear wheel first the second bike went in and she closed the hatch. ...Truth? I bought the car (well, a disco silver version..the mind boggling blue wasnt something I could live with)the next day. Know those 3 tall fridges you take up to the summer cottage? Pull the drivers side rear seat up and fold it back and you can carry one upright in this vehicle! The manual for me is a nice touch. ..I love manual gear boxes. That I was able to get cruise control (standard) with a manual was icing on the cake. The performance is decent enough (I had a 132hp 3600 pound ford truck ) and the fuel economy will put a smile on your face every fillup.

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  Michael S Pilot Review - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Michael S - June 16 - 12:36 am

  Really like how the various controls are in good reach and seem easy to run. Roomy and well made, I like the little additions that make it comfortable. Only drawback seems to be space around the drivers seat...you lose something down the sides and its almost impossible to retreive.

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  irratic lane assistance - 2017 Honda Ridgeline
  By Gordon Vredenburg - June 15 - 5:43 pm

  Letting me know when I am out of my lane is very erratic on the 2017 Ridgeline. Ill cross over a double yellow line or even a solid white line. Sometimes I will be alerted that I am out of my lane and sometimes it doesnt let me know. Ill do this on purpose just to see what will happen. Even on the same road. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesnt!

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  2007 Honda Fit is awesome! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By T See - June 14 - 11:53 pm

  I am a tall, big guy, and I fit in this car perfectly. I test drove all the new small cars out there, and this is the only one I fit in comfortably. The mileage is perfect for my long commute and I love having the aux input to the stereo. I made a handsfree cellphone using the mic and speaker that came with my phone, and wired it so that it will plug into the aux jack, so when I get a call, I just hit the aux button and answer the phone with the button on the mic mounted on the dash. I love how the seats configure to haul stuff, as I am doing that a lot. No complaints from this car at all for its price point.

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  1st Time Honda Buyer So Far, So Good - 2008 Honda Accord
  By DammitJim - June 14 - 11:56 am

  I had been in GM truck leases for over 7 years, and was coming to the end of my 2005 Z71 Tahoe lease. Although I loved the Tahoe, I cringed every time I filled it up. I test drove the 2008 EX-L V6 coupe and love the handling and looks of the car, and entered into a 3- yr lease deal. So far, I am a definite fan, though I feel there areas that can be improved. Fuel economy is excellent on the highway, about 26-28 mph. Combined driving is in the low 20s. The VCM definitely helps the mileage - it was very noticeable when it activated in the beginning, but is barely detectable now, except for the dash indicator. At highway speeds, the interior remains quiet, with little to no wind or road noise.

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  Best Van Available - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By ROB136451 - June 14 - 5:30 am

  I love the Odyssey, its by far the best van currently available on the market. The RES is great, the gas mileage is good. Odyssey has roomy interior of high quality and excellent laid out. The standard safety features including the rear camera are the best available. A great ride, over all.

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  Great features well-balanced options - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Jane - June 13 - 11:03 pm

  Purchased 1 month ago at 25 miles and has 2400 miles on it now. It is a great car. Well balanced features: Great stereo (6 CD charger), powerful heating and A/C, map lights. My spouse wants to sell Acura and get one of this, seriously. I was tired of Toyotas options etc. This car has everything. Internal build quality, materials are above average. One can see the ergonomic details Honda always pays attention to: nicely positioned cup holders, very comfortable seats and ride. Very sporty and tight riding. Very enjoyable ride. I did not experience any a rattle noise or highway riding noise.

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  My dream car - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Si - June 12 - 2:56 pm

  Ive driven Hondas for years, but this is my first brand new car. I was pretty sure I wanted the Accord, but I did drive other cars to be fair. This car is so comfortable, gets better mileage than the sticker says. Who needs extras when everything I could want just came with the car. Im sure I will be as happy with this car in 15 years, when I still plan to be driving this car, as I am right now.

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  Awesome Car - 1998 Honda Accord
  By seahag7624 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I love my Honda. This is the most awesome car I have ever owned. We also have a 4door Camry of the same year which rivals the Honda in comfort but the Honda outweighs it in engine torque, body style and it is so fun to drive. The V6 really gets up and goes at the slightest touch. I dont have anything negative to say about this car. You cant go wrong with this one.