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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  hybrid - 2006 Honda Civic
  By lstephanides - February 15 - 12:23 am

  one of the best cars i have ever owned. the gas mileage is excellent. wormanship is top notch. would like more comfort in seating and more cup holders.could be smoother sifting from auto stop.

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  Just what I was looking for - 2008 Honda Civic
  By 50MPG - February 14 - 11:13 am

  This is a great highway cruiser - if you travel long distances, this is a great way to get there cheaply. 43 mpg on the 1st fill-up, I expect more when it breaks in completely. Rented a Prius (got 44 mpg with it) and shopped one as well - the Civic stickers for less, Honda is dealing on the sticker price, and you still get $1050 in cash back from the Feds - whats not to like? The Prius is a nice car, this is less expensive and equally as nice. I like the "normal" Civic look as opposed to the unique design of the Prius. The Prius has a bit more room inside, and I like the fold down back seats and rear space. The Honda can carry 850 lbs (pass + cargo) the Prius 800 lbs.

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  Good Car with Some Problems - 1998 Honda Accord
  By ajc - February 14 - 11:07 am

  A previous posting here regarding the ERG system and the transmission led me to write this review. I also have experienced these problems and both were covered under warranty (7 year, 100,000 Limited Powertrain on the transmission). Honda knows about the these problems and will help on these items. They have extended the warranty on the ERG and will participate in the repairs on the transmission even after the warranty expires. I recommend taking the car to the dealership for diagnosis and then calling Honda customer service. All things considered, this has been a reliable car and fun to drive.

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  honda s2000 - 2000 Honda S2000
  By cube - February 14 - 10:21 am

  extremely quick,still pulls past 110, and sticks to the roa. all combined with reliability and great design. hondas engine is well built and i keep mine regulaly serviced. sports extras are a must!!!

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  2002 CVR - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Sue - February 13 - 7:38 pm

  This really is a good vehicle, but Im surprised at how poorly the tires have held up, the paint quality is poor and has anyone ever backed-up into something???? I tapped another car in my driveway and was surprised at how the back side fell apart. The body side molding unattached itself from the metal and oh my what a dent! That was from a little tap rolling out of the garage. I am really beginning to worry how safe this car would be if it were rear ended. Has anyone encountered any rear end damage???

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  Couldnt be happier with my choice - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Michael Callaghan - February 13 - 4:03 pm

  Great car for the value and safety,

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  Fun to Drive! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Richard - February 13 - 1:06 pm

  The buying experience was a pleasure. Everyone was very friendly and helpful, no pressure. The gas mileage of 35mpg is a relief for someone who travels a lot every day. Interior and exterior design is very nice, and overall feels and looks much more expensive than it is. My only complaint is the a/c, which is not very cool on a sunny day.

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  Hondas reputation will go down the tube - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By unhappy camper - February 13 - 12:20 pm

  This car STINKS. The worst thing about it is gas consumption. I get from 8 to 11 MPG even though the sticker advertized 17 to 22 MPG. The car rattles, the body is weak.

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  Extremely logical, comfortable family car. - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By Matt P - February 13 - 9:46 am

  We have had our CR-V for over two years now , and I thought some of the ratings here were a bit unfair. This car is, and will be reliable for a long time, has excellent control, handling and visibility, and holds its own among similar crossovers or small SUVs. It took me awhile to warm up to the little car, but my wife loved it from day one. We were having a child, and planning on another. Our two dogs and kids all fit just fine, with to spare. The only cons I can think of are the interior seems a bit dated for the higher end model we chose, and the mileage could be a bit better for the size of the engine. Honda could also offer a more affordable extended warranty. It runs great, is quiet and handles well over the passes in winter. We hope to keep it for a very long time.

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  Nice Van - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Tod - February 13 - 9:30 am

  Nice van—functional, reliable reputation. We traded a 2000 Camry LE in for this van. The Camry was plush. The van has a cheap plastic feel to it however it seems sturdy as if it will take the abuse that is evitable from family use. Overall I think the van is practical, and if it stands up to its reliable reputation it will be a good value.