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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  i love it - 2004 Honda Element
  By wickedhuff - February 3 - 8:07 pm

  i love my e. it handles like a dream in the snow, the first vehicle ive owned that does. the only regret that i have is that i didnt get a 2005

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  Doesnt live up to Honda quality - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Candice - February 3 - 3:17 pm

  Traded in a Dodge Minvan and wish I hadnt. Found that this vehicle is very noisy. Unhappy with transmission dropping the gear due to recalled problem. Have gotten no help from several dealerships that dont think I know what Im talking about and since theyve installed the Honda "fix" they say that there isnt a problem. Husband drives a Pilot - thats very nice. Will be trading in soon (and cant wait). Will never buy and Odyssey again.

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  4 cyl surprise - 2006 Honda Accord
  By ckal - February 3 - 3:10 pm

  Very pleasantly surprised by the responsiveness of the 4 cyl. Lots of room in seating area and trunk. Comfortable driving position with telescopic adj steering wheel. Attractive white on black instrument cluster. Good sound system. Traded in a G35 Sedan for improved gas mileage. Ride not as smooth as the Infiniti, and handling not quite as steady, but not bad.

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  First Time Honda Owner - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Angel - February 3 - 1:30 am

  Bought Accord new six months ago. I went to buy an Altima, but it wasnt comfortable as I am only 5 feet tall. I sat in Accord & it just fit. I had to settle for the EX 4cyl rather than 6 cyl w/leather to fit in my budget (due to higher Honda prices) but heard it was worth it for reputation of dependability and resale value. I agree. Gold color doesnt show Southern dirt and dust. Handles beautifully in the rain and sticks to the road unlike other cars Ive owned including Lexus, Acura and Mitsubishi. It is family friendly, yet sporty. My 15-year old now wants one come her 16th birthday. If car continues like its going and keeps impressing me, shell get one. Highly recommended!

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  They dont get any better! - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By stefg - February 2 - 11:03 pm

  Ive had my Honda Pilot for two years without a single problem! I really like this vehicle! A Honda is a great vehicle!

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  An excellent ride! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By MempisGuy - February 2 - 8:26 pm

  Wifes Christmas present... excellent van! Smart use of space throughout -- shifter on dash took a bit getting used to, but now makes sense. PLENTY of power to merge/pass with. Excellent stereo. Tons of 2nd and 3rd row leg room. Mileage not the greatest (we got 24.5 on recent trip w/5 passengers, averaging 75-80 on interstate), but even in town turns 18-20 if you avoid jackrabbit starts from stoplights. Actually prefer no crossbars on roof -- this is easier to wash. After a minor rear-end accident in our beloved Ody, we drove both a new Windstar and Chrysler T&C as rentals. Ford interior was cramped, and T&C, while besting the Ford, was no match for the Ody in terms of size/comfort.

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  second hand car - 2009 Honda Accord
  By florin moldovan - February 2 - 7:16 pm

  reliable, economic, fun.

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  Pilot Advocate - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Mike - February 2 - 7:05 pm

  Bought new and have put on 33000 miles in 18 mos. Only problem was needed battery replaced due to defect under warranty. My wife loves it and tells everyone. Tight turning radius, rides like a car. Excellent family car.

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  Reliable - 1995 Honda Civic
  By Rick - February 2 - 3:04 pm

  Wifes car because I trust its dependabilty. Broke a timing belt (my fault, should have had it changed at 100000). Weve got 175000 on it and it keeps running. A little noisey but were used to it now.

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  Best car ever - 2011 Honda Fit
  By Tb2008 - February 1 - 4:41 pm

  Cheap, quick and kinda fun to drive in corners, also lived in the car for about 2 months and ran it everyday 18+ hrs in the summer i never once had a problem. started everytime and the only maintenance performed was regular oil changes. The car is really spacious considering its size, its not the fastest or the coolest but the best car i have ever owned