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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  Happy with Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By brooklynborn - December 23 - 10:00 am

  We purchased the Element two weeks ago. Went to Tahoe this past weekend and it took the mountain roads with no problem. We were passing V8s on the way up Hwy 88. The interior is roomy, and easy to clean. We have two dogs and it is easy for them to get in and out of the car. There really isnt anything I do not like about the Element except the fact that almost everything on it is optional.

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  Great Vehicle to Own - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By askme - December 23 - 10:00 am

  Having a Honda name is what lead me to test drive the CR-V. After doing extensive research on Honda and the CR- V, it is how I came to my final decision. The SUV handles shockingly well in icy or snowy conditions. I was amazed after the amount of snow fall we had last winter, how well this vehicle handled. Its almost like driving a car. I would (and have) recommended the CR-V to anyone. Its an excellent vehicle overall. Well worth the money. Everything you can possible want comes standard in it. I will definitely purchase another CR-V for my next vehicle in years to come.

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  Honda Odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By saavedra,l - December 23 - 10:00 am

  I was previous owner of a Ford Windstar until it was totalled in a car accident, perfect opportunity to buy the van I have always wanted.Ive only had the Odyssey for two weeks and can compare pros and cons. The differences between the two are below.

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  Best car out there - 2003 Honda Accord
  By luvmybaby - December 23 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! This is my first time buying a new car and I couldnt be happier with my decision. I am so glad I sprung the extra few bucks to get the leather interior, it looks 100 times better than the cloth interior and is extremely comfortable. This car drives great, runs smoothly and to top it off looks so sleek. I especially enjoy the controls on the steering wheel. I love driving my Accord and almost wish I could live in it.

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  Great car if the deal is right!!! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By WVUALUM - December 22 - 1:20 pm

  Just traded my 2003 Civic Lx for the Accord. The Accord EX V6 (4door) is a great car. The car has great pick up and a very smooth ride. I love all of the features on the EX. Love this car so far.

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  We adore our Crosstour! - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By White Wedding - December 21 - 7:10 pm

  My husband and I came to a compromise on the type of vehicle we both wanted independently and decided that the Crosstour best met both of our needs. His need for speed and room for his 6 foot 300 lb. stature, and my need for safety, strong motor and trunk space. We both required the high stature, as we had previously owned a Mercury Montego and loved how it sat up higher than other Sedans. The Crosstour is so much fun to drive - it hauls "tooshie"! I just wish that the gear box did not have to think about it first when you step on the gas pedal. The car feels sturdy and I feel safe in it. I love the look of it, but its a love hate styling for most people. All in all a good car!

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  Red Honda - 1993 Honda Accord
  By Carole - December 20 - 6:10 pm

  Ive had the Honda for 7 years and it has performed beautifully. Only oil changes, one brake linning job, new windshield wipers, tires - only one major repair: carborator

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  Love the V6 6M coupe - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Apple47 - December 20 - 4:43 pm

  50 days of ownership, and I absolutely love to drive it. The V6 power is such a push-you-into-your-seat contrast to my previous 20 years in 4 cylinder Hondas. A lot of fun to drive. Engine acceleration growl is noticeable (and kinda cool) in the lower gears but not while cruising. Wind and road noise dont seem loud to me, nor completely bubble-quiet either. Black leather interior is very classy and plastic trim is nice. Nav system is handy for people like me that get lost easy, plus great for finding nearest gas stations, etc. Just wish it could show my iPod song details (and control it). Have had many compliments on the looks. My neighbor thought I had bought a Mercedes coupe

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  05 Touring edition - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By black smoke - December 19 - 6:56 pm

  I really like the tourng version. I traded my Acura RL on this vehicle and was not dissapointed. It rides a little rough, but handles better than my 3.5 RL. I drive an 04 sienna on a regular bassis and the toyota has MAJOR body roll when compared to the Touring Honda. The Toyota has a good deal more engine noise as well.

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  Almost new and really nice - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Richard Vitale - December 19 - 12:34 pm

  Was looking for a one year old compact SUV and found a 2015 Honda CRV w leather and only 4667 miles and certified. We had already driven a BMW X1 (too small, no rear AC vents, no spare w run flat tires (which are the worst tires ever made). We also drove a Mazda MX-5 (under powered, no rear AC vents, cloth seats). After reading reviews about the CRV had some reservations about the engine vibrations some people talked about. Found this one with on Edmunds at Coral Springs Honda (FL). We drove it (no vibrations), my wife loved it, made a deal and went home with it. Made a 1500 mile R/T a week later and it performed beautifully. Averaged about 75 to 80 MPH and and got 27 mpg (and no vibrations). Just to be on the safe side with all the electronics we extended the bumper to bumper to 7 years/100K which is the same as the powertrain warranty. Our first Honda and very pleased.