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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  Great Car... - 2004 Honda Element
  By JoeSchmoe123 - October 19 - 10:00 am

  No complaints. One thing I would change is an increase in MPG, but it is better than most other SUVs.

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  My Favorite Car - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By Cathy Holland - October 19 - 10:00 am

  Have purchased many cars and this is the best service I have ever received. the people are friendly, helpful and prompt with service.

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  Very Happy With My Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Truiz - October 19 - 10:00 am

  I am very pleased with my Pilot. I looked and reviewed plenty of SUVs. And I ended up very satisfied. For the price it cant be beat. Fuel economy with beat out many of the big boys out there. The rear seat is big and comfortable for adults. Need to go shopping? This is your ride. Long Trip? This is your ride. The only problem that I had was the audio system. But Circuit city took care of that for a few hundred bucks.

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  accord coupe - 2000 Honda Accord
  By pmsturgill - October 19 - 10:00 am

  where do i begin, this is the best car i have ever owned, the only thing i can complain about is the tail end looks strange without a spoiler and the 4cyl wheels are some of the ugliest wheels i have ever seen. the car drives amazing hugs the turns, i like the hydraulic clutch but could stand a performance upgrade. this thing is pretty zippy and good speed for a 4cyl. all i have done is put a cold air intake on it (it was free) and general maintnence recommended car.

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  I Love This Car! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Janicen - October 19 - 10:00 am

  This is the perfect vehicle for my lifestyle. It provides plenty of cargo capacity and passenger room yet its small size and car platform make it wonderfully driveable and great for getting around town. I can zip into any parking space with room enough on either side for my ten year old to open the door without worrying about hitting the other car. Getting in and out of my CRV is a joy. There is no sense of having to climb up into it. The EX models excellent safety rating makes this one the only SUV I would drive my family around in.

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  Fantastic Suv - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By peana - October 19 - 10:00 am

  Fantastic! Great quality for the amount we paid! We have no regrets. Excellent for all size women. We got a discount because we are Costco members, as well. During a rough winter it handled its self extremely well.

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  Great car, bad power - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Alicia Strickland - October 19 - 10:00 am

  This is a greta car but it could really use more horsepower and torque

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  This is the best car - 2004 Honda Civic
  By shushine143 - October 19 - 10:00 am

  I am using this car for college and I could not be happier with the service I have received thus far. The car is always reliable, has a fresh look and is extremely pleasurable to drive. The quality of this car can not be matched. When I got this car,the transmition was defective. The service department at my local Honda was more than happy to help. They made this car better than ever and because of them I can continue to enjoy this car.

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  Absolutley Stunning - 2006 Honda Civic
  By R Trester - October 18 - 10:30 pm

  I cant believe this is an economy car. Ive had a love affair with Hondas all of my life, specifically the Civic. Now, I have one! I traded a Corolla CE for this car. Interesting to note, the Civic competes well with the new Volkswagen GTI in a few areas: both cars are environmentally above average, both have moveable arm rests, air bags galore and handle almost the same. I love this car. I am getting used to the dual display, but it wont take long. This car is solid and fun to drive. I just hope my gas mileage increases.

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  Greatest Minivan Ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Austin Hansen - October 18 - 11:43 am

  We had a 2000 Odysey EX, and wanted a newer van, so we looked at Toyota, and was so close to buying it, then we looked at the Honda and bought it hands down. The nav. and the DVD player are great. There are a few quality problems, like a space on the top of the DVD player where a DVD got stuck into. Other than that, this is the best minivan you can ever buy!