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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  HONDA CIVIC EX 2001 - 2001 Honda Civic
  By thecuteone1302 - December 1 - 10:00 am

  The Honda Civic EX is one of the best cars I have ever owned. It runs well is an eye catcher and has some of the best gas milage ever.

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  Great Reliability, But dont expect... - 2002 Honda Civic
  By BrySobe - December 1 - 10:00 am

  I have a 2002 Honda Civic LX coupe. Havent had a problem with it, and i refill the gas tank every 380 to 420 miles combined city and highway. Although my car is stick, it isnt a great performer. It is quiet, and has nice interior materials which is what matters most to me.

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  Ritas Honda - 2003 Honda Civic
  By RitaL - December 1 - 10:00 am

  I needed a reliable car for a daily 2 hour/ 100 mile commute. Looked at the Toyota, but liked the looks of the Civic much better. Handles great, good gas mileage, and I feel safe in it. But kept my big SUV (Mountaineer) in case of really bad weather!

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  Hybrid - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Cooney - December 1 - 10:00 am

  The Civic Hybrid was an excellent purchase. I was a little disappointed with the mileage on the first tank (about 38mpg). I then let the real time mpg indicator teach me how to drive the car and to change my driving habits. The first 20000 miles I averaged 49.9 mpg. I get mileage ranging from 45-54 mpg on average per tank. It has certainly reduced my gas bill.

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  A Surpising Hybrid - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Peter Paar - December 1 - 10:00 am

  The car is surprising for a hybrid. It is very resposive with more than adequate acceleration. I have been extremely impressed with how quiet it runs. Even on the highway at 65+ it is possible to have a conversation with out shouting over the engine. It is fun to drive and very comfortable even for my 6 3" frame. Have had no problems at all with car in 5 months of owenership.

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  great car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By cher - December 1 - 10:00 am

  love this car! would suggest it to anyone..........

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  Lacks power - 2003 Honda Civic
  By HoTpunksk8ter101 - December 1 - 10:00 am

  This car is without a doubt is a fun car to drive, but it lacks power like some of Hondas other models (such the 02 S2000) but I guess what can you expect when you get a car like this for under $13,999...over all I give it a rating of 4.5 out of 10.

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  Great Car! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By AndyZ - December 1 - 10:00 am

  The Civic EX is a fun to drive reliable car that I would suggest to people of all economic categories. The fit and finish is excellent, I havent found one defect. I think that the extra cost of the EX model is worth it because of the power moonroof and 12 more horsepower. Before you buy a used car for a little less, do yourself a favor and test drive a Civic. I think you will be pleasantly surprised and happy in the long run.

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  Very Happy with my 2002 CIVIC - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Sin - December 1 - 10:00 am

  I am very happy with my civic. Excelent in gasoline, reliable, comfort. I highly recommended.

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  civic si - 2003 Honda Civic
  By hydroboy35th - December 1 - 10:00 am

  Im very pleased with the honda civic hatchback si the quality of honda vehicles is so much better than anything in their class . I recommend a honda to anyone.