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! - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Kelly - August 13 - 11:30 am

  What a great vehicle!! We have had our pilot for 3 years now. I dont have anything bad thing to say about it. It is very roomy and it drives nice! Nice family car, especially if you dont want to break down and get a minivan just yet.

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  Great car - 2008 Honda Civic
  By CarlM - August 13 - 4:43 am

  Ive had my Civic for a week and love it as a replacement for my 2002 Civic. Changes in the six years are all good, and I love the digital dash! Seats are comfortable for 6-1 big guy. I wouldnt own another car from the "Big Three" Detroit auto makers. Door locks for passenger need to automatically unlock when handle is pulled from the inside.

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  love it! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Ken - August 13 - 1:30 am

  i just purchased my lx-p a couple of weeks ago, having driven a pick up for the last 25 years, i was really surprised at how much i like this car, going from a big v-8 to a 4 is a change but the power is good, gas mileage is great. my first fill up was 26 mpg mixed city and hwy I only expect it to get better, steering is tight and precise, only complaints are road noise is more than i like but its livable, rain or just dew pours in right on top of the power window controls when the window is cracked, but window guards have fixed that, its a fun car to drive, and for what it is, its comfortable, controls are great, easy to reach, Im looking forward to a lot of great miles with this car

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  Very Safe Car - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Dennis - August 12 - 10:40 pm

  After owning this car for only two months, I was involved in an accident that resulted in $11000 worth of damage to the vehicle. It got pinched between a semi trailer and a large flatbed truck resulting in a hit to the front left pillar. Long story short, what should have hit me in the face was deflected by the car. I walked away from this accident with only some minor scratches from broken glass though the car looked like it was totaled. I honestly believe that if I was driving my previous vehicle, I would be in the hospital right now.

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  LOVE THIS CAR - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By sara - August 12 - 5:43 pm

  this is my first car and I absolutely love it! its great having a safe car that will last me into my adult years too. the bluetooth is great because I can call people or change music without taking my hands off the wheel or eyes off the road.

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  Slam Dunk - 2007 Honda Civic
  By robkid - August 11 - 11:33 pm

  This car is just plain fun! Ergonomic design is close to perfect. Handling is tight and acceleration is surprisingly good. This car was purchased for my wife, but I am considering one for myself.

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  The Accord Hybrid - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Gary - August 11 - 4:43 pm

  I purchased my hybrid Accord without the navigation system in December, 2004 and already have over 8,500 miles on it. The car has been an absolute pleasure to own -- very reliable, quiet, comfortable and easy to drive, even in the Michigan winter. My mileage, driving mostly highway miles, has averaged 29.2 mpg but that is increasing as the weather warms (Im sure due to the gas-saving features warming up sooner). For those concerned that the loss of trunk space (because of the battery) will be significant -- fear not -- this vehicle can still easily carry a weeks worth of groceries or luggage.

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  The best minvan - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By TonyMN - August 11 - 4:33 pm

  We drove them all, and it was an easy decision. The Odyssey has better performance, handling, comfort and standard features for the price. It has handled ice and snow beautifully.

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  Ive got a Keeper! - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Tony - August 11 - 2:06 am

  What a great car this has been. 15K miles and it has been a charm on the city and believe it or not awesome on the Highway (granted that is a revvy engine). Its so fun to drive and what is a driving experience without the Fun?. Once you get on the High Revs during Highway it is amazing how stronger it feels right there past the 5K revs! and you feel so secure and planted to the ground that you even think youre going much slower! Now, thats impressive for a lil car. I almost forgot, ah the Interior Space. All My friends can not believe how spacious it is inside. We even had a long trip (11 Hours drive) with 5 people with all Suitcases!

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  Great for baby boomers! - 2003 Honda Element
  By Scotsman - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Honda has made a mistake trying to market this vehicle to young drivers. It is a great car for those of us in our 50s. It is fun to drive, easy to get in and out of, easy to load, and comfortable. Jazz sounds great on the remarkable sound system.