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 cant belive this is a Honda - 2006 Honda Accord
  By bugsy123 - September 23 - 8:56 am

  When I decided to purchase a new car, there were many models and makes that I had in mind. I testes the Acura TSX and the Acura TL as well as the Nissan Maxima and Altima. The last car that I tested was the 2006 Accord EX V6. My initial impressions were that it ahd the fell of a luxury car and the personality of a sports car. It handles well and has more than enough power to satisfy the side of you that wants to get up and go full throttle. In my opinion and after extensive research, the accord is a steal for the price and should be at the very least test driven by anyone looking for a well balanced, medium-priced car with a reputation for rock solid reliability.

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  Honda Civic stays one step ahead... - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Bob - September 23 - 5:46 am

  Ive owned several Hondas and Acuras in the past and they never seem to disappoint me. You only have to change the oil and occasionally replace the tires. For the 06 Civic, the refinement, fit & finish, and comfort remind me of a baby Accord. For the money, it is easily best in class. Im 61 and fit very comfortably in car - with height adjustable drivers seat and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, its very easy to find ideal driving position. The 350 watt 7 speaker (inc. subwoofer) stereo that comes with Navigation system is awesome. Nav system is best in industry and easy to use via voice commands. The Civic wont win any races from a red light but Im averaging 38 mi./gal.

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  It Just Keeps Going! - 1995 Honda Prelude
  By Spirited - September 23 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with 127000 miles on it. The car has been amazing. Nothing but normal service needed at 176000 miles. Runs great. I have never added a drop of oil Fun to drive. The car is driven every day and this includes a good bit of stop and go driving. Amazing vehicle. Only problem is a bit of paint fading from sitting out in the open all theise years.

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  Honda Magic - 1999 Honda Accord
  By AtlantaGuy - September 23 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car ever. We love it and people always comment on it. Its a head turner and fun to drive. This is the 7th Honda weve bought in our car buying career. We just bought an 88 Civic (#8) with 260,000 miles with no fear for our college son. My 90 Accord has more than 300,000 miles and is still running strong. We LOVE Hondas!

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  Love it! - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Kate - September 23 - 1:20 am

  I just love my CR-V. Traded in a 99 Buick. My kids accused me of driving old-ladies cars so a crossover is a big change for me. Love the height/view it gives me. Peppy on the road with good, sharp turn capability and tight handling. I cant wait to drive it everyday. Thrilled with all the extras-leather, moonroof, heated mirrors and front seat. Dash is well light with sensibly laid out indicators. Excellent braking. Hubby is jealous the CR-V is mine!

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  better than my BMW 335i except the drop top - 2016 Honda Accord
  By mike duffy - September 22 - 3:41 pm

  the Honda v6 is an excellent value and great fun to drive. larger than the 335i, 6 inches wider and a foot longer but handling is excellent and has a more stable feel. I strongly recommend it

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  Repeated repairs on my 2010 CRV - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By A Ryan - September 22 - 7:58 am

  I bought my 2010 CRV used in 2013, with 38,000 miles on the vehicle. It now has 58,000 miles, so it has not seen heavy usage. However, the starter failed after one year (just after the warranty expired), at a cost of $900 to replace. Then a front wheel bearing went out, another $300. Then the engines variable valve timing advance went out, an $1,100 repair fee. Finally, the air conditioner clutch/compressor unit died a few weeks ago for a $1,500 repair. According to the internet, the valve timing advance and air conditioner are well known to have problems in the CRV. By comparison, I bought a 2010 Toyota Camry new. It now has about 57,000 miles on it. There have been no repairs beyond the failure of two tire pressure sensors, a $200 repair. The CRV was my first Honda after years of Toyota and my wifes Lexus ownership. I wont be buying another Honda.

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  Great car for its class - 2014 Honda Odyssey
  By Tim Ehrlich - September 22 - 4:58 am

  If you are going to get a minivan this car defines the class; it is no wonder everyone buys them.

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  Reliable family hauler - 1997 Honda Odyssey
  By sotex - September 22 - 2:00 am

  This is the second 97 our family has owned. I am using it in my sales position, so I will be in it often. It is great getting in and out of it because the seat is higher than my Mark VIII. The ABS light was on when I bought it, and I have found out that the ABS modulator is out. $1500.00!!! From what I have found out, this is somewhat common for these as they approach the 80,000 to 120,000 mile marks. Im not sure I am going to fix it. Other than than that, I like the dual air, great reliability from this one and our previous one. I am pretty impressed by the quality of workmanship. (except ABS malfunction)

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  2001 Honda CRV review - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By Netnutty - September 22 - 2:00 am

  My CRV has been a wonderful and dependable car. Im a big guy & 62" and I fit easily. We just had to do our first major repair on it by having a valve job. Otherwise weve had to replace the tires once, and had the normal maintenance done on the car.