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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  The best Honda yet - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Gregory Velazquez - July 17 - 10:08 am

  This car rides beautifully, securely, confidently whether its on dry or wet roads. I absolutely love this car. If you want a car that looks great, super reliable, with a great ride, attention to quality and high resale value, Honda is the best. Forget cheap Nissans and boring Toyotas. No one beats Honda. Hondas last longer and its a better buy than Mercedes, BMWs, Audis and Lexus.

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  Best Suv out There - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By LuvMyPilot - July 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Pilot in October of 2002 and have driven it over 43,000 miles as of July, 2004. I have not one complaint about this SUV whatsoever. It is extremely comfortable, even on long trips. The fit & finish is impeccable, there is plenty of room in the cabin, not to mention the generous storage compartments! The console is amazing with the cell phone holder, etc... I test drove the Explorer, The Mountaineer and The Jeep Grand Cherokee (The Cherokee was like driving a dump truck), None compared to the overall value & ride the Honda Pilot served up. I was hooked as soon as I got behind the wheel and started my test drive.

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  So-So - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Race - July 17 - 2:00 am

  Very dissatisified with the fuel mileage. 12 city and 16 highway. Our 94 Aerostar with all wheel drive did much better and would run circles around our Odyssey. Has developed a real bad clunking sound from the rear brakes/suspension. Typical dearlership babble, "they all do that". We have 22,000 miles on it now and it has developed several rattles, clunks and other loose sound from both the front and rear suspensions and other areas under the van. I have no doubt that the engine and drivetrain will last 250,000 miles or more, but I am wondering if the rest of the vehicle will last as long?

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  38/mpg in style amd comfort - 2005 Honda Civic
  By joel - July 16 - 7:43 pm

  I traded my 1998 civic lx sedan for this one. Comfort and economy is even more. I spent $45 at the pump and was able to travel 707 miles. Thats 37.8 mpg, driving in LA (Glendale-Downey and all around). Thats economy with 127 horse power. I was first attracted on the hybrids 49/48 mpg with 98 horse power. However, I didnt want to sacrifice the 28 horse power a bit extra 8 mpg.

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  Whistling Wind - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Hondaguy - July 16 - 1:03 pm

  We recently purchased our first mini van and, based upon research and reviews, chose the Honda Odyssey EX- L. I have been impressed with the performance and overall comfort with the vehicle. However, between 35 and 60 m.p.h. we have a very distinct wind whistle on the passenger side. Upon taking the mini van back to the dealership, we were told that it was a manufacturing defect (several other new odysseys have the same problem) and there is no known remedy at this time. I am pleased with the vehicle overall, but am very disappointed with Hondas inability to fix this problem. I have been informed from our dealership that this has become a common complaint.

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  Old Faithful - 1997 Honda Odyssey
  By WJDupont - July 16 - 2:00 am

  My Odyssey has been a pleasant suprise since I bought it over the internet a year ago. I picked it up in Sarasota, FL and drove it to New Orleans (with 89000 miles on it) with no problems. With three kids, we run the wheels off this van and we cant hurt it. Im always on the look-out to get another pre 1998 model. The 4 cyl has plenty of power to go with great gas mileage. The 4 cyl is no longer available so the past is my refuge. After a disaterous experience with Mitsubishi, I feel smart again with Honda.

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  Its Been Good To Me - 1999 Honda Odyssey
  By RoeberR - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Ive been happy with the van. There have been more than the usual number of recall notices. But, I like getting new parts and it just costs some of my time. The brakes are less than desirable, but they are OK if you get ceramic pads. I paid $$$ for my broken handle caused by a sliding door that wouldnt. The original tires were sorry, but there are good replacements available when the others wear out. This minivan design is worth all the effort that Ford put into it. And, so many other companies are copying it like Honda did. The A/C is also OK, unlike all of the other Hondas Ive owned.

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  Almost perfect - 2003 Honda Element
  By nikkimm4 - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Over all I love it. My only negative is the windshield (Achiles heel). It gets cracked with every tiny pebble. I have a few minor suggestions but they do not detract from the overall utility of the vehicle. Seats up for field work or taking the dogs to the lake, quick vacuum and wipe, seats down and I drive my family to dinner. I still get amazed at how much can fit in there.

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  Awesome Ride - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Vidro - July 15 - 11:53 am

  Not looking to purchase a Honda I came across the Accord Coupe and I had to have it. The looks, ride, and quality are second to none. I highly recommend the Accord Coupe to anyone looking to buy a new car considering fuel economy.

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  2005 EXL w/Navigation - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Royce - July 15 - 9:20 am

  Just went over 1000 miles with new Pilot. My wife kept her 4 X 4 Chev. Suburban, but I doubt she will use it very much...the Honda is easier to get around in, especially in shopping center parking lots. Great riding car with a great sound system. Looking forward to the Honda reliability. Wish gas mileage was better, but it beats our Suburban hands down!