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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  ACCORD WORKHORSE - 1991 Honda Accord
  By BO REGARD - March 4 - 2:00 am

  My 1991 Honda Accord was purchased off the showroom floor at the dealership. The car has performed beyond my expectations, at 155ooo miles I have never had a breakdown of any kind. The car is still in mint condition, it has been garaged throughout its years and has been serviced regularly since it was purchased. The Seattle Silver paint looks like the day I bought the car over 13 years ago, additionally the burgundy interior is as nice as a new car. Its still recognized on the street by a regular joe simply for the obvious TLC its owner has provided. Honda made a fine automobile in 1991 with its Accord line. Bravo !

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  Cost Effective Transportation - 1995 Honda Accord
  By HondaBcool - March 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car b/c I drive 60 miles a day to work and needed a low-cost reliable car since I just graduated from college. It is very reliable and gets awesome gas milage. I get 430-450 miles to the tank. The 5-speed is actually pretty fun to drive too. Although it lacks coolness, Im considering selling it for a chick magnet car like a Mustang/Camaro.

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  Question about seats - 2008 Honda Fit
  By monkusbee - March 3 - 8:30 pm

  Took an 08 Civic ex-l for a test drive. Loved everything about it but the seats. I drive slightly slanted to the right and the side bolsters started digging a hole in my ribs after 20 minutes. Can anyone tell me if the Fits seats are the same?

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  Excellent SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Sam - March 3 - 8:23 pm

  Excellent handling, massive storage space, cupholders everywhere, considered the toyota 4runner and nissan pathfinder but the pilot drives and feels better. More stable cornering and better value.

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  Happy so far.... - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By nikTX - March 3 - 2:43 pm

  Seems to be a great car. I was skeptical as I was coming from a larger car and motor(excursion/diesel). I enjoy the pilot because it is fun to drive and easy to park. For everyday use and around town, I recommend this car. It is a little cramped for weekend family trips. I shopped for about 2 months including a car show. When asked what was important, my requirements were white ext. tan int. heated seats, DVD and good mileage. WHAT I GOT was white ext. "fern int, Excellent heated seats, OK DVD system, and DECENT mileage 16/18

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  excellent - 1999 Honda Passport
  By love my honda - March 3 - 2:00 am

  had no problems with mine it held up great and was tough to my tailgate didnt squeak at all the seats were a little firm but still comfy the 4 wheel drive was great i was dissapointed when they quite making them but they replaced them with the pilots which are bigger and ride more like a car and get better gas mileage

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  Great Little SUV - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By Kell - March 3 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my CRV used and with an extended warranty. Last week was the first time I have used the warranty. Its really a great car for my use. Its more comfortable now that I had a passenger arm rest installed. Older passengers always complain that the rear seat is not comfortable.

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  1997 CIVIC EX - 1997 Honda Civic
  By Peter Tancula - March 3 - 2:00 am

  My 1997 Civic ex has 124,000 miles on it and the engine stil runs like new ). I never had problems with it, NEVER. Great car.

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  Bought into all the hype, big mistake - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By Too Tall at 6 even - March 3 - 2:00 am

  Bad luck from day one. Leaked oil all over the garage floor. SInce then put new tranny in at 30K, multiple problems with drivers seat and sliding doors. Rattles throughout the interior. Rear liftgate is fine if you are under 5 ft 10. I am six feet and have the bumps on my head to proove it. Honda service is horrible. Should have bought the Toyota Sienna as planned but believed all the outstanding reviews on the Honda. Yes, I am a sucker for a sales pitch...

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  Soccer Dad - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By KCMakovec - March 3 - 2:00 am

  I was a dad that absolutely refused to buy a mini-van...until I drove the Odessey. The ride and handling sold me. Excellent MPG, interior features and roominess were simply bonuses. I dont regret for a minute having traded in my decked out (was in the Kansas City autoshow) SUV for this great vehicle.