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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  Solid car, solid value - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Dan Anderson - January 17 - 10:00 am

  Have an 89 Camry with 220,000+ miles thats cost me less than 3 Gs--including brakes and tires--to maintain over 11 years of consistent driving. A tough act to follow. When purchasing a newby I was looking for a dependable car with reasonable gas mileage, crankdown windows, and a manual tranny. Got it in the Honda Accord for less than 13K. Ive put on 18,000+ miles in 8 months w/o incident. Suprisingly large inside and out. Rides quietly and smoothly (no shimmy or pull) at 80+ mph. Excellent no-frills value from someone who believes a car is for transportation only. Would absolutely buy only 2 types of cars in the future, Toyota or Honda.

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  The park bench - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By RonS - January 17 - 3:21 am

  Old folks... need more seat comfort. Reminds me of a delivery van .

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  love but it leaks...a lot! - 1993 Honda Accord
  By zipcody - January 17 - 2:00 am

  ive spent very little money to maintain this great car and it has been very reliable and fun.

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  great - 1996 Honda Civic
  By Tdog101 - January 17 - 2:00 am

  good car,has a fast vtec engine,runs great

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  LOVE this van! - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By gottaklu - January 17 - 2:00 am

  We have always been a Toyota family...until we bought the Odyssey. It doesnt have some of the little "extras" like outside temp guage, but who cares? Id rather have a vehicle I can depend on and this is it! I will never have a different kind of minivan.

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  Problems with electric system IMA - 2005 Honda Civic
  By fred - January 16 - 11:33 pm

  Bought in Aug 2005 and 15000mi @ yr. For over 6 weeks not able to drive car with use of electric IMA battery system, new EMC computer needed, none available and there is a national back order. I question if there is a defect or is this normal, 6wks, plus another component for starting the car has to be replaced. Also in the order for the new computer EMC, nothing was written up on the repair, I just have a card with the part number on it and was told it was ok to drive because the gasoline part of the system still functions. (that was until it needed component to start the engine) Am slightly frustrated with the process, the dealers have been nice, but it all makes wonder about the hybird.

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  9 GOOD Years - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By Linda Carr - January 16 - 4:55 pm

  I write this note after my 2008 Pilot has given me 9 really good years of reliable, safe and comfortable service. Other than routine maintenance, Ive had no major or minor service emergencies or repairs for malfunctions in the mechanics of my vehicle. If youre fortunate to purchase a the same model with an owner as anal as myself about maintaining its scheduled maintenance, you cant go wrong. Take care of your Honda and it will take care of you!!

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  Zees Extreme Si - 2007 Honda Civic
  By DOUG - January 16 - 11:10 am

  I have added a few high performance parts to this car. I only have put 1000 miles in over 4 months. I have even put a white dragon on each side of the car. I have people walk up to me and tell me I ahve a very good looking car, or man you have a sharp car. I love the way it handles and I have a sedan too. The sound system is great. The only thing is, I wish they would have put a wider tire on the car. I am in the process of changing my rims and tires as soon as the funds come available. I have the color Gray color. I am very pleased with my car. The shifting is the best I have ever handled and the get up andg Go (hang on) I just love my car.

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  love ya baby - 1992 Honda Civic
  By jlf - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Only have 2 complaints. The rear window latch does not latch in cold weather. (They fixed this on later models) Because it is small and black, I have been bumped into a couple of times.

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  Best car ever! - 1993 Honda Civic
  By Hondabeliever - January 16 - 2:00 am

  I love this car, which is why I have had it for so long - 11 years now! Honda quality, reliability, and reputation are second to none. It is quick, great-looking, has lots of room, rides nice, handles great, and gas mileage is awesome. Whats not to like? I highly recommend this car and any Honda in general.