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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  2 years. 3 transmissions - 2005 Honda Accord
  By eaglesontheroad - October 17 - 1:56 pm

  the transmissions on theses cars have been recalled for defects, i am on my third in two years, they seem to last about 20000 miles. save yourself the hassles and get something else.

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  No more Hondas for me - 1994 Honda Accord
  By NoMoreHondas - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Ive had two 94 Accords and both had similar and dissimilar problems. First the transmission is the worst I have ever felt in my life. Both Accords I bought had over 100k miles when I bought them. They both had a/c problems. The first one never got cold, the second was cold until the evaporator core busted ($700 problem if Honda does the work). The first one also had a mysterious voltage problem that dimmed the lights at night like the battery was dying. The second one wont start intermittently. The ride quality/handling was sloppy in both cars. Maintenace is expensive - for ex. timing belt and brake rotors are headaches compared to most cars.

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  Trouble-free - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Winz - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Mine is a european 1400cc/90hp version. Yet its quite fun to drive, and can carry 4 adults w/bags. The handling is good, w/ a nice shift (manual). The interior is still as news after 3 years, though the grey color is kinda dull (IMO). I would highly recommend this car, especially used, because of superior quality, reliability and small price. Winz, Paris, France.

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  I cant stop driving this!!! - 1999 Honda Civic
  By Kangol - October 17 - 10:00 am

  There isnt much I dont like about this car....even though its still stock! It comes with all the options. I have more room in this civic than in my previous two cars(89 camry, 90 camry). The gas mileage is an added bonus. The snappy VTEC engine gives you the power you need in a coupe. You definately get good bang for the buck.

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  First Honda, First SUV - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By EAJ - October 17 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! It is fun & sporty to drive and turns on a dime. By the looks of it, people think I paid WAY more then I did. The only problem I have experienced is that CR-V does pull to the right. Also, when I drive it in reverse it makes a whining sound...not sure yet if this is normal or not. (it is an automatic transmission) Anyone else out there have that problem? All in all it is a wonderful vehicle.

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  Satisfied - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By Skids - October 17 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I got the Odyssey a few weeks ago and our short term impression is great. The van has excellent power and is extremely quite. I have yet to use the DVD/Entertainment center, but expect good things.

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  Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Biker7 - October 17 - 10:00 am

  This has got to be the best car Honda has ever sold. The ride is light-years a head of the 2000 Oddsey I owned and I thought it was good. This is a great SUV both in style and ride. A real enjoyment to drive.

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  Honda Civic EX - 2001 Honda Civic
  By mkuratana - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Great car, fun to drive, economical, very reliable

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  I LOVE MY CAR!!! - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Elena - October 17 - 7:40 am

  Ive had my EX V6 for about a month, and I absolutely love it. I also looked at the Camry Solara, and although the Solara feels roomier in the rear, it doesnt come standard with the same features as the EX V6. In the Honda, the interior was better, as well as the responsiveness you dont hear as much road noise. The only thing I DONT like about the car is that it doesnt come in a manual transmission. Highly recommended.

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  1st time Honda owner - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Roy Gunter - October 17 - 7:20 am

  Bought my first Honda yesterday, drove it home, and am not displeased at all. I am 6ft 1 inch 240 lbs and was totally comfortable in the drivers seat. I am long waisted so head room is a biggie and the car has it in spades. Very pleased and am looking forward to a long ownership with this car..One thing...what is the deal with no armrest for the passenger? Anyway, great car for the money and the right car for the right time.