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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  Why buy an Acura ? - 2004 Honda Accord
  By coljr01431 - July 31 - 2:00 am

  My friend drives a great Acura TL which I used to covet until I bought my much less expensive Accord. Ill match my Accords comfort, performance, and driving fun against the 2003 TL any day and Ill take the money I saved when purchasing and the money saved using regular rather than premium gas and buy a wide screen TV for my family room.

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  Lets get one! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Alp Gox - July 31 - 2:00 am

  Perfect handling, superb interior, reliable...

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  My first Honda Accord - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Nevada Guy - July 31 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Honda Accord. Ive owned/leased Camrys and Altimas before and Im really impressed! We purchased the EX sedan with side curtain airbags. The ergonomics work very well for us older baby boomers (even the larger radio/clock displays are a nice touch). The only fault I can find with this car is this - Im kinda bottom heavy (ok, my wife says FAT) and the harder foam rubber "bolsters" puts too much pressure on my hips and make for an uncomfortable driving position. If it wasnt for that, its probably the best car of its type!!!

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  Buy It - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Dave - July 31 - 1:30 am

  I love this car. I get a huge grin on my face every time I get in. I researched for months and finally decided that this was what I wanted. I have not regretted that decision for a moment. This car is sleek, fun to drive, and much more upscale than people would imagine a Civic to be. All of my friends continue to tell me how much they like it. In this price range it is really unbeatable. The sound system is amazing. My friend has a G35 with a Bose system that cant touch mine. One of the main reasons that I decided on the Honda was reliability. Every Honda my family has ever had has been wonderful. Buy It!

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  Seventh Honda Accord - 2008 Honda Accord
  By hilltopper - July 31 - 1:23 am

  This is my seventh Accord. The new body styling is a big plus and the interior has the look of a more expensive vehicle. All things considered Honda gives you the best value for the price. Many standard features are options on the Altima and Camery. Not sold on the VCM.

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  Hi - 2000 Honda Accord
  By DAnny C - July 30 - 11:16 am

  overall nice car.... too bad it is a honda.... REALLY REALLY needs a 5 speed and rear wheel drive

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  My Pilot - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Liat - July 30 - 10:20 am

  I realy didnt like my dealer, since they pushed on me a Pilot with colors that i didnt like. but the vehicle itself is nice. im single with no kids, but wanted an SUV with much needed space. im also a fan of the HONDA brand.

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  Fantastic Car!!! - 1998 Honda Accord
  By angelcake73 - July 30 - 10:00 am

  You cant ask for a better vehicle, especially for those like me whose primary concern was the pricing. I bought this used last year, the dealership was wonderfully helpful, no- pressure, and I have thoroughly enjoyed driving this car since. The Accord has a great design, very comfortable, and extremely reliable mechanically. I will probably never drive anything else except Hondas, based on my experience with this car and with the dealership.

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  perfection - 2002 Honda S2000
  By curt - July 30 - 10:00 am

  this is truly the most perfect car i have ever owned!!!!!!!!!1

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  Excellent car - 1997 Honda Accord
  By Rajesh - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Its a value for money car, very reliable