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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  An awsome vehicle . . . - 2003 Honda Civic
  By arijfroo - April 12 - 2:00 am

  We recently bought this car (actually an 02, but it is virtually identicle), it is an excellent transport. Compared to our 99 saturn sl, this car is quieter, roomier and much faster. The shifter and clutch are amazing, and the car handles well. I have two complaints. For a 64" driver, there is not enough headroom (I have a moon roof). Also, there is a little too much assist with the power steering.

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  pretty nice - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Fisher - April 12 - 2:00 am

  i just got the civic hx. so far its been fun to drive, responds well, and is super smooth.

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  My 6sp MT - 2003 Honda Accord
  By mashimaro - April 12 - 2:00 am

  Fun car to drive. Love the 6 speed MT. The only problem I had is the 180 watts stereo. It keeps making the static noice between tracks when playing CDs.

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  Camry owner migtrates to Honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By J Hay - April 12 - 2:00 am

  We have tested many cars and narrowed to Passat vs Honda. The features, quality and pricing on the Honda outbeats the Passat. We got more for the value we paid for in Honda Accord. I am really impressed by how the car handles on the road and making corners turn.

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  Pound for pound, dollar for dollar.... - 2003 Honda Accord
  By domestix_suck - April 12 - 2:00 am

  There is no better car buy on the planet. Pound for pound, dollar for dollar NO CAR is as good as the Accord. How can you go wrong with the longest running winner of C&Ds 10 best award? Toyota may have slightly better reliability but cant touch Honda for overall enjoyment and resale value. For all of you who MUST buy American, the Accord is no less American than any domestic product. Get with it.

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  Three words: Oh my God! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Tarrant - April 12 - 2:00 am

  The beautifully styled EX V6 6-speed coupe provides top-notch safety, excellent performance and tremendous value. After considering competing models from Audi, BMW, Nissan, Infiniti and VW -- most of which were rated less safe and reliable than the Accord -- it was a pleasure and relief to find the Accord. The power and handling are impressive, yet the car remains quiet and luxurious. The fit and finish are flawless.

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  Very disappointing - 2003 Honda Accord
  By RepoMan - April 12 - 2:00 am

  My first purchase of an Accord and its been very disappointing so far. The car drifts to the right and its very irritating. There are wind noises on the driver side and the tires make a small noise. The fuel efficiency is not as good as advertised (18-19 Miles/Gallon). A weird thing that happens is a clunking noise after pulling out of the driveway.

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  Another winner - 2007 Honda Civic
  By civic man - April 12 - 1:13 am

  This is my third civic. I must say that this one is my favorite. I have had the car for 10 days and have put nearly 1k miles on the odometer and the gas mileage is dead on. The comfort over my previous 04 model is greatly improved due to longer wheel base especially over bumps. The front seats appear to have more legroom which is always nice. Overall I am very satisfied with my car. I got a great deal on my new car and my last Civic a 2004 EX sedan with 52K miles only depreciated $3k. I have been able to trade about every 3 year and get a new car. I love the low depreciation, reliability, overall spunkiness and quality that I have not been able to find elsewhere.

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  Great Car - 1993 Honda Accord
  By ryguy - April 11 - 2:00 am

  I just bought this car four months ago and it is simply the best!! I upgraded from a little Honda Civic to a more powerful Accord. I am very happy with the power that is has! I am also VERY happy with the very low maintenence on the engine! I have NO rust and is still going strong. I am very glad I have a Honda as my parents are having with their 96 Windstar that just hit 100k!! (the problems are here!!!) I have and I will always say: Ford should learn from the Japanese to get the product right, THE FIRST TIME!!

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  My new 2016 CRV-EX - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Jim Antonucci - April 10 - 4:13 pm

  This is a great vehicle....my only negatives....there is no auto garage door opener or trunk release button. This should be standard on this model. The bluetooth, radio, phone system is just ok and a little confusing. Much better on my 2016 Altima.