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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  2005 CRV Disappointed - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By tom77 - February 20 - 5:00 am

  I researched the Honda CRV for over two years before I purchased a 2005 model. I had to take it to the dealer for missing body hardware, coolant loss and a sensor replacement within the first six months of ownership. I doubt that any of these defects had any thing to do with the fact that it was built in England but thats for others to determine. Recently one of the front Bridgestone Dueler H/T tires, with only 6900 miles on them, blew while my wife was driving in her employers parking lot. She has a broken neck, concussion, facial laceration and head and body trauma. If Honda wants to build a high quality vehicle why are they using a tire that so many people are unhappy with?

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  Got LUDE!!! - 1990 Honda Prelude
  By azbanshee44 - February 20 - 2:00 am

  Just bought it with 167,000 on it. Passed emissions with flying colors. Runs very strong.

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  very good - 1991 Honda Accord
  By guilherme leite - February 20 - 2:00 am

  perfect, the only problem is the the antenna

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  Perfect balance - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Fliujniligui - February 19 - 9:26 pm

  This car has no defects, it is innovative, reasonably performaning for normal needs (speed limit is 100 km per hour) while allowing a superior fuel economy. The exterior design is remarkable and will stand the test of time while inside is made with high quality material and also really optimized and fun. Seats are comfortable. I like to find a reason to move out and drive the car. Going to work never was so funny.

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  A Honda Family Again - 2006 Honda Civic
  By steve - February 19 - 7:16 pm

  The 2006 Honda Civic LX is a dream car. The first car I ever had that I have fun driving it. It is our 5th Honda, 1982 Acord 1986 Accord 1993 Accord 1998 Civic and finally the 2006 Civic. By far the best one yet. Very roomy. Dashboard is cool. QUIET as our old Accords. I know Honda and its the best Ive ever seen. Honda is the only car Ill ever buy again.

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  Civic - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Merritt - February 19 - 2:10 pm

  This car is reliable and fun! It doesnt take up a lot of gas either so its cheap when considering many other cars.

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  You wont be disappointed with the Pilot - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By cl - February 19 - 1:56 pm

  I chose this vehicle due to the price, comfortable ride, and reliability and power it offers, Im already driving this vehicle for more then 7 month and I donÂ’t think that I could have made a better decision.

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  Honda vs Germany - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By peapop - February 19 - 11:00 am

  Before two kids, we always said no way to a minivan... until we saw and drove the current generation Odyssey. I agree with everyone else that the car is outstanding in many ways, blah blah blah. I have to stress that I am extremely picky about what I drive and no matter how much cash you want to blow on a minivan - Honda has everyone licked. The Odyssey frustrates me that for half of what my other car costs AND being a freakin minivan - it actually is all anybody needs. I rarely drive my car anymore.

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  I love this car - 2007 Honda Civic
  By kelseylynne - February 19 - 5:23 am

  Ever want a car that you cant stop looking at in the parking lot? This is the car. I cant wait to take it out on the road, either! Cars literally have been pulling up beside me to check out the digital dash which is so perfect! They are stunned by the awesome blue digital dash and navigation system offered in this SWEET little car! This is the best car ever!! I just wanted a car with good gas mileage that could last for ten years. I was able to purchase this car and know that it will last due to Hondas reputation. I will have fun in this car for a very long time and I will be making a lot of drivers very jealous they didnt wait for the release of the 07 coupe! Two thumbs up!!

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  This Civic is lit - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Austin - February 19 - 3:00 am

  Great value on this car. Many features and make for an enjoyable ride. The infotainment systems is iffy at times but is pretty great most of the time . The car rides quietly and is very comfortable. I get great millage and overall love this car.