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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  Another Great Accord...Thank you Honda! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Gonzo1124 - April 24 - 10:00 am

  This is my 8, maybe 9th Honda Accord. Every time I get one they are better than before. I just change the oil and filter and go. Never do the 5K, 15K, 30K maintenance at the dealer. Do them myself. Never a single problem in almost 20-years of Hondas. I also own a 2002 BMW 325i. My Accord LX is not too far behind at over $15M less. Incredible car, excellent value, excellent ride!

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  Back to Honda - 2007 Honda Civic
  By ejason1974 - April 24 - 5:10 am

  This is my 3rd Honda and I am glad to be back. I traded a 2002 Jeep Wrangler in for this SI. What a difference!! Its like going from a prop plane to a fighter jet. Absolutely amazing.

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  Lovin it - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Carissa - April 24 - 4:50 am

  So this is my very first Honda (owned Fords before this and will NEVER go back!) I love this vehicle. I am getting great gas mileage (about 38-40 mpg) with about 90% highway driving. Driving home from work I am relaxed and comfortable and the sound system is wonderful. Am able to plug in a USB (jump drive) and play music straight from it and switch between sources with the touch of a button. Also the space is great! The seats are easily adjusted and everything is just perfect! No blind spots at all. There is also an armrest which is a plus. This is also my first manual transmission and its easy as could be. I would recommend this car to anyone! Also love the panoramic view! AC is great too!

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  If it does fit, you must acquit... - 2009 Honda Fit
  By 35neutral - April 24 - 4:50 am

  I really wanted to buy a TDI Wagon. I almost did. As a matter of fact, I was an hour away from signing the check for it. Then I test drove the Fit. It was over. Fit 1, TDI Wagon 0. The TDI engine is solid, no doubt. Its the rest of the car that STILL makes me nervous. Plus, Ive always been a Honda guy, and after my last two Civic both went 200,000 miles without a single issue (and I do mean, none) other than air filters, oil changes, and tires, I have no reason to believe that this particular car will be any different. The Fit did fit. Besides, I am getting 45mph without hyper-miling it that much. I mean, the EPA numbers are a joke, I can beat those hot dogging it with the AC at full blast!

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  honda prelude (1994) - 1994 Honda Prelude
  By dgffg - April 24 - 2:00 am

  one of the best cars ive owned in terms of longevity, reliabilty, and looks.

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  Best $11,000 I Ever Spent - 1991 Honda Civic
  By Ellen - April 24 - 2:00 am

  This baby just wont give-up. Have never had any major problems whatsoever. Kept up with Hondas regular maintenance schedule which I think has alot to do with it. Interior looks great. Not as peppy as it used to be, but has served us well.

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  Nells Honda - 1990 Honda Accord
  By Janelle - April 24 - 2:00 am

  Outstanding performanc. Reliable with recommended maintenance. Body style remains competitive with later model design.Garaged for twelve years helps with the lustre of finish.

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  Greatest Car Ive Ever Sat In - 2001 Honda S2000
  By hondas2000 - April 24 - 2:00 am

  This car is great! I just bought it used from a newspaper ad. I was so nervous about it, but the car has proven to be awesome, and we got it at such a great price. We are so excited to have this new "baby" in our lives!

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  buy a used civic! mine is for sale. - 1994 Honda Civic
  By jason - April 24 - 2:00 am

  i am very pleased with my car. i have owned it for 6 years and there have only been minor mechanical problems with the car. i sometimes forget it is not a race car. my civic has almost a 100,000 miles and it still runs like new.

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  My first and best - 1996 Honda Civic
  By shk22 - April 24 - 2:00 am

  It has been my first car since freshman year in college(96) and I havent had any major problems with it yet. This is absolutely a great car. No more explanation is necessary.