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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  excellent car - 2002 Honda Passport
  By Passport - March 5 - 11:19 pm

  My white Passport has been a perfect car since I purchased it in Decemeber. Lots of power, luxury and rugged good looks. Considered also the Isuzu Rodeo (same car, just as good), but chose the Passport because of dealer experience. A perfect 10, this car is great

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  definitely no loser (a tad expensive tho - 2001 Honda Insight
  By snoodle - March 5 - 10:14 pm

  60 mpg for the past 6000 miles, highest mpg on trips is over 100mpg one-way and in the 80s both ways

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  honda prelude will beat any U.S. 6cl - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By robert woerdich - March 5 - 7:50 pm

  people say that the prelude does not have so much torque,but mine woops but on cameros and mustangs and if you want an extra kick for $3,700.00 turbo/w everything installed will bring you up to over 400hp.

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  Great Car - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Kim - March 5 - 7:46 pm

  Love this car! I was slightly concerned about all the reviews with the seats being uncomfortable. I love the seats-they are supportive. The car drives really well. I have not noted the headlights flashing like other reviews. More power than the Camry, more trunk space than the Camry. Very comfortable, sporty. Love it!

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  I haveing no problem of my passport - 2000 Honda Passport
  By sl - March 5 - 7:42 pm

  I having no problem of my passport which I bought 2/2000, truck is very reliable but only think I do not like gas mileage even it say 16/20 but roughly I got city/hwy mix about 14-15. Size wise it is perfect for city Parallel parking because it does not take large space.

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  Perfect Commuter Car - 1993 Honda Civic
  By rthomson - March 5 - 10:44 am

  At 115000mi this car has never had a mechanical problem. 48mpg highway, 43city. Its a little to small and high reving for extended highway driving, but as a commuter car its outstanding! Best car I have ever owned.

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  Best purchase made in 2008 - 2008 Honda Civic
  By lj82 - March 5 - 6:46 am

  My Civic has great pick up for getting on the highway. I commute to work about 26 miles a day, and my gas mileage is outstanding.

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  Great Little Car - 2007 Honda Civic
  By dave - March 5 - 6:00 am

  I was driving an 00 Ford Escort and when I read the "noisy ride" Consumer Reports comments, I worried about the noise level. Alas, the Civic Hybrid is comparatively silent! I am getting 50+ MPG in town (flat Florida) with AC off, 47 with AC on. On the drive home from Ohio, I got 48. The transmission is so smooth I never notice the "shift". Wife (leadfoot) loves the speedometer placed right in the line of vision with big, well lit numerals. Braking is satisfactory (Accord is better). Acceleration surprisingly adequate but if you lead foot it, you pay in the MPG dept. The seats are OK. Its really fun to see how your driving habits affect your fuel economy (MPG display).

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  First time buyer... - 1990 Honda Accord
  By Meklet - March 4 - 11:08 pm

  Just purchased 1990 accord exr with power roof, power locks/windows, etc. A/C no longer works. Otherwise in excellent condition. Some surface rust needs to be sanded painted and rust protected. 2.2L 4 cyl. Excellent handling and acceleration. Definitely fun to drive. Smooth at high speeds. Would definitely purchase another Accord old or new. Seems to be reliable. Everybody says Ill put 250,000 miles or more on it!

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  Best car that I have ever owned - 2001 Honda Prelude
  By Civicdxman - March 4 - 9:53 pm

  This car is the best car that I have ever purchased. The dealer was great. After the break in period the car ran better then ever.