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:
Showing 30131 through 30140 of 31,869.00-
Love my - 2003 Honda Element
By Blondman954 - November 16 - 10:00 amI have had my "E" since January and have 5,000 miles on it so far. No problems so far. There are some very minor issues that happen with almost every new car made (squeaks, rattles, etc). I like the way it handles and despite the 4 cylinder engine, it moves along just fine.
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Fun Car to Drive - 2003 Honda Civic
By kemtid - November 16 - 10:00 amI wanted a Hybrid from the start, especially with gas prices going close to $2.00 per gallon. The choices for my family of 4 were either the Toyota Prius or Honda Civic Hybrid. From a Safety standpoint the Honda is better than the Toyota. Although the Prius is a bit cheaper, that price goes up rapidly when you add the CD Player and Sideimpact Airbags( both of these features are Standard on the Civic Hybrid). Plus the need for a automatic transmission, my wife hates to shift ;). We got a great price of $100.00 over invoice with a $100.00 coupon to buy floor mats and such. Plus how can you beat 1.9% financing?
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All Around Value - 2003 Honda Accord
By kellygreen - November 16 - 10:00 amVery powerful, driver friendly car. Appreciate fantastic seats, and ergonomic layout of controls.
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Great Car - 2003 Honda Accord
By Jjjak - November 16 - 10:00 amFun to drive, safe, and comfortable.
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Impressive car, good value - 2003 Honda Accord
By EJ215 - November 16 - 10:00 amLooked at Camry, Altima and Mazda 6 before purchasing the Accord. I was impressed by the Accords powerfull yet efficient engine, its interior and reputation for quality and reliability.Had some concerns regarding visaiblity to the side/rear and reported (relatively) poor braking distances.
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Four not six - 2003 Honda Accord
By romit - November 16 - 10:00 amVehicle has an excellent engine with power and smoothness of a six, matched with a highly refined transmission. After 3,500 miles including lengthly trip, mileage is better than expected - 36.8 mpg on the highway. Road noise, however, is quite excessive. Exterior design needs improvement; back end doesnt seem to fit into design and front Honda enblem much too large.
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Great Car! - 2003 Honda Accord
By matt I - November 16 - 10:00 amI have had this car for about 9 months now, and I love it. It is smooth and quiet on the freeway, and has just enough punch to be fun to drive. I wish the suspension was a little tighter in the turns, but hey, this is a family car. The maunal trans and clutch are so smooth and easy to use almost anyone should be able to drive this car.
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Love It - 2002 Honda Odyssey
By CAK - November 16 - 7:13 amOne of the best decisions Ive ever made.
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Very happy - 2007 Honda Odyssey
By Mom of 3 - November 16 - 3:53 amI really enjoy this mini van. I have had Dodge, and Chrysler previously- after a while problems with engine and electronics. So I decided I would buy either Honda or Toyota. I really enjoy the easy access front seat to back to attend to baby. I like that both doors slide open and the back door window go down as well. It drives very smooth and it gives a family of 5 plenty of room. It has been great when we travel. I do not feel squeezed in. I feel that I have plenty of room. I would recommend this vehicle. The AC and heat work great. I live in Texas so the AC is a BIG deal!!! The stereo system that came with the model is very good as well.
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Very dissapointed - 2008 Honda Civic
By Tito - November 16 - 12:30 amI trade my excellent and reliable Honda Civic VP 2005 for a Honda 2008. It was the worst decision I made on my life. I am regretting it since day one. Cheap plastic, noisy (I feel every street bump). I cannot get used to the over designed dashboard. Overall very cheap built and overpriced. I cannot afford to trade it but I will do it as soon as I can. Will never buy Honda again. Honda is sleeping on its laurels.
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