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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  The little toaster - 2007 Honda Element
  By rpowell - June 21 - 11:09 pm

  So, like everyone else... my car is my toaster. I love my toaster but I would like to say it rides very rough. Its also much noisier than my hubbys truck. but, its spacey and really fun to drive. My friends love the back seat b/c they can see whats going on with the theater style seating plus it is really roomy in the back seat. easy to haul stuff too with the size and versatility. I love it, just wish it was less bumpy of a ride.

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  Great car as all my other Hondas were! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Rod - June 21 - 6:27 pm

  Very reliable, economical, and fun to drive!

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  Great car as all my other Hondas were! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Rod - June 21 - 6:27 pm

  Very reliable, economical, and fun to drive!

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  The Civic of the Future - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Jabra - June 21 - 5:43 pm

  This is my fourth Honda and my first Civic. I had a 2006 Accord that I really loved but when I test drove the 2007 EX I loved the sporty feel it had and the new styling. Five months later I am still loving my car. My wife had a small collision with the rear end but the car came through it with only $800.00 in damages. It never affected the ride or handling and just reinforced my appreciation of the quality of this car.

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  Great vehicle except gas mileage - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By Second Odyssey - June 21 - 3:05 pm

  Ive owned two Honda odysseys. A 2007 Odyssey Touring that met a deer late at night and a 2008 Odyssey EX-L (bought new after the 2007s accident). Both vehicles have been completely reliable, a joy to own and drive and perfect for my family. However, one big surprise. Even with the 3,4 & 6 cylinder switching engine, the fuel economy has been averaging 13- 14 mpg. Im not an aggressive driver and now that I know Im getting this mileage, Ive been trying to improve it but with not a lot of success. On long trips things certainly improve but around town gas mileage is my biggest disappointment. I expected better, maybe 17-18.

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  Wow. Great car - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Harrison Grothoff - June 21 - 1:33 pm

  I loved the CRV! It was the best car I had ever gotten. I wish it came in a manual shiftstick though. I would have loved it more!

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  No Regrets!!! - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Chris - June 21 - 11:22 am

  The comfort level is phenomenal. Im less fatigued on long drives even after a full workday! Everything is within the drivers complete reach. This is my first Honda, or foreign auto for that matter, and I am completely sold. Their performance record is certainly an added bonus. You cant beat the quality and value for the price.

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  Its Simply Elemental ! - 2003 Honda Element
  By ELemental - June 21 - 2:00 am

  Great SUV Went from BMW to this vehicle Peppy ,smooth, fun, solid , smooth on the highway. Gas mileage could be a bit better small gas tank Defn need cargo cover and holder

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  Best Mid-size for the money - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By jshallue - June 21 - 2:00 am

  Problem with the engine starting. It does not want to turn over at times. Dealer says they know about it, but cannot fix it.

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  Excellent Investment - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Angeliz324 - June 21 - 2:00 am

  The car has everything- its both fun and sporty and it is a Honda, so of course its going to be reliable for many years to come. The EX comes with all the conveniences you could ask for.