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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  Fun Car To Drive, Best SI Ever - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Jeff - April 11 - 1:58 pm

  Bought the car new in 2006, didnt really want a car with the Navi System in it, but now I cant live without it. The performance of this car is great. I have owned other Hondas in the past, but they really outdid them selves with this model. The car really starts to perform above 6k rpm. The power curve is great, its like the engine kicks up to another level. Glad I wanted for this years model to come out!! Very Low maintenance, I have only had to buy tires, and normal oil changes for 49k miles. Great fuel mileage for this model. Compared to a Acura RSX with the same engine, the SI averages about 8-10 miles per gallon more.

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  Hondas are the best - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Steve - April 10 - 8:08 pm

  I have two 05 Civics, one a 5 speed manual, the other is an auto. The 5 speed has never has any mechanical problems except the clear coat started to peel off the rear bumper after a visit to the car wash. Honda fixed it under warranty and I never had another problem. That car has 70K on it. The auto has 32K. Although they are slugs power wise, I am getting high 30s in the winter and low 40s in the warm weather. Driving a stick can be a pain in traffic, but it consistently gets better mileage than the automatic trans. The Hondas feel like they have been gone over by engineers until they have it right. Drive the car gingerly and dont beat it, get the maintenance done and they will hold up

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  Good Car - 1998 Honda Accord
  By RGX - April 10 - 2:00 am

  This is a really good car. Great driving experience when all is said and done and it has almost 200,000 miles on it now with only about 1,500 dollars worth of maintenance done.

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  My Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By crjlll - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I love Hondas. I have a 1992 Honda Prelude that I wanted to take of the street and custommize. That is why I bought my element. It reminds me of a G Class Mercedes without the house price tag. Plus I actuqlly get to carry people around and also lots of cargo space. The best of both worlds. The onlye improvement would be to make more room for us guuys over 62". Overall, I love it.

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  Honda Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By feldfurm - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Great car - but I dont find the city driving to be at 18mph. Also, visibility issues when making tough right or left turns. The body of the car surrounding the windshield is wide and it impedes visibility.

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  Love this SUV - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By stephrr - April 10 - 2:00 am

  After much research, we were torn between the Highlander and the Pilot. After test driving both, we chose the Pilot. It is roomy and dependable. The smooth ride cant be compared.

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  MY SECOND CR-V - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Tom Rush4th - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I just picked up another CR-V EX..After this lousy winter I couldnt find a better vehicle combining all weather traction, fuel economy & good looks.. Reliability is tops..resale very high..If you are considering a small- mid SUV this is a no-brainer.. Tom R. Bedminster, NJ

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  Fabulous Car!!! - 1990 Honda Accord
  By boiseblonde - April 9 - 1:21 pm

  Weve got 255,000+ miles on this car and Im confident it will be running for a good time longer! Weve had very minimal and cheap repairs because it has been well-maintained for many years. It runs really strong going up hills, picks up speed quickly, is quiet and comfortable! It handles superbly in icy/wet conditions. I have been impressed over and over with this car! I have such peace of mind knowing I wont be stranded, since I travel long distances frequently. Ill buy Honda again!

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  The Gold Standard - 1999 Honda Civic
  By RT - April 9 - 12:26 pm

  I adore my Civic. The ride is smooth and enjoyable shifting is a piece of cake (I have a manual) while not powerful, it will give you a kick to pass someone if need be. Not a lot of frills, but utterly reliable. Were at 156k miles, and I imagine my toddler inheriting it when hes driving age! Take care of your Honda--follow maintenance schedule, change the oil, fill it with Chevron, Shell, etc.--youre in for a treat. And did I mention that I consistently get 37-38 mpg in mixed city driving? Incredible. Who needs a Prius?

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  The perfect minivan - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By JIMBO - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Honda has done it !!! They have created the near perfect minivan. I love the duel electric sliding side doors, and the disapearing rear seat, leaving a flat floor. The 240hp motor just purrs at highway speeds, and has great pickup from a standing start, along with operating on regular unleaded fuel.