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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  Our wonderful Honda product. - 2005 Honda Element
  By Milton L McConnell - March 26 - 1:20 pm

  This is our 4th Honda, two Civics, One CRV and now the Element. It is Just what we need up here in the mountains. Easy to keep clean, plenty of power, good gas mileage for an SUV. Very practical. Dependable.

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  Long term review of Mean Joe Green - 2000 Honda Accord
  By Scipio - March 26 - 7:52 am

  All cars should have names. My Accord is affectionately known as Mean Joe Green. Im at 216,000 miles, having purchased it at 65,400. Ive replaced the belts twice, two motor mounts, bought two sets of tires, two water pumps, and two sets of brake pads. Aside from those issues, most of my indicator lights in the dash have gone out. But I still get at least 28 mpg on the highway. Handles best with Goodyear Assurance Tripletreads. That was my first replacement set of tires, and it went about 65k. Perfect for twisty Mississippi back roads that I used to commute on, 164 miles round trip daily. Leather drivers seat is torn up. Replaced the seat frame. Best car Ive owned ever.

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  Ill own this car forever ! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By GordonGump - March 25 - 9:40 pm

  I have had my car for 3 1/2 years and have not had any problems with it at all. The only things Ive had to do with it is new tires, and oil changes every 3,000-4,000 miles. I am glad I have my Honda Civic right now because it gets great gas mileage which is a big thing now with the price of gas. Do not hesitate to buy this car !!!

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  Long time Honda fan - 2009 Honda Odyssey
  By AEdwards - March 25 - 9:33 pm

  This is our sixth Honda product, first van. Love the way Honda packages models so you dont have to buy an option you dont want just to get something you do want. Great quality that we expect from Honda. Odyssey has definitely lived up to its reputation. Lots of fun features to keep kids and dads happy.

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  love my Ridgeline - 2009 Honda Ridgeline
  By Gerry - March 25 - 5:44 pm

  Ive had my Ridgeline now for over 3 months. I cant imagine a truck fitting my needs better. I love the looks, not just another pick-up. The in bed lock-able compartment is an answer to so many problems for pick-up owners Fun to drive, good mileage (19.5) mostly highway. I wish I knew what they were thinking when they put in that center glove box. ODD! Over all, Id do it again in a second.

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  low cost of ownership - 2006 Honda Civic
  By AM - March 25 - 11:07 am

  Ive got 65K miles on it & Ive had to spend only about $1000 in 3 1/2 years (set of new tires, replace front brakes & coolant service) besides regular oil changes at 5-6K intervals.

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  GreatDeal - 2008 Honda Civic
  By ddetroit - March 25 - 12:30 am

  Never thought a small car could be as comfortable and fun to drive as this one. Whenever someone drives the car they are impressed by the power and handling of the car. My husband will purchase one in Feb. of 2009 he likes it so much, unless something better comes along.

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  Took a friends advice, and bought a Honda Accord. - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Caroline - March 24 - 6:42 pm

  After purchasing MANY different new cars throughout my life, in 2006 I decided to take the advise of a trusted and wise Honda owning friend. He had 250K on his 2005 Honda Accord, and he loved the car. My Honda has been THE BEST auto purchase ever, and it is 100% reliable and inexpensive to operate! As a professional marketer and on the road most of the time, this is HUGE. Not sure I can ever part with her.

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  Best Piot yet! - 2009 Honda Pilot
  By shodanusmc - March 24 - 9:56 am

  This is my 2nd Pilot. The first one was an 03, and it ran flawless. The 09 Touring is a big step up. Fun to drive, roomy, quiet, decent power, and a lot of fun toys to make the ride enjoyable. Love the Navi and radio. So far, the first tank averaged 15 mpg in all city. Just a great vehicle. Glad to see the Michelin tires on it also.

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  Most perfect small car - 1993 Honda Civic
  By Geoff - March 23 - 10:27 pm

  This car was always there for me. It pulled through snow when pickups foundered. It averaged 38-41 mpg, and I had the original clutch for 180K miles. It now has 253K miles and only died on me once when the water pump seized. 16 wonderful years, but now with a family of 4, we are going to buy midsize. It is a classic. I wish I could keep it for Sunday drives the next 30 years.