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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  great car!!!! - 2002 Honda Accord
  By usedcarbuyer - March 17 - 11:24 pm

  Bought this car in 2005 and its been wonderful. Had regular maintenance and replaced battery and brake pads... and tires but no major problems! It gets wonderful gas mileage!!! It now has over 90,000 miles and still running great.

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  The Future - 2006 Honda Civic
  By qualia - March 17 - 6:56 pm

  A manly man, I feel the urge to buy a high-powered car. Hybrids are for enviro-weenies, right? I *almost* passed over this magnetic pearl beauty. Wow, am I glad I didnt. Power is more than adequate. While the numbers are not stellar, the car never strains during acceleration. Its smooth, smooth, smooth. And the overall impression is one of exceptional high quality; youre cruising quietly in a spacious canopy with a panoply of high-tech info at your command. Ride is comfy, cornering is tight, body is rigid, response to inputs is immediate. Way out of its price class. So, before you indulge your horsepower craving, test drive this car. 49 mpg so far!

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  Features are now top notch - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Mac - March 17 - 6:10 pm

  Sold a 99 CRV when the 2008 came with power drivers seat. It comes with so much more: Heated seats, tilt & telescope steering, dual a/c, TPMS, service calculation for oil change, etc. Wish it had auto headlights and auto rear view mirror. Nevertheless, this is one terrific vehicle, especially at the price of $25,000 for the EX-L. We tested all the best and the CRV was just a clear winner. My wife has subsequently bought the runner up for herself- the Nissan Rogue SL because it now comes with leather on the FWD, which was not avail. in 2008.

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  Fun to drive - 2006 Honda Civic
  By BMWLoyalist - March 17 - 5:50 pm

  Considering this is the first car Ive ever owned, Id have to say that this was an exceptional choice. For what we compared it to, this had the best bang- for-your-buck value with all of the stuff you could possibly want in a car. The power is a little disappointing, but the light and responsive steering more than makes up for it in my opinion. It looks sharp and appealing, as it should, considering its aimed towards my generation. Im not exactly a fan of the Japanese-made cars (mainly a Euro fan), so it amazed some people that know me well who thought I mightve gone with a used Bimmer (328i) or Benz (C230). Well, that goes to show you just how good this car is.

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  This car is extremely reliable - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Jon Mullis - March 17 - 4:54 pm

  I drove this car off the showroom floor in 2002. I cant say enough great things about it. For 2002, this car was loaded and came with 6 disc changer, moonroof, rear spoiler, and leather seats. I drive this car all around VA and get about 33-35 MPG on highway. I can usually get about 450- 500 miles on a single tank. Its unfortunate the newer Accords dont get the mileage this one has, however I guess with the increase in size, you compromise MPG.

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  Best Civic Yet! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Richie K - March 17 - 11:33 am

  For all you folks who are searching for the Ideal all around vehicle, this is it. This is my second review of this 2008 Civic LX and after 3000 miles since my last I can report that this is the best choice for a compact car Ive ever made. Quiet, comfortable and economical. Most of my driving is on the interstate with consistent speed (68mph). I have seen an average of 41+ mpg on my 168 mile round trip per day. Comfort is excellent for a vehicle of this size. Noise levels are low and you cant even hear the engine at high speed. It also runs considerable slower than my previous 2001 Civic EX (2200 rpm at 70 mph). Workmanship is superb. I have to fight my wife to drive this Civic.

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  Everything you need, nothing you dont. - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Matt2 - March 17 - 10:00 am

  After much research, we ordered a Pilot. The 2 month wait seemed long but it was worth the wait. Everything about this vehicle is Honda quality. There hasnt been a single issue with it in the first 10,000 miles. And the interior is so useful and well laid out. I could go on and on about this vehicle, but will just say that no one will be disappointed with this vehicle. We wouldnt trade ours for anything. But I havent seen the 04 Pilot yet!

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  New Honda Owner & Loving It - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Okarky - March 17 - 10:00 am

  Research, research, research.... If you do the research that you need to do before you buy a mini-van, you will buy Honda. After you have looked at crash- test ratings, Consumer Guide, Consumer Reports, etc., go look at new prices, and compare those prices to comparably equipped one- and two-year old models. I would never have believed depreciation rates of $200-$250 PER WEEK if I had not seen it with my own four eyes. Go shop it yourself!!!! I cannot tell you which option I like the best. Smooth as glass, with plenty of power.

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  Great Car! - 2001 Honda Civic
  By MollyJ - March 17 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Civic and I love this one more than the first! The performance is outstanding and the gas mileage is superior to any other car in its class. It is VERY fun to drive - I wish I had purchased it sooner! I would highly recommend this car to anyone considering a four-door sedan.

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  As Nice As Can Be - 2003 Honda Accord
  By tucsonraymo - March 17 - 10:00 am

  I looked at Acura TL, Lexus ES300, & M-B C320 (not BMW cuz my 99 328i just came off lease & wanted a change)- the Accord was a better car with more features, more power and nicer interior for less money. Its very comfortable - Im 61" & 260 lbs - its roomy and quite powerful. Handles decent and the interior is top rate, even if wood is fake. Love the nav system. It really helped on a recent trip to So. Cal. Also the guages are electro-luminescent, nothing else in the class offers that.