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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  Odysseys a Disappointment - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By kas - March 6 - 8:15 pm

  I was so excited to purchase the redesign model of this van after owning an Accord I loved. We had to move to a minivan after the birth of our 3rd child. Weve had the power steering pump replaced 5 times, and were preparing to put on the 3rd set of tires (@ 67K miles)! Weve been told only 1 tire is made for the van-- Michelin --cha ching! I love the overall look of the van inside and out, enjoy the interior features and layout, and love to drive it despite all the aggravation. I must say, though, the van was a let down in general. I was really hoping for better fuel economy with the Honda reputation. I average 18 mpg around town.

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  In Love - 2000 Honda Accord
  By peaches - March 6 - 2:44 pm

  Rarely see any, paint still looks great mostly in garage.200,000 mles an have always kept oil changed .Did have leather repaired on one of front seats thats it! Super fast love to lay back seats door ,more like for one or to people. should go down as one of the best cars!

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  In Love - 2000 Honda Accord
  By peaches - March 6 - 2:44 pm

  Rarely see any, paint still looks great mostly in garage.200,000 mles an have always kept oil changed .Did have leather repaired on one of front seats thats it! Super fast love to lay back seats door ,more like for one or to people. should go down as one of the best cars!

• 

  In Love - 2000 Honda Accord
  By peaches - March 6 - 2:44 pm

  Rarely see any, paint still looks great mostly in garage.200,000 mles an have always kept oil changed .Did have leather repaired on one of front seats thats it! Super fast love to lay back seats door ,more like for one or to people. should go down as one of the best cars!

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  Fit 2 Go - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Poopa - March 6 - 9:29 am

  This car is like a "mini-SUV" it can hold anything and go anywhere. I especially love the great gas mileage and the ease of parking or maneuvering around. I live in the snow belt and after putting snow tires on this vehicle, I had no problems whatsoever, getting about. A great addition to any family!

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  16 Years And Still Going - 1993 Honda Accord
  By marko - March 5 - 5:13 pm

  I figured I wouldnt keep my new Accord for more than 10 years, tops. 16 years later its still going strong. The only major repairs have been clutch, master & slave brake cylinders, radiator, oil seals and an engine mount. I also had the timing belt and water pump replaced twice but only as preventative measures, not because they failed. Not bad for a 16-year-old car. We kept thinking about trading it in but thought "why?" its been such a good car. The A/C still blows cool even on the hottest days in Phoenix. It also gets excellent gas millage (30 MPG). New Accord seats are too stiff on long drives so we wont replace with a new one. They dont make them like this anymore.

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  Fits our needs - 2017 Honda CR V
  By GST - March 5 - 1:12 pm

  Just what we were looking for as an additional family driver. Small enough to zip around town and large enough to take a trip and hold some luggage.

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  Got a good deal on an excellent car - 2004 Honda Element
  By Rick R. - March 5 - 7:58 am

  The car is for my wife who loved it immediately. It is roomy, easy to clean and appears to provide just what we need since we move larger objects. The driver is an artist and is always hauling stuff. The dealership was extremely nice in helping us to find a car.

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  Shouldve been a "Jazz". - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Joe P - March 5 - 3:59 am

  I previously reviewed my Fit on 4/20/07. Since then not much has changed except for one very disappointing thing. In cold weather there is a spectacularly annoying rattle coming from the center dash. Very unHonda-like! Of course this is my only real complaint. Overall I love this car. Its a blast to drive. As a matter of fact driving my Fit in Chicago is (dare I say it?) almost fun. The utility in this car is amazing. Ive had a lawn mower, a weed wacker (both Hondas), 8 bags of mulch and fertilizer and all sorts of small plants in the back. All delivered in one trip. Who needs an SUV?

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  Our First Honda - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Chadious - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This car is a great car. I have always bought american, and was hesitant on going forign. I am very pleased with this car. I would recommend it to anoyne. I drive about 125 miles per day, and I am certain that this car will perform great, well over 150k miles.