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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  Love this SUV - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By JenI - November 22 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is awesome. The interior is great and the highway noise is minimal. Vehicle has been involved in a 4 car accident and held up superbly! Minimal damage after being hit in the front, side and rear-up. Would highly recommend!

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  Honda Newcomer - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Whack - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Still too new to Honda ownership to "speak from experience," however I am amazed at the reputation of the Civic. Even non-car people repeat over and over again upon hearing we bought a Civic, "I hear those things last FOREVER." That is the main reason we went with the Civic. The new stylish look and extras (i.e. moonroof, 15" wheels, etc.) were all a bonus.

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  Its good - 2004 Honda Accord
  By platanus - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car 2 about 2 month ago and its in a good shape. I love the interior, especially audio system. It looks luxurious and its easy to control too. I was a little bit disappointed about the 0-100 or acceleration. You have to be at above 4000 rpm in order to accelerate fast. 240hp@6250 212 torque@5500 tells that u really need to reach high rpm in order to feel the good performance.

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  My First and Not my Last - 2006 Honda Civic
  By PK2878 - November 22 - 7:16 am

  This is my first non North American Vehicle and Im kicking myself that I didnt make this move years ago. This car is well powered, great on gas (average 32mpg), incredibly solid, handles better than any car I have ever owned, smooth riding, is well designed, great materials inside, really sharp exterior. The seats are also very comfortable on a long trip with near infinite ways to adjust the seat. Its tough to find something not to like. This car has been well thought out and well built. Not tough to see why some North American manufacturers are having problems. Put this one at the top of your list.

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  2000 Accord LX 4dr sedan - 2000 Honda Accord
  By 2000 Accord LX 4dr - November 21 - 12:26 pm

  4 cyl engine with 5 sp manual transmission. Purchased from dealer as a service loaner vehicle with 8K miles. Now at 106K miles with absolutely no problems in 7 years of ownership. My second Accord, this one is just as reliable as my 83 was. Reliably gets 35 mpg on highway. No service visits until 105K when timing belt/water pump are scheduled for replacement. I would very highly recommend these cars to others.

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  Only lacks heat! - 2008 Honda Fit
  By jlmcphane - November 21 - 8:14 am

  Up until real winter started two weeks ago, our 2008 Honda Fit Sport has been great. It is a little uncomfortable if it is icey or snowy, since then we cant use the cruise on slippery surfaces and the gas pedal angle is weird. Other than that, I thought it was the perfect commuter car, until I drove it last night at 3 degrees F. All the windows fogged over. If the defrost was on full bore, 2/3 of the windshield was clear. If not, only 1/2 windshield was clear.

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  Sink the boat of GM - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Goodbye, GM!!! - November 20 - 12:33 pm

  Ive owned GM cars for 15 years & never once thought of owning a Honda. After big problems with the LeSabre & the Lacrosse, it was time for a change. The Accord was just the answer I was looking for. Smooth ride and quietness makes the high marks of this car. A little road noise is present, but not a bother. Will keep this car for long time.

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  Great little car - 1999 Honda Civic
  By happyinmt - November 20 - 11:26 am

  I got this car 6 years ago and have never had any problems with it. Ive done routine oil changes and had the brakes replaced, timing belt replaced and some new tires. There is only 105,000 miles on it, and it can easily go at least another 100,000. It gets great gas mileage and is a fun car to drive. I will be sad to sell it for something bigger.

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  My Honda - 1992 Honda Accord
  By Crunch77 - November 20 - 2:00 am

  My family bought our 92 Accord DX Coupe new in the fall of 91, and it is still one of the best decisions my family has ever made. Even with 195k miles, it still runs like it has every bit the power it originally had. The engine has absolutely no mechanical problems, and maintenance has only been routine. Ive told myself that I can get 400k miles out of it, and I think I can do it. I love this car.

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  1997 Honda - 1997 Honda Civic
  By PS - November 20 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car Ive ever owned. It is almost 6 years old, has 134,000 miles on it and I have never had any trouble with. It still runs like a charm.