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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  2002 Honda Civic LX - 2002 Honda Civic
  By jmp - October 25 - 2:00 am

  This is a good, reliable, fuel efficient car at a reasonable price.

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  consumer - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By leitrim - October 24 - 7:05 pm

  I have driven Honda Accords Nissan and Mercedes and LOVE the CR-V in comparison to the others. This is an extremely comfortable ride with versatility. I have no complaints. Aside from the real bells and whistles, this is a great auto and I HIGHLY recommend it to others.

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  Best SUV of the Year - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Dave - October 24 - 6:38 pm

  The Honda CR-V of 2005 beat out all the other SUVs in 2005 for quality & traction control (yes, even the Jeep Wrangler!). This is a fine tuned, well manufactured automobile! Ive owned this car since college. Over the years, Ive watched my friends spend $1000s in out of pocket costs for parts and labor to keep up their cars. Over the past 2 years (130,000-160,000) Ive spent about $3000 in repairs (mostly due to the fact that Ive kicked the crap out of the suspension on Colorados rocky roads). Since Ive left, I havent done anything but the regular servicing. This car will take the abuse and just keep on rolling on!

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  Fits your budget and your taste - 2008 Honda Fit
  By LoveTheFit08 - October 24 - 12:20 pm

  I was looking for the best car in the market. I couldnt afford a glitzy sports car, but didnt want a twerpy little car with no features. I saw the Fit and instantly found my choice. Something you might not realize - this thing is peppy around town its got some definite "scoot," especially anything under 40 mph. Moreover, when the conditions are right, and youre not driving with a speeding ticket in mind, you can easily achieve well over 40+ mpg- I have. Im spoiled now to the point that ANYTHING below 34 mpg is BAD. One last thing - - the sound system in the car: awesome. The sports 4 mids and 2 tweeters are what surprised me most. I planned to put in an aftermarket system - no need!

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  Love Lady Bella - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Elizabeth Medbury - October 24 - 7:56 am

  Love my new ride!

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  Simple - 2007 Honda Ridgeline
  By Jonathan Franklin - October 24 - 1:20 am

  Its not the snazziest truck, but it delivers. Its a honda, not a BMW. Its runs, and runs

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  One of Hondas best in the past 20+ years - 1996 Honda Accord
  By James in Tulsa - October 23 - 7:15 pm

  Streamlined style is still fresh. Good for 300K mi if maintained and not abused. Fun to drive. Holds the road.

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  Wow!! A fun car! - 2005 Honda Element
  By MARILYN - October 22 - 11:16 pm

  I just love this car!! I thought a long time about what to buy. I test drove it twice,and stopped everyone that i saw driving one and asked their oppinions....Nothing but rave reviews. Ive had my car for a few days now and i couldnt be happier. Its so comfortable to drive, plenty of sensible room and a great stereo. I love the way it looks....I chose a blue ex model and had roof racks and running boards put on. I was already a honda fan....I bought a 1990 accord new and had trouble parting with it. But it was time and im so happy that i chose the element. Im a 64 yr. Old female and i have no surf boards or off-road bikes to put in it but my friends are going to love the ride!

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  Great car, made to last - 2011 Honda Civic
  By BrockFromAtlanta - October 22 - 11:09 am

  Great gas mileage, comfortable seats, big cargo space, great handling, easy to maintain( if you are handy), very satisfied customer.

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  Great car, made to last - 2011 Honda Civic
  By BrockFromAtlanta - October 22 - 11:09 am

  Great gas mileage, comfortable seats, big cargo space, great handling, easy to maintain( if you are handy), very satisfied customer.