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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  New CR-V EX - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By code - October 21 - 10:00 am

  My CR-V is excellent, it is so quite I have to look to see if its started, The ride is very smooth, and I can turn on a dime, I love the front wheel drive and the 4WD when I need it. I didnt think I would like the tray in the middle, but I couldnt live with out it now. I am very HAPPY with my new CR-V.

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  BAD NAVI - 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour
  By Doug - October 20 - 5:33 pm

  Nice Car, but the NAVI system? Dont waste the money on one with Navi as a $70.00 GPS will do 100% better.

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  Love that S2000 - 2004 Honda S2000
  By vernfin - October 19 - 6:08 pm

  This car is all about performance. If youre looking for cushy luxury it isnt for you. But I get out of the car with a grin every day and the howl it makes over 7000 rpm is pure joy.

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  Fun, Perky, Efficient Urban SUV - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By nolarobert - October 18 - 7:05 pm

  I just drove our new HR-V 400 miles on the Interstate. It has plenty of technology, a peppy engine, that cool Honda Magic interior and it looks sharp. The CVT takes getting used to as I have never owned one before. I would punch it and it would respond well but it just felt different. I got 31 MPG on the highway but the HR-V is brand new and I tend to drive fast. It handled the highway well even during the thunderstorms I encountered on my trip. So initially, it feels solid, well-built and capable. Well see how I feel 10,000 miles from now.

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  CR-V has a few glitches - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By cally - October 17 - 4:14 pm

  Consumer Reports recently came out with a report that stated that the Honda CR-V 2016 has very poor traction in the snow. Takes forever to stop. This completely defeats the purpose of buying a 4 wheel SUV. When I called the dealership to tell them about the report, they said they had no idea what I was talking about. Should they not know?!; they sell the product! Now I am afraid to take the car out in the snow. Also, the rear view camera was fogging up on a rainy day, so I took it to another dealership to be looked at. They basically wasted my time; "found nothing wrong". And sometimes when I click the door unlocker twice, it does not open the passengers side door. Also, they force you to buy "packages" when you order a car; we are senior citizens, and do not want or need all these extra bells & whistles!

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  A Blast to Drive, But Will It Start? - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Stash - October 17 - 11:46 am

  Have had this car for a month now and have found it to be a blast to drive, very powerful and smartly designed interior. Last week in 85 deg heat, car wouldnt start--would turn over, but not catch. Dealer replaced fuel pump sensor module and said that should fix problem, but will it? Prob has not recurred, but only time will tell. Like the fact that it goes over 100K between tuneups, 7500 between oil changes, depending on the conditions you drive in. Beautiful paint job-- got a lot of complements on this car. Car could be better on gas, mileage average--have to use premium or mid range per the dealership.

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  Very good all around family minivan - 2007 Honda Odyssey
  By hunyacka - October 16 - 6:26 pm

  So far 800 miles and enjoy the car. Very roomy with good added features like AC power outlets, magic third row. Car is not sporty since it lacks the low torque power but still can handle the roads when needed. Kids love the car with the nav and cant get them to get out. Drives well considering its a minivan and road pavement is more pronounced since it has pax run flat tires (basically a steel tire inside a tire). The ex model is much quieter. 18in wheels are low profile and looks aggressive. The Sienna looks docile. Since we just purchased it will update review when it snows since we live in northeast. Wanted awd but not an option. Cant believe Honda doesnt have one available like Sienna.

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  Honda Review - 2004 Honda Civic
  By 1144 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  1st and foremost this vehicle has never accepted more than 11 gals of fuel, the most miles I have gotten to a tank was 385, I dont know how others can say they went 500 miles on a tank. 2nd I have been in two marble size hale storms and to my amazement no damage what so ever, call it luck, but that is amazing. Other than that I drive 114 miles a day and never had a problem thus far.

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  Fun - 2003 Honda Element
  By cb - October 15 - 12:17 pm

  The Honda Element is definitely a head- turner. 18,000 miles so far - only problem a defective/cracked windshield. Otherwise its been a great car. A little noisy but nothing terrible. Great for long trips, camping, shopping, etc. Gas milage is 19 mpg at best. Over-all very satisfied.

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  05 accord - 2005 Honda Accord
  By rrm1946 - October 14 - 1:43 pm

  Excellent vehicle for the price no returns to dealer for repairs after 1 year of ownership. Highly recommended for a midsize sedan. Too many buttons which are clustered together and distracting for the driver to use. Excellent performance from the 4cyl. version no need for the larger V-6. As expected Honda continues to improve there product instead of changes for the sake of change. Over all I highly recommend the Accord for value and retention of resale value.