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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  best truck - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By pilot03 - July 17 - 10:00 am

  navigation is excellent fun to drive perfect car for the family

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  GREAT CAR FOR A GREAT PRICE!!! - 2002 Honda Civic
  By Ashley Coulter - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car in June of 2003 as a graduation present for myself and have been pleased with it ever since. This Honda is GREAT with fuel - I only have to run to the gas station once every week and a half, which is GREAT with my commute to and from work. I am very impressed with this car- I love it!!!

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  Hondas Rock - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Darkwingduck - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Just as always, my honda accord is more realiable then any other car I have owned. I love the accord, its interrior design is top notch with comfort built in. The sleek outside is attractive, and its performance is awsome. The only thing I would trade it in for is another honda or acura. Love the car.

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  First Honda & very satisfied - 2004 Honda Accord
  By Ree S - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I reviewed the car, test drove it, the next day I drove in my 93 Eagle Talon drove out in the Honda and love the new car. Its very roomy for the exterior size, deceiving. I went for all that I have missed and dont regret it either.

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  Honda Accord EX - 2016 Honda Accord
  By Tekchand Prasad - July 17 - 7:56 am

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  07 HONDA CRV LX AWD - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By THONGCHAI DANIEL - July 17 - 5:16 am

  I love honda cars. This is my 15 honda cars. This cr-v,one of the best on the market today to own one.

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  Great car - 2017 Honda Accord
  By Randy Black - July 16 - 12:19 pm

  Drive it.

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  Another Outstanding Honda - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By John Allen Albree - July 16 - 11:03 am

  CR-V is Alabaster Silver with gray leather. The ride is very quiet and much better then my 2008 Honda Accord EX-L which I traded in. My wife loves the seats and the vehicle tracks beautifully on the interstate. The first tank of gas only local driving was an acceptable 20 mpg.The XM sound system is better than before. Transmission is smooth and quiet. We love this car.

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  Great car! - 2008 Honda Accord
  By David - July 16 - 8:20 am

  Started looking at sedans after a Pilot Ive had for 3 years. Wanted something with better handling and gas mileage. I also drove the Camry but they did not offer a higher-output 4 cylinder than the Accord. The EX has a tighter suspension and handling feel than the Camry. Overall a terrific car, one I hope to keep for 5+ years.

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  Well put together and easy to live with. - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Dave Dugan - July 16 - 7:03 am

  Had this car two years and it has been easy and cheap to live with. The only downside to this car is the braking performance, which you will notice the first time you drive it. Also, dont expect typical handling and performance, this model is tuned for economy. Still, I love the build quality and the design is great too.