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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  Odyssey Brake System - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By stevenK - August 27 - 8:36 pm

  I have been driving 29500 freeway miles, The Honda dealership replaced all four wheel brake pads around 18,000 miles with upgraded pads (they said upgraded parts by Honda), now when I hit the brake, the steering wheel is shaking, The dealership said the problem is not covered on warranty, also not resolve the problem unless the front disks (rotors) are replaced. I think Honda used undersized brake disc for front wheel comparing with my other vehicle, which runs slightly more than my Odyssey. this is the my current problem. I think it needs improvement.

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  Saying Goodbye to an Old Friend - 1990 Honda Civic
  By MATI - August 25 - 2:00 am

  My favorite car. Took dozens of long trips and never had problems on the road. Rustiness caused probs w/ wiring, h20 leaking onto front passengers feet, rusty brakes, and rusty exhaust system. If this car is rust free its problem free. Mine had inexplicable probs w/ transmission, so I recently had to say good-bye. :(

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  Great Car - Bad Brakes - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Omar - August 23 - 3:16 pm

  This car is great in all aspects except for the brakes. I have replaced the brakes in less than 35K miles.

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  2008 Civic EX-L Coupe - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Jerry - August 19 - 9:46 pm

  Just took delivery of my 2008 Civic on Valentines Day. I have the coupe (EX-L) 5 speed without navigation. Car handles very well and is fun to drive. The clutch and close ratio gearbox are are light and easy to modulate (third gear can be a little tricky til you get used to it). Doors close with a nice solid thunk and overall the car seems well made. The only issue that I have with the car is that the heated seats are not at all what I am used to. Previous car was a 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS.) My Chevys seats got hot in seconds and stayed that way, the Hondas barely get warm on high - dealer say they are "operating normally". Overall I really like the car.

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  great van - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By redfishsam - August 19 - 3:50 pm

  I just want to start off by saying this is a great van. Its great on gas and it drives like a car. My two girls love this van. The dvd player was way too much, w/navi system so opt. not to have and just installed the dvd my self. Great van, number one choice in my book.

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  Good value, but missing a few things - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Gus1Gus1 - August 19 - 3:10 pm

  Overall, I am enjoying this 2009 EX-L, with auto. It is very roomy on the inside. I can fit, even with a sunroof, at 64". It drives very smoothly and handles well. Its by no means, too firm. It soaks up bumps very well. As for the seats, contrary to others, I find them to be quite comfortable and very supportive. The headrest does not bother me at all. In fact, it actually raises up high enough to provide a rest for my head. It doesnt protrude too far forward. The 4 cyl is peppy. The V6 has a lot more power, but the 4 is sufficient for my needs. The downsides are that it lacks a trip computer, no shiftable auto, fog lights are an aftermarket extra and no power passenger seat.

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  Great Economy Car - 2008 Honda Civic
  By MiamiDriver - August 19 - 11:16 am

  My 2008 Civic is the 4th Honda Ive owned. It seems to continue Hondas fine tradition of stylish, economical, reliable transportation.

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  MY NEW CAR - 2002 Honda Civic
  By mistyinthe801 - August 19 - 2:00 am

  I JUST BOUGHT THIS CAR AND I SO FAR AM LOVING IT. IVE READ REVIEWS SAYING IT HAS LITTLE RATINGS ON POWER BUT I AM VERY SATISFIED. I GET LOTS OF COMPLIMENTS!

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  Our Second 04 Accord - 2004 Honda Accord
  By denvrfan - August 19 - 2:00 am

  We were so impressed with my wifes 04 EXV6 sedan that I just bought an 04 EXV6 coupe with 6sp. and navigation. Although the car is fun to drive, a couple of surprises: 1)interior body integrity is lacking- major rattle coming from the dashboard, 2)the supposed "premium" audio system does not sound as punchy as my wifes sedan. Also, be ready for a harder ride thanks to the low profile 50 series tires and sport suspension.

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  The Rocket - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Charlie Brown - August 18 - 11:41 pm

  This car will take off! Fuel economy not as good as my 2000 4cyl Accord. Ive babied it for 19mpg in town and I deliver pizza two nights a week. I havent taken a road trip yet so we shall see. HEATED seats are wonderful. Radio system could use some equalizer presets and usb ports buts sounds ok. A road trip will tell me more about road noise. Very sleek look and fun to drive.