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 Love It! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Kat - May 31 - 11:13 pm

  I used to have a Honda Prelude and it was an awesome car till someone t-boned me forced to get a new car I went with Honda again. I love my Honda accord it has yet to give me problems and is so fun to drive. I would advise getting the v6 cause it has power I never knew the difference between a 4cyl and 6cyl now I know, and I will never get a 4 again. Great car!

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  Honda S2K crazy - 2007 Honda S2000
  By HondaRich - May 31 - 3:10 pm

  Ive owned two sports cars, a 1980 Corvette and the 2007 Honda S2K. The Honda gets my vote. I purchased the Berlina Black. The only color for a fast, stealthy sportster. I was a bit disappointed about 20 somethings not gasping at this beauty, but I guess they gasp at Prius instead. Had to wait for mileage to reach 1000, before really turning on the V- Tec above 6000. Wow, this engine is incredible. Nothing like winding 8000 in third gear. Even the fellows in F- 150s take notice. Best features: external beauty, beautiful wheels, "clean" interior, exceptional assembly. Best attributes: loud, throaty roar of the engine stiff, hard, solid ride this is a car for drivers.

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  I love this Car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By melmar07 - May 31 - 2:38 pm

  I really love this car! I t is not good on Gas, it is Excellent! Better than non Hybrid Models. Those who saying about Hybrid Models, take it from me who owns one, THOSE ARE NOT TRUE!!! They just cant afford it or they just owned a hybrid lemon

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  Still loving it - 1990 Honda Accord
  By kimmo - May 31 - 2:27 pm

  I bought new as a demo. Even after 18 years with it being stolen twice, almost totaled once and with two other accidents, this car is super dependable. The exterior, interior, and engine have all held up well with regular maintenance. New radiator, three batteries, two brake jobs, a couple of power steering repairs from leaks, CVs, a new gas tank (service stripped plug!) plus maintenance is about all this car has cost me. I cant justify anything newer as this one keeps going & going and she still looks awesome! I use my AAA for my friends newer car troubles. I cant believe I get offers from others now to buy my car. I think it has turned into a classic.

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  College Kids Dream - 2007 Honda Civic
  By 4bealls - May 31 - 1:13 am

  This is my second car after starting out with a Saturn. I love the looks and feel very safe driving it despite the relatively small size. Great mileage!

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  Fun & Practical - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Art - May 31 - 12:10 am

  This car is great since I was looking for a 4-door,6 cyl., w/manual trans. The car is solid and has the necessary power when needed (its so smooth that its very easy to speed). The dash layout is simple and you also get a sunroof, seat warmers, and XM radio! There is just s slight bit of road noise at higher speeds. Youll be very surprise with the amount of leg room for the back seat passengers and also the amount of space in the trunk. The only item that I need to get use to is the very short distance to shift gears (Im use to a much longer shift). It took about 10 weeks for my car to arrive Speacial order to get the Sapphire Blue - 6 speed).

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  I love my car - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Demifate - May 30 - 10:19 pm

  I keep saying that "I love my car". My family is sick of it. I ran my fit to the empty line on gas. With air conditioning blaring on high all the time, it gets 25/30. With it on low most the time, I got 34/36 mpg. Yes, 36 mpg while commuting highway! It took over a year for my Fit to even show decent gas mileage, but they dealer had warned me about this, and knowing a great number mechanics and tow companies helped with not hading ridiculous expectations. It runs well, and with constant upkeep and regular checkups it shifts perfectly, and does not pull as a few other reviews have said. Keep your tire pressure up properly, and the noise goes away too.

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  Loyal Accord LX - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Mandy - May 30 - 3:24 pm

  I love my car, I purchased it in 1/07 certified. The only problem I have had is with the power steering pump. Being certified Tempe Honda has taken care of all concerns. I love the size and trunk space. I am not a fan of the style.

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  The Educated Consumers SUV! - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By Educated Consumer - May 30 - 1:18 pm

  My wife and our two kids stepped up from a 4cyl 07 accord to the 08 Pilot expecting more kids soon. So the space was perfect. We got out of our lease with 1 1/2 years left on the lease and still got a really great price! The Honda Staff was very accommodating as with our first lease. The truck has great handling for a seasoned driver. And the power is there when I need it. Living in Brooklyn with a family means I need great gas mileage, the ability to modify the seating arrangements with room to spare for a quick trip for groceries, and a great sound system! I love my truck and could not imagine driving any other!

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  The best vehicle I ever owned - 2004 Honda Element
  By roennex - May 30 - 10:00 am

  The Honda Element is versatile, reliable and fun to drive. The fuel economy is outstanding! I have a little import business, and all my goods from the warehouse can easily be in the Element. The back seats come in and out so easy, its a breeze! The sound system kicks, and my MP3 player connects via AUX at a click. My Orange Element gets a lot of attention on the street - in fact I daily answer questions from people who are considering buying an Element themselves. My advice is: Buy it! Ive had Dodge, Chrysler, Ford and various other Japanese cars. Never agagin. My only hope is that the Element will come in a 6-cylinder version. Then I will be one with the Element!