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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  ACCORD WORKHORSE - 1991 Honda Accord
  By BO REGARD - March 4 - 2:00 am

  My 1991 Honda Accord was purchased off the showroom floor at the dealership. The car has performed beyond my expectations, at 155ooo miles I have never had a breakdown of any kind. The car is still in mint condition, it has been garaged throughout its years and has been serviced regularly since it was purchased. The Seattle Silver paint looks like the day I bought the car over 13 years ago, additionally the burgundy interior is as nice as a new car. Its still recognized on the street by a regular joe simply for the obvious TLC its owner has provided. Honda made a fine automobile in 1991 with its Accord line. Bravo !

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  Cost Effective Transportation - 1995 Honda Accord
  By HondaBcool - March 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car b/c I drive 60 miles a day to work and needed a low-cost reliable car since I just graduated from college. It is very reliable and gets awesome gas milage. I get 430-450 miles to the tank. The 5-speed is actually pretty fun to drive too. Although it lacks coolness, Im considering selling it for a chick magnet car like a Mustang/Camaro.

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  Great Little SUV - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By Kell - March 3 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my CRV used and with an extended warranty. Last week was the first time I have used the warranty. Its really a great car for my use. Its more comfortable now that I had a passenger arm rest installed. Older passengers always complain that the rear seat is not comfortable.

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  My Honda - 1991 Honda Accord
  By Kristen01 - March 2 - 2:00 am

  it was my first car. It hasnt died in any way. Now im forced to sell it because i didnt think it would last this long and I want a bigger car to pull horses. Its awesome. Everyone loves it. Its fast, cute, and really reliable.

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  Love My Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By jbird - March 1 - 2:00 am

  My Honda Element is only one month old, but I have bought enough new cars to know better than to base an opinion on emotions or new car smell. This vehicle is something special. It has achieved an awesome balance between vehicle types.

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  Lemon - 2001 Honda Accord
  By sucker5423 - March 1 - 2:00 am

  I heard Honda cars were so reliable. Not mine. I must have gotten a lemon. Transmission leak, and a bunch of minor, non-engine, problems.

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  Just Solid - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Axra - March 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is just solid. The doors are solid, the steering tight, and the power is smooth. After driving a 2000 Civic EX there is just no comparison. You can literally hear the quality by tapping on some of the interior panels. Honda has acknowledged the above average failure in the transmission and has compensated by extending the warranty to 100k miles. Im not concerned at all.

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  looks great - 2004 Honda Accord
  By tnammons - March 1 - 2:00 am

  this is my first honda and i am impressed with the body style but the handling of the car tires and suspension needs improvement. sometimes it feels as if i am driving on a rocky road when the road is smooth.the sales associate was inadequate in showing the features of the car.i have had to bring the car in twice for minor repairs in 3 months.not happy with that.

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  Good but not for the markup - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Min-Hsien Wang - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Pilot is a good car if in the MSRP. With markup range from $2,000 to $4,000, it justifies another look of MDX. A little bumpy on highway even the road is not that bad. A little crowded for a family of six.

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  Hard Seats - 2002 Honda Accord
  By - February 28 - 10:00 am

  Seats are harder than previous vehicle (Chevy Impala). Handling is excellent