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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  Great Vehicle - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Scarhill - April 3 - 4:03 pm

  Purchased the Odyssey (EX-L w/RES) a little over a week ago. I have had minivans for nearly 20 years. I had always resisted going for a Honda or Toyota because of the high selling prices. However, having put up with minivans from Ford and Dodge, I decided it was time to bite the bullet and put quality ahead of price. Looking at vehicles from Honda and Toyota, the Odyssey was clearly best for my purposes. Even though I have only had the vehilce for a week, the difference in quality between it and the domestics is obvious. I also got a good price on the vehicle, paying less than invoice. At this point, I couldnt be happier.

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  "The best SUV ever made" - 2008 Honda Pilot
  By Satisified - April 3 - 2:54 pm

  I have only had my SUV for a few weeks. However it is such a smooth riding vehicle its the best ever!

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  Truck that rides like a car - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By Mike - April 3 - 11:33 am

  I have always been a truck owner and have never been a fan of foreign made trucks. With gas prices on the rise and every year fewer and fewer trips to Home Depot for home and yard repair, I started looking at something more economic. I did all of my homework because I needed a crew cab for my family. I went with the Honda because it offered more for my money. It was about 5000 cheaper than the Toyota, it has a high resale value, better gas economy, cheaper insurance, and was more comfortable. I also would note that I do not haul trailers, boats, etc... for the average Joe this is a vehicle that is family friendly, rides like a car, and looks like a truck!!!

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  I love this kleenex box! - 2003 Honda Element
  By puppet - April 3 - 10:00 am

  So far I love this car. Ive had it loaded to the gills and driven it on a sandy beach, and Ive just used it for my daily commuter. Its a very fun and easy car to own.

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  Think out of the box! - 2003 Honda Element
  By lovin the element - April 3 - 10:00 am

  My husband and I have 2 Children under 3. We are in our late 20s. I know Honda expected this car to be for young men in their early 20s, little did they know it is a perfect alternative to the minivan. We use the fold down seats for a changing table when we are out. the kids love being able to see everything with the stadium seating. It handles almost like a car. My friends love it when the ride with me. I talked a friend into getting one and she loves hers as well.

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  truck - 2003 Honda Element
  By fiesta - April 3 - 10:00 am

  lots of space ! feel like driving in a 8 wheel truck !

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  A dream with two flaws - 1999 Honda Accord
  By Ace Trumper - April 3 - 10:00 am

  I like my 1999 Honda Accord EXVS better than any other I ever owned or even rented or borrowed. I wish it got better mileage, but 28 isnt bad for a V6 with this performance. The only real flaw is that it is possible for my wide foot to depress the brake pedal so far that it also pushes the gas pedal. This caused a minor accident that might have been serious. The dealer says the pedal are normal, and act like its my fault, but this should not happen in a properly designed car.

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  Nav system - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By billyd - April 3 - 10:00 am

  The Pilot offers execellent cargo space with a smooth ride. I dont go off road enough to need a 4Runner but do make long trips using the interior cargo space. The NAV systems has proven worth the additional cost.

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  I love my accord!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Tara-Janelle - April 3 - 10:00 am

  From the moment i saw the new body style on the accord in 98 i wanted this car! and now 5 years later they changed it again and it looks even better so i had to have it!!

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  Love the new Accord - 2003 Honda Accord
  By gativ - April 3 - 10:00 am

  We recently bought our second Accord within three years. I like our 2000 Accord, but I love the 2003. The car feels and rides like a more expensive car and it seems to always have power in reserve. The seats are comfortable and supportive. The lumbar is a nice improvement and Honda finally caught on by allowing the arm rest to extend. We test drove many cars and some did certain things better than the Accord, but none of them did everything as well as the Accord. And while I was tempted to buy a European car that was roughly $10,000 more than the Accord, I just couldnt justify the extra money.