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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  3 year owner - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By regor - August 23 - 10:18 am

  This vehicle has exceeded all my expectations. Exactly what I needed to bridge the SUV, to truck market. Meets both expectations providing you are not going to try to pull a house. Mileage on road has reached 23, in town especially in winter maybe 16. Mileage on vehicle 45000, no problems, no signs of problems and love the truck. The below bed trunk can easily store three large coolers, and nice to see the spare out of the weather. Rear seat compartment borders on monstrous. Can store three fairly large toolboxes under the seat along with a four foot level. If you are looking for a small truck, that drives like a car with great traction in snow, this is the vehicle.

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  luv to drive - 2005 Honda Civic
  By h - August 23 - 7:40 am

  this is the best value in an economical sporty car. great styling, gas mileage & handling. Very fun to drive, easy to manuver... another great gem put out by Honda... the Civic SI is second to none.

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  INFURIATING! - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By olywamat - August 23 - 12:00 am

  Just took a 3500 mile trip in my parents Odyssey and couldnt believe how many flaws a so-called world-class auto builder like Honda allowed this vehicle to leave the design room with. Lets see: automatic doors stick in the open position, front struts totally shot at 70,000 miles, keyless remote buttons so sensitive that bending over with the remote in your pocket activates the automatic doors, no thermometer, no compass (WHAT?!!!), knuckles hit the dome light button when you shift into drive, impossible to downshift on descending grades, incredibly uncomfortable driving position (6- footer here). Its a good thing Hondas customers are so loyal. If they drove the competition, theyd leave.

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  Roomy Ride - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By J. L. Butler - August 22 - 11:10 pm

  Im enjoying my new CRV SE after upsizing from a ten year old Honda Fit. The CRV is much more roomy than other cars in its class. The similar sized Ford and Toyota seem quite claustrophobic in comparison. I am also impressed with the cargo space in the CRV. I was able to haul a small love seat in the back of the car with plenty of room to spare. The back seats are easy to lower, even for a woman over 55. The CRV is a good height - no climbing up or stooping down to get into the drivers seat. The front seats are a little shallow for tall drivers, but there is plenty of leg room. The car is very responsive and has great brakes. After driving a tiny Fit, Im still getting used to a larger car, but the back-up camera is a big help. Bluetooth, Audio and Aux systems work well. Im counting on Honda dependability.

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  Radio Problem - 2003 Honda Accord
  By rockwell - August 22 - 10:57 pm

  The background display has gone out and no clock display. Seat belt light stays on continually. Other owners at different websites have reported the same problem. Very expensive to fix. I also own a 2009 Accord and I think I better sell it before problems arise. It feels less reliable than 2003.

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  A Great Alternative - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By EJS - August 22 - 7:53 am

  We test drove a lot of SUVs-a lot. The sticker shock was, well, shocking. With this Honda, though too small to classify as an SUV, was exactly what we were looking for. The interior quality really sets it apart and was not seen anywhere in this price range. It is very roomy, drives exceptionally well, is quite nimble and gets good gas mileage. However, it is woefully underpowered. This "car/suv" is a great alternative to spending mid forties on another vehicle. And whats really nice, in five years this Honda will have the same trade in value as that 45K SUV we liked and almost bought.

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  40K Miles Review - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Mark Tepper - August 22 - 7:43 am

  The Honda Civic is a safe bet but gets real old real quickly. I have had no problems with it so far but the car is simply boring.

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  Fun and economical - 2004 Honda Element
  By Julia King - August 22 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun SUV -from the styling to the performance. We call it our baby Hummer and laugh because it gets more than 5 miles to the gallon. Its amazing the pep this SUV has with a 4 clylinder motor.

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  Honda solid - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By ken04 - August 22 - 2:00 am

  Solid is the best way to describe this vehicle. Lots of room, quality, safety, practicality and a good sound system. Very comfortable and high resale value. Does everything exceptionally well. Looks are, well ........ unremarkable but certainly not offensive. Honda describes it as classic SUV. This vehicle is about 4-6 " wider than most SUVs and weighs nearly two tons. As a result, it provides terrific traction in the snow. If you do all of the research and then opt for a different SUV, Ill be really surprised. In terms of the money, quality and value, I dont think you can do better. Its a terrific vehicle and priced under $30,000.

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  Cute SUV - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By CODGER - August 22 - 2:00 am

  My first venture into SUV ownership and I must say I am very satisfied. Good, reliable transport. Room enough for 4 good-sized adults or 2 adults and 3 kids. Good ride and no problems in snow. The 4 cylinder engine gets up and goes enough and cruises right along at highway speeds (and slightly above). Would recommend this car to anyone who wants the feel of an SUV, but doesnt expect to do any more off-roading than hitting the grass next to your driveway.