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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  Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By j - March 15 - 10:12 am

  This car has not had any problems and is the most functional vehicle we have ever owned.

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  The best minivan on the planet - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By mjsohel - March 15 - 10:00 am

  I took delivry of my 02 Honda Odyssey and since then Ive enjoyed every feature on this thing. Its the best minivan ever Honda did a great job this time, Ive never had a car with this much versatility,value,luxury,and quality as Ive received on my Odyssey. I love this baby!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  Incredible - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By havasu - March 15 - 10:00 am

  First car I have ever had that there is nothing I can complain about. Perfect

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  Accord Coupe a sweet ride - 2001 Honda Accord
  By Bfargin - March 15 - 10:00 am

  I have always been impressed with Honda products as far as the amount of product you get for the dollar spent. This new accord with the V6 does one better than the old Hondas in that it is really a great car, still safe and reliable but now it is also powerful and able to perform.

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  first honda - 2004 Honda Civic
  By billy - March 14 - 11:55 pm

  Most uncomfortable car I have owned needs more comfortable seating, alloy wheels need to be standard. Anti-theft radio is a pain when you buy the car used and dont have code then you have to pay $60 to get the code from dealership. Love the dash lighting

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  this is an awesome 1st or 2nd car! - 2002 Honda Accord
  By tyler t - March 14 - 9:08 pm

  I bough this car in April of 2006. I was looking at all the cars in the lot and this one caught my eye. I was impressed form the second I laid eyes on it. The feel, comfort, maneuverability, handle and ease of use are all excellent. The only drawback w\this car (like most Hondas) is cabin noise. Other than that, this car is virtually flawless. I recommend buying an accord as long as you are willing to put some money into preventative maintenance. It reminds me of a recent ad on tv where a woman asks when you turn your car on does the car return the favor. In my case...youre damn right it does! :-)

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  Minor gripes but overall very good - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Denlikesit - March 14 - 4:31 pm

  Overall awesome car but I do have a few gripes. Some interior pieces are cheaply made (i.e. rear cup holders) and occasionally I get some rattles but nothing too bad. Cup holder up front is a bit crowded if you stick a Big Gulp in there. My SRS light has been on for 6 mo...took it to get looked at...there was apparently no problem but light has decided to stay on. Gas mileage with wide performance tires is still at about 32 on the highway which is nice when gas is $3.40 a gallon. Around town gas mileage has been as bad as about 21- 22. Plenty of get up and go for a 4 cyl. Leather is of very high quality as are most of the other materials in the interior.

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  So in love with my CRV! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Serradifalco - March 14 - 3:33 pm

  I bought my 02 CRV EX in 05 as a used car. It had about 34k miles on it when I bought it. I drive about 55 miles each way to work every day. My car now has almost 82,000 miles on it and runs perfectly! I have always stayed on the mark with the oil changes and tune-ups, and other than regular maintenance, nothing else has ever needed repair.

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  Another Solid Accord - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Emiroo - March 14 - 3:05 pm

  The 2002 Special Edition Accord is a rock solid car. 25-30 MPG. Exceptionally low maintenance. Mammoth trunk. A bit lacking in power (no V6), but more than capable. Still elegant inside and out after 6 years. Odometer and Clock are unusable after dark due to poor choice in LCD technology. Comfortable ride both on highway and in town. Plenty of room for the whole family. Cup holder door latch is flimsy and will probably drive you nuts. Another great Accord to add to the list of Accords Ive owned. Buy with confidence.

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  Skeptic Won Over - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Chicago Skeptic - March 14 - 9:01 am

  From a family of John Deere and Chevrolet people, it was a breach of etiquette for me to buy a Japanese car. After three years, this is one of the best products I have ever bought...not just the best car. You normally expect some problems with a car like losing pickup, chipped paint, lose a water pump, brakes go early, something...I guess I am just used to what Chevrolet is putting out. My Accord however, has been perfect. The gas mileage is not great, but for a performing V-6 the mileage is just fine. For better mileage get the V-4, but on teh tollway I need the V-6 acceleration.