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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  My First Honda - 2006 Honda Civic
  By E. Joseph - February 19 - 12:53 pm

  This car handles really well in rain or shine. Its great on gas. It took a little while getting used to windshield wipers that operate from the middle instead of side to side but they do the job. When inside this this car its like being in your own little world.

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  Thanks for the crashbox Honda - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By DJS - February 19 - 8:53 am

  My wife and I purchased this vehicle new in Feb 06. We are very pleased with the vehicle. We have averaged between 21-26 mpg since its purchase (70%highway) and have had no mechanical issues to date. I never imagined that a minivan could be fun to drive, but this one is. Most importantly, it is a very safe well engineered vehicle. My wife and two kids (20Months/3years) were recently involved in a serious side impact collision with a full size pickup. In the end, the vehicle suffered approx.19K in damage, but all three walked away unharmed. We purchased an 08 model as a replacement. Thanks Honda, From a greatful father and husband

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  Different type of SUV - 2008 Honda Element
  By dragon43078 - February 19 - 4:37 am

  I lkie the interior and exterior design. It is not a copy of anything else out there. I hate looking for my vehicle and seeing several that match. Has more pep than I was led to believe. Heater actually puts the heat on my feet instead of my knees like it did in the Kia. Defrosts the windows really quick. No blind spots. I sit up high enough that oncoming trucks headlights are not in my eyes. Handles better than i thought it would being as tall as it is. Unique atomic Blue paint.

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  2007 Honda Civic LX - 2007 Honda Civic
  By Lauren Kane - February 19 - 12:40 am

  I have been nothing but pleased with my Civic. No major problems, and when traveling on the highway I generally get around 40 mpg, which is incredible. I have had no work done on it in the last two years other than the usual oil change. I would recommend this car to anyone.

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  Drivers seat and Handling - 2008 Honda Accord
  By E.D. - February 18 - 9:40 pm

  The car is a good value. It has all the bells and whistles of a more expensive Acura:bluetooth, great stereo w/big base and subwoffer, ipod input,attractive interior styling, especially the swooping curves in lower dasboard. Power is good, but I wish the maximum torque would happen at a lower RPM. Seems to handle a little rough at higher speeds, although feels relatively stable. Maybe M&S tires are the problem. Ride is a little bumpy given the stiff (or extra stiff) suspension. I prefer a smoother ride. Drivers seat doesnt lower enough. Feels like your stomach is pushed forward. Sides of upper seat tend to curve your shoulders forward. So, some upper back pain between shoulder blades.

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  Wow, Si vs Ex...what a difference! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By civicracer32 - February 18 - 7:43 pm

  Ive owned a Civic EX 2007 model for 10k miles now, and just traded in another 07 Civic hybrid for the Si. Wow. This thing is like a whole different car than the EX. The car surges forward with throttle input where the EX has a delay and doesnt seem to have near the torque. The Si actually feels quicker than it is. The handling difference between the Si and Ex is even more pronounced. It sticks like glue and feels very "planted" throughout the corners. I absoultely love this car and recommend anyone who is looking at an EX to at least drive one of these if your budget will allow you to take a small jump in price to be able to buy one of these.

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  Quite a competition but the Civic won! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Sparkland - February 18 - 7:00 am

  My wife and I shopped quite awhile for an economical car that would provide us with years of durability. We narrowed the choices to the 2008 Honda Civic and the 2009 Toyota Corolla. It was a close competition especially since Toyota was offering 0% financing on the Corolla and Honda had no incentives on the Civic. Contrary to the previous poster, I found the Corolla to be very refined for a compact. The XLE model was our favorite and it does include alloy wheels, bluetooth, traction control and NAVI. The Civic won us over with reliability (Corolla first year of new model) and fuel economy as well as engine performance. The interior at least on the EX seemed a little more refined.

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  Great small car at great price - 2016 Honda Fit
  By Ken Lui - February 18 - 6:00 am

  I was driving a Subaru WRX STI for several years. Excellent performance in every category, but less than ideal gas mileage. I recently changed job and need to commute farther and park at a train station. Worried about if the STI would get tampered with at the train station, I decide to downgrade and get a cheap car with great gas mileage, great cargo space and good reliability. After reading many online reviews (including other subcompacts) and looking at some pictures of the Honda Fit EV, I decided to purchase it without test driving. With the expectation of the car taking me from A to B without fanfare, I am totally surprised by how good the car is. By the way, I just bought the car for only three days. I cant wait to tell people how good this little subcompact is. I really like the Aegean Blue Metallic and the exterior style is just sleek and modern. Interior is roomy with decent fit and finish. Great fit and finish is the hallmark of Honda. Seats are reasonably comfortable, but may not be ideal for very long road trip. Cargo space is fantastic for a car this size. The magic seat is purely "magic". Gas mileage (approx. 38 mpg city/highway mixed) is awesome compared to 21 mpg I got from the Subaru WRX STI. Performance wise, I am not comparing it to the STI. Doing so would be unfair. Totally two different cars for different purposes. Coming from the STI though, the Fit was quite good in the handling department. It is nimble and easy to control. Steering wheel is light for easy maneuver. Parking is easy as it is small and it has a backup camera to assist. I am not going to cry about the loud engine noise during acceleration that many people (including reviewers) complained. Remember it is a 1.5 liter small engine. No comparison to the STIs 2.5L turbo charged engine producing 305 horse power. Even with its small and modest engine, it was surprisingly quite quick starting from a stop light and merging into highway traffic. I dont feel someone is going to smash on me because I was slow accelerating. I think the acceleration is adequate if not thrilling. Its 2,600 lb. curb weight actually helps on acceleration as a matter of fact. Yes, there is some wind noise at highway speed, but it is expected for an economical car like the Fit. Braking is adequate as it only has disc brakes in front and drum brakes in the rear. My "fast & furious" era is gone as I am getting older and am more practical. I am totally happy with the 2016 Honda Fit EX which is an excellent buy in the automotive subcompact territory. What a great car for commute and occasional cargo hauling. I have to wait and see how reliable it is over time and the maintenance cost. Overall, this car is an excellent choice if you are looking at subcompact vehicles.

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  Love this car - 2005 Honda Civic
  By luvmycivic - February 18 - 12:54 am

  Never had a problem in 3 years. Started without any problems every time. Only complaint is there is not enough room for front passengers feet with legs stretched forward and Im short. Minor shortcoming however and would definitely recommend. Sat in back seat a few times and was surprised how roomy it was.

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  Honda Luva - 2009 Honda Accord
  By kneebabyy - February 17 - 12:56 pm

  I have previously owned several accords but this is the first new one. As a Honda luva, I am very pleased with my purchase. I luv to drive my accord and I luv telling people that. I have had no brake trouble and my seats are comfortable...and I know because I travel a lot in it. I did not think I could afford a new car, but my accord was a very good investment. Thats why you see so many on the road!