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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  Surprise! I really like the CR-V... - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By kimberkook - May 24 - 6:17 pm

  The CR-V is a nice package of creature comfort, good handling, decent economy and overall high quality. I consider it a real bargain. In the first couple of weeks of ownership and after only one long trip I can find no faults.

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  2005 Honda element best vehicle ever.. - 2005 Honda Element
  By HondaBaxter - May 24 - 5:36 pm

  This vehicle drives so smooth for an SUV, it handles so well around turns. This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. It is so good on gas to have all the room it has.

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  Engine Noise - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By angelo - May 24 - 5:05 pm

  Purchased 2009 CRV LX in mid Feb. Rode excellent in test drive in cool weather. Handling is fine ..compared RAV and Tribute but CRV won out. Owned Civic manual transmission LX previously for 12 yrs and never had a problem. Only negative with CRV now is disturbing engine high pitch whine which continues seconds after engine is turned off.

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  Very good car for the money - 2010 Honda Accord
  By Mag - May 24 - 3:46 pm

  I think the accord EX 4 cyl. is the best car for the money. I test drove many cars before I decided to get this car. The only car I found ahead of this one is the BMW 528. For that price I think I got the best deal. Road and wind noise is very noticeable, but this is the case for most cars in this category. Seats are not the best but I got used to them after sometime. The gas millage isnt great but the car is quite big. I wish Honda can improve that.

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  Honda Accord Sport - 2014 Honda Accord
  By Rob - May 24 - 1:56 pm

  Good dependable car

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  Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Ali - May 24 - 10:16 am

  After a lot of research and many test drives, the Honda Pilot was the one that grabbed my heart. I always did like Honda because they are generally very reliable vehicles. I love the interior design and the comfortable ride the Pilot offers. It really fits all of my family needs.

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  better than i "thought" - 2004 Honda Element
  By cardogie - May 24 - 10:00 am

  real fun to drive real comfortable i even enjoy the way it looks

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  A Truly Unique Vehicle - 2004 Honda Element
  By Clayman - May 24 - 10:00 am

  Honda is missing a bet by advertising the Element as car for youth. Im retired and pursuing art as a second career. The Element is great to haul sculptures and anything else you need to carry. It is incredibly fun to drive and is the most ulilitarian vehicle I have seen. My wife drives a Lexus, but I would rather drive my Element - its that much fun. Fantastic car in every way.

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  My Honda - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By JenJen - May 24 - 10:00 am

  NOT HAPPY WITH PAINT JOB!

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  SO FAR SO GOOD - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By hi808connex - May 24 - 10:00 am

  JUST GOT IT .....LOVIN IT