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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  2 Door Accord, a Great Auto!! - 2015 Honda Accord
  By Mattbew Kalbak - December 29 - 7:28 pm

  The 4 cyl has more power than expected, 7 speed paddle shifters. Great breaking and Safety technology. Interior is beautiful. Super Happy customer!!

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  Most reliable car I have ever owned - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Erik E. - December 29 - 12:57 pm

  I bought this Honda Accord 3 years ago because I was sick of fixing my daughters peace of junk Kia to the tune of over $5000.00! This car has been nothing more than amazing to say the least. By far the most reliable car I have ever owned in my life. I bought it with about 90,000 miles on it and it now has 140,000 miles and I have only done regular maintenance on it like oil changes and transmission service etc. I have wanted to purchase another car because I am a bit tired of it, but how do you get rid of a bullet proof car that starts perfectly every time and gets 26mpg city and 38mpg highway along with perfect reliability. I have read many reviews that say there are transmission problems with automatic transmissions, mine has been flawless so far. I dont know if my lack of transmission problems has to do with the fact I am a perfectionist who has all service up to date before its needed or it may have to do with the fact my Honda is a 4cyl and there are more problems with the 6cyl engine and the automatic transmission. I have read a few articles that blame the heat of 6cyl motor affecting the transmission failure, I dont know if there is any science in that theory though. Anyhow, the car drives smooth, plenty of power, does not burn any oil nor does it leak a drop of anything, built solid, interior still looks great, everything works as it should and its very easy to drive. If there was a down side to this car it would only be the clear coat is pealing on the roof, but heck its got 140,000 miles on it and sits outside 24/7. It is a great car and that is why you still see these old cars on the road after being 14 years old.

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  Honda scores again with civic - 2015 Honda Civic
  By Jfv - December 29 - 10:36 am

  Very comfortable, quiet, great features, excellent gas mileage. Nice materials used. Go with tan interior.

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  Love it, so far... - 2015 Honda Accord
  By Sammy - December 28 - 3:30 pm

  I replaced my 1997 Accord LX with a 2015 Accord LX, so it was a pretty big leap in terms of technology and safety features. The new car has not disappointed so far. I am a pretty basic car person with a short commute to work, so I didnt need all of the options on the higher priced models. The option list was just about right on target for my needs. The only thing I probably would have liked to add as an option would be the fog lights to improve visibility. I actually like the smoothness of the CVT and am averaging about 31-32 mpg in mostly around town driving. The ride is smoother and more compliant than my old model - the steering has a much better feel, as do the brakes. The cabin is spacious and, while not silent, is reasonably quiet. I would prefer less road noise, but also realize I didnt pay for a Lexus. If the engine is anywhere near as reliable as my old Accord, I look forward to driving this car for many years to come. I bought the car in August using the Edmunds coupon and Honda down payment assistance incentive, so with that and dealer discounts I felt like I got a nice deal in the end. Keep in mind, my 5-star rating gives consideration to the value for the price paid. Im not comparing the comfort, features, handling, etc. to a luxury sports sedan.

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  Great Car - 2010 Honda Odyssey
  By Victor Ungur - December 28 - 11:31 am

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  Vibration Makes You Sick - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By J Warner - December 28 - 7:20 am

  We bought our 2015 CRV wanting to keep it for a longtime, but with the vibration issues it doesnt look like thats going to happen. I cant believe that Honda would allow this vehicle to be sold without a notice to the consumer. If they disclosed the vibration issue it wouldnt be the #1 selling SUV. Honda really ruined the brand with me. I have owned 4 Accords, 2 Pilots, we just bought my daughter a HRV and now this piece of junk CRV. This is the last Honda I will buy.

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  2015 CR-V Touring - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Chris Saleem - December 27 - 11:28 am

  Navigation is not voice activated and hard to use as compared to my 2004 EX-L Accord. Electronics could be be more user friendly for an engineer. Car is a little noisy but you get used to it after some time. This is my second Honda CR-V.

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  My Barbie Truck - 2008 Honda Ridgeline
  By Mike - December 26 - 10:09 am

  Awesome car, ours has low miles for the age. We have ~60K miles on it and it is running strong. No major issues and its great for my wife. My only complaint is that it is a little tight with a full sized car seat in the back. However, I am 6 tall and feel like I have not had an issue feeling like it was not roomy enough.

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  We like the 2015 - 2015 Honda Pilot
  By Kris - December 26 - 8:55 am

  I bought this car a year ago. We have found the car to be fine with the power of the engine. I use the cruise control often and dont have any problems with sluggishness. In fact when driving on the turnpike I set the cruise at 80 and I dont have any problems. Purchasing the Pilot was a financial decision when comparing toyota and Ford. The car has been at the dealership for minor fixes due to assembly though nothing has been engine related. The glove box handle worked sporadically, the rear Hatch control button didnt operate, the button on the gear shift sticks. Honda service is great and of course these have been fixed with no questions asked.

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  Very Good SUV except for one thing - 2014 Honda CR-V
  By Cliff - December 26 - 5:24 am

  The VTC actuator. During cold winter mornings a loud rattle occurs when first starting the car. Honda says its normal and is the VTC actuator which is not causing any damage. Ive had my CRV for 2 years now and Honda has not made any repairs for this. I consider this a manufacture defect. I dont like an SUV that rattles during the first cold start of the day. If this isnt fixed in the next year, Im getting a Toyota.