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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  Great Car - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Angela - August 10 - 2:40 am

  I just traded in my 2007 Jeep GC, for this car. I love it so much, it was a great purchase. The car is getting great gas mileage (28 mpg) even though I have only been driving it 2 weeks. I expect it to break in about 3 months. I find that the features of the car are super nice for a low-end model. Daytime running lights, rain sensing wipers, Text display radio w/MP3, steering wheel controls, AUX input. Most of these I did not even get on my $30K Jeep. Maybe i am used to driving a 6-cyl, but this car is fast from 0-60 for just a 4-cyl. Great speed in 2nd and 3rd gear. Only downside so far was the wheels. I plan to buy some nice rims in the spring.

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  My third Odyssey in 6 years - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By rob123 - August 9 - 10:00 pm

  50 mph and 60/70 very bad droning/humming noise and vibration. Its a shame because its spoils a otherwise good car.

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  WoW Its a Honda What can I say - 1995 Honda Accord
  By honda owner - August 8 - 2:00 am

  For a car thats 7 years old I cannot and will not complain. I am looking for my next car to be a beemer but its hard to give up the dependability. A recommended vehicle!

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  Best buy in the Market - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Farhan - August 8 - 2:00 am

  its the best car i have had.

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  Safe Choice - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Steve Sayre - August 5 - 2:15 pm

  Safe choice

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  08 Accord EX-L V6 Rocker Arm Problems - 2008 Honda Accord
  By smathes - August 5 - 11:20 am

  Bought car last month fully loaded without Nav. Took it back to the dealer after a week due to a loud knocking noise when driving. Dealer did not know what the problem was until after 3 business days. Service bulletin out for inadequate torquing of the rocker arm bolts. Loaner car provided by Dealer but still in shop waiting for the balance parts. It has been in the shop for 1 1/2 weeks. Very disappointed with this issue. I did also notice poor shifting in first gear and surging between cylinder changes. I also had wind noise coming through the moon roof while driving. I hope all the repairs will be completed when I pick up the car early next week. I have been very disappointed.

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  Always reliable - 1991 Honda Accord
  By sdgrant - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Accord SE Sedan in Oct. 98 with 48,500 miles. Ive added almost 100K miles since, and it has been extremely reliable and consistent. The leather interior and extra 15 HP and 5 pd.-ft. of torque over the DX, EX, and LX models are nice, too. I think it accelerates better than our 2002 Mustang V6 convertible. No major maintenance other than timing belt. Sometimes doesnt start because of typical problem with fuel pump relay, but thats a known problem, and I just key off/on until it goes.

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  honda - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Roberto Prego Novo - August 3 - 5:33 am

  see different alternatives

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  Love/Hate relationship - 2016 Honda HR-V
  By Lou Anne - July 31 - 6:02 pm

  I love my little HRV. Great gas mileage and so cute. I do not like that I her the road noise and the ride isnt as good as my other Hondas. Overall a good value.

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  HONDA CR-V - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By white03 - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I have 3 CR-Vies two i gave to sons .A 97 ,00 and my 03 .If the boys cant kill them IM sure they are excelant vehicles . john