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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  High Performer - 2005 Honda Accord
  By CarKat - June 8 - 12:04 pm

  A fun car with quick response and excellent handling. Plenty of power and good fuel economy. Average about 39-42 MPG highway and 22-25 MPG city driving. The pleasure of driving a high performance V6 with economy of a 4 cylinder car. No problems in 2 years of ownership.Still looks and runs like new.

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  GREAT CAR - 1999 Honda Civic
  By zc - June 8 - 10:00 am

  its a great car. never had anything better. i recommend this car to everyone.

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  Excellent!! - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By CorkyF16 - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Two Children. Two Car Seats. Plenty of room for strollers, beach items, coolers, *and* two more adults.

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  2003 V6 6Speed - 2003 Honda Accord
  By rossi46 - June 8 - 10:00 am

  This is my first honda car that Ive had. I always said if honda would put a manual transmission with a V6 that I would buy one. Well I did and I love it. the car gives you the ride of a luxury car, but the performance of a sports car.

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  Best Accord Ever - 2003 Honda Accord
  By 2003AccordOwner - June 8 - 10:00 am

  This is a 4 door, 4 cylinder, with cloth interior Accord. I have owned a 1991, 1993, 1998, 2000 and this 2003. This is the best one yet by far. The styling, ride, and performance are terrific! This re- designed model is head and shoulders above the previous models. The 4 cylinder performs like most 6 cylinders. What a value!

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By MCSEman - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I always buy Hondas. That way theres no surprises. This one is no exception. One day as I was cruising down I95 at 80 mph, I thought Id step on the gas a little bit to see what it would do. In just a few seconds I was up to 100mph with plenty of room left under the pedal. The care handled perfectly. Road noise is next to nothing. The interior is very well thought out. Honda definitley put some work into it, cramming useful goodies into every nook and cranny. Given Hondas reputation for longevity, this car is definitely worth the money.

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  Love It!! - 2004 Honda Civic
  By DJStormX - June 8 - 8:56 am

  This is absolutely the best car I have ever purchased and will keep it until I run it into the ground for years to come. Highly recommended due to the extremely high gas prices. You will not be disappointed!

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  Bang for the buck! - 2008 Honda Civic
  By Love this Car - June 8 - 2:30 am

  Ive been having nothing but fun driving this car. Moved from a civic EX to the Si. No regrets whatsoever...so far. Of course, Im taking a hit on MPG, but not nearly as bad as I thought. On the road, my scan gauge is averaging 35 mpg each day. Thats mostly highway. But is this fun to drive. Makes my daily commute much more enjoyable. Bought it new for $18,129. Excellent price!! And its great looking. Really happy with the deal.

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  Excellent SUV - 2017 Honda Pilot
  By William Melton - June 7 - 10:56 pm

  A true Honda.

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  Great Small Eco Car - 2010 Honda Insight
  By crv139 - June 7 - 10:23 pm

  Great little car. Its no sports car by it gets you to drive in the most eco way and save you money on gas. Its a cool looking car that has a lot of features for the price. This vehicle will not cost you that much to operate. So the money you save from this vehicle you can go out and buy your sports car.