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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  Pilot Owner - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By BFab - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Purchased the Pilot last month, at this point it has surpassed ever our expectations. The comfort, handling, room and creature comforts are worth the price. We test drove and researched all competitors within the category and the Pilot surpassed all of them. Rear seat room has been expanded with the sliding second row benchseat. All is all, we would purchase it again.

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  Best Honda Vehicle Yet - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By aadle - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I own a 1999 Honda Accord Coupe and just purchased the 2004 Pilot. The first thing I noticed i nthe Pilot was a prettier interior than most Hondas as well as better, more durable leather. The drive is great, enough power to pass as well as the smooth suspension. I rate the Honda Pilot above the Explorer and 4Runner based on value and comfort. The Pilot is very roomy and is maore spacious than the Toyota 4Runner & Sequoia as well as the Explorer. This is a keeper.

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  Fun and Economical - 2001 Honda Civic
  By jaydelynne99 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Never had any problems with the vehicle. Would like a little more storage on the interior for maps and cds. Ride is quite bumpy but you can expect that from any small car. Really fun to drive. From all the reviews Ive read, you cant beat the quality and value of this car.

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  Honda Lx 2003 - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Argram - May 28 - 10:00 am

  No trouble with this car, already owned another Honda, 2 car Honda family

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  Nice SUV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Barry - May 27 - 8:56 pm

  I really love this SUV. Have had a few non-Honda like issues with this car. I had to have the strut lubed and now the rotors are warped big time. Another trip to the dealer. I guess I just expected more from Honda. But again, after coming from an Olds Alero, anything would be more reliable.

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  Fine SUV for the money, good content - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By vonsnooks - May 27 - 5:38 pm

  Came down to between this and a Highlander. We didnt go with that due to a more cramped interior with much less interior storage space vs. the Pilot. Car is well executed inside and out. Driving experience is consistent with expectations. Smooth drive train, pleasant ride. Reliability has been good to date. Mileage is a bit disappointing, but about what I expected. Averaging 18-20 mpg in mixed driving in first 7K miles, which isnt too bad considering power and weight of car.

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  2005 Pilot EXL with Navigation - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Christa - May 27 - 12:56 pm

  Love the 2005 Pilot! All the colors are great. Its a great looking vehicle, not to mention great driving. Great for people with a lot of children who do not wish to drive a big suburban, etc. very good on gas!

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  Texas Pilot - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Russell - May 27 - 10:41 am

  Good so far, gas mileage is a little better than expected. Even in city driving. Maybe the cylinder management helps?

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  2005 Pilot EX - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Marty - May 27 - 8:07 am

  The Pilot has been everything I would expect in an SUV. Only two problems typical of this model. Rough ride on rough road surface. Rear roof air deflector collects ice and breaks when hatch is opened unless ice is cleared first.

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  My 3rd Honda - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By No General Mtrs 4 Me - May 27 - 7:30 am

  I also looked at the Toyota Tundra/Tacoma but of course found the Honda a better bargain. The Ridgeline fit all my needs plus its not too big so the wife uses it to :( I have seen a lot of complaints about the door locks... READ THE MANUAL! It can be changed. The fit and finish is typical Honda. It rides better than the Accord we own. Its a truck, expect low MPG.