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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  Love my 08 Accord - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Shawn - March 12 - 10:09 am

  Do not expect to get very good MPG as it is a V6. The car is VERY comfortable and has passenger and cargo room for days. The heated seats, power seats, 7 speaker sound system, XM radio, automatic climate control make this car an amazing choice for road trips. There is a small amount of road noise but with the stereo on who cares? Ive found myself wishing some of my trips were longer.

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  Steer Away from 2007 Honda Accord - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Tim - March 12 - 7:35 am

  18 months after purchasing our 2007 Accord LX, the front-end began vibrating during braking. We took the car in, being that it was still under warranty, and were told that the rotors needed to be turned--the brake pads were fine. Of course, the rotors are not covered under the warranty. I have been told by the dealership, including the general manager, that it is not uncommon for rotors to need turning within 2 years or 30,000 miles. That is absurd, especially given the manner in which the car has been driven. It is obvious that Honda used inferior quality rotors on this vehicle. I wonder what other parts are defective?

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  Beyond Reliability - 1999 Honda Accord
  By John - March 11 - 9:34 pm

  I purchased the car in 2001 because my car died "literally" at the dealership. I am so glad I picked this car. It has been the best car I have ever owned. No problems. Change the oil, put gas in, & change the tires. Thats all you need to do. I have never had any problems. It even takes the abuse of my wifes driving :).

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  Great but not perfect - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By cbrown3381 - March 11 - 5:16 pm

  The Ridgeline is a very impressive truck, and it is a Honda through and through. The engineering, design and build quality are impecable. I do, however, have two issues with the truck. First, the darn thing beeps at you every half mile until you put your seat belt on. I get it after the first beep. I dont need my car strong-arming me into clicking the belt. Second, the cab could use a little more room, especially if its going to compete with full size trucks. The size is perfect for my wife, but if I were driving it full time, Id feel a bit cramped. The under-bed trunk is perfect. No more grocery bags sliding around in the bed.

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  2008 CRV LX AWD - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Bob - March 11 - 3:00 pm

  Great car. Comfortable and fun to drive. 28.4 mpg on a recent 1200 mile trip.22 mpg in mixed driving. Really no complaints except should have bought the EX for heated outside mirrors and outside temperature gauge.

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  So Disappointed!! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Christine - March 11 - 1:35 pm

  My car has 65K miles on it and it wont start. The dealer is telling me that it needs a new engine!!! I had a Honda Civic before this and never any problems. I am so upset. The warranty only covers up to 60K miles, so I am just over. I made a complaint with Honda and we will see what happens. But, buyer beware... only 60K miles on the engine and mine died at 65K. I am still in shock and I have a $16K loan to deal with now.

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  Turn up the radio - 2009 Honda Accord
  By tdfx5 - March 11 - 1:06 pm

  Fortunately the sound system is decent, as it helps to drown out all the road and wind noise. What happened to the sound deadening on this car? Depending on road surface, it can be hard to carry on a conversation. Despite the fussy- looking dash and console, all controls work well. Ride and handling are sound, and the 4-cylinder is more than adequate while delivering decent mileage. Purchased on Honda name and reputation, but overall this car has been a bit of a letdown.

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  This vehicle was made for ME! - 2003 Honda Element
  By k3for - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Two kids, love for the beach, water and outdoors - two dogs with same. Canoe or kayak on top, four bikes on the Thule rack in the 1 1/4" hitch on back, camping gear in the $40 Pep Boys softpack, not a stitch of carpeting to get fouled or mildewed, AWD traction with a good 7" of clearance - great ventilation with the sunroof and pivot windows.

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  Decent, Roomy SUV - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Bulldog04 - March 11 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Pilot because I occasionally need the function of a third row seat and I sought AWD for winter driving in the mountains. I looked at Toyotas 04 4Runner with the optional 3rd row seats and Fords Explorer. I almost bought the Toyota but with the difference in interior room and better seating, the Honda seemed a better choice. The Explorer was a different story; I could not find one optioned the way I wanted and none of the dealerships I went to were interested in finding one. I am only into the 2nd week of ownership and so far fairly pleased.

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  Good Commuter - 2001 Honda Civic
  By markr - March 11 - 10:00 am

  We bought our civic 2.5 years ago hoping for a fuel saver. It does pretty well in the gas mileage department although I must admit it seems the gas mileage has declined significantly over the past year or so. Im 61" and it is a tight squeaze, the sunroof is to blame for that. But the back seat in this little two seater is surprisingly roomy. Driver seat is not comfortable at all. It was made for a 20 minute commute at minimal comfort