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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  Not perfect but very good. - 2001 Honda Civic
  By nrivera - December 8 - 10:00 am

  No problems with this car(it has an auto tranny. Emissions related sensor was replaced after two months of driving (no problem since replaced).

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  love it - 2002 Honda Civic
  By cyop_42 - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Great car, fun reliable, sporty(sort of)However I have minor 3 beefs with this car, 1. damn uncomfortable seats not great for long commutes. 2. arm rest sux 4 inches too short, fixed for 2003 3. sound system could be better

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  civic ex coupe - 2003 Honda Civic
  By mohsin naqvi - December 8 - 10:00 am

  very good for its value.

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  great car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By jill00 - December 8 - 10:00 am

  This is my second civic...I love it. Its fun and stylish and w/ gas prices lately...you cant beat it. $14 to fill it almost every two weeks! I have never had a problem w/ either civic. If they keep making them this way, Ill keep buying them!

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  I love my car!!!! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Tess1979 - December 8 - 10:00 am

  My first and second cars were both Ford Mustangs first a 6cyl then a GT. I initially wanted a lower car payment and I liked the Honda Accord. So I tool a look. This car is fantastic! I love the get up and go... I dont miss the GT much at all. Back seat room is great for a 2 door. It is super quiet and peppy for a 4 cyl. I love Hondas now after always been exposed to American cars all my life, I can tell you I will never go back. Hondas are built to last. I love the quietness of this car.

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  Fabulous Mini Van - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By Bob - December 8 - 3:16 am

  I didnt realize how luxurious this mini van was when I bought it. The sound system is incredible, the dashboard is easy to use and there is so much to play with. The ride is excellent

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  impressive value. honda always impresses - 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid
  By outlawdoc - December 7 - 11:37 pm

  had about 2 weeks overall 45.5 mpg but im mostly rural highway driving. great deal since 2018s are here and honda wants the 17s gone .

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  Making the Element even better - 2004 Honda Element
  By EX - December 7 - 8:09 am

  I was initially attracted to the Element because of its interior head and shoulder room. After driving my Element for two years, I am impressed by its road handling. The steering and handling were an added benefit that I did not expect. I hope I can say this 4-5 years from now.

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  TeolisCRV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By M. Teolis - December 6 - 7:26 pm

  My wife was interested in a smaller SUV. We had two cars to trade, as I did not need to travel as much, being retired, and she liked the appearance of the CRV. Her daughter-in-law in Chicago had one. We traded a 1991 BMW 500 series (131,000 miles) and a 1994 Dodge Caravan, (64,000 miles) plus $15,000 cash total.

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  This car is what every street tuner need - 2005 Honda Civic
  By kevinrolo - December 6 - 11:13 am

  Civics are reliable and hold their value