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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  08 Honda accord - 2008 Honda Accord
  By SINGH - November 23 - 4:06 am

  The 2008 honda accord is amazing, looks like a bmw. great body and interior. I had the 2007 model. In less then 6 months the 2008 came out and I had to get it. I have the accord EX-L-NAVI.

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  Love my Honda! - 1994 Honda Accord
  By Ceres - November 22 - 3:29 pm

  I love this car! Its my second Accord, and its better than the old 83, which had rust from little driving. Instead of abrupt changes, the Honda body style evolves, so the car doesnt look 12 years old, even parked next to another Accord. Ive had absolutely no trouble it. I feel safe and secure in my wagon, and I can haul a washing machine or camp out in the back if I must. The worst thing about this car was my friends reactions. I sold a sports car for it, and they were stunned I went suburban wagon. That said, they all call when they need to move something or take a long trip! I agree with other writers, its time for Honda to return this gem to the American market!

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  Honda Accord Review - 2002 Honda Accord
  By thorlo - November 22 - 10:20 am

  The Accord is reliable and fun. Responsive and steady. Great gas economy and not a single problem so far.

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  honda - 2004 Honda S2000
  By hellorr - November 22 - 10:00 am

  My experience with this vehicle is that it is very good and it performs very well. It has a graet interior too.

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  BOO YAH - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Ryan Jaracz - November 22 - 10:00 am

  BEST CAR EVER. LOVE IT

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  AWESOME - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By TJSMOMMY206 - November 22 - 10:00 am

  LOVE MY CAR CANT WAIT FOR MY NEXT PILOT.

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  Love this car! - 2000 Honda Accord
  By iloveoregon - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! The five speed is fantastic and the car is surprisingly peppy. Its a quiet body style - not too pretentious or showy. The interior is spacious for five adults or even car seats if necessary. I put the back seat down when I go to Home Depot and use my bike rack on the roof to haul other stuff. Its just a great car. I hope to get 300,000 miles out of it like three other navy blue Hondas I know.

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  Slightly biased opinion ... - 2004 Honda Civic
  By johnnylegit - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Im a bit biased since Ive owned several Honda vehicles previously but ... so far, its been a joy to drive. Ive always loved the soft clutch on Honda cars, theres enough zip in the engine for most purposes, handling and ride are great, and its hard to beat the mpg. Its more expensive than the competitors but its worth it--just make sure you pit one dealership to another for best price. I think EX is worth the price especially if you can get it for around $16K (dealer invoice).

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  Honda at its best - 2004 Honda Accord
  By demodon - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased this car and I am very impressed. I have owned a few cars in my day (32) including this one and this is by far the most impressive for the money. I traded a 2001 Lincoln LS and there is no comparison. The Honda is built to last. The 4 cylinder motor is outstanding, spacious interior, nice ride, smooth transmission, and great gas mileage. If you are in the car buying market you must give this a test drive.

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  This is a great car!!!! - 2004 Honda Accord
  By andyngayle - November 22 - 10:00 am

  This car is awesome!! I did a ton of research and this car is by far the best deal for the money. The TL is too expensive and the TSX is too small. I love my Accord.