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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  Somewhat disappointed - 2006 Honda Civic
  By writergeek - October 26 - 12:23 pm

  I bought the Civic primarily because of the mpg and because I wasnt ready to buy a hybrid yet. I realized I wouldnt get the numbers they have on the sticker, but thought Id be in the 35-36 range. I drive mostly highway and find the kind of stuttering action weird. Also, two aspects of the Civic performance are a bit alarming. One is when I took my foot off the brake while at a dead stop and the car raced forward. The other is the car is all over the road in windy weather. I had aggressive snow tires on the car that I had to take off one extremely windy day. I got blown out of my lane into the next, in front of a tractor trailer. The car can stay in the lane with the original tires.

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  made a good choice - 2009 Honda Accord
  By Mike B - October 26 - 10:33 am

  After months of looking found blk/blk 2009 accord coupe. Love it. Im the type that researches and test drives lots of vehicles prior to purchase. This car fit my needs: comfortable, safe, stylish, affordable, and quality build. No car has everything otherwise we would all be driving "that" car. The EX is good value but I think the EX-L in the 4 cylinder might be the apex of the group in terms of performance/value/style. The V6 is fast and will appeal to the enthusiast, but in my mind it would only get me a speeding ticket. The 190HP 4 banger is good once you get it above 3500 rpm. Below that accel is nothing to rave about. Buy this car in the EX-L: V4 for value; V6 for kicks.

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  First 1000 miles impression - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Blue - October 26 - 6:06 am

  I have taken this truck through snow, sleet, storm and ice in the last 3 weeks. There is nothing that was unexpected or undesirable. I did not try off-road becasue I do not intend to go thru mud. Basically, this is a truck that drives almost like a car. I looked at the other mid-size trucks, but they do not have all the luxury features.

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  Laminate the Windows! - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By familyman - October 25 - 4:57 pm

  Its a nice van and gets decent mileage. Ride is a bit harsh and road and wind noise prevalent. Needs better insulation and laminate windows like the Buick Enclave and Chrysler Aspen, really does make a difference!

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  Nice but some wind noise and rattles - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By delmartian - October 25 - 4:49 pm

  Compared Enclave, Sienna and Odyssey. Enclave was very nice in ride, handling and quietness. The Honda had a nicer price with the rebate. Its a good people mover and the navigation system is very nice. The rear entrainment system is very nice but not intuitive really need to read the instruction manual. Using 0-20w Mobil One and averaging 18.7 around town with up to 30 mpg on the highway.

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  My Honda Review - 1995 Honda Civic
  By BeerSnorkel - October 25 - 2:00 am

  If I had known how underpowered this thing was, I never would have bought it. The thing just eats tires too. Go figure.

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  Civics - 1995 Honda Civic
  By CivicLover - October 25 - 2:00 am

  I have always loved the Civic it is such a great car,and with a little effort you can have a nice, fast car. They are so easy to drive. I now have a car that i am very proud to own. There are so many upgrades for the Civic like body kits, I love all the body kits. I have even got one of my friends to consider a Civic because they are so reliable. i love Civics every one should get one if they have the chance.

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  Posers need not apply - 2002 Honda S2000
  By Da Hapa - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Simply put, this is the real deal. A true sports car that isnt for the timid. If you arent willing to drive a car, and I mean drive a car, then look elsewhere. Those looking for wood interiors, heated seats, and traction control shouldnt look at the S. However, if you enjoying wringing a car out and the satisfication of getting a corner correctly and heal toe shifting, than this is your dream car.

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  A great car for all ages. - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By vovak - October 25 - 2:00 am

  It is big, powerfull and fun to drive. I was able to fit 3 pairs of skis and two passangers with comfort. Also great for my other outdoor activities.

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  Best Choice for a Van - 2002 Honda Odyssey
  By pexpert - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Looked at Sienna as we have owned 4 Toyotas. ODY beats Sienna hands down. More room, easier to operate (my 4 year old can use the power doors) DVD (vs VCR in Sienna) all the same bells and whistles and even a pretty good price. Wife (who LOVES Toyota) says this is a better van. Try it! You will LOVE it!