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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  2016 Civic, Will the test of time give it 5 stars - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Matt Kean - October 18 - 3:51 am

  After looking at a few makers of cars I chose the Civic. The three main reasons were, previous experience with Honda product, Honda service experience, and I liked the new model. The four star rating I gave it was because the fifth star is earned threw the test of time. If it does as well as my other Honda products, it will earn one more star. Update. Great gas mileage (35.2 combined). Quieter than previous Civic but still highway speeds a little loud. You seam to sit lower in the cockpit than previous model which is good for taller driver. My wife and I are shorter drivers so I wish both front seats could be adjusted higher. You can det used to it but it would be on my wishlist.

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  2016 Civic, Will the test of time give it 5 stars - 2016 Honda Civic
  By Matt Kean - October 18 - 3:51 am

  After looking at a few makers of cars I chose the Civic. The three main reasons were, previous experience with Honda product, Honda service experience, and I liked the new model. The four star rating I gave it was because the fifth star is earned threw the test of time. If it does as well as my other Honda products, it will earn one more star. Update. Great gas mileage (35.2 combined). Quieter than previous Civic but still highway speeds a little loud. You seam to sit lower in the cockpit than previous model which is good for taller driver. My wife and I are shorter drivers so I wish both front seats could be adjusted higher. You can det used to it but it would be on my wishlist.

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  Best Small Car on the Market - 2007 Honda Civic
  By B.A.S. - October 17 - 11:10 pm

  I purchased my 07 Civic as new in Jan. 08 with only 3900 miles. I have since racked up nearly 10,000 miles on the odometer in mostly highway driving. I have to say I am very pleased with the fuel efficiency of this car. I have averaged between 35 & 37 mpg on nearly every fill-up. This is a great car, much better than anything GM or Ford has to offer in the same segment. I considered a Prius until I stopped to look at who drives these things...OLD PEOPLE. The Civic has great exterior styling, nice interior quality, fit & finish and a reliability rating that is among the best in its class. Buy Certified Used and get an even better warranty. Paid $18,598 for an 07 EX/Navi with 3900 miles.

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  I Smile every time I start it up - 2004 Honda S2000
  By zgza989 - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Why spend $50,000 or more on a Porsche Boxter when the S2000 outperforms it hands down??

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  Shouldve bought it earlier! - 2004 Honda S2000
  By Caleb_R - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Wow was I impressed when I happened to drive my friends 2000 S2000! I had a Audi A4 and well I was really impressed with the handling and the fun it was to push the car to its limits. I knew I had to trade my Audi in. The 04 S2000 was the best thing Ive gotten so far. Cant wait until the warmer temperatures! Cant really believe I didnt get it sooner!

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  chris review - 2004 Honda Element
  By all11in4u27 - October 17 - 10:00 am

  nice i like the outside as well as the inside a fun automobile to drive and own

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  Perfection on wheels - 2004 Honda Civic
  By ASHLEEHITZ - October 17 - 10:00 am

  My Civic is actually my first car. I live by Consumer Reports, and I did so much research and in the end I decided to get either a Civic or a Corolla. After test driving both cars though, I knew that I had to get the Civic. Its so much fun to drive. Ive been behind the wheel of several cars, and the Civic is just a pleasure. It handles curves wonderfully...so lovely. Also, besides being fun, it is a very good, reliable, safe car. Last, as far as appearences go, I think the Civic is a rather nice looking car-stylish.

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  My new Honda - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Rod DeLay - October 17 - 10:00 am

  I am averaging 45 mpg over all with my new Honda Hybrid. I am on the 3rd tank of gas and for the last 75 miles, (all in town) I have driven I am getting 71 mpg so far. Very good acceleration for passing. Very fun to drive after my 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 4-door 7/16 mpg.

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  Solid All Around - 2003 Honda Accord
  By RyanGag - October 17 - 10:00 am

  This car is a great all around performer. It is quick off the line and handles pretty well. It cruises at high speeds with ease and is very quiet on the highway. Interior is laid out well and is very attractive. Cant beat the bang for the buck, heated seats, strong V-6, dual climate, sunroof, soft leather, 6 disc...the list goes on and on.

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  Nice coupe - 2004 Honda Accord
  By jmurigu - October 17 - 10:00 am

  It is a nice coupe, improved many features lacking in the previous model. More power, smooth quiet ride and standard keyless entry with engine immobilizer