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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  The New Accord Hybrid - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Bill Ades - August 16 - 2:10 am

  I would have preferred to wait a year to let the prices come down a bit and to make sure the new Accord Hybrid would be as good a car as my last Accord (95 wagon, 168k miles). I have had absolutely no reason to regret my purchase. The car is a dream to drive -- tight, responsive handling and ride, real performance (without guilt). I have found no defects in 6 months and over 6,000 miles. The Nav. system is both fun and useful and the sound system is great. The car routinely gets 37 mpg or more at interstate speeds and averages 25 mpg on my 20 mile mixed commute. The transition from economy mode (3 cylinders) to full power is virtually undetectible. I love my new Accord!

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  "great handler" - 2006 Honda S2000
  By clark - August 15 - 6:40 pm

  I have only owned this car for a month, but am pleasantly surprised by the way it handles. Not being a "speed freak", I havent come close to "red lining". The only knocks I have is it lacks comfort on a long trip (+150 miles). Also, Honda could have done a better job of 6th gear. I wish it could have been more of an overdrive than just another gear. Power to spare. Economy is better than advertised. 30+ on highway - only to get better after breakin period.

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  Honda Odyssey - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By Eliot - August 15 - 3:16 am

  Have had this van for about 5 months and am very impressed. I used the vehicle in New Hampshire for 2 months of winter before heading south to South Carolina for some highway travel. Car performed like a precision watch. I also own a 02 Chystler Town and Country Van that I enjoy driving, but I feel that the Honda is better built and safer. Overall I am very pleased to date.

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  Honda Hybrid - 2005 Honda Accord
  By Larry Cox - August 14 - 8:53 pm

  This is the second Honda hybrid Ive owned. I traded a Civil in for my present Accord. It doesnt get the same gas milage as the Civic but is one of the most comfortable cars Ive ever owned. It is a joy. Nothing gives me more pleasure than to see Hummers and monster SUVs parked at gas pumps as I drive by.

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  GAS SIPPING 2 WDR - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Tom - August 14 - 4:46 pm

  After careful research I opted for the Pilot. It seemed to offer the most versatility and best fuel economy (2wdr) in its class. I went with the EX model that in my opinion is worth the xtra 2500. Not only do you get roof rails, but pwr driver seat and a capable audio system with steering mounted controls. The interior cloth fabric is upscale vs.the LX. The ride is very quiet and subtle, there is lots of power reserves for passing or mountainous driving. The transmission shift precise yet refined. The VCM works great, shift between 6-3cyl is virtually undetectable. Due to precise steering + very good pwr assist. brakes and a fairly stiff suspension the 4300 lbs SUV has a distinct car feel.

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  Got to love it! - 2006 Honda Element
  By Sara - August 14 - 2:34 pm

  I thought this was the most ugly car but all you have to do is drive it! My husband got one and we have taken it to NC from FL 3x so far and it has driven better then any van we have ever owned. There is so much room it is wonderful! Handles great. Husband uses it for work and can get so much stuff in it its amazing! Im waiting for new 07 SC and Im getting one too!

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  It does it all - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By sam - August 14 - 12:07 pm

  Traded my 04 ranger for a 2007 RTL a couple of weeks ago and coudnt be happier. I wanted a nicer ride but still wanted some truck capability for chores around the house. This is the truck for that purpose. A GREAT ride , compared it to the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport-trac with the V-8 and the Ridgeline handled better , was way more comfortable, and had a better build quality, (along with a bed that was a foot longer). If you are a homeowner whos wife has the great ride while you struggle in an uncomfortable pickup this is the truck for you. Now I too can cruise in comfort and still handle the home depot runs. And now when we go somewhere together my wife is even saying "lets take the Truck"

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  I love my 2018 Accord. - 2018 Honda Accord
  By Patrick Tracy - August 14 - 5:19 am

  Best: Most safety features are standard except proximity beeper, which cost $1K to buy/install. Very professional sales staff. Very positive experience. I love my new car.

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  Excellant Choice - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By jmichael - August 13 - 8:06 pm

  We compared the CRV LX AWD to the Toyota Rav4 Base 4 cylinder 4x4. We got a much better deal on the Cr-v, and it was the better choice. The interior of the CR-V is designed much better than the Rav4, and the ride of the CR-V is quieter, and much smoother. On the Highway we have been averaging 32.5 MPG. We havent used the AWD yet but looking forward to the CR-V pulling us through the snow. The dash board controls are user friendly. The CR-V lets you know how many miles you have left before filling up which the Rav4 Base did not have. For a four cylinder engine you can not go wrong with this vehicle. If you can do without the sunroof, and other options the LX model has the same engine and body.

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  happyowner - 2005 Honda Odyssey
  By happyowner - August 13 - 12:36 pm

  The 2005 Honda Odyssey replaced another Odyssey that we owned and I really enjoy driving this van. It has a more quiet ride and it is very comfortable. My gas mileage is better in this Odyssey and some of the controls have been moved to more convenient areas of the van. The spare tire has been moved to a more easily accessible place and there is more storage space in this van.