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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  Best I ever owned - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By ayda - August 9 - 11:35 am

  The best minivan I researched for, and if the time goes back I wouldve still picked it.

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  Shame on American Honda ! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By formerhondafan - August 9 - 6:02 am

  As a huge Honda fan and owner for the last 15 years, I was thrilled when I bought my 04 CR-V. Sadly, that excitement only lasted as long as the warranty. 2000 miles past the warranty it just stopped running. Took it took the dealer and they said it was a "sensor" and it cost me $280! But as frustrating as that was, it pales to what just happened to me. Just like all the other CR-V owners out there, my AC compressor blew up, and American Honda just snubbed their nose at me like they have every other owner. Shame on you Honda! Fortunately, my dealership helped me out with the whopping $3,000 bill, but Honda is doing nothing to help its loyal fans. As a result, I am selling all of mine!

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  2006 Honda Civic Hybrid - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Laura - August 9 - 12:06 am

  First honda. Very pleased with design and interior, excellent futuristic looks. Interior nice but coming from an Audi A6 nothing special. MPG not high as expected. Avg is 36.2 perhaps its colder weather and New Engand hills and I have yet to see my car run totally electric while under 35mph. Nicks already in body because I cant see rear end or hood. I enjoy driving this car but I miss a powerful engine, Cant say Ill be driving another honda car after this.

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  My great honda! - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Steve - August 8 - 11:03 pm

  I have had my pilot for about 2 months now and I love it! It has plenty of space, and its pretty comfy for a honda because its my sixth one! One thing I was disappointed about was the sound system, because it sounds boxy. But Id still recommend it because i like the safety and pretty much everything else about it. Id like to say that it is a great family vehicle and great for some off roading.

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  Disappointed in Ontario - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By G Davis - August 8 - 1:07 pm

  Recently traded my 2000 Pontiac Montana for a 2003 Honda CR-V. After 3 years of constant repairs on the Montana I was so excited to own a "reliable" vehicle. Well, last week the compressor in the air conditioning unit went and I now have to fork out $1500.+ to replace it. I am very disappointed. I have owned several Hondas and they have always been reliable & reasonable to maintain. After reading the reviews, I may just fix it and sell it as this seems to be an ongoing problem. Heads up, Honda. The North American car manufacturers have let the buying public down horribly with their poorly designed and built vehicles. Dont follow suit! Gas mileage also not as good as expected.

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  2007 element - 2007 Honda Element
  By Bobby - August 8 - 12:43 pm

  I love my Honda element. This is my second one. Only issue i have is that this is the second time that the master brake cylinder went out after about 29,000 miles. It was under warranty. I also had a 2004 element and the same thing happened. Kinda odd that it would go out in my 2007 element. I think Honda should check into a internal leap problem in the master brake cylinder. Other wise, I love my element. thanks.

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  First SUV- best ever - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Chris - August 8 - 2:56 am

  I have driven many SUVs from Trailblazers to Explorers, this is the best I have come across. It drives like a car not as a major uHaul. Its stylish and its good to go.

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  Overall Great Vehicle - 2003 Honda Accord
  By CrimsnGhost - August 8 - 1:16 am

  I recently bought an 03 Accord LX 4dr 5-speed 4cyl, June 2008. I love the reliability of this vehicle. The gas mileage is great on the highway or in the city. With 25+ MPG, it is quite the gas saver. There are hundreds of after market modifications for this vehicle, making upgrading fun and a must. The interior is well laid out with an exterior thats just as well. The Accord is bigger and roomier than the civic making it a more comfortable ride. Options such as cruise control, steering wheel volume control, 5-disc changer and CD player add to the versatility and comfort. I love the fact that oil changes are needed only every 5,000 miles. For the price, an 03 LX was the best option for me.

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  2013 Honda Accord sedan acceleration hessitation - 2013 Honda Accord
  By fair2us - August 7 - 8:04 pm

  I brought my 2013 Honda Accord to Orr Honda of Hot Springs to have back up sensors installed in January 2013. I left it at the dealership and Travis called to tell me that the backup installation kit that I was having them install was missing some pieces. Since they had my vehicle, I asked that a technician ride in the vehicle to identify why it was causing a small stutter, jerking and hesitation when gently accelerating. I was told that the technician said that this was normal in the new Accords and that I had nothing to worry about. Over time, it seems that the stutter/jerking/hesitation has become more prevalent, so I called Honda’s customer service to complain about the issue.

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  Satisfied - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By Jim - August 7 - 7:37 pm

  Not sure how you can get under 17 mpg in the city. I guess those posting 12- 13 must really live in a city, with stop and go, heavy traffic and never drive over 5-10 mph. We average 18.5 mpg city (suburban driving) and 25-26 highway (only measured highway mileage once). 1900 miles on the odometer. Sold our 4wd Sienna got 12mpg. This is basically the same interior size getting 80% better city mpg.