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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  Honda failure - 2001 Honda Civic
  By Ken G - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned 4 hondas prior to this vehicle, so when I was in the market for an inexpensive reliable commuter car, I was confident with buying the Civic. WHAT A MISTAKE! Here is a list of my cars problems: Gas gauge not close to being correct, transmission never seems to know what gear to be in especially after taking a turn. Huge hesitation when reapplying the gas pedal after making a turn. AC system struggles to get the car cool. AC vents extremely loose. I now have folds of paper jammed in the side of each vent to keep it from pointing straight up. I could go on but Im running out of space. Stick with an older model.

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  2008 accord - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Leslie Bozman - July 27 - 7:37 am

  Each 2008 2009 accord had tears in middle console armrest...ungrateful to accord EX L much better quality of leather trim

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  2008 accord - 2008 Honda Accord
  By Leslie Bozman - July 27 - 7:37 am

  Each 2008 2009 accord had tears in middle console armrest...ungrateful to accord EX L much better quality of leather trim

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  Love my CR-V - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By John - July 27 - 6:56 am

  Ive had my CR-V for over a year now, and I dont think I could be more pleased with it. I find it very comfortable on long trips (up to 2 weeks / 4500 miles). Mileage has been better than expected, averaged about 30 MPG, with a couple of tanks over 31 MPG, on the 4500 mile trip with some city driving, and Ive got the AWD version rated at 28! Another, 2500 mile trip was 29+ average with much driving around Austin. Ride and handling are excellent, but the tires (Bridgestones) could be better. Acceleration is very good for a 4-cyl havent ever really wanted for power.

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  Great car/iPod info - 2007 Honda Fit
  By mslim - July 27 - 5:20 am

  I read many reviews and found them extremely helpful. Heres my take. Overall quality is great. Ride is good for a small car. I am averaging 38-39 mpg with 70/30 hwy/city driving, air on all the time. Versatility is awesome. Love the storage. Auxiliary connection for iPod is great. I would save the money on an iPod connection and just charge your iPod before you leave home. It sounds perfect connected to the auxiliary connection. Got my car in 3 days, no wait time, lucky I guess. Extremely happy I bought this vehicle.

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  best all around - 2002 Honda Accord
  By kurtna - July 27 - 1:56 am

  this is the best all around value for a sedan. No nickle and diming by dealership, car comes with everything you need.

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  Great Vehicle - 2018 Honda Odyssey
  By Al - July 27 - 1:03 am

  Very quiet compared to the Two Toyota Siennas I have owned. Apple great play works great and all safety features perform as advertised.

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  Great Value for the Money - 2005 Honda Accord
  By deb - July 26 - 10:13 pm

  Just came off lease from a Volvo S60 and decided to get an Accord. This car was about $7000 less than the Volvo, and came with more features, more power, and a much smoother ride. Also has a roomier interior. Overall, a great deal for the $$. If you can afford it, go for a V-6 model. Has less road noise than the 4-Cyl model. Also, the EX has some nice luxury features. Love the car!!!

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  Fabulous Orange Box - 2004 Honda Element
  By Boxy and Orange - July 26 - 9:46 pm

  I bought this car for a move from MS to CO and loaded it full. The gas mileage was something to brag about and the way this loaded down 4 cylinder handled over mountain passes impressed me. I havent had much experience with it in the snow yet but I have faith it will meet my expectations. My Element has gone to the beach. All I had to do to get the sand out was sweep the car. AND it is wonderful for the dog owner, the dog hair clean up is so easy, just roll down the window and it all blows out!

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  Best bang for the buck on the market - 2006 Honda S2000
  By eric_the_jew - July 26 - 3:31 pm

  I must say that I am a die hard sport bike guy, and was skeptical that a car would be able to give me the thrill of 15,000 rpm. However, Hondas S2000 fits this bill surprisingly well. It is undoubtedly the closest thing to a motorcycle with four wheels. I considered [briefly] Mazdas Miata (anemic power), Porsches Boxter S (ridiculous price) and the Pontiac Solstice/Saturn Sky (no 6 speed tranny), and decided the "S" was the car for me. With its short wheelbase, the car feels a little twitchy at the limit, almost as if it will break into uncontrolled oversteer. However, the Automatic Stability Control will bail you out should you get in over your head.