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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  No probs here - 2008 Honda Accord
  By 08owner - July 20 - 4:36 pm

  I have almost 19,000 miles on my car (got it Apr 2008) and I have had none of the problems mentioned on here. My brakes are fine. I do use the parking brake often as I also heard that it aligns your brakes properly as another poster mentioned. The leather seat is not the most comfortable, but not bad. I drove from Chicago to Cleveland with no stops and I was fine (I am 63"). I got 29+ mpg on that trip, so I dont know what Edmunds is saying that they cant re-create the 29 mpg highway number. I average around 26-27 mpg (mostly highway). Acceleration not the most responsive, but once you drive it for awhile you know how to get it going.

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  Follow up review - 2005 Honda Accord
  By cal_cal - July 20 - 4:13 pm

  I wrote a review earlier when I first bought it. Now it is 3 months since I owned it. The car gives me 29 mpg in city and 33.5 mpg in highway driving between 70 and 85 MPH. While the fuel efficiency is great, the more important is that the ride is great and the interiors are well done. The car is still very smooth and a joy to ride. I still love washing it and keeping it shiny sparkly.

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  Excellent economy - 2006 Honda Civic
  By Jerund - July 20 - 3:27 pm

  We are typically getting 48 mpg during the summer, with air conditioning on, and about 45 in the winter in Rochester NY. On top of that, while not peppy, the car can work into traffic without fear, and weve used it on vacation with two other people and luggage in the car. My only complaint is when it drops gear while climbing hills on cruise and revs too high. Built very solid, best door thud of any car weve owned, and has been no trouble at all, aside from one recall notice, covered while in for an oil change. Also, oil is changed by indicator, not by miles, which for us is about 10 months. Shopping now for another Civic, a coupe this time.

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  Great vehicle! - 2007 Honda Pilot
  By Cruise - July 20 - 3:08 pm

  16-17 mpg city driving with AC. 20-23 mpg hwy up/down I-95 with AC. Very smooth ride great acceleration merging into traffic accommodates our family of 5 around town easy to park fun to drive. I purchased this SUV in Feb 08, and I would but another one tomorrow if I could.

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  Got 3 kids in carseats? - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By Greg - July 20 - 2:17 pm

  We recently purchased the EX-L model. We paid $28,200 including the audible back-up sensors (rear bumper) option. Tax, Tags, Title, processing fee was extra. We are disappointed after bringing the car home and discovering that there are latch anchors for only 1 car seat in the 3rd row. What that means is that we need to put our other two kids in the 2nd row seats. This eliminates your ability to slide one of the 2nd row seats up for easy access to the 3rd row. It also prevents mom from sitting in the 2nd row next to the newborn. The Toyota Sienna has latch anchors for 2 car seats in the 3rd row.

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  Great Car but a word of warning - 2007 Honda S2000
  By Airmaster - July 20 - 12:07 pm

  Have had the car for nearly a year now, and the driving experience has been great. BUT now for the warning. The S2000s seats (and parts, for that matter) are hot parts with young kids souping up their little cars. My car was completely stripped seats, steering wheel, radio, airbags, and carpet, right in front of my own house. If you are to purchase this car, make sure you have a garage or a very good aftermarket alarm. If not, stay clear of the car. I now have an alarm, but I still have that fear of someone stripping it again.

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  Best crossover SUV! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Clinton70 - July 20 - 11:17 am

  What is a SUV that can get the mileage of a car? The Honda CR-V is the answer. If youre not a lead foot, gas mileage is always in the 20s and can be up to and in excess of 30. An SUV where you can get sunroof, leather, and everything save for the navi under $25k. Drives and handles nice for a SUV. Wish the leather was more plush but this is probably better for long term drives and for your back. Center console is nice. As is three power outlets. Plenty of storage compartments. Cant go wrong with this car. It is consistently a value holder and a reliability champ! Two wheel drive is all you need unless you live in a ski resort or next to the Great Lakes.

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  Another Civic mistake - 1996 Honda Civic
  By Elizabeth - July 20 - 11:08 am

  This is my 2nd Civic both bought from private sellers. First one: 2000 EX coupe, had a mechanic look at it and it just wound up being a piece of crap, not well cared for like I thought and was told. Sold it. This one was 1 owner, always maintained from day 1, all paperwork so I thought it was okay. Stupid me! Costly repairs on things and I still have costly repairs to do. This $3300 is now almost a $5K car! Civics are notorious for window issues, A/C not great, and I find it uncomfortable to get in/out of and sit for a long time in those thin seats. I bought it w/138K miles and I now have 140K. Cant afford to get rid of it now. Hondas are so overpriced and overrated!

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  Best New Product on the Market! - 2006 Honda Ridgeline
  By Rene R Garcia - July 20 - 6:10 am

  Well I had the opportunity to be the first to purchase this vehicle at Hudson Honda. It has so many features that are so versatile, that this car can be an all day truck.

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  CRV SE - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Ray - July 20 - 5:16 am

  This is a great little SUV, fun to drive, handles well,is comfortable and has a great storage area . I test drove, and researched many, and definitely recommend in the small SUV class!