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:
Showing 9671 through 9680 of 31,869.00-
Honda Odyssey - 2002 Honda Odyssey
By oddymanout - May 11 - 3:50 pmWhen my wife and I bought this van, we drove it to Yellowstone. Truly, never was a better travel vehicle ever built! This vehilce hauled camping equipment, 2 weeks of supplies and three adults from Michigan to Wyoming. Even in the mountains of Wyoming, there wasnt even the slightest bit of hesitation from the Odyssey. The seats were comfortable even after 12 hours behind the wheel. I would have no hesitation recommending this vehicle to others.
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trade in for a new odyssy - 2002 Honda Odyssey
By c.m. poague - May 11 - 2:35 pmVery comfortable, good handling, sits up high and easy to see out while driving. The back seat is comfortable to sit on. The cargo space and fold down third seats are very handy.
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I couldnt ask for a better first car!!! - 1992 Honda Accord
By Krys Wilson - May 11 - 8:41 amWhen I was told that my first car was going to be a 92 Honda Accord, I wasnt thrilled at all. I didnt really know much about Hondas. Now, I wouldnt trade my Honda for the world especially with the price of gas, my Honda is very fuel efficient, its not too big or too small. I have only had one major problem, I needed a transmission. I wasnt able to get one right away but my Honda still drove like a dream, just had to shift the gears myself. I have had sooo many offers to sell my Honda but I would never even if I buy a newer car. To say my Honda is 14 years old, I have less problems than any of my friends that have newer cars. Bottom line Honda has a customer for life. Honda Forever!
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will it ever die? - 1996 Honda Odyssey
By hart - May 10 - 3:42 pmwe have now had this car almost 10 years- and it is still going strong! Other than normal maintenance we have never had to do anything to it. I would love to get another car just from sheer boredom of driving this one so long but I cant bring myself to spend the money when this one works great!
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2006 Honda Civic - 2006 Honda Civic
By A_Band_Geek - May 10 - 6:56 amThis car is very sporty as appearance is concerned, however it does not have as much power as I thought it might. I was astonished when I popped the hood. The engine and battery terminal are tiny. The car lacks quick acceleration but is quite fuel efficient. The safety features are top notch but lack of power is a bit of a let down from such a sporty looking car.
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I love this little car and you will too. - 2004 Honda S2000
By Convinced - May 10 - 5:17 amI bought this car when I was over 50 years old, so you can well imagine that this isnt the first car Ive ever owned. Ive owned Chevys, VWs, Cadillacs, Audis, two Porsches (a 9llT Targa and a 944) and a couple I just as soon not admit. Ive NEVER, however, had people literally run down the street after my car screaming at the top of their lungs at me in an attempt to find out what kind of car I was driving. That is: Until I bought this S2000. More strangers have walked up to me out of the blue to tell me how much they loved my S2000 than the total number of people that had ever said anything to me about all the previous cars Ive ever owned... and, the Porsches were beautiful cars.
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This car exceeded my expectations - 2006 Honda Civic
By nobonk05 - May 10 - 3:03 amHonda has hit the nail on the head, again. I traded my 2001 Jeep Wrangler to get transportation that was cheaper to operate. Being extremely pleased with our 2005 Honda Element- I did some research on this site. The exterior style knocked my socks off. My 11 year old daughter and I went to the dealership and took a test drive. Proof is in the driving. Not only does the car look good from the outside, the interior appointments and seating are great. Once you make all the necessary adjustments- this car fits like a glove. Doing consulting work, I put on the miles. Highway driving you do have to watch out for the speed. The car exudes confidence at 95 mph with lots of pedal left.
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Love my PILOT! - 2003 Honda Pilot
By Britt - May 9 - 8:22 pmThis was the best car purchase Ive yet made. Its fun, and practical. The Honda Pilot has enough room for my family of five with plenty of cargo space as well. I highly recommend this vehicle to someone who is looking to "upsize".
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yesssssssss - 2005 Honda Element
By chris - May 9 - 4:33 pmIve had the vehicle for almost a year now and cant believe ive driven it 32000 miles already. From eastern long island and my car has been everywhere from richmond va to rhode island. I use it for work everyday and can really pile the stuff in there, just the other day, I had 3 new air conditioners plus a sleeve and it fit, no other words but WOW thanks honda. ps getting around 26 on 87 octane after 20000 was on it
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Insight - 2006 Honda Insight
By Rex - May 9 - 1:02 pmI Purchased this Insight used and have very pleased with it thus far. Average day to day fuel economy has been in the high 60s with mid to high 80s easily attainable during extended highway driving.
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Honda Accord 8,180 Reviews
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Honda Accord Crosstour 175 Reviews
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Honda Accord Hybrid 119 Reviews
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Honda Accord Sedan 1 Reviews
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Honda CR V 108 Reviews
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Honda Crosstour 32 Reviews
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Honda Pilot 3,304 Reviews
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Honda Ridgeline 880 Reviews
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Honda S2000 898 Reviews