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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  Great Minivan - 2006 Honda Odyssey
  By CPerez - July 7 - 7:13 pm

  Best minivan I had (3). I drive it DAILY. Fuel economy when "eco"light is on is great. Only disappointments are quality of paint & shocks. Kids bicycles scratches go all the way to the bare metal or plastic. The paint is not as good as my previous vehicles (BMW, Ford, Dodge, Volvo). I had to replace the rear shocks at 37,000. Other than those two things, the van is great. I am planning to replace it with another Odyssey

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  Another Winner! - 2006 Honda Accord
  By Houston Buyer - July 7 - 6:33 pm

  I sold my dependable Civic after 6 years and upgraded to a 2006 Accord. Im glad they offered a VP version - the power windows feature on the LX wasnt worth the extra cost. Excellent interior layout design: simple, elegant, and functional. No ego inflation needed! Im amazed at how quiet the ride is. Braking is a bit soft but you adjust to it. Theres a lot of features built into this car such as daytime running lights, adjustable instrumentation panel brightness (love this!), and standard side airbags. Looked at the Altima and Camry but found that Honda was still the overall winner!

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  Love it - 2008 Honda Fit
  By mec - July 7 - 6:00 pm

  Ive had my 2008 Sport Fit for 6 weeks. I purchased it for two reasons: fuel economy and the ability to park in those tiny San Francisco street spots. I recently took a road trip of about 500 miles. I was amazed that even with 2 teenagers, loaded with camping gear and driving w/ the A/C on I still managed 40 mpg. Amazing.

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  2nd Owner - 1996 Honda Civic
  By Austen - July 7 - 12:16 pm

  Bought this car as my go-getter in Feb 08. The previous owner had neglected this car so I got it at a steal knowing that I would have some work to be done. Whew, $2000 mechanical bill and a $1200 paint job later this thing is awesome. I added some new wheels, projector headlights, LED taillights, and a window tint and now I get endless comments on how good it looks. The stock engine is peppy and seems reliable now that maintenance is up to par. No matter how you drive, this thing never gets less than 30 mpg either.

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  Great Buy - 2007 Honda Accord
  By Angie - July 7 - 10:37 am

  This was my first Honda and I was not disappointed. Reliable, spacious with a smooth ride. I get complements every where I go. In fact three of my friends went out and bought one because they enjoyed mine so much.

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  My Best Honda Yet - 2006 Honda Civic
  By ackem33 - July 7 - 7:10 am

  In the past 12 years, I have owned 3 Hondas (2 Civics, and an Accord), this is the best one yet. I knew just as soon as I saw it on an internet ad that I had to get one, especially since my new job has me 35 miles away from home. The glowing gas mpg was not as great initially but has improved greatly over time. I love everything about this car. It even fits my family of 4 comfortably (its a coupe!)on trips out in town.

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  Awesome Car - 2007 Honda Civic
  By milford - July 7 - 2:26 am

  Wow!!! Gas mileage is unbelievable. Better than stated if you use your gauges and drive wisely. This car is fun to drive, takes the curves, quiet and roomy. A responsive car when you need it and a hybrid when you dont. And the IRS gives you over 2000.00 to buy one! What an unbelievable deal. With all the driving we do, the savings in gas is equivalent to almost half of the car payment. With cars like this it is time to go green!

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  Fit - Great Decision - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Linda - July 7 - 12:00 am

  My 2008 Fit handles smooth and swift yet sturdy and quiet. Very pleased at the quick acceleration for a small car. Surprised at the great amount of space inside for both front and rear passengers plus storage/hauling space. Great versatility and unique options for folding down the seat backs and magic rear seats. Great mileage: City 29-30 mpg, Highway 39-40 mpg.

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  Good Civic - 2004 Honda Civic
  By Big Al - July 6 - 10:15 pm

  Great ride and fun to drive! Only complaint is that the gas tank filler cover wont open! You are supposed to open it by pushing down on the lever (or button) but it doesnt open. Well have to have that checked out.

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  Great car for Young person - 1991 Honda Accord
  By alex h - July 6 - 9:44 pm

  Great car gets you to point a to point b and more. This car has never gave me any problems. It runs like hell. It has been through more crap and snows and things than a little and still runs. Even after a bad accident it cranked up and drove off the scene and still runs till this date! Best car I have ever had and I think that I may ever have for a long time.