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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  "08 Honda Odyssey - 2008 Honda Odyssey
  By atkins92 - April 18 - 3:50 am

  Very pleased with this vehicle. It performs excellent on the highway and in the city with nimble handling for a large van and excellent acceleration when needed. The seats in every row are very comfortable and the front heated ones are nice for the cold Canadian days in the winter/spring/fall.

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  A great car, superbly e-friendly! - 2005 Honda Civic
  By Jotage - April 17 - 9:50 pm

  Comfortable, good looking,well appointed,fun to drive,ultra low emissions and average gas consumption of 43mpg, after a year of city/highway driving! My Hybrid is responsive, quick, smooth and safe. What a great small sedan!

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  With a CR-V, forget about the Rav4! - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Paul - April 17 - 6:40 pm

  I test drove the Toyota Rav4, Hyundai Tuscon, Saturn Vue, Mitsu Outlander. The CR-V beat them hands down in every way. I should know, I buy new cars every 3-4 years. ROCK SOLID HONDA build. I used to have a DODGE Durango, now I wish I had gotten this years ago. Dont bother looking elsewhere, just get this!

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  just what we need - 2008 Honda Fit
  By about time - April 17 - 4:13 pm

  Love this car, fun, quick, great ride for a car this size. I looked at a number of small cars the fit was a hands down winner, you cant beat the amount of room in this car. The first two tanks of gas 35 mpg the next two 39 mpg cant wait to hit 40+, anyone who isnt geting 30+ needs to slow down.

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  Terrific Value - 2005 Honda Element
  By Will - April 17 - 1:20 am

  We are extremely happy with our Element. Its great in snow and high winds. It turns incredibly tight. It has great visibility and is very negotiable. Since we have a baby and two big dogs, I also like its loading practicality and ease of cleaning. This Element is my third Honda, after owning a Civic and an Accord. Im a big fan of Honda engineering, and the Element doesnt disappoint in this regard. The brakes, as usual, are terrific. Nothing breaks. After 26k miles, Ive had no repairs to make, and only paid out about $100-- all for regularly scheduled oil changes. The mileage is respectable, too. Im getting 26-28 on the highway. I commend this car to anyone who compares it to others.

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  Great Car! - 1998 Honda Civic
  By civicman - April 16 - 7:57 pm

  This car just crossed 170000 miles. It was bought new after its model year, so my dad and I are the only owners. The only thing that was ever REALLY wrong was that the exhaust came apart under the car (as it did with two other Civics I know of). It was easily and cheaply replaced. Around 160000 I started hearing a whirring, and took it to the transmission place. They said it needed to be rebuilt, but couldnt point to an exact cause. I did it, and the noise is gone (or maybe just diminished), but Ive since become convinced I was ripped off. I expect to get another 80000 miles out of it at least, and Id rather buy a new engine for it than a new car!

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  Clamshell - 2004 Honda Element
  By Shortnimmo - April 16 - 10:00 am

  I love this unique vehicle. It is an eye catching vvehicle that turns heads everywhere I drive. It unique interior is very convinient for me. It is easy cleaning and easy to maintian. Overall the vehicle was worth buying.

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  I love me "Ellie" - 2004 Honda Element
  By jdowd1 - April 16 - 10:00 am

  I love my element from the terrific stereo to the ultra-cool A/C I could not ask for more. It has all the power I need ,but is not too hard on the petrol. The interior is stylish yet spartan at the same time. The exterior styling is all German WWII military vehicle. I love my "Ellie"

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  No better van.... - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By RYLWLF - April 16 - 10:00 am

  All my life I promised myself I would never be caught in a mini van, let alone buying one new off the lot. But once I got in, saw the ease of getting our 3 boys in and out of the van, the styling and power, I was sold.

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  honda odyssey - 2004 Honda Odyssey
  By ken salazar - April 16 - 10:00 am

  it is great for all activities in a family work every where you want to go and do