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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  Its Ugly but it grows on you - 2003 Honda Element
  By David Lyon - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have owned many cars, SUVs, and trucks. I can honestly say the my 2003 Element is the best car, truck,SUV,Box, whatever it is, that I have ever purchased. I drive in heavy traffic, avg. 23-25 MPG. Over 6 with plenty of room for me, family and friends. I cannot say enough. Honda scores big with this one.

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  In My Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By awyounger - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a fun daily driver that I could use to easily haul bulky or messy items from time to time. I looked at other small SUVs and thought the CRV was the best of the bunch. Then, I read the reviews for the Element and took a good look. The Element turned out to be PERFECT for my needs and is a blast to drive! Im glad I waited.

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  Honda Element - Ultimate in Versatility - 2003 Honda Element
  By lfgas - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Element for 5 months of trouble free driving. The only problem I have with the vehicle is constantly giving people a "tour" of the vehicle when it is parked. People love to find out about it. Its versatility is fabulous. Take it on a family vacation, camp in it, put bikes in the back, put kayaks on the roof, etc. It does it all and does it very well. Average 24 miles to the gallon.

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  Great Vehicle! - 2003 Honda Element
  By ilovekermit - September 26 - 10:00 am

  After coming from a very verstile PT Cruiser, I was very pleased with everything from the workmanship to the relations I have had with the dealer. Its a lot of fun to drive and love how I can configure the seats to whatever I want. It has one of the best sound systems I have every heard. I has space everywhere. And the washable floor and seats are a definate plus! The only small complaint I have is the amount money added to the vehicle for only a couple of options adds up fast.

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  HONDA ELEMENT- A FUN SUV! - 2003 Honda Element
  By pilot59 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is a very fun suv.Love It!!!

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  VERY GOOD - 2003 Honda Element
  By TOMAS - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I THOUGHT I WAS THE A JOKE WHEN IF FIRST SAW AN ELEMEMT. I BOUGHT ONE 4 MONTHS LATER. I LOVE IT. I HAVE ORDERED AN 04. I UNDERSTAND THE TARGET MARKET AGE WAS 20, I AM 55. I FIND IT VERY USEFUL IN ALMOST ALL SISUATIONS.

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  Daddys Hip Hop Honda - 2003 Honda Element
  By Victor Longtin - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Solid handling,a roomy and thoughtfully designed interior and unique looks sets this little sports utility vehicle in my opinion a cut above the rest.The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and the engine has an enourmous torque curve giving a very assured sense of power in all driving situations. I cant wait for the snow to be able to really appreciate the all wheel drive. I tend to keep my cars for over ten years and have every reason to believe that this vehicle will serve me well.

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  Honda Element - Ultimate in Versatility - 2003 Honda Element
  By kgast - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Element for 5 months of trouble free driving. The only problem I have with the vehicle is constantly giving people a "tour" of the vehicle when it is parked. People love to find out about it. Its versatility is fabulous. Take it on a family vacation, camp in it, put bikes in the back, put kayaks on the roof, etc. It does it all and does it very well. Average 24 miles to the gallon.

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  Best of all worlds - 2003 Honda Element
  By Constance Kittell - September 26 - 10:00 am

  My Honda Element is a cinversation starter everywhere I go. People seem confused at its whimsey appearance at first, but once I point out the various features they truly seem to appreciate the thaught and engineering in the vehicle. One of my friends recently bought a Hinda Civic. When she told me about the purchase, I told he I had a new Element. She replied, "Oh yah, that is the box Civics are delivered in" I love it. It is everything I need and want when iM checking out yard sales and on the highway. Thank you. Connie Kittell

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  Best car I ever owned. - 2003 Honda Element
  By HottieCop - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE THIS CAR! I have never owned an SUV before, but the Honda Element is incredible. It handles like a car, the turning radius is excellent. Incredibly roomy interior, lots of storage space. Smooth, quiet ride! Great if you have kids or pets, the interior is made for it, and it is EASY to clean! I have nothing bad to say about this car! The price is right as well. I would definately recommend this car to anyone.