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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  EX rules - 2003 Honda Civic
  By E_mar - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Fun, sporty and powerful. I wouldnt mind a dual-cam engine or even another 50 horsepower, but the stock engine is still very responsive and can get up and go with low RPMs.

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  FYI - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Si_Gn - September 26 - 10:00 am

  For all those "up NORTH" There is a way to disable the A/C when you turn on defrost.Turn all dials(3) all the way to the left press and hold in A/C and recirculate buttons at the same time switch on ignition and wait for light on button to start blinking...there you go all set!A/C free defrosting!

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  First car and Love it! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By mikeh - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Great car! I bought this car without any hesitation. Im a college student who was looking for a dependable car and found it. Great Buy!!

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  civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By melissa cropper - September 26 - 10:00 am

  i love it, very sporty and small,spacious back seat, i have it in silver and love the color, good gas mileage

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  MY CAR - 2003 Honda Civic
  By DVQ - September 26 - 10:00 am

  RELIABILITY AT ITS BEST AND A GREAT ALL AROUND CAR

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  My Civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By BrownEyes810 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I always have wanted a Honda Civic because of their great style and reliability. Many members of my family and friends have owned civics, and, now I finally own one myself. I have been nothing but happy with it. I have a fabulous warranty, and, no one could ever say that its not a good car unless you dont take care of it. Anyone who drives a civic will love it.

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  MY THIRD CIVIC - 2003 Honda Civic
  By JUSTMECMH - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS CAR!!! I DIDNT THINK THEY COULD MAKE ONE BETTER THAN MY 98, BUT THEY DID. WHY BUY THE ACCORD WHEN THIS IS SO MUCH MORE AFFORDABLE?

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  Honda Civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By E.S. - September 26 - 10:00 am

  The Honda Civic is safe and reliable. It is especially practical for new drivers, with every safety feature available. Its fun to drive and easy to maneuver. I recommend the Honda Civic to anyone and everyone.

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  Honda Civic 2 door Coupe - 2003 Honda Civic
  By alias1 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is a very fun car to drive. It is sporty but still remains conservative enough for the professional to drive. Great commuter car.

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  Great Ride - 2003 Honda Civic
  By BRADYW - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This car is a great machine. It has plenty of room for the aftermarket, and is fun to drive stock.