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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  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.

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  Element of choice - 2003 Honda Element
  By domiciles - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This was not our first choice...it grows on you! It has an odd appearance on the outside, but once you get in and see the space and configuration you will love it! The head room is incredible and my little boy falls asleep from the smooth ride in the back seat. We love the feel and the versatility. We travel with our dog and like to go hiking etc so it fits our lifestyle.

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Element
  By GiGina - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I am a second year college student. I also love to go on road trips with friends. This is a great car to take to the outdoors because it is so easy to clean and one can fit much stuff in the back. Sure its not as fast going up hills, but who needs all the power when the stereo system sounds so great???

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  my element - 2003 Honda Element
  By eyedoctor - September 26 - 10:00 am

  purchased an element 2 months ago and feel mixed about it. love the styling but my last 2 cars were a 6 cylinder 2000 sonata and a 2000 bmw 528 i. noise level is much higher and the pick up is less and whiney and with the 4 wd in the city only have marginally better mpg about 19. the ride is fairly rough in the city have been practicly knocked over on occasion. sound system and reliability have been fine but not sure i would do again. would look at a scion if had to do it again.

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  Biggest Bang For The Buck - 2003 Honda Element
  By martin goldberg - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had them all. This is the best all around vehicle for the money I have ever owned. What a kick to drive. As far as looks are concerned either you love it or you you hate it.

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  Large & Middle Aged - 2003 Honda Element
  By Fred Flintstone - September 26 - 10:00 am

  To thine own self be true...Im a big boy, not very clean and love to hunt. The Element is perfect for all three traits! AWD rocks bett than expected....Only flaws are lack of passenger armrest and the car is prone to high wind movement.

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  Honda Element - not a specialty vehicle - 2003 Honda Element
  By Peterv - September 26 - 10:00 am

  The Honda Eement is a spacious, super comfortable multi purpose vehicle. A 4 wheel drive with seat configurations that turn it into a mini van if you like. 23 MPG is not bad for an SUV. It handles like a charm. I am 55 years old and LOVE it.

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  My Little Toaster (because of shape) - 2003 Honda Element
  By NMPigLady - September 26 - 10:00 am

  The function of the seats has been a real value. I can use it as a pick up when I need to. My initial test drive (after purchase) was from New Mexico to Oklahoma and it was a fantastic drive. Total comfort for all four passengers and about 24 miles on the highway. Great little car.