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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  Love my New Honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By kjc - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Between all of us, weve owned 4 Hondas. Always reliable, always youthful, always fresh. But still a Honda. Can never go wrong!

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  Nice surprise - 2003 Honda Accord
  By The car guy - September 26 - 10:00 am

  We were looking to upgrade from the 1995 Honda Civic. We looke dat several different makes and models. We checked out everything from the Audi A4 to the BMW 3 series. Even checked out the Mercedes C class. The Accord EX V6 has all of the features of the others at a better price, 240 hp, leather and all the bells and whistles. This is no average Accord. The V6 engine makes this a whole different car. Plenty of power and very smoothe. It handles well and the fit and finish is outstanding. The Nissan Altima 3.5 has 245 hp but the Accords resale value and reputation for reliability is somthing to consider. A lot of car for the money.

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  great car for a great price - 2003 Honda Accord
  By smr - September 26 - 10:00 am

  it is a great car for anyone i love it and have never have had a problem

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  ONLY THE BEST - 2003 Honda Accord
  By eagle1001 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  As a previous "domestic owner" in the past I can tell you that I am absolutely sold on Honda quality, engineering and overall value. This is without a doubt the finest car on the market in any price range. Forget the others and buy a Honda....the rest of the country apparently agrees. Thanks Honda for building a car for the real world.

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  owner - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Bob Thomas - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Over all a great car!!

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  I Love my Honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Lisa Hamilton - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I own the EXSedan, 4cyl. w/leather-2003 This is the 4rd honda we have purchased in the last 3 months. My daughter has the 2-door Accord-2003 and she loves her car. I purchased my first Honda in 1983-4 door Accord. The only reason I got away from honda was kids and I needed a van. I truly believe Honda ia very good car to own.

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  Wow - 2003 Honda Accord
  By theyoyoman - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Its a great car

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  Honda Accord LX rating - 2003 Honda Accord
  By jumpn10692 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have had nothing but good experiences with this car it is my pride and joy I go everywhere in it

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  Best Car I Ever Owned - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Phil/nalrac - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I purchased the 2003 Honda EXL Navigator. This car is without a doubt, the best car I ever owned. The Navigation system far outshines other navigation systems on the market (It is voice activated, and practically controls the whole car, if you want it to. You can still operate things manually if you like).If you can afford the Navi system, by all means BUY IT! I have seen highway gas mileage figures that approach 32 mph at 70 mph in cruise Sorry, if I sound over excited with it, but what can I tell you....I am!

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  What a car!! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By SJedrey - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I loved it when I saw it on the lot. Multiply that by ten when I took it for a drive! The engine is quiet and powerful (even with the 4 cylinders). The leather interior is comfortable and luxurious. The instrument panel is simple and functional and the steering wheel controls make it easy to keep your eyes on the road. After testing the Altima and the Mazda 6, there was little decision making to be done. I agree that the trunk space is a little smaller than other sedans, but once you get behind the wheel and put your foot on the gas pedal the trunk is the last thing youll be thinking about. I highly recommend this car!