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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  Best Honda Ive Driven to date - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Anela222 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This Accord is incredible!! The V6 engine picks up quick and rides smooth as silk

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  My excellent Honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By u azu - September 26 - 10:00 am

  wonderful car. Highly recommended

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  Happy Customer - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Nathan19R - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE MY HONDA

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  GREAT CAR!!!!!! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Brittney - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I have owned the new 2dr accord for about four months now and I love it. The gas mileage is the best part, I get 28 mpg around town and 34 on highway. I get so many complaments on this car. The new body style looks slick and classy, but very sporty.

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  Whats all the fuss about? - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Jack Collins - September 26 - 10:00 am

  My car currently has less than 12,000 miles, and it has had two defective rear struts replaced, a map light that sticks, console lid and glove compartment doors that have to be slammed to close. There is an excessive amount of interior wind noise, to the point that I am always checking to make sure that the windows are shut tightly. The ride is not smooth as I expected, and there are as many squeaks and rattles as the 97 Volkswagon that I traded in for it. While I do enjoy the power of the V6 engine, the car as a whole has been quite a let down from all of the rave reviews and owner opinions that I got prior to purchasing it.

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  my 2003 honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Mocha - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Love the navi system. It works like a dream.

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  Love My Honda! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By sadauen - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful car! We own 2 Accords (03 & ) and love both. Best cars on the road!

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  I LOVE my Honda! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By SNBrown - September 26 - 10:00 am

  For the price and the amount of car you get in the Honda, I think its one of the best buys out there. Its fun to drive, safe, nice to look at and VERY roomy! Great trunk space, leg room and sporty enough for someone not looking to get a two door sports car!

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  My car named "ZIPPY" - 2003 Honda Accord
  By MARLYN - September 26 - 10:00 am

  WORST THING THAT HAPPENED WAS A BURNT OUT BRAKE LIGHT BULB

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  Accord...You Cant Go Wrong! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Julie08 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Great car! Drove from Ohio to California and back the week after it was purchased. Ran great, super fuel economy, and my back felt great throughout the drive. Also, the 6 CD changer is easy to use, even while driving. You cant go wrong when purchasing an Accord!