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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  South Texas Honda - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Al Farrell - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Had a 2001 Yukon and loved it. This Pilot is a better built vehicle than the Yukon. Better mileage and same comfort. I am 66".

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  Very happy - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Wagenmaker - March 7 - 10:00 am

  The Pilot has been an excellent car for our family of 8! It handles great through the snow and ice of Michigans Upper Peninsula roads. It is very quiet, and very reliable. The gas mileable is also acceptable (especially compared with other SUVs). The price and reliability of the Pilot made it a real winner for us. The only downside: the rear spoiler was not designed well, as the plastic warps in the sunlight.

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  I love my Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By piranha - March 7 - 10:00 am

  I love my Pilot and would buy another in a heartbeat. The dealership has bent over backwards to make sure that we are happy. I owned the Pilot for a week and made a 800 mile trip in 2 days, and still enjoyed driving it!

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  My new Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By samara - March 7 - 10:00 am

  The feature I enjoy the most about my Pilot is its cross between a SUV and a minivan. It is very kid friendly, yet sporty looking. The rear seats folding down makes them always accessible when away from home and simple for anyone to pull up. The engine runs quiet and has quick acceleration. This is my first experience with Honda, and I am very pleased.

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  Love this car...test drive to see - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By J.M.D. - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Its one of the best purchase decisions we have made in a car in years. Its such a good ride and doesnt feel like a typical SUV. We noticed the positive difference between the Pilot and other popular SUVS seconds into the test drive. Trust me, if you are considering a SUV, make sure you compare the ride and feel of the Pilot vs. Ford, Chevy and other popular models.

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  Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Compassdwr - March 7 - 10:00 am

  This car is new on the market, hard to get and I havent seen one on the Honda lots since June. This vehicle rides better than the Chevy, Ford, and Toyotas we drove before purchasing the pilot. This vehicle will most likely hold its value like other Honda vehicles.

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  Great SUV for Everyday Use - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By stan1021 - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Excellent vehicle with typical Honda fit, finish and reliability. Turning radius less than VW New Beetle. Very comfortable for road trips. Very good power and acceleration.

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  Best SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By rockman - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Have driven the Pilot for slightly over 1500 miles, every miles that passes. I say to my self this is the Best vehicle, I have ever own. The ride, the comfort and overall build quality is second to none. Honda has really exceeded themselves with this vehicle.

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  The hot Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By spiritsman - March 7 - 10:00 am

  The car is as good as expected for a Honda. The wait was well worth it. I look foward to riding in my Pilot every day.

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  Honda Pilot Rating - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By UltriFit - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Solid ride, although there is what appears to be rattle from the third seating head rest storage compartment at times.