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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  As good as it gets under $50k - 2002 Honda S2000
  By Ed - January 24 - 6:30 pm

  This is the only roadster I found for less than $50k that offered the combimation of extraordinary handling, good acceleration and the build quality and reliability I demand. I also considered the Boxter S and BMW M3 (but not the M roadster). The ride quality is very acceptable for a roadster, and the well bolstered, form fitting seats are superb. I opted to add rear speakers to improve the sound system.

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  My dream car - 2003 Honda S2000
  By geppetto - January 24 - 10:00 am

  This car is amazing! It is a little tiresome in stop and go traffic, but when you hit open road it is the best. I absolutely love when the VTEC kicks in and you get thrown back into your seats. The screaming engine at 9000 rpms will take your breath away.

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  this car kicks ass - 2003 Honda S2000
  By jbjcls - January 24 - 10:00 am

  if youve got the money and you dont need room for passengers this is the car for you. even though the trunk may look really small it can fit a lot of stuff

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  wow - 2003 Honda S2000
  By jeff cavin - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I believe this is the most amazing car I have ever owned. For the size and price range of this car you cant beat it. It handled as good as any sports car I have ever driven and what a blast to drive. I cant say enough about this car anyone looking for a small convertible should look no further you would be disappointed. Jeff Cavin

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  Too much fun! - 2003 Honda S2000
  By wheelsS2K - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Picked up my Silverstone S2K in April. It is a blast to drive, even when commuting! I commute ~90 miles daily and love the ride regardless of the weather. Good road manners in the rain, sticks like Velcro on the dry road! Only 1 speeding ticket so far....

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  3000 Miles On My S So Far - 2003 Honda S2000
  By rla766 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  The 6-speed is a bit tricky at first, but once you get it down the acceleration is amazing. Easily under 6 seconds to 60. Everything is so tight on the car, screwed down to not rattle. I was actually in the market for a C5 when I drove an S for comparison. The C5 was a hulking rattling monster compared to the S, with little noticeable difference in acceleration and much better cornering.

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  I love it!! - 2003 Honda S2000
  By chimene - January 24 - 10:00 am

  If I couldnt have gotten this one. I would have chosen a BMW convertible. My car is wonderful fun! Its white with tan leather. It HUGS the road in all kinds of rain storms. My other car is a Dodge Dakota SLT Quad Cab. Its fabulous too!!

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  S2000 Review - 2003 Honda S2000
  By crashgorden - January 24 - 10:00 am

  The most fun to drive car I have ever owned. Absolutely a blast. Works best as a second or third car. Honda reliable, good looking, excellent value, and lots of horsepower at high revs. I think this is the best sports car for the money. I think its probably the best sports car regardless of price up to $60k.

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  Great Ride - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By lake - January 24 - 10:00 am

  This is our 4th Honda and we are very pleased. When when purcahse it had 12 miles on it. We just returned from vacation and the trip was great. Our Pilot has the DVD system with Kids this is a must. The ride is very comfortible and the noise level next to nothing.There is plenty of storage and the 3rd seat folds down giving even more area. We also met other family members and with the 3rd seat up it gave us all room to ride together while seeing the sights. Power is not an issue either we had no problem on the hills or passing.One great ride.If you live in TN see West Side Honda in Knoxville great people to work with.

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  Doesnt get much better. - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Blues64 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Best vehicle Ive owned since my Integra. Great with for hauling the kids and anything else we need. Nothing to complain about.