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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  02 crv - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Don x - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Great car, offers awd and a nice little engine. One of the best deals on the market. People are paying for mercedes/bmw/lexus 50-60 thousand and this car is just as good. Agree with everything in the review. The review was positive until the offroad section, but think people, who off roads in a brand new car, no one wiht a brain atleast! Don

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  Favorite Car - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Avsfan26 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I love my CR-V and would recommend it to anyone interested in a small SUV!

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  I Love My CR-V - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By bettej - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Drives great; wonderful turning ratio; comfortable; good gas mileage; I feel safe

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  Great worthy car - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By sabett - January 24 - 10:00 am

  We love this car. Its like a little truck. It handles like an accord, but has the space of a station wagon. It perfect for the family that is always on the go. Easy to keep clean, runs smooth, breaks great. Its a smooth transition from a smaller car to a lighter version of an SUV. Gas mileage is good - not as good as an accord, but 25 in the highway is good enough for me. Well worth the wait if you have to order one. A great small family vehicle.

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  Love It - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Mark Long - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I cant believe I dont feel a lack of power from a large 4 cylinder, but I dont. Even pulling a small trailer, the CR-V performs beautifully, plenty of highway speed. It is a very well designed car and has incredible interior space. The back seats are very well designed and can accomodate large adults.

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  Great car - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By onlyraina - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I thought that I would be disappointed having to "downsize" from a Pathfinder to a CRV but I am pleasantly surprised at how much I like this car!

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  best car i ever owned - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By leen - January 24 - 10:00 am

  its really comfortable, sexy and clean inside and out

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  Love My CRV - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Janet Alison - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Ive loved the CRV. We had a very snowy winter in New England and my CRV had no trouble on the roads or getting up my very steep driveway. I love being higher up in the vehicle. The car is comfortable, reliable, and fun to drive.

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  Awesome car!!! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Thumbkin - January 24 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car to drive. Its not too big or small. The only concern is that you cant take turns too wildly. However, you will enjoy this car.

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  Autosome=Awsome - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By stars - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I like the new look, my Crv has the sporty look with the side steps, sunroof cover and fin/cover over the rear window, with all the interior cargo space, I am able to carry all my favorite neccessities. The added plus is the picnic table that comes in handy just when you need it. I drive my car alot and receive plenty of compliments.