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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  On the fence - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By dett6799 - May 20 - 10:00 am

  Did a lot of research before purchasing my CR-V. Traded in a Honda Accord V-6. I was really afraid the engine would be a big difference. I was wrong. Little to no difference. Gas mileage did take a dive though. Got better mileage with the V-6 for some reason. My biggest complaints are the loud road noise (due to the bridgestones) and Im unable to clearly see out the back window due to 3 headrests. I keep the back seats down most of the time since I have few backseat passengers except the dog.

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  2003 Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By doclach - May 20 - 10:00 am

  The best SUV I have ever owned. Great drive; handling, power, comfort. Incredible gas mileage for a vehicle this size.

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  Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By bnorrismail - May 20 - 10:00 am

  We were initially apprehensive about buying a new model but figured, hey, its a Honda. We have been surprised with the comfort, tightness, and agility of this model. The navigation system is great! No more looking at maps while trying to drive, just plug in the destination address and let do the thinking. No reason to spend over 40k on an SUV- the Honda has it all.

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  I LOVE MY HONDA PILOT - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By NASER - May 20 - 10:00 am

  I LIKE THE WAY IT HANDLES IN SNOW AND RAIN, AND THE ANTILOCK BRAKES ARE A TERRIFIC QUALITY. I LKIKE THE ABILITY TO CONTROL THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS RAPIDNESS.

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  Awesome Fun Machine - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Kristian Rex - May 20 - 10:00 am

  This Pilot of mine is fun every time I step into it. My wife and I go to the beach at night, set up the sleeping bags in the back, open the back door, and watch DVDs listening to the ocean. Four-wheeling on the Cape Cod National Seashore was also alot of fun. It handled deep sand very easily. So far this is the most fav vehicle Ive owned.

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  Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By eeh9490 - May 20 - 10:00 am

  As a busy single mom that helps transport many of the sports teams at my twins HS, the extra seating, DVD, reliability and drivability of this vehicle make it the best one Ive owned so far.

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  My Honda - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Pucho - May 20 - 10:00 am

  I have a 2003 Pilot, and love it. I have three active (REALLY ACTIVE) kids and they love the fact that they can sit way in the back out of Mom and Dads reach. The only thing I wish they offered was a Sunroof.

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  great - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By fallingangel - May 20 - 10:00 am

  i love it i bought it

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  Love my Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By guscape - May 20 - 10:00 am

  I have been a Honda owner since my purchase of an Acura in 89, I think this is there finest product.I am a handyman and I carry lots of tools in my Pilot I still have space for passengers.

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  Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By justinebum - May 20 - 10:00 am

  We love this SUV. Its a great "Moms Taxi." A perfect alternative to a mini van. When we firt got the Pilot, I was on I-4 going 75 mph and a truck going faster than me ran me off the road. I swerved out of its way, keeing in mind I was in an SUV. I felt in control the entire time. I was not in fear of it tipping at all. I feel safe in this vehicle with my 3 boys.