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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  Isnt She Lovely - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By GO EEZY - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I was trying to buy something else and When I finally had enough of being treated like an idiot,I went to the dealership next door. The Pilot was Consumer Reports #1 pick for mid-size SUV. Jeremy showed me how everything was reconfigured inside to make room for some new things,like a real holder for your cell phone & charger,a business card holder & a place for an actual pen! Cup holders & hidden storage galore! The car drove like I was literally riding on a cloud,(maybe thats why they called it the Pilot?) and thats coming from the pot-hole capital of the world!(New Jersey)We love our Pilot,and the wonderful people at DCH Kay Honda in Eatontown!

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  Great little SUV! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By KLK - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! Ive never owned anything but Honda Accords, and because I have a big commute (50 miles/day) I knew I wanted something dependable, with good gas mileage and more-than- adequate cargo room. I looked at the RAV4 (like driving a shoebox) and the Jeep Liberty (fabulous car but 12- 15mpg? Cmon, Jeep--can you please join the rest of us in the conservation- conscious 21st century??)--ugh!

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  powerfull fun to dr van - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By marc culbert - August 6 - 10:00 am

  rides very well, and handles good.

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  Fun,safe,reliable & ecologically sound! - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Shrimpdaddy - August 6 - 10:00 am

  We are thrilled with our new toy: responsive; road hugging; corners well at speed; and brakes with confidence. Seats are supportive & comfortable. Love the look of the metallic silver exterior and charcoal interior. Feels safe to drive, easy to park, accelerates quickly and turns on a dime. In short...BIG FUN for a not so big price.

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  my Civic will have you chasing behind - 2003 Honda Civic
  By boogie111 - August 6 - 10:00 am

  This car handles like a dream, the nicest civic as of yet. Powerful Vtec will have onlookers drooling. The car is hot. 15 inch alloys are sporty too.

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  Cant beat a Honda - 2002 Honda Accord
  By RDB - August 6 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Accord. Last one was 91 LX that I sold at 156000 miles and still going strong. This new one is so much better. Got mine late in year and was able to get for $16500 with optional side airbags,spoiler and fog lights. While I really want V6 insurance prevented it. Still very happy. This car has great and easy to use interior. Looks good on outside. Best build quality going.Good gas mileage(22city/30 highway with A/C on).

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  Accord V-6 EX Coupe 6M - 2003 Honda Accord
  By FCardinal - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I found a V-6 6M Coupe by chance after having given up the search. Had second thoughts about trading in my 2000 Civic Si, but that didnt last long. After commuting with the Accord for a month, 70 mi. a day, I dont know how I lived without it. For me it is a perfect combination of luxury, comfort, style and performance. So far, I can find nothing negative to say about this car.

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  Happy with purchase - 2003 Honda Accord
  By firstAccord - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Originally, I was going to buy a Nissan Maxima GLE. However there was a problem in securing the car I wanted so I completely lost interest in the Maxima and the Nissan Dealer for that matter. In retrospect, I am glad I wasnt able to get the Maxima, because the 2003 Honda Accord EX V6 is everything I need - the power, the creature comfort, and luxury. Although the ride may not be as refined as the Maxima, everything else is if not better. I am most impressed with the construction of this car. It is pure quality.

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  Good Job, Honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By merklitl - August 6 - 10:00 am

  From the shapely rear end to its sporty stance and performance, the car is a sports coupe with a nice helping of refinement. The interior is comfortable and intuitive to the drivers needs.

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  excellent - 2003 Honda Accord
  By orozco78 - August 6 - 10:00 am

  well the best part i love about my honda is the comfort and peace of mind this car is stylish and sporty and has a good kick when you put the pedal to the metal. This car has been my best perchase so far and i hope to keep buying honda for many more years.