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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  Classic wheels - 2003 Honda Element
  By Joe Smoot - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This is an impressive vehicle satisfying the SUV in Americans while considering fuel economy, classic styling, and simplicity in design.

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  My "Poor Mans" Hummer.........Love it. - 2003 Honda Element
  By "jack" frost - October 16 - 10:00 am

  The only problem Ive had....a 6 month wait for the 5 speed model, but it was worth the wait.Love everything about it,smooth drive,great soundsystem,and head-turning looks.Im obviously into the "ugly factor"in a big way as my 2 Shar-Peis just love to cruise around town...especially with the back window in the raised position.Id like a dollar for every time Ive been asked "is that the new Hummer"....Hey,its the Midwest,what can I say.

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  Element of Love - 2003 Honda Element
  By Waldon - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I went from a "99" Beetle to the 2003 Element and love driving it. Both cars drive alike so it was easy to adjust to. My friends love riding in the back seat because it sits high up so they can see out the front.

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  great car to drive....... - 2003 Honda Element
  By djs227 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  fantastic car/truck handles lke a car very roomie interior and very comfortable ride. If i had a worry it would be the exterior plastic moulding seems to me like something that will get scratched or marred and not be repairable. It has not happenned to me but it gives me that impression. I also would have taken the plastic moulding and had it go on the bottom half of the doos so it wouldnt look so "patchy".. I guess i had to say something not so positive about a car i absolutely enjoy drivin when you sit in the car it is like an oasis it is so roomie and you wouldnt think that by looking at the outside of the vehicle. Very good car to drive.

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  Own it and love it - 2003 Honda Element
  By LadyInPink22 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased an Element a week ago and love to drive it. Ive overheard comments such as, "it grows on you" "is it a mini hummer" "it looks like an old woodie" "I didnt realize there was so much room"

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  excellent suv - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By doug d - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I went to german suv (mercedes)what a mistake constantly in shop for little problems. Our pilot is probably the best car we have owned with the only exception being our 94 acura legend.We also have a ford explorer, no comparison to the honda. I highly recomend the pilot you wont be dissappointed with this suv.

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  Quality SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By ExJeep - October 16 - 10:00 am

  My last 2 vehicles were Jeep Grand Cherokees. Theres no comparison when it comes to the quality of construction and sophistication of engineering that went into the design of the Pilot. You can tell when you close the door, operate the controls, and drive it how much better the Honda is compared to the Jeep.

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  pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By kelpie - October 16 - 10:00 am

  this is an suv thats great for the kids. lots of cargo space and a dvd player to keep them entertained.

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  I Love It - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Kammy - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I have owned many different vehicles over the years, but the Honda Pilot now tops my list as favorite. It is easy and fun to drive. It has a tight turning radius, which is difficult to find in an SUV that seats 8 people! The suspension is awesome, it rides very smooth. The seats are comfortable (although the third row seats are a tight fit for adults but great for kids) It is just a great vehicle for all types of terrain.

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  I love this car - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Zoe - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Solid, reliable, safe and fun. Plus huge cargo capacity. A great replacement for my Toyota Previa AWD which to my great sorrow was discontinued.