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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  Making The Case for the Canadian Civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By rainierman - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I have taken my 2002 Civic EX on six SFO/PDX trips (750 mi each way). Harsh potholes, sand, scratched the bottom hard, and routine 90-110 mph commute at 5am. Despite warnings about the Canadian-built Civics of 2001 & 2002, I remain impressed with how much abuse my Civic has taken. I drive it like a maniac with NO PROBLEMS whatsoever. Rattles are starting to surface after one year of abuse. Rides quiet like the old Accord. US-built tranny in my 2002 might be a problem in the future but so far so good. 2003 transmission is Japanese- built, car now made in Ohio, a good thing. overall, I suggest skipping Civic- get the Accord.

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  Honda Civic 2003 - 2003 Honda Civic
  By Kristi7777 - July 30 - 10:00 am

  It drives like a dream. It steers well and never had a problem except for my steering fluid was lecking.

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  luv my civic - 2003 Honda Civic
  By CAS66 - July 30 - 10:00 am

  this is my second honda, my first i drove for 13 years so it was no surprise that my next car would be a honda. smooth ride, love the features this car has for the price. i would highly recommend it

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  got it - 2003 Honda Civic
  By got it - July 30 - 10:00 am

  honda did it again!great car needs very little improvement.antilock and rear disc brakes.GO GET IT

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  2003 2 door coupe Honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By k565ok - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy the way the car handles in the rain on the interstate. I have always had a fear of hydroplaning, but in this car I feel very much in control with the TBS system. The seats are very comfortable and I love that I can change the volume and the CD on the steering wheel! The car looks awsome, like a "hotwheels" car.

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  Best value for the price - 2003 Honda Accord
  By adross - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I have my car for two months and love it. Wanted to get something that was sporty, reliable, powerful and comfortable. This car has all of those characteristics and more. I researched and drove the VW Passat, Mazda 6, Lexus ES 300, Nissan Altima, Infinity G35 and BMW 325i. Out of all those cars, the Accord offered the most features for the least amount of money. The car has great pickup in both the low and high RPM ranges. There is a slight delay between when I press on the gas and when I see results, similar to a 4 cyl turbo. Overall, I am extremely pleased with the car and would consider getting another one in the future.

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  My Wonderful Honda - 2003 Honda Accord
  By mommat - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I have had my honda for 2 months now. I love her so much, she is so good to me, she is so sturdy and pretty. she drives well, she stops well, and i fit her like a glove, oh the radio!!!!!! wow is out of sight

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  Honda, best deal in town - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Albert - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I recently purchaced a 2003 Honda Accord. Hard to believe how great this car is. Rides and handles as good and better that other cars costing much more. The car just pleasures me more evey time I drive it. Sometimes I just stare at it with admiration. I truly love my Honda.

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  Never thought Id own a Honda! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Dennis Bruce - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned several sports cars, a Triumph Stag and two Porsches (911s) as an example and I thought a Honda was not the car for me. After researching several cars I decided to test drive a Honda and boy was I impressed. Honda offers a truly amazing car for the money. I highly recommend test driving an Accord before buying any other car, the driver wont be disappointed.

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  okay - 2003 Honda Accord
  By ex - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Only problem is I have been back to dealer 3x for the annoying problem of center console door problem. once closed it will not open (where I have CDs that I cant get to)and I have to go back again because it STILL isnt fixed they obviously never test it prior to giving it back to me. Otherwise dealer is responsive to my needs