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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  Overrated/ - 2003 Honda Accord
  By carpy2 - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Have had our Accord EX V6 for a couple of weeks and picked it over the Camry and Altima after much comparison shopping. Wife loved the black interior so that helped make the final decision. The fit and finish are first rate and love the engine and drivetrain but hope the reliablity and residual value will offset my disappointment with the lack of features found on most other cars in this price range and the boring styling especially the rear end.

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  Best damn car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Wayne Artis - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Best economical, reliable, stylish, eye catching, designed car out there. When I drive down the road in my V-6 4-door sedan I catch many eyes.

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  honda hippie - 2003 Honda Accord
  By dundore - July 30 - 10:00 am

  really like the car. rides great for a 4 cylinder.

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  Honda Accord EX - 2003 Honda Accord
  By califbus - July 30 - 10:00 am

  This 2003 Accord is our 8th Accord in the last 19 years. The 2003 is the best yet. Best looking, best riding, the 160 HP enging is powerful and economical. Cant find anything wrong with it.

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  2003 Honda Review - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Joe Z - July 30 - 10:00 am

  The car has not disappointed. It has brisk acceleration, fresh looks and a roomy interior. The car is reliable and gets surpising gas mileage for the horsepower. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, reliable family car.

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  Great car! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By wr2152 - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Excellent car with excellent mini- features.... A great buy for me! Honda is realiable and they build wisely

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  Sense of Reliability - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Edward Budman - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I have known about the spirited nature of both Honda Inc., and their products. I was unprepared for the excellence that I got when delivery was made. The NAV system is incredible. I do miss traction control, and delay lighting. Other than that, the car sets high standards for all others to follow.

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  Fanastic Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By vince testa - July 30 - 10:00 am

  A greatr vehicle. Plenty of power f0r a four cyl.The navi system is awesome, I dont get lost anymore. It doesnt always give you all the short cuts, but man its worth it. I could never own another care without this feature. Lost my air conditioner when a rock penetrated the opening in the front grill, a $1,000 repair the dealer picked it all up,I only had to pay $75.oo, although they said if it happens again I am on my own, I believe this is a defect in design. Overall one of the finest cars for fit an finish, I dont think I will ever own another car, its a HOnda all the way.

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  silverbullet - 2003 Honda Accord
  By silverbullet - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I have had this accord for 3wks and so far i love it better than my 98 accord exv6 that i traded for this one. The only complaint I have is that the steering wheel is off set I brought it in once and they said they fixed it, just brought it back today and they claim it needs a wheel alignment but I can deal with that thats not a big deal. other than that its a great car and great looking.

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  Honda Accord V6 2003 - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Dean2222 - July 30 - 10:00 am

  My wife wanted a car and I wanted a SUV. After driving the V6 Accord I was very impressed and I look forword to driving it when my wife is not behind the wheel.