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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  Beware the Paint - 2002 Honda Accord
  By Steve Swafford - December 4 - 10:00 am

  I like the car, we own the EX-L with all the goodies except the V-6. Its a nice car but weve had really bad luck with the paint. In the first year, we developed a rust spot near the passenger tail light on the trunk that the dealer gladly fixed. Next, about 4 months ago I was washing bugs off the front fascia when a dime sized portion of paint sloughed off. The dealer and the district rep both refused to fix the problem saying it was likely caused by a gravel striking the material. This is kind of odd that a pebble would cause this much damage, especially when we only drive on paved roads??? Really hurt my level of satisfaction.

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  great car, feels like luxury - 2003 Honda Accord
  By sliggettcreel - December 4 - 10:00 am

  This car has been great. THe handling and performance is that of a BMW or lexus type. I have an 2001 accord also and the difference is tremendous. The interior is sleek and nice with the gray leather. The navigation system is also very nice. The only drawback is for my self who is 64" 300lbs the front driver seat become uncomfortable in the mid back area and requires some readjustment regularly. This is not a problem for my 57" 120lb wife. Great car which make you feel you are driving a 35K vehical for great price.

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  Havin Fun Now! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By brann - December 4 - 10:00 am

  For the money, its a solid "10". I have a very small problem with "window trim bubbles" and will ask Honda dealer to fix. People cannot believe its a Honda. A few asked if I paid less than $35,000. The people that stare the most are those that purchased last years model.

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  One to buy - 2003 Honda Accord
  By wbe - December 4 - 10:00 am

  This is a awesome car with a bargain price. Handles great with exceptional ride quality and corners like a sports car. Great 2.4 VTEC engine that has adequate power for any driving condition. The 5A transmission matches nicely with this engine.

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  We love our car! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Scott and Laurie - December 4 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our 2003 Honda Accord to replace our 1991 Accord. Its much nicer than the Camry which we also considered. Several reviews have not liked the road feel, but I really like it. You can feel the road, but the suspension is tight and handles the bumps very well. Its way too nice of a car for it being our commute car, but I really enjoy driving to and from work now! I would definitely recommend the EX-L version to anyone considering an Accord purchase - the extras are well worth it.

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  Saved my life - 2003 Honda Accord
  By bpmurr - December 4 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Accord 6-spd in March of 03. I had close to 6000 miles on it when I was involved in a severe accident in it. The car flipped over and was totaled. I was however able to walk away with just some soreness and a few cuts. This car took a hell of a beating and kept me alive. I plan on replacing it with a new one as soon as possible.

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  Excelent Design, GREAT Price - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Daniel Leathers - December 4 - 10:00 am

  OK - So I REALLY wish I came home with a leather 5-spd. manual - but thats buyers remorse- and Ill have to get over it. The car has a LOT of power - but the Automatic, even the new 5 speed auto doesnt downshift all the times it really should for you - but in all but the most sprited driving conditions, its a great automatic. Ive personally heavily modified my car altready with lowering springs, 18" wheels and tires, HIDs, and the list goes on. Ive put in about $4K in to the car - and even tehn with all my audio, and handling needs satisfied this car is a STEAT at its price!

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  Best car Ive ever driven - 2003 Honda Accord
  By KJSlover - December 4 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely love my car. There is nothing I dont like about it except that the interior seems to collect lint. It drives like a dream, nice and smooth. The features are convenient, they thought of everything. I dont know that I will every buy a different kind of car. Im sold on Honda.

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  Pleasure vehicle - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Gary - December 4 - 4:56 am

  Weve had this vehicle 2 weeks (EXL) and it is a pleasure to drive. We traded our 2003CRVEX which was a great car,but the Pilot is so much roomier, comfortable and luxurious.I looked and compared suvs and the Pilot was the best value, and suv. No need to purhcase manufacturers packages and options,everything was standard. In 35 years of driving this is the best weve had.

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  awesome - 2006 Honda Accord
  By KJ - December 4 - 3:36 am

  This is an awesome car and is TONS of fun to drive. You will not wanna to get out of the driver seat!