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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  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.

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  Honda Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By edorr - October 16 - 10:00 am

  My husband bought my Pilot without me knowing it.I love this vehicle because it is very comfortable to drive and ride in with lots of room.We travel up and down the east coast frequently taking our kids and dog and always have room! Very attractive also!

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

  This is really a nice SUV.Quiet and very smooth ride. Very powerful when moving around town.

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  Highly Recommended!!!! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Tammy S - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I highly recommend a Honda Pilot for any one who is looking for an awesome SUV. There is plenty of room for cargo and passengers! We absolutely love taking it everywhere we go! We have recommended the Pilot to all of our friends in the car buying market!

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  Nice but could be better - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Tullander - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I like the Pilot very much, but it suffers from "un-Honda-like" interior fit/finish problems. Door sills dont seat properly, rear AC vents easily fall out of position, edge of rear headcover is exposed and not covered by its trim moulding, front drivers door window seal makes annoying noise.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Robert Baker - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This SUV has it all. Fun to drive, easy access everywhere, cool interior design, great fit and finish. It has the feeling of a much more expensive vehicle.

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  Pilot Proud - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Phyllis - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Our primary purpose in choosing the Pilot was for space and affordability. It satisfies his desire for a truck and the families need for a van, while I get to have fun driving it! The Pilot handles well-I was able to travel out of a muddy fairground too. We recently had to sleep in it when traveling and all 6 of us managed to sleep well. We have had room for the mower and yard sale purchases. The kids friends love to ride in it too.