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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  We love our Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By pearl - October 16 - 10:00 am

  The pilot is the 2nd SUV we have own and the car chaise on the honda makes the most difference. It drives and rides great,very roomy inside. No complaints.

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  honda pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Leonardo171057 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Very good SUV. love the 3 row seating. Very comfortable car-like ride. An excellent buy and great value when compared to competition

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  I love it - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Wabadr - October 16 - 10:00 am

  The Honda Pilot is a pleasure to drive, handle well around corners, and doesnt seem to be affected by the wind.

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  Pilot Thoughts - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Lesmax - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Have had this vehicle on two long distance trips and it has performed flawlessly. The ride is as comfortable as any sedan and the added space for passengers is a major plus. So far, I am extremely pleased with my purchase and suggest strongly that anyone interested in a mid-size SUV look long at the Honda Pilot.

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

  It was a nice compromise between a sedan and a larger SUV for me. The ride is more car-like than many SUVs and the size is a little smaller than the Tahoe or Suburban or other large SUVs making it more manueverable and easier to park. The gas mileage is better than larger SUVs (approx. 20 mpg similar to the mini-van I had previously. With a seating capacity of 8, it holds more people than a mini-van when necessary. The 2 back seats collapse easily.

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  A Superior fun Vehicle - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By DNoles - October 16 - 10:00 am

  A typical Honda. A perfect ride and the engine and transmission are perfect together...... Just wish we could get 30 MPG... They all have the technology.

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  pilot - best suv available - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By china - October 16 - 10:00 am

  we absolutely love this vehicle - it is as comfortable to drive as our cadillac - roomy and sporty.

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  Drives like a sports car - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By nbnbnbnb - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Drives loke a sports car with all the utility of a truck. I use mine to tow my boat and its a fantastic tow vehicle

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  bad fm reception - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By gould - October 16 - 10:00 am

  one major defect is that the antenna is buried in the pillar at the rear thus making for poor fm reception. The car is otherwise a wonderful vehicle.

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  Transitioning from Car to SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By CandiceB - October 16 - 10:00 am

  My last car was a 2000 Acura TL and it was big transition going from a sporty car to an SUV. The Pilot has the same engine as the TL (V-6 V-tech), so the handling is about the same. Nothing exciting about the exterior, but it is deceiving. The interior is surprisingly big and 3rd row is actually comfortable. The seats all fold with ease. On average Im getting 14mpg, the suggested mpg was listed at 17. Great family truck, my husband has a Suburban and he now prefers driving the Pilot. The stereo system is actually great for an SUV also.