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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  N.J. Honda - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By kevin m - January 27 - 10:00 am

  Great car to drive have a 5 speed and love it. My wife loves to drive car too. m

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  BETTER THAN RAV4 - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By DANCER - January 27 - 10:00 am

  This is our 3rd SUV purchase (2 rav 4 prior to this CRV. We are very happy with the vehicle and find that it has many advantages over the Toyota Rav 4. Much more pep More room and compartments inside Much quieter engine More amenities Seems to be a fun car to drive with many comfort/safety features. More for your money than Rav 4

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  love my honda - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By queenyv - January 27 - 10:00 am

  Love this vehicle. Only one that drives like a car. Tray beside driver seat an A+++. No hassle at dealership. None. Maintenance easy & reasonable. Lots of room.

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  lease - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By kerryindian - January 27 - 10:00 am

  its the best mini van

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  Heaven sent - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Colita - January 27 - 10:00 am

  I love the Honda Odyssey. It drives like a dream. Its very quiet and has a lot of pick up and go power. The children have lots of room to spread out.The high quality leather makes for a very comfortable ride. In the winter time seat warmers! The one thing I dislike the most is the back door is hard to close. I wish it had a power door, just push a button and your there.

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  its the best - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By nes1313 - January 27 - 10:00 am

  cant beat this minivan its a honda

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  One of the best I have ever owned - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By mike vax - January 27 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Odyssey for ten months. It is one of the best vehicles of any type that I have owned. I do a lot of highway driving and some long trips and I am always rested and comfortable upon my arrival. Being a musician, the sound system is important to me and the Odesseys system sounds great. I can see why this mini-van is always rated #1.

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  I love it! - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By Murgieh - January 27 - 10:00 am

  I wouldnt buy anything else..we love our van!

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  Honda Review - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By gary smith - January 27 - 10:00 am

  A very reliabel vehicle. Rides good o long trips, and plenty of leg room for driver and passengers. Its design is way ahead of its competion The rear seat folding down is much better then having to remove or fold it.

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  Best van i ever owned - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By BIGTOP - January 27 - 10:00 am

  This van is smooth, quite,and the smell of leather just wants you to keep on driving.A plaesure to drive.This is my fourth van, and is by far the best.