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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  MINI HUMMER! - 2003 Honda Element
  By flowerchic - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Weve seen a few Elements out there but not many and thought they kinda looked weird but after test driving one, i fell in love with it. With a 5-speed it has more torque than an automatic, which i test drove there, and its a 4- cylinder. Youd be surprise how much power it has with the manual. After purchasing the E, i went through the forums and have seen pictures that people have added other features to it and its awesome. People who are thinking of it look at the Honda Element Forums and this will make your decision making. I JUST LOVE MY MINI HUMMER, especially with all the attention you get!

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  Awesome car for the money - 2003 Honda Element
  By bluesky55 - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Have had my element, only 5 months and already put 7000 miles on it with no problems, very versitle. Honda should make keyless entry standard as well as passenger armrest. Also plastic does scratch very easy. Otherwise great little car.

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  element - 2003 Honda Element
  By LUIS - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Great confort/ utility , very nice look a/c works great, music is loud and clear very nice, easy to clean , we yust simply love these car

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  Absolute Winner! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Swede224 - June 28 - 10:00 am

  This CR-V is the car of my dreams! It handles beautifully has great gas mileage and is pleasing to the eye. Dash controls are placed nicely to keep your eyes on the road. Ride is smooth and QUIET. Driver sits up nice and high so I can see everything around me. This is the best car Ive ever had!

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  Smooth Rider - 2003 Honda Odyssey
  By JERZEE - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Our 03 Odyssey EXL has been what we expected in all categories fo far. Its roomy,quiet,easy to handle & easy to get in & out off.Quality shines in this vehicle & the Honda reputation is behind it along with good ole American workers putting it together. The PRIDE shows..

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  great car - 2003 Honda Civic
  By WKW - June 28 - 10:00 am

  great commuter car. great gas mileage comparing to my ml. good power giving the sides of the engine. 80-85 mph no problem. need better lumber support for long distance driving. dash color dont match overall interior color. auto engine shut off when come to a smooth complete stop. engine will auto restart when the foot is off the brake pedal.

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  I love it!! - 2003 Honda Accord
  By evak - June 28 - 10:00 am

  I just bought my Honda two days ago and I never want to leave it! This is my first new car and I couldnt be any more happier. It is so fun to drive and Im very proud to own this coupe!

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  03 accord...best bang for buck - 2003 Honda Accord
  By compushmuck - June 28 - 10:00 am

  After shopping for a half-decent commuter car. I came home with a new 4- cyl Accord-EX Coupe. I test drove the V4 as well as the V6 but didnt see a huge difference for $3- $4k more. I think the V4 is very smooth w/amazing power. The history of good resale value and the fact that I get 34mpg mileage were also determining factors. Ive never owned a honda before. Ive had 2-VW jettas which have been as fun to drive as the new accord, but wanted to get the Honda this time to see what all the fuss was about. If I hate it Ill sell it and get another VW....but I love it and dont think Ill be selling it anytime soon

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  Great Car - 2003 Honda Accord
  By Kalaks - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Excllent Car!!!! I love it. Forgot about the Passat, Camry, ......etc

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  Baby - 2003 Honda Accord
  By lusciousk8 - June 28 - 10:00 am

  I bought my car after test driving just about every V6 sport sedan in the market. I wanted/had to have a stick shift. I was just about to buy a 2003 Maxima when I saw the ad for the V6 6- speed Accord Coupe. I fell in love. I had also considered the Acura CL s- type with the 6, but found that the interior felt dated comparatively. And- not too many people had my car when I bought it and that was very enticing. The clutch is very tricky at first, it took me a while to get to know it. But now, I am quite hellish behind the wheel. I also love that the few I have let try to drive it- usually stall. Shes tricky....