5 Star Reviews for 2006 Honda Element

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.66/5 Average
123 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Honda has added an additional trim level to the 2006 Honda Element line, the EX-P. Based upon the EX, it adds body-color exterior panels. The EX receives new alloy wheels and steering wheel audio controls, while the LX gets the former EX-exclusive metallic exterior cladding and standard antilock brakes. Additionally, stated power for the engine is a bit lower this year due to Honda's adoption of new SAE engine testing procedures.

Pros:
  • Spacious, waterproof interior, optional all-wheel drive, smooth four-cylinder engine, balanced handling, standard ABS.
Cons:
  • Only seats four, clamshell doors hinder entry/exit for rear-seat passengers.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 123.00
  • Love the toaster,! - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    Fun, easy to drive and so versatile with the large cargo area, its like having the storage space of a minivan but the compact exterior for smaller spaces. The only tricky part for me is getting in and out of the back seat (having bad knees) is a bit awkward. A backseat heating/cooling vent would also be nice for ventilation, but Ive travelled back and forth across the country several times and it has been a great ride every time. The all wheel drive makes snow and ice travel possible, where Ive had other vehicles unable to do the job in bad weather. Honda Element owners seem friendly and happy - many Element drivers wave to me as if to say, "isnt this a great car to drive!" Ive also found it humorous when I come out to the parking lot where Ive parked far away from cars, only to find two to three other Elements parked around mine.

  • It became a legend - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    In 2003, I hated them. They were square, somehow shy looking, and yet moved with unearned confidence. Then, in 2009, when a friend told me he was looking for one, I gave it a second glance. I test-drove one. Seven hours later, it was in my name. I bought my 2006 Element EX with 30,000 miles on it. Six years later, when the odometer read about 77,000 miles, I found it hit by a driver and totaled. Very sad. This Element is the perfect companion. Its resilient, adaptable, and always two steps ahead. It finished my...sentences. As long as I fed it oil and kept it up, it was dependable. In 2015, Im looking to buy my second Element. I love this car, even if its a bit nerdy and too forgiving.

  • Best car ever - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    I have owned 2 Elements and I have loved them both. Best cars ever. Great gas mileage and roomy! Can clean out easy so if you have 1-2 kids this car is perfect. Very roomy in the backseat for your passengers. This car goes anywhere! Snow, Ice, Grass, Water... You name it, it goes!

  • Not for everyone, but a great car - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    I have had my Element for 5 years now and am still waiting for the first sign of a problem. (OK, there was an airbag light that came on for no apparent reason, but a brief visit to the dealer fixed that.) It just keeps on running despite my best efforts to wear it out. The all wheel drive works great, and while it is not a performance car by any means, it has more than enough giddy-up. The absence of carpets, along with the water resistant upholstery, makes it an ideal choice for camping, swimming, etc. -- even with dogs. I am 40 years old, but I dont think I will ever outgrow the Element. I look forward to keeping this car for 5 more years and then getting a new Element.

  • Great Car - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    I love driving this car. I bought it brand spanking new in November of 2005 with 63 miles on it. The stock stereo is awesome for stock. You could pack a smart car in the back if you needed to. TONS OF SPACE. Great gas mileage. Awesome in the snow. The only complaints i have are the road noise, and i really wish they put a V6 in it. The 2.4 L 4cyl is lacking. It would be nice to have usb connection for my iPod instead of the aux. You can definitely tell a difference when the a/c is on. The headlights broadcast perfectly and the car would benefit from HID lights. Other than that, the car is great.

  • Great Car - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    I bought this car pre-owned with 36k. Currently we have 70+K and have had no problems. Ive read some of the entries with lower ratings and I have not had any of the issues that others have had. One person even mentioned that this car is not for those in northern climates. I could not disagree more. I live in an area that receives 119 inches of snow/year. My Element has been flawless and I tend to be hard on my vehicles. I would recommend this car to anyone.

  • Typical Honda! - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    I got this car for my birthday in October, and I am loving it! I have wanted one since they came out, and I am happy for going with my intuition. I love Hondas in general. My aunt has a 1990 Honda Accord with over 300,000 miles on it, and it is still going strong, and drives like new. I did have to get used to the blind spots, but what car do you not have to get used to them in. I mean all cars have blind spots in different places... I have the stick, and I have not regretted it one bit. Some people dont like the suicide doors, but I love them. They just take a little getting used to, but we used to have a Saturn with one, so it is no biggie to me...

  • Love my TRP - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    Have owned my MT AWD Tango Red Pearl EX-P for one year. Have been camping, moving daughter to and from college, (5-6 hour trip loaded). Lots of local driving on interstate and side roads. Researched it for a while, knew what I wanted and it has been everything I had hoped for. Have 66,000+ on her, had about 48,000 or so when purchased. Oil changes with synthetics, average 24.6 overall driving. I have the better stereo package with subwoofer, have factory 8-disk CD changer, Yakima roof rack, hitch, etc.. my E gets used. These are great vehicles. Wish that Honda would include them more in their advertising campaigns.

  • Love my Element! - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    I have been searching for a car that would be fun to drive, functional, and kid friendly-the Element is it! My eight year-old loves the back seat, and there is plenty of room for our two dogs, too. I can go grocery shopping and everything will fit in the back. The car also handles well on the road, and makes turns easily.

  • What took me so long? - 2006 Honda Element
    By -

    It took me two years to finally decide to buy the element, and have not been sorry since. Have two dogs that spend all their time with me, in office, out seeing customers and so we spend at least half the day in and out of the car, we love it. It turns on a dime and if you know how to use the transmission I have left 8 cylinder cars eating my dust when climbing hills. Its been in the snow at 11000 feet in Utah and didnt even need snow tires. Gas mileage improved once I took off the good years and put on tiger paws and keep inflated at 42lbs which the tire specifies. Have been off roading with it too, although a little low there are ways to work around that. Next trip New Mexico the whole state.

Honda Element Reviews By Year:
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