Overview & Reviews

Sold from 2003-'11, the Honda Element compact crossover SUV remains one of the most distinctive and practical vehicles on the road. Happy Element owners are often city dwellers who appreciate both its small size and generous 75-cubic-foot maximum cargo capacity. Another notable element about the Element is the ability of its access-style rear doors to pivot backward a full 90 degrees, providing unimpeded access to the roomy and creatively configurable rear seats.

A used Element of any vintage is easy to recommend thanks to its functional interior, smooth four-cylinder engine and carlike handling, not to mention Honda's reputation for reliability. That said, it's worthwhile to focus your search on 2007 and newer models, as they offer a bit more power and enhanced safety features.

User Reviews:

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  2003 Turbo Toaster - 2003 Honda Element
  By KGRoberts - December 27 - 2:41 pm

  I traded in a Toyo 4Runner for this Element. Theres a lot of room on the inside, especially in the back seat. Seats sit up high. Room for 4 people only. Zippy with the 5Manual trans. Plastic panels are utilitarian, easy care, no door dings. This engineer takes notes on every tank of fuel, 26MPG average. Honda replaced my A/C system 6k miles out of warranty (no charge to me). Happy Honda owner.

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  An offroad interlude - 2005 Honda Element
  By rob - November 28 - 9:51 pm

  I bought my E as a conscession to my then partner. I was pleasantly surprised at what it could do off the beaten path. I am also disappointed in what it lacks in power, towing ability and traction ""out of the box"".

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  Best MPG for the Cargo space - 2005 Honda Element
  By Michael S. - November 7 - 3:26 am

  My review has to do with your MPG vs. Cargo space... and I believe this car/SUV accomplishes the best in its class. Very happy with gas mileage. Solid construction. Good suspension. Fantastic brakes. Freezing AC. Very little to complain about.

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  Need Cheap? Need Reliable? Need AWD? - 2005 Honda Element
  By Van - October 3 - 10:10 am

  Ive not had this car for very long but I am already getting a feel for it. This car handles very well for being the shape of a brick: VERY restrained body lean, and it goes just where you point it. (You feel every road imperfection, though.) In my opinion this is the best car you can get if your needs are for a low-priced vehicle you can drive into the ground that can also help in bad weather. Its funky and unique and utilitarian. Stereo system is quite good, visibility is not. But for the price and level of equipment, especially as compared to its competitors (including the CR-V), this car is tough to beat.

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  El;ement EX awd - 2003 Honda Element
  By rabarak - October 2 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive and economical. Good interior and exterior design, but I think it needs more power in proportion to its body size.Side impact colition is somewhat poor due to the inadequate side bars support.In general its just tantamount to its price.

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  Great Box! - 2003 Honda Element
  By Gatorindy - October 2 - 2:00 am

  Ive had a blast with the Element. The versatility has been excellent. Ive never owned a vehicle that so many people have wanted to see the inside. Runs down the highway at 80mph without a problem. Handles great!

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  Initial Impressions - 2004 Honda Element
  By Braden - September 29 - 9:37 pm

  Just bought a used, but highly cared for 04 Element EX. Only driven it about 400 miles, but overall I love it. Only two things I wish it had 1) Computer with average MPH, MPG, and miles until out of gas. 2) Five speed automatic like the 07 & 08 models.

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  Versatile - 2004 Honda Element
  By Kevins Element - September 29 - 1:00 am

  Verasatility is the main benefit to buying a Honda Element. The interior is roomy and functional. And you can do so much. Haul people, haul stuff, haul people and stuff. An amazing array of interior configurations. Outwardly, the car has a cool retro look. Its well made. Affordably priced. And amazing;y versatile. Did I say that already?

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  Im in my Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By cmmathison - September 16 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle fits my lifestyle perfectly. With kid, dog, beach, camping, it is functional, easy to keep clean and easy to get in and out of. I didnt want the typical SUV and definately didnt want a mini-van. The Element provides the function without the soccer mom look. I took it to a family reunion shortly after getting my new Element and EVERYONE wanted to get inside of it and take a look. It was a hit!

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  Great little box - 2006 Honda Element
  By Toaster Owner - August 29 - 1:47 pm

  My girlfriend is a car snob (drives an Infiniti and an Audi TT previously) ... she doesnt like it. But I love it! I could have bought something more expensive but very few vehicles offer the value and low-TCO of this thing. Ive taken the rear seats out several times to accommodate moving furniture, big screen TVs, etc. Its so versatile.