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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  Great appliance - 2006 Honda Element
  By iggyst00ge - July 19 - 9:31 am

  My Element is the definition of the car-as-appliance. Its an unbelievably functional car that has been the perfect toddler and dog transportation for our family. Not as awkward as an SUV, rides like a top-heavy Civic, more interior space per passenger than anything other than a bus, decent MPG (around 23), room to carry bigger cargo, the interior is plastic, but its solid and takes a beating. With the AWD its also great in the snow. Think of it as a downsized van with some nice creature comforts thrown in. Yes, its a little underpowered, and yes it can blow around on windy days. The lack of a fifth seat is an inconvenience, but it does everything else so well, I forgive Honda.

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  Too much fun (and funktional too) - 2004 Honda Element
  By World Glass - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Im finally back in a reliable Honda again after years of not driving one (my mistake). The Element is a total blast to drive; cool, reliable, great for work; Im always packing stained glass and tools in it to go to clients homes. Theres a ton of storage space and the large door panels work wonderfully for my World Glass logo; people really stare at this vehicle.Its a sure bet for all your utility needs! Mmmmm, and it has a sweet sound system! It looks fun and drives outstandingly for an suv. I get about 24 mpg hwy. It gets blown around driving on windy highways!! People turn and look all the time; its very unique. I love it!

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  Black Box - 2006 Honda Element
  By Ratbert - July 14 - 7:39 am

  Have had Element for several months - used primarily for vacation in South Carolina from New Jersey. Since Im doing a renovation in SC, I need to haul a lot of stuff. Fits my needs perfectly. Last time, instead of stuff, we took our 3 75 lb. dogs, and it worked out great. Plenty of room for them and our gear. Being able to remove rear seats is a big plus. Wish it had more guts, and gas mileage is so-so, but I knew that going in. For the price I dont think you can beat it.

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  Great car just wish it had better seats - 2006 Honda Element
  By carguy96 - July 12 - 1:19 pm

  We had an 03 model and it was great, but I question the quality of the 06 I just purchased in May. We are currently experiencing problems with the drivers seat. The Seat back has been replaced and now the seat bottom and height adjuster makes all kinds of noise while you drive. The dealership said there is nothing wrong with it and that I had a lot of warranty on the vehicle.

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  Luv my Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By MikeT - June 20 - 10:00 am

  A fun and versatile little SUV.

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  Great Work Car - 2004 Honda Element
  By A Smith - June 15 - 11:03 pm

  I use my Element because I sell industrial maintenance products. It is the ideal salesmans car. But the gas mileage is terrible, very disappointing

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  04 Element EX AWD - 2004 Honda Element
  By BSBDCAZ - June 3 - 3:00 pm

  The car is extremely versatile and roomy. Needs some option for the interior; carpet, upgraded upholstery etc...

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  2005 Rallye Red EX - 2005 Honda Element
  By beaker - May 20 - 1:30 am

  I really like the Element. It drives well,and has excellent acceleration. I would suggest if you are considering any color that is paired with the blue or black composite panels to reconsider. The black composite panels are difficult to keep clean. I had owned my car for about 5 days when a thunderstorm came through. I drove on all paved roads, yet the dirt and mud that accumulated on the panels was unreal. I had to wash the panels at least 3x to get rid of the dirt. Water spots are also a problem. The regular gray panels would be much easier to clean. The red and black look sharp together but it takes a lot of time to clean the panels.

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  Element - 2006 Honda Element
  By Jfont - May 19 - 9:32 pm

  Car is so versatile we use it for everything. Floor and durable plastic make it ideal for home projects and pets (dogs especially).

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  Practical - 2003 Honda Element
  By Kendo - May 9 - 9:24 am

  This car has been perfect for me. I am an outdoorsman and it has been with me through the mountains and to the sea.