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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  Da Box - 2003 Honda Element
  By trancedjgabriel - July 14 - 2:00 am

  I just recently had my 2003 Orange Element stolen! But rest assured, I wont be shopping around for a replacement. Ill be heading back to the same dealership to buy a new one once my insurance company settles my claim (or they find my vehicle!). This truck is a blast to drive and has easily been the best auto I’ve ever owned. The only problems I experienced in the first 5000 miles (just had my first oil change when the crooks took it!) were some deep scratches caused by loading some heavy equipment in the back. I also hung an air freshener from the gear shifter that “rubbed” off some of the cool gray finish.

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  Just what I needed - 2004 Honda Element
  By jollygreen - July 8 - 2:00 am

  First time I saw one I thought it was the ugliest thing going. When I looked closer and did my research I couldnt wait to get in one. I ski, snowshoe, camp, fish and unfortunately have to commute everyday. This is about as near to perfect as a vehicle can get for my needs. ONLY SUV I have ever considered buying. Why? Because of its LEV engine and MPG. Its as good or better than most cars so no enviornmental guilt here. Compare and you will buy.

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  Reliable versatile economical - 2004 Honda Element
  By John Wilmot - May 30 - 3:53 am

  Very reliable vehicle...low maintenance and very versatile rear seats for hauling various things. Rear "suicide" doors are somewhat awkward in parking lots..city mileage 20mpg with 5 spd manual trans.

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  Hondas homage to the VW bus - 2003 Honda Element
  By thomasosborne - April 4 - 3:00 am

  The name Element suggests alchemy, and thats what has emerged from the Honda lab: a bit of the original Volkswagen buss utility and oddball form combined with Honda reliability (I hope). Ive mostly hated the cars Ive owned as necessary evils, but I love my Element.

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  Minie Hummer ?? - 2003 Honda Element
  By canvasdesign - March 19 - 10:00 am

  A very practical all around vehicle. Outstanding price to value ratio.

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  Windshield Susceptibility To Cracks - 2003 Honda Element
  By Frank Johnson - March 14 - 2:00 am

  I love this little vehicle. It does everything we were told by the dealer that it would do. It is a joy to drive. It sits higher off the ground than a sedan, so it is easy to get in and out of.

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  Love My Element - 2004 Honda Element
  By jbird - March 1 - 2:00 am

  My Honda Element is only one month old, but I have bought enough new cars to know better than to base an opinion on emotions or new car smell. This vehicle is something special. It has achieved an awesome balance between vehicle types.

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  my baby hummer! - 2004 Honda Element
  By glennf - January 13 - 10:00 am

  i purchesed the gallopagose green for its conservative appeal. the paint has held up well through ice, mud and shopping carts! the fuel economy is good with out the a/c on but is poor when on. the inside is well suited for on the go people, like my two shepherds a bike and me! overall i could not have asked for a more versatile mini-suv for the price. thanks honda! glenn houton, tx

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  What was I thinking? - 2005 Honda Element
  By Debbie - December 22 - 9:56 pm

  With its one-of-a-kind look, I thought I wanted this vehicle. I have had this car for about 5 months now and this is really not the car for me. I find it to be very impractical. Have had to litterally back out of my parking spot to open the back doors to load groceries and children. Steering wheel blocks the view of the speedometer and I have found it does not handle well around corners. Putting the back seats up blocks visibility. Although,cargo room is great. I Have driven across the state several times with a load full of baseball gear and luggage and could still see out of all the windows. Also nice to drag your big dog around in. Good car for active singles, not families.

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  MORE VROOOM PLZ! - 2003 Honda Element
  By HAZMAT - September 24 - 10:00 am

  The Element shined on a recent surf trip to Mexico. The gas milage and utility features made the trip a pleasure for me. I didnt have to worry about my bros spilling beer on the seats or getting sand all over the inside!