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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  Root Beer Rules - 2008 Honda Element
  By Sall Good - December 27 - 9:55 pm

  I wanted a more versatile vehicle than the sedans Ive driven for years, but didnt want a truck-based SUV or minivan. Ive owned several Accords and a Civic -- all great cars -- but after buying a house, needed something to haul stuff on occasion. This well-handling and peppy vehicle fit the bill perfectly. Ive been looking for something like this for years. Bought the SC model because I really dont need 4WD, and also really liked the Root Beer color which is only available on the SC. It sits lower on larger tires than the EX or LX. It really makes the car sleeker-looking, and improves the handling. Love this car, and expect to keep it for a long, long time. Fits all needs.

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  FUN! FUN! - 2003 Honda Element
  By sgo - December 27 - 2:00 am

  Excellant!! This is the best purchase Ive ever made. I love it! Everyone stares at you driving down the street. Its extremely comfortable to ride in as well as drive. This is the vehicle for FUN, FUN, FUN!

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  Fun To Drive. - 2003 Honda Element
  By tklug - December 27 - 2:00 am

  The only problem I have had is the constant questions "what is it?" "How much does it cost?" It is a blast to drive and the best part is it is kid proof. Traded in a Ford Explorer and dont miss a thing about it.

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  Elemental - 2003 Honda Element
  By jaysone2001 - December 27 - 2:00 am

  Great car. Gets good gas mileage for a SUV. Plenty of room. Engine is plenty powerful. Great for carrying stuff.

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  Coool! - 2003 Honda Element
  By Shred Ed - December 27 - 2:00 am

  We have been snowboarding, surfing, camping, towed three dirt bikes through rain and mud. All in all, I cant imagian having carpet on the floor again based on how dirty this car has been. With the plastic floors, it can actually be cleaned after one of our weekends. Our kids think its cool. People ask if its electric a lot :-| The interior room is great, especially compared to our Jeep Wrangler. Weve owned lots of cars and SUVs and I dont understand the complaints about mileage. It weighs 3500 pounds! Far better than our 10 or 11 MPG V8s. Just like my S2000, I think this ones a keeper.

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  In My Element - 2003 Honda Element
  By over55 - December 27 - 2:00 am

  I require a car to be more than a mode of transportation; it must be functional. As an over 55 male that purchased a new 1989 Dodge Grand Caravan and drove it 250000 miles until the mechanical problems overwhelmed it I appreciate versatility in carrying both people and objects. The Element has this flexibility: I can transport my non-driving relatives; I can carry furniture; I can carry paving stones; I can carry recyclables; I can carry building materials. The style of the car has intrigued many people: I have met numerous people while refueling; they ask if its one of those "hybrids" and then ask to look closer. Comments have been very positive.

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  too expensive for such an ugly - 2003 Honda Element
  By Daniel J. Graber - December 27 - 2:00 am

  This has to be the worst looking car my company could have bought. It is terrible. It drives worst than my John Deere tractor. Ride is not good at all. I would have liked the company to have bought a Kia. I think this is one of the worst vehicals I have ever seen or owned

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  Ugly is beautiful - 2005 Honda Element
  By max - December 25 - 5:06 pm

  Based on about 8,000 miles of use my Element may be the best car Ive owned...I bought my firstcar in 1949. After a 2800 mile trip I was not fatigued at all (Im 72). This is the perfect car for people who want to downsize from the gas guzzling dinosaurs which are currently destroying family budgets because of the cost of gasoline. My friend who is 67" sat in my Element recently and remarked that there was more head room than he had found in any other car.

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  Think Different - 2003 Honda Element
  By BOO - December 9 - 2:00 am

  Extremely confortable, great utility, very quiet at hwy speeds(80mph),great for long trips, quiet power train, super engine and transmission, kickin radio, low maintenance. FWD needs traction control. Great buy. Have a rattle the dealer cannot seem to find.

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  Great overall - 2004 Honda Element
  By Paul A. - December 6 - 12:32 pm

  Great fun factor vehicle. I am getting about 25-26 miles per gallon with manual transmission. This is a great car that would serve the all the purposes: vacation, basic transportation, big item moving or purchasing. Mine is a DX, so the only thing I miss is the cruise control, everything else is very well thought and placed. I love my Element,and I plan to have it for a good while. Buyer beware: if you drive it, youll like it... and buy it.