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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  Im In My Element - 2006 Honda Element
  By Sbinder - August 5 - 5:56 pm

  This car is great for everything its made for. It could use some upgrades like daytime running lights. 4 wheeling isnt really an option because of how low it is to the ground and if you look under it, the fuel tank is the lowest point. Gas mileage is not so great at all I have only averaged 20 miles per gallon in the city. It does have great power though and good acceleration.

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  The Future of the SUV is here now! - 2005 Honda Element
  By Ted A. van Landingha - August 5 - 3:33 pm

  A well-designed, practical vehicle that is both fun to drive, functional in almost any situation, and interesting to look at. This vehicle has created a sense of brotherhood amongst its owners, much the way Jeeps did in the past. Every owner that I have met says they prefer it to any auto that they have ever driven. Pros: great sound sytem, loaded with accessories, smooth car-like ride, solid and detailed constuction, huge back seat legroom, and a spacious interior. Cons: I wish Honda made an "Element Offroad" with full locking 4WD, huge tires and wheels, skid plates, a "real" roof rack like the Nissan XTERRA, and the Honda Pilot V6 engine.

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  a great car - 2005 Honda Element
  By doug adams - August 4 - 6:40 am

  just a great vehicle. drives like a truck but gets good mileage and very roomy. pickup is a little off but is a great vehicle

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  elementally prepared - 2003 Honda Element
  By candj - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Have had this car for 5k miles, 4 months. mainly got it cause it fits my mtn bikes without disassembly. also good for: hauling furniture (hauled a 6ft sideboard table), camping, commuting to work, parallel parking in the city, striking up conversations with bemused strangers. cant wait to see what kind of foul weather next winter brings us, cause the 4 wheel drive will come in handy. cant beat the utility this car provides for $20k.

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  Outstanding automobile! - 2006 Honda Element
  By HM - August 1 - 11:57 pm

  Excellent crash test ratings, great gas mileage for an SUV, unique styling, reliability, and personality plus ... what else do you need in a car? Take a test drive and youll be hooked!

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  Flawed But Fun - 2005 Honda Element
  By steve - July 30 - 4:43 am

  Overall concept is a winner but a few problems keep this from being a "10" for me. Visibility is sometimes tricky due to the thick pillars. Sun roof would be much better in the front than the back. Gas mileage should be higher for such a small vehicle. But these are minor complaints, this car is a ton of fun to drive--especially when you consider its boxy shape and weight. Acceleration is decent, handling for a four-wheeled box is reasonable and the amount of roominess inside is amazing. Its also very comfortable on a long road trip. On the whole, this is a lot of car for the money.

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  What A Ride! - 2004 Honda Element
  By TomKat - July 26 - 8:29 pm

  The very best vehicle Ive ever purchased. Perfect for outdoor lifestyle or just driving to work! Great for larger travelling, pets, dogs, pigs, whatever :) Would highly recommend and plan to buy another if this one ever dies.

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  I Love My Element - 2005 Honda Element
  By Ask Him - July 26 - 8:22 pm

  Fun to drive, easy to handle, great turning. I took my Element to the mountains last winter. No problems climbing those steep hilly roads with ice and wind.

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  Love it! - 2006 Honda Element
  By s a jollensten - July 26 - 7:43 pm

  The car is comfortable, fun to drive, great gas mileage and the XM radio is a must! Great for trips to the market, the beach, the lumber store. I cant say enough nice things about it! I am sold, and some of my friends are sold too. Did I mention it has loads of head room and is so easy to find a parking place for!

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  Love my Kiwi Green Toaster - 2006 Honda Element
  By Jimpete - July 26 - 10:41 am

  Wow! Had for approx two weeks now and have had a fairly long road trip 4 hrs. Love the comfort, style most and not to mention the stereo, it rocks! I traded in my 06 Honda Civic. It was a nice car, but the seats were very uncomfortable and couldnt house the pup so it had to go. Its fun and I enjoy it.