Honda Element Summary
Sold in North America between 2002 and 2011, the Honda Element is a compact crossover SUV geared towards outdoor enthusiasts. With its powerful engine, you will never be restricted to the main roads. Drivers will also benefit from a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs, which is more than enough to tow a small trailer filled with your equipment and gear. For longer trips, you can make the Honda Element your temporary home, taking advantage of third-party packages to turn the vehicle into a camper.
Honda Element Safety
The Honda Element has excellent safety ratings for all model years, achieving top scores in front, rear and side impact testing from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). Production for the vehicle ceased in 2011, but it doesn't lack any important safety features. Even in old model years like the 2005, standard features include:
- Six airbags including passenger, front and rear head, front side and side curtain
- Passenger airbag on/off switch to accommodate children
- Four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) to maintain control and reduce the risk of skidding
- Low tire pressure warning to reduce the risk of a flat
Honda Element Interior
The Honda Element comes with numerous interior features that keep with its functional nature. From 2005, the LX trim offers rear seats that can fold flat to the floor, flat up against the side or removed entirely, power mirrors, air conditioning and water-resistant front seats, which you can add in the rear, too. So, whether you are hit with an unexpected downpour, or you are out hiking in the mud and the dirt, your vehicle is protected. All Honda Elements also come with standard easy-to-clean polyurethane flooring.
Honda Element Technology
The base model Honda Element is a little short of tech features. Choose a post-2005 LX or EX trim to get a better range amenities. With these upgrades, you'll get a powerful stereo, XM satellite radio and a built-in navigation system with voice recognition. Older model years like the 2003 come with the basics, like front and rear window defrosters and power doors and locks—remote entry is optional.
Honda Element Space
The Honda Element, partially due to its unique body shape, provide an excess of head and legroom for passengers. For some drivers, the Honda Element's four seats may not be sufficient for their outdoor adventures. Others are happy to trade the passenger space for the additional cargo room. Even when four adults are seated, the vehicle has about 25 cubic feet of space for your gear. Removing or folding down the rear seats increases your space to around 75 cubic feet.
Honda Element Comfort
The double-wishbone design of the Honda Element's suspension gives the vehicle its smooth ride and easy handling—no matter the weather conditions. Some drivers note that potholes and rough terrain can cause more jostling in the cabin than they would like. Upgrading to the LX or EX trim level puts another tool in your toolbox by adding a real-time four-wheel drive system to tackle those rougher trails.
