2003-2008 Honda Element: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Based on Honda's CR-V, this new youth-oriented compact SUV featured novel interior touches and unique wagon styling. With its center-opening side doors, and no center body pillars, the Element was a bit taller and wider, and up to 200 pounds heavier, than a CR-V. Both models shared a four-cylinder engine, as well as manual and automatic transmissions. The Element also offers the same front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive layout, without low-range gearing. Unlike CR-V, the Element had a combination upper liftgate and drop-down tailgate, rather than a swing-out door with a glass hatch. As in some extended-cab pickups, the Element's rear-hinged back doors were shorter than the fronts, and could not be opened or closed independently. While the CR-V seats five, the Element carries four occupants on front bucket seats and a split rear bench. Weighing j30 pounds, the back bench's sections could be swung up to the side or removed to yield more cargo space. AWD models included a tilt/removable glass "skylight" over the cargo bay. Base DX Elements were equipped for owner personalization, and thus came without factory audio. Upscale EX editions included a 270-watt CD audio system, plus alloy wheels, two-tone interior trim, cruise control, power mirrors, and air conditioning (which was optional for DXs). All models had water-resistant cloth upholstery, rubberlike textured floor covering, 16-inch wheels, and four-wheel disc brakes. EXs added ABS and offered front side airbags as an exclusive option. Competitors included the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Jeep Liberty, Mazda Tribute, and Subaru Forester, though Honda's Element differed from each of these in style and personality.