2005 HONDA Element

SAVE

PRICE ALERT

$5,650
$2,656
below average
246,192 Miles
77,390
Miles above average

Vehicle Details

Mileage: 246192
Color: Black
Body Style: SUV
Transmission: Automatic 4-speed
Engine Type: 2.4L I4
Drive Train: FWD
Fuel: Gasoline
Location: Saint Augustine, FL
Get EPICVIN vehicle history report

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Recalls & Defects

VIN 5J6YH18675L011183 may have been recalled. Check full report for more information

EQUIPMENT

CERTAIN HONDA ACCESSORY TRAILER HARNESS KIT, P/N 08L91-SCV-102, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 24 AND DECEMBER 18, 2004, SOLD FOR USE ON MY 2005 HONDA ELEMENT VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN DECEMBER 20, 2004, AND APRIL 29, 2005. THE WIRE HARNESS OF THE TRAILER HITCH KIT HAS AN INCORRECTLY WIRED CONNECTOR. AS A RESULT, THE TRAILER BRAKE LAMPS AND TURN SIGNAL LAMPS COULD OPERATE INCORRECTLY, OR A FUSE COULD BLOW CAUSING A SUDDEN LOSS OF BRAKE AND TURN SIGNAL LAMP FUNCTION.



Vehicle Rating & Owner Reviews

Overall Rating
4.7
  Based on 301 reviews

Almost perfect.

4
Jon P on 11/18/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 4

Purchased used 7 years ago, our 2005 Element has proven to be one of the best vehicle purchases I’ve ever made. Rivaling my 2003 Subaru Forester (the most consistent vehicle I’ve ever owned) in terms of drivability and reliability, and surpassing all other vehicle in terms of versatility. Pros: Amazing storage capacity and versatility. Outside of a cargo van, I can’t think of another vehicle that allows this much cargo space. I’ve spent night sleeping in it. I’ve moved beds, countless pieces of furniture, gardening supplies/equipment, etc… I’ve been completely, and utterly spoiled by the Element’s ability to transport things. It will be very hard to replicate when it comes time to buy another vehicle. Solid winter performance. The AWD system is reliable in getting through snow and ice. I have noticed it sometimes hiccups on wet roads, though that could be tire issues. Driving height is also a boon. You’re seated just a bit above sedan level and are afforded great view of the road, and the ‘widescreen’ windshield does a great job of exploiting all that visible space. Handling is responsive, and the turning radius is really good. You can tell this SUV was built off of a sedan chasis. The stock sound system is really superb. So-so: MPG is about what you’d expect. Nothing to write home about, but not exceptionally low. Doesn’t have a lot of get up and go. Not quite sluggish, but you’re not going to win any races with the Element. You’ve got to plan your traffic merges accordingly. Visibility is kinda subpar outside of the front seat. Lots of columns and little blind spots to be aware of. Only a 4 passenger vehicle. I knew that in advance, but an option for a 5th person would have been great. Cons: Brakes! Oh man, have we gone through brakes. About every 18,000 miles we’re investing in new pads. We’ve had to replace the rotors a few times as well. We’ve used the dealership as well as recommended mechanics. Doesn’t matter. The Element chews through brakes like no other car I’ve owned before. Suicide doors. Getting backseat passengers in and out, especially in parking lots and garages, is painful. I understand that they may assist with the loading/unloading of the vehicle, but for as often as you would actually need suicide doors to accomplish this it’s totally not worth it. Getting things in and out through the back isn’t much more difficult. All in all, I’d recommend an Element to anyone who wants a unique looking vehicle with an incredible amount of cargo space and utility.

Best all around car I've owned. 24 mpg

5
Dave Mathews on 10/04/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 5

After totaling my 2004 2WD (not my fault), I now have a 2005 AWD. I had my 04 for 6 years and it was still worth what I paid for it used! I was lucky to find a replacement because they are getting scarce and people are holding on to them. My new one is all-wheel-drive, which it turns out is awesome! AND, it gets consistently 24 mpg, which is better than my last one. Spacious, comfortable, utilitarian vehicle. When researching to buy my new one (11 yrs. old) I found many with over 200,000 miles and even a couple with over 300,000. I intend to drive this car for a very long time.

Great car

5
David on 09/10/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 5

Bought it new in 2005 just totaled in front end 100900 miles. I would probably be dead with many other cars and I have really enjoyed this car

The blue box

5
Cotal on 02/10/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating: 5

I love this SUV!

I LOVE my Element!

5
Leslie on 07/21/2015

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating: 5

The Element is a great car all the way around. I have the EX AWD version, and it handles great in the snow. It has never left me stranded, period. My car has over 200k miles, and you can't even tell at all. The engine runs like a million bucks and doesn't leak or burn any oil at all. It gets really good gas mileage for an AWD SUV (I average 20 city, 25 highway). I think it is a very sharp-looking SUV. I will say that it does seem to be prone to dings. This is a great SUV for you if you have animals that are going to be riding in your car, since it doesn't have any carpet. I love that feature! The seats are also water and stain resistant. I think the seats are comfortable despite this feature. I have taken my Element on road trips and it has been very comfortable. This is a great SUV and I definitely recommend it.

You can pull a boat with one of these.

4
Carl Redding on 07/13/2015

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3 Safety Rating: 3 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 5

Have owned since new, 10 years. Last year I put a trailer hitch on and started pulling my 17' fiberglass fishing skiff with it. Boat, motor and trailer weigh 1600 lbs and it tows and stops well. Easy to launch and retrieve boat. Update: Had to replace a/C compressor. What a pain to remove and replace. Poor engineering on Honda's part. Had drivers side airbag replaced two years ago for a recall. I asked "why not replace the passenger side too? You know it was manufactured the same way using the same propellant?". Honda said no. Now I get a recall notice in the main saying " Passenger side is defective " Duh! Plus no parts in stock to repair! Don't put passengers in the passenger seat they say! Honda cheaped out on this. If they get sued, it is their own fault. I doubt I will purchase a Honda again. They are not the company they used to be.

Pros and Cons

4.3
hondaelementex on 09/11/2012

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Nice car, great for a tall person and carrying groceries and other stuff including smaller bicycles. MPG is about 20.

Good car for the value

4.6
laura_e_som on 08/02/2012

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My husband and I purchased this car new and it has been a blessed experience thus far. It handles well, cleans up well and is holding it's value well. With 96,000 miles on it, we are grateful to God, that it has had no real problems, it has needed one set of breaks and a set of tires, with another one due here pretty soon. My husband drives this car almost everyday back and forth to work and it has been very reliable. AWD does seem to help it to handle well enough in the snow, and it's car we plan on keeping until it finally says no more.

15 mpg! Be warned

3.8
crackrock on 11/19/2010

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My v6 Suzuki grand vitara true 4x4 is getting 17.5 and my 4wd element is getting 14.5. Measured both with a kiwi-mpg obd2 tool, so it's accurate. The element really awful to me. Gotta get this off my chest. Low clearance - I already came within a 1/2" of basically ruining my car, the drive shaft guard got all bent up, luckily barely missing the actual drive shaft, this was driving to the grocery store in about 8 inches of snow/ice not true 4x4 - combined with the lack of clearance the 'real time 4wd' is a joke compared to true 4h/4l, the element has to stay up on the road, whereas the gv makes it the whole scary way down to the beach and tears through the sand, downhill in snow? Ha ha

Super Element!

5
Airzilla on 10/31/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Incredible car! I thought my best car ever was my much loved black 1988 Honda CRX Si that I bought brand new right after college. After getting through college in a 1985 CRX, I had to have another one as I thought the CRX was the perfect little sports car. Well, eventually I needed something to haul around my drum kit and gear to gigs. I acquired a 2005 Element EX AWD with about 21,000 miles on it. It now has 138,000 and has literally NEVER been in the shop. All I have ever done is changed the fluids and filters per the recommended schedule. In fact, I have only recently put on new front brakes. Overall, an incredible vehicle and I am currently looking to sell this one and purchase another.

Love My Ellie!

4.9
EllieFan on 10/03/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

All I ever wanted was a Honda Element. Finally, after my '96 Chevy Beretta gave way, I bought a used one. I have two large dogs, and this was the only vehicle I would have. Couple of things. It's everything I thought it would be and more! The dogs have harnesses that attach to the seat belts, so no sliding around. I have two big dogs, so securing two crates to the back isn't an option. Secondly, for $3.50 from a big box store we all know and love, the big blind spots have been completely removed. Most neg. reviews were about blind spots, a very easy fix. And another was the pets sliding around. Well, get a harness. All problems fixed, and I couldn't be ANY happier with my Element.

I call my 2005 red Element "Flame"

4.4
Adrian in Dallas on 07/22/2010

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The only color I wanted when I saw it in the Honda Element palette selection was what they call "Rallye Red." It's a beautiful, clear, bright red that's a knockout. The drab orange and the even more drab olive color that you see all over are not for me. (This review is sounding like a "Click & Clack" radio show where the first question they ask those with car problems is "What color is it?") IN ANY EVENT: This car is the best thing I've ever owned. I was born in Detroit and just turned 65, so that's saying something! It's solid as the brick it looks like, actually FUN to drive, has great head room and is E-Z to get in to and out of. I ordered it with every bell & whistle Honda offered.

Great Car--Good Cross Country Driver

5
Rodster on 07/06/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Honda Element, while not considered the most stylish box by some, makes up for its styling faults in practicality, ease of operation, space, fuel economy, reliability, etc. The only problem I've had was with the ABS braking system. If the module fails, you run on standard brakes and to turn off the indicator light it will cost $1300 for a module. Nonsense. Run without it. Otherwise I'd buy another Element in a minute. It grows on you and others who get a chance to drive it on extended trips. The floor cleans up easily, the sound system works well, all controls can be read without problems and air conditioning and heating respond well in all weather.

Love my E

4.6
Zach on 04/19/2010

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought my Element from an old man with 17,000 on the odometer. Love the styling, the interior, everything about it. My only complaints are the performance ( no worries, e fans, you can find superchargers just for the element. How does 230 hp sound?) and the blind spots. If you're a careful driver, the blind spots won't be a problem.

I love my Element!

4.9
Sami on 04/14/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased an Element after seeing how the rear seats function. The best part for us was the fact they could be removed. I purchased this vehicle entirely for my dogs, because we're constantly on the road with them for dog-related activities. The person who reviewed the Element poorly, who also purchased it for their dogs, obviously didn't tie anything down. I put a big dog bed right behind the front seats, can stow up to 6 folding kennels against one side of the vehicle (there are tons of places to use bungee straps in this SUV!), an ice chest, folding chairs, luggage, etc. More than enough room for 2 adults and 3 big dogs. You just have to use your head when it comes to maximizing space!

Want Another

4.5
Mike on 04/01/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I will buy another element this year. The thing that I like most is the headroom and the ease of regress and egress. I have a fused neck so I cannot bend it and with the Element I don't have to bend my neck to get in or out. The car is a little noisy from the lack of carpet but you get used to it. Many nooks and crannies that coins get wedged in but not that much of a problem. All around a great car. Replaced a passenger window motor, a battery and was serviced regularly. Still have it 50k miles.

2005 Honda Element AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl)

4.6
Scott on 11/12/2009

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This has been one of the best vehicles I have ever purchased. I originally purchased it for myself till my wife drove it one day and it's been hers ever since. We are getting 24-25 mpg out of it. Tire wear has been excellent and performance is within reason. (It is a small SUV with a 4cyl. that is shaped like a brick.) The only regrets she has is she wishes it was the new orange instead of Red. I would recommend this car for anyone, it has been a real blessing. I, like everyone else, would like to see a little more gas mileage but it is a box going down the road. Overall it is completely functional.

A true utility vehicle

4.9
roger on 10/01/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My Element is now 4 years old with 60k miles and haven't had one problem. I have shoved so much stuff inside of it 2x4's, bikes, cabinets, firewood etc. It's a great vehicle for my family of four, plenty of room and easy for the kids to get in and out of. I am an avid snowboarder/mt biker and the Element is perfect for my outings. It tracks really good in snow, no problem doing 55mph in five inches of fresh snow. I have talked two (and working on the third) friends to buy one and they all say the same thing "I can't believe I waited this long to buy one". So go buy one.

Love it, but it fails for reliability

3.6
JZZDNCR on 07/07/2009

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

I have a 2005 well maintained and cared for Honda Element. It's my favorite all time car...that is until now. It's a manual transmission just over 50,000 mi and it's popping out of gears. I'm being told that I need a new transmission! Can this be? I bought this car new because after being a long time Volkswagon owner I decided I wanted a RELIABLE car. It's out of warranty, I'm out of work, and a new transmission will put me under. Reliability=Bad

The Element is just OK

3
rubio1010 on 06/16/2009

Performance: 2 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car for my dogs. I bought it for all of my activities. It's just OK. Driving is fine, not fun, just fine. Take every turn slowly as stuff slides back and forth over the entire plastic interior easily. This is not a "Dog Car." The rocking back and forth and sliding makes them car sick. Cleaning is not nearly as easy as it sounds. "Hosing it out" is not an option. Comfort? On short drives, less than 100 miles, it's ok. Anything longer and the plastic seats get stiff and sticky. I've had two windshields replaced from highway pebbles. That's annoying. The two reverse doors are awkward for passengers in the rear, and getting in and out of the back seats is very awkward.

2005 Honda element best vehicle ever..

5
HondaBaxter on 05/24/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle drives so smooth for an SUV, it handles so well around turns. This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. It is so good on gas to have all the room it has.

Worst car I have ever owned

2.8
Copywrites on 05/08/2009

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

If you are expecting perceived Honda quality, you will be very disappointed in the Element. It will start at about 3000 miles when your rear brakes will start grinding, Then at about 20,000 they will literally explode. Make sure you are always near a repair shop. At 45,000 miles you will need a new manual transmission because yours will pop out of gear at low speeds and require two hands to shift it into 1st or 2nd gear. Have no idea what to expect at 50K because I'm dumping it at 48K. Goodbye to the worst built car I have ever owned. (I have owned more than 30 cars BTW)

Awesome vehicle

4.8
Gary P on 04/29/2009

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this vehicle. I had always thought I wanted one, but it was not until I drove it that I had to have it! I think it is the most comfortable seats and I drive all over the country on long trips of more than 10 hours at a stretch. If you go from an American van to this, you will be in heaven! The only knock is the gas mileage, too many stops to refill. I do get in the twenties, generally 300 miles on a tank full, but I have run it to 360 miles. My ACN business keeps me on the road, and I practically live out of it.

Rocks!!!!!

4.6
DownUnder on 04/26/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had this vehicle for 5 years and it has been the best vehicle I have ever owned. 125,000+ miles and the only think I ever have to do is oil changes, tire rotation, and 1 set of new tires and brakes. VERY, VERY reliable and goes great in snow.

Adore it

5
pgray on 04/20/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my favorite vehicle of all time. I've driven Mercedes and Volvos, but nothing is as fun as this vehicle. The cargo capacity is great and it is good for hauling dogs, landscape materials, and antiques. Also, it gets good mileage. I adore it!

Best Vehicle We've Had

4.5
hillbilly on 03/15/2009

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We live at the end of a dead end road and our Element spends a LOT of time off road and on bad roads. Downsides are that the seats are a bit uncomfortable on long trips, the visibility is sometimes difficult with the side pillar, the gas mileage could be better. Also, the moon roof is way too difficult to replace after removing. Wish the rack spacing on the roof was longer. The wipe down seats and interior are wonderful for a canoe paddler that also hauls his dogs around. Have had it for going on 4 years and no problems except for drivers seat problems. Our Element has never been stuck except after a 6" ice storm. Routinely cross creeks et al on the farm and it rarely kicks into 4WD.

Please give me a 6th gear!!

3.5
Copywrites on 01/23/2009

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

If you like the sound of a high-revving engine, you will love the Element. If you like good gas economy, you will hate the Element. After 3 years of ownership, it is a love-hate relationship. I love the versatility - I can carry almost anything from bicycles inside the cargo area, to washing machines. But the high pitch whining of the engine drives me crazy knowing that a 6th gear or revised gearing would probably deliver me an extra 4-5 MPG. It has been one of my most favorite vehicles to own, but I won't buy another unless it breaks the 30 mpg barrier. Next car will be a Nissan Cube - similar quirkiness and functionality, good gas mileage. That is the magic combination in my opinion

In My Element

4.6
skinnerp on 09/05/2008

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Best car I've ever owned. AWD only kicks in when front tires slip and works perfectly, tons of interior room, sporty handling, and averages 24 mpg on the highway. Only maintenance required is changing the oil and filter. Everything works! One warranty repair of a seat belt buckle sensor in 40K miles.

I love my Element

4.6
hppywife on 08/15/2008

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My husband bought me my Element for our anniversary. I love it. I drove a Cavalier and I am more then happy with the trade. My kids have so much room and it is a fun family vehicle. It doesn't have the get up and go like I am use to but it has a lot more room and a lot more reliable. My kids love their sun roof. I just love this ride.

I love this car!!

4.9
Jaymi on 05/14/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased a 2007 Civic brand new last year and, while I loved it, it was terrible once winter hit. I traded it in for a 2005 Element and regretted it. Now, after owning the Element for about 6 months, I wouldn't give this car up for anything. I recently had to buy another Civic because of a new job with a long commute (the gas mileage is a lot better) and I feel terrible leaving the Element in the garage while I go to work. This is truly the best car I have ever owned. The Element has an incredibly smooth ride, is easy to park, has a ton of room and is great for dog owners. I can spill things and not worry about them at all!

Good reliable car

4.5
Ross on 04/14/2008

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car initially b/c of it's roominess. I am 6'4 and I don't think there is any other small SUV with this much room. I would also put it to the test even with the large SUVs. Easy to get in and out of. Gas mileage is better than most SUVs. Easy to keep clean. And, it's the perfect car for city driving and parking. Just enough performance on the road to keep up with everyone. I will own this car likely until it dies. 40,000+ miles in two years and no problems whatsoever (except for chipped windshield).

pretty good deal

4.1
kathy on 04/04/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my Element brand new. It has really been good to me overall. the only problem I have is with gas mileage. I love my Element except for the mileage. It handles well and does very well in the snow.

not built to last

2.1
a de la ossa on 03/26/2008

Performance: 2 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

After only 15,000 miles the authorized Honda service dealer has had me replace the battery and tires-- 15,000 miles. In addition, the exterior body is extremely prone to dings, as the metal is very thin. Dent Doctor franchisees love this car. This car has soured me on Honda.

Element

4.6
j on 03/15/2008

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has not had any problems and is the most functional vehicle we have ever owned.

In the ELEMENTs

4.5
c_go_oldland on 01/18/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I hated this car at first. I opted for the manual tranny. After about 6 months behind the wheel, I fell in love and have intention of letting "scarlet" go!

No, it really is a Honda.

4.9
Kent on 12/02/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It might look like a toaster, but inside it really is a Honda. Good build quality, though the materials seem plain or plastic, but that is what they are because the vehicle is all about being utilitarian. This vehicle really a swiss army knife that you can drive. The doors open wide (side loading). seats fold up and out of the way, and if you need to carry a 2X4 over 11 feet long, you open up the sun roof and stuff it in. Gas mileage at 24+ on the highway could be better. At first my wife hated my toy, however everywhere we go we seem to take it not because it rides the best it is OK, but a truck. We take it because you never know what kind or size of treasure she may find.

An offroad interlude

3.9
rob on 11/29/2007

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my E as a conscession to my then partner. I was pleasantly surprised at what it could do off the beaten path. I am also disappointed in what it lacks in power, towing ability and traction ""out of the box"".

I'm a fan for life

4.6
E. Hall on 10/16/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element is a dream for tall people! I've more head room than any other vehicle I've every been in. Safety wise I give it outstanding marks. I was rear ended by a Chevy Tahoe doing 90mph+, I was driving 50 mph, and walked away without a scratch or bump. Also a dream for someone with shedding dogs. The Element cleans very easily.

I love toast!!

4.9
lstallberg on 09/26/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is without a doubt the coolest vehicle I have ever owned!! I had not even seen the inside of one until the day I bought it. I bought the 2nd one I drove. It has a ton of room, great response for a 4 cyl engine, and a lot of cool features.

Lovin it

4.6
Element Owner on 07/24/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great vehicle for what I like to do, camp, bike and hike. Kids love it. Wife and daughter are horse folks and works out great for them too. Cleans up great, hauls tons of stuff, great AC.

Own 4 Elements

5
We own 4 Elements on 06/09/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love this car. Currently shopping for the 5th in our family. Everyone who rides in ours buys one. This car is a blast to drive and VERY comfortable. Will own this for 10 years.

My second Element in 6 months

5
WSMSTR on 06/03/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought a 2007 Element which is phenomenal in bad weather, so when the chance to pick up a 2005 model arose, it was a no-brainer. This is a different kind of SUV. You're not going to go tearing around corners with it, but you will enjoy cruising on long rides.

Love me some Element

4.9
gamoore on 05/29/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

One of the least expensive 4WD vehicles on the market. It has more rear seat passenger room than my Suburban. You can even recline in the backseats. Just fold the backseats up and you have tons of room. It's fun and comfortable to drive, great in snow, and it's a Honda. The resale values I've seen are really good. I own a Ford Explorer, and GMC Suburban also, but I prefer to drive the element. The next vehicle I purchase will be another Honda Element. For the money and qualty get the Element.

Love the interior

4.6
Christy peterson on 05/26/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have 4 pets and I love the easy clean up. I love this vehicle for its many uses and reliability. Could improve on wind noise, longer and wider visor, roll down back windows, maybe coarse rubber in rear section to keep things for sliding

Practical car with hidden benifits

3.9
dwillington on 04/19/2007

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this car b/c it was inexpensive and seemed practical. I have to admit I was attracted to its styling also. It looked cool. The car has been good to me. The biggest plus I have to say is space. Don't let it fool you, there is a lot of room inside. I was able to move between apartments in 3 trips with this car, fitting beds, desks, etc. It is not for long distance, and is loud at high speeds. It doesn't get too dirty, and has so much room to put stuff, wallets, keys, phone, anything. The mp3 audio port is a great feature. I need something faster and better looking though, so am trading it for Benz/BMW.

great utility vehicle

4.6
Matt Bowman on 02/11/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Our Element has been GREAT! Very dependable and versatile- will haul most anything you can fit into it! The stereo, heater and AC work very well, and the controls are very easy to use. Snow and icy road conditions have been no problem at all. Even after owning all brands of 4-wheel drive vehicles, the Element performs as good as any of them. It seems that the gas mileage should be better for a four cylinder (ours gets a real-world 21-25) and the sunroof would be much better if placed over the front seats. The interior passenger room is amazing- everyone who looks inside is surprised at the amount of passenger/ cargo room. Our two teenage kids can even stretch out.

From dislike to admiration

4.9
D on 01/19/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My wife was due for a new vehicle and really liked the idea of an Element. She test drove one and loved it. I thought it was the ugliest vehicle made since the Gremlin and shuddered at the thought of having to see it in the driveway everyday. As a result, I tried relentlessly to talk her out of it and we test drove 6 other make and models of compact SUV / wagons before I drove the Element. To her credit she looked at the other vehicles with an open mind, asked plenty of questions, but in the end was still focused on the Element. So, it was finally time for me to get over my prejudice and test drive none. Although the appearance is still growing on me it is without a doubt the most functional

My 5th and best Honda

4.8
Sold on Honda on 11/29/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Honda Element is functional and great to drive. With XM radio, I have lots of music choices, too. I've hauled furniture and boxes and taken people on sightseeing rides in the area. Great visibility for all, since the back seat is raised. Enough power and stability for me, too. And only 6 inches wider than my last Honda Civic. I especially like the molded pieces on the front and back fenders. Gas mileage is okay for a heavy vehicle. I traded in my 2000 Honda Civic Coupe and find the Element seating to be more comfortable. Good maneuverability.

In my element with the Element

4.8
ray on 11/25/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Recently retired and traded in a small pickup for an Element. Great vehicle! The plastic cladding on the exterior has protected me from a lot of rock hits. I have had it in a snow storm at Tahoe, camping at the coastal redwoods, hauling dogs and/or people and road tripping so this is a very adaptable auto. Added a trailer hitch for external bikes and a roof rack for a kayak. I will be keeping this Honda until Honda comes out with a diesel or hybrid 4 cylinder.

2005 Element LX-M

4.8
Rick on 10/11/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Amazing room, great versatility, lacking in some pick up speed. Miles per gallon could be better. Reliability is bullet-proof, day in day out. Comfort, ride, superior build quality. Easily a 10.

Happy with my element!

5
Douglas Bomzer on 08/31/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Such a great truck, its like a toy! I love my element so much, just take one for a test drive an di promise you will understand how much I love mine. Roomy, versatile, great handling, a pleasure to drive and all my friends love to go aorund town in it!

Perfect

5
katy7964 on 08/24/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle is fabulous! The interior design is great. Despite only seating 4 it holds a ton and is roomy due to the design and flexibility of moving seats etc. It has a tiny turn radius, better than my previous coupe! I have the 5 speed and get really good gas mileage.

quirky looks, versatile vehicle

4.9
Maria on 08/23/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very fun to drive. Still a head turner. More interior room than my Nissan minivan, but shorter and easier to park. No mechanical problems to date. My 1st Honda, very impressed. Very solid, super leg and head room, only seats 4 though. I can haul just about anything and the interior floor matting is wonderful - I never want carpet again. Great for dog, crates and plants. No problem with the tall stance, the wind does not buffet it on the highway. The 5 speed manual transmission is a joy. Great sound, like the power outlets. Love the location of the shifter. Fun, fun, fun!!!

I love my box!

5
Jeff on 08/18/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Although some of my friends think its ugly, I think it is awesome. The design is love it or hate it, but the utility of this vehicle has no comparison. We take it surfing, to Home Depot, to the clubs, to the grocery store, and even on some road trips.

Flying Toaster on Wheels

3.8
Flying Toaster on 08/12/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Make sure you test drive this car before you buy! If you haullot's it's perfect. If for sheer driving pleasure, don't! The stock Wranler tires do a GREAT disservice to the car. The plastic in the car scratches EASY. You have to pamper what you put in or it WILL tear up. Gas mileage with K&N air filter is 24- 25 hwy and 21-22 city. Highway noise comes thru the cabin and the Wrangler tires don't help. Near 90-degree windshield catches rocks, bug etc that would bounce of more streamlined windshield. Engine in very adequate. For lot's of cabin space, there seems to be little of for actual driver accessible storage, unless you put stuff on segmented dash-tray. Oil filter crammed in.

Element!

4.9
cherubrocky on 08/10/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

So I've had my element a year now, and have been pleasently pleased with this vehicle. I've put nearly 30k miles on it in one year driving cross country. I am completely content with it! Easy to clean, works well taking it up to hood to snowboard!

I Love My Element

4.9
Ask Him on 07/27/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

Not For Everyone, But Perfect for Me

4.5
Reid on 07/23/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle isn't a perfect fit for everyone, but you should consider it if you need lots of cargo room in a small package, you need a car that's easy to clean, you aren't a speed demon (acceleration is only fair and RPMs run pretty high even at 65 mph), you have to deal with snowy roads on a regular basis, you want a vehicle with a plethora of interior storage compartments, and you're poor (or cheap) enough that you'd rather sleep in your car than in a hotel room.

Best ever dog crate!

4.9
kmagman on 07/07/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I really LOVE this Element. I have 3 Australian Shepherds who travel everywhere with me and I can fit 3 dogs crates in the back with no problem. Cleaning the interior is easy. The Element handles well, handles mountain grades with ease and has reasonable fuel economy at 23-24 mpg. Great ski vehicle too!

Honda Element

5
Tim on 06/20/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

So far its a fantastic, practical vehicle. No problems in first year of ownership. A breeze to clean inside, the EX has a completely washable interior, including the headliner.

This element rocks

4.6
mac on 05/13/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've driven this car hard for 25 k in year with not a single part to break or malfunction. I've hauled a 16 foot touring kayak inside the car to and from the beach. Interior is awesome for space. Great stereo with xm satellite radio. My ten year old son loves it "because I get a lot of fun out of it." He likes to fold the seats back all the way flat.

yesssssssss

5
chris on 05/09/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had the vehicle for almost a year now and can't believe i've driven it 32000 miles already. From eastern long island and my car has been everywhere from richmond va to rhode island. I use it for work everyday and can really pile the stuff in there, just the other day, I had 3 new air conditioners plus a sleeve and it fit, no other words but WOW thanks honda. ps getting around 26 on 87 octane after 20000 was on it

Luv my Element!

5
J.T.Wallace on 05/06/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I like this vehicle better than any I have ever owned (I am age 62 and have driven or owned many vehicles). Fun to drive, loads of room and very practical... it is just me! Just as comfortable on long trips as running down to get a few groceries, click on cruise control and gas mileage is even better. Climbs mountains with ease and handles curves on switchback roads well. I have recommended it to others many times.

Love my black-on-black Element

5
E-Chick on 04/29/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I got a great deal on a great car-truck-SUV-thingee after loads of research on other vehicles....started off wanting an Xterra or Rav4, then tested a Liberty. Hadn't even thought of an Element because to be honest and shallow? I hated the grey panel thing...then I found the black-paneled black EX and couldn't believe how awesome it looked and performed and got decent mileage too. Plus I bought carpet with mine - very cool! Inside and out I'm pleased and believe my Honda will be at least as reliable as my Toyota. Highly recommend the E...the EX-P models really make it more attractive to more people.

Outside Vehicle

4.9
s on 04/25/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

If you like the outdoors and want a vehicle that is made for fun...get an Element. For small SUVs the mileage is good and it is very spacious. Versatality is the word for the Element, tranform it according to want/need. The easy clean inside is perfect for camping, dogs, kids, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoors activity you enjoy. Take it for a spin...

Terrific Value

4.8
Will on 04/17/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We are extremely happy with our Element. It's great in snow and high winds. It turns incredibly tight. It has great visibility and is very negotiable. Since we have a baby and two big dogs, I also like its loading practicality and ease of cleaning. This Element is my third Honda, after owning a Civic and an Accord. I'm a big fan of Honda engineering, and the Element doesn't disappoint in this regard. The brakes, as usual, are terrific. Nothing breaks. After 26k miles, I've had no repairs to make, and only paid out about $100-- all for regularly scheduled oil changes. The mileage is respectable, too. I'm getting 26-28 on the highway. I commend this car to anyone who compares it to others.

Awesome

4.6
Rich Love on 04/16/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element is near perfect for my needs. All four seats lay back (flat). The rear seats fold up to the side for open storeage. If that does not make enough room, the rear seats can be removed within two minutes. Also I have not seen so much rear seat leg room since the 1940s. I like having a tailgate too.

The best car I have ever had !

5
Neal on 04/10/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We got this car over a year age and its been a great car, Lots of headroom and legroom and really fun to own and drive. Everybody that looks at it wants to testdrive one and asks lots of questions. It has plenty of power and great looks too. We own a Pilot and the Element and love them both. I would never buy anything else but Honda.

Practical, Reliable & Fuel Efficient

4.9
hElement on 03/25/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This has to be one of the strangest automobile purchases I've ever made. It took me 2 years to get used to the funky looks to even give one a look through and upon that I bought it on impluse (my Mazda was having a lot of problems and warranty was about to expire at 36k). This mini/suv drives just like a car and can be tossed into turns for fun, but can go off road and get through some real 4x4 trails (nothing extreme) without getting stuck.

So far - so good.

4.4
Glen on 03/23/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

No problems and seems to have plenty of power compared to the Toyota 4 Runner I traded in, plus it gets better mileage. It would be nice if it would get 30 MPG but it won't. Rear sunroof is a waste.

Great for Dogs

4.9
Tara Harden on 03/22/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My husband commutes to work and we have dogs, so we needed a vehicle that could handle all our requirements. The Honda Element is perfect. It gets great gas mileage, but is tough enough to handle having our two weimaraners in the back. There's plenty of room for all of our "stuff" and the dogs when we go on long trips. Honda's been a great service and maintenance provider and the quality of their product is outstanding. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone--not just commuters and dog people.

This one deserves MORE accolades....

5
jockstarla on 03/16/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was afraid after owning an Audi TT and a Mini Cooper S just prior to the Element that I was going to be very disappointed. Initially, I missed changing gears and zipping around my fellow Angelinos... but, man, the trade-off in terms of being able to lug things around easily, getting to see over all those cars in front of me, having 3 REAL cupholders instead of 1 (kinda) cupholder.... the creature comforts add up to satisfaction.

My baby Stella

4.9
Stella on 03/14/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Drives like a dream. She glides on a smooth road and isn't intimidated by ice or snow. I've lived with her in Indiana and Colorado - and I tell ya, she eats ice for breakfast. The cargo room is incredible. The seats are comfortable. And there's some special bond that all Element owners seem to carry and share with one another. :)

My Honda Element

4.9
Honda Element on 03/11/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned my Honda Element for 3 months, I have 3000+ miles on it. Would it have enough pep, get up and go for me? Yes it does. I like view from my drivers seat, you set high and can see outside from all angles. It will surprise you when you open all four doors and see all the room there is inside. I like the rear the way it opens up to load in and out. There was a lot of thought put into this SUV and I have nothing I can say against it at this time. I like this satelite radio XM. The longer I have this car the better I like it. No I am not a kid I am 75 years young and am looking forward to traveling over the USA in this vehicle. I love to go fishing and camping it sleeps two.

Awesome!!!

4.5
marty on 03/11/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Suv that's lots of fun to drive! Great in the snow, plenty of pep to get up the big hills. Good stereo, tons of room. Good heater/air conditioner. Lots of storage space.

My Element, My Style

4.4
Mike on 03/03/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I like my Element, it is the most useful vehicle I have ever owned. People tell me they don't like the look...I say drive it and you will be a convert too.

The Happy Car

4.9
JJM on 03/02/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Our Element has been a joy to drive and own. We call it our "happy car". We took out the back seats and use the rear area for dogs and luggage. The XM sattelite radio and a great standard sound system is a big plus. We have the roof-top luggage carrier which works very well; quiet and relatively eassy to get on and off. Great car overall. Little on the outside and big on the inside.

Practical

4.9
bdkamin on 03/02/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When I was looking for a vehicle in the $20k range, the Element met more criteria than any other vehicle. Friends of mine have doubted my purchase because of its appearance. After riding in it with me, there opinions change. In fact, less than than a month after my purchase, a friend bought the same thing while another is thinking about it.

Drive one first

4.5
bille on 02/28/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I enjoy this trucklet. I had to replace the driver armrest with a larger one offered by Honda. I am a big guy and love the room. The big point for me was that I was able to get a manual tranmission. The AWD is the best. Room behind the back seats for the dog. Love XM radio. And super easy to clean and keep clean. I put a new chrome grill on it and that helped the ugly of the snout. All this and a place to sit when we tail gate. " a real tail gate" Check out this special SUV.

Excellent vehicle

5
Ann Curran on 02/21/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We have been 100% satisfied with our Element and are thinking of buying a second one when our other car dies. The Element is practical, well made, reliable and fun to drive.

February '06

4.1
Spike on 02/12/2006

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When driving this vehicle, you get a sense of driving a much larger vehicle. There is a lot of room inside and ample headroom for taller passengers. I love the sound when you close the doors. Sounds solid. Handles extremely well. Great turning radius. Could use more power but all the positives outweigh the minuses.

Worth every penny!

5
jason on 02/02/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After doing a lot of research, reading review after review, I decided to purchase my EX AWD. The Element is everything I expected and more! Road noise isnt bad as people make it out to be, and it has plenty of power to get up and go! Handling is exellent for everyday driving. I have owned it for a week now and I have zero complaints. The Element is very spacious, my 6'4 friend fit very confortable in the back seat. The stereo is way above average and sounds crystal clear. Try finding a 2005 EX AWD leftover at a dealership,you might get a great deal like I did, paying $19,000 with only 32 miles on it... yes just 32.

Honda Element

4.8
Ray Price on 01/31/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The only thing that has gone wrong is that several times I've turned the a/c on and it didn't come on. I had to turn it on and off several time and let it stay off for a minute or so and then it came on. I think that there is some small problem in the vaccum line. I must take it to the dealership for them to look at this.

Honda Element: Almost Perfect

4.8
Lex on 01/25/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've been driving my Element for about a month, and I still get excited just looking at it. It really can't be beat. There are only 2 negative things I can say: 1) The area on the bottom where the door closes gets scratched up easily if you have anything other than tennis shoes, and 2) The tires seem to slip a little when I start moving semi-quickly and the ground is wet (once moving, there is no slippage, breaking is fine too, I don't know why it does that). You can speed up quickly once moving, just don't "Put the pedal to the metal" at take-off! (Again, that is only when the ground is wet). All in all, I love it 100 times more than the Rav4 I was previously driving!

Recommend to buy

5
boeru on 01/16/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought this car about nine months ago and my wife and I love to drive it. It was very reliable with good mileage and what we like the most is the multiple possibilities to adjust the seats.

Orange BOXX

4.5
DirtGhost on 01/06/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

If you are looking for a cool ride with a "fun to drive attitude" you have choosen the correct ride. Lots of interior room. Rear sets can fold up and out of the way or can be removed or out into a bed if needed for those camping nights. Front seats are comfy fully adjustable ride height. Easy to operate right off the lot. Nice large wndshield area . Comfy sport ute to play with . Awd model is what I have . I will say this one thing it takes only 1/2 second for the rear wheels to kick in when need it. Last thing FUN TO DRIVE

Ugly... but Fun, Reliable, and Handy

5
Student on 01/03/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Sure it's ugly, but I got used to the odd shape, and I'm even starting to think it's pretty cool looking. I am in a band and I originally wanted a car that I could easy stow my gear in. I looked at all the options, but I was intrigued by the Element. I wasn't impressed by the engine, but soon found that it was definitely enough power for day to day driving, as well as hauling some loads. The stain resistant and water resistant interior is a HUGE plus, and has saved me on more than one occasion. I have seen complaints over the clamshell doors, but who can really complain about getting in? Once you're in the rear seating is great with, dare i say, FUN theatre seating and plenty of room. A+ Car!

Fun to drive and you will love it.

4.9
Doc on 01/02/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Almost 2K miles on our 05 Elle EX auto tranny and gets 20 mpg in town and 24 on the road. Gas mileage could be better, but hey, it has the aero-dynamics of a brick pushing air but the most fun vehicles this senior citizen has ever owned, and I'm hard to impress. If you have bad knees, back or hip it is soooo easy to get in and out and tall folks will have six inches of head room and all the leg room you ever need and you will not feel cramped in an Elle. Too many features to put here so go to your Honda dealer and let them demo and you will be very impressed at how many features for such a low price. Hondas hold their value.

A Fabulous "F"-Rating All Around!

5
SLPerry on 12/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This past summer I decided to buy myself what I referred to as "the last vehicle I'll ever buy." So I bought the '05 EX AWD 4dr (4cyl-4A) Element, moved everything into storage, loaded up the luggage, two cats, and just "took off" driving around the country for several months. In less than 4 months I have driven almost 19,000 miles at all speeds (yes, over 100mph up a steep grade, without incident or issue!), and in most all road (and some off-road), traffic, and weather conditions; it excels in handling, power (that's one gutsy 4- cyl, V-tech engine!), comfort and fuel- efficiency, let alone functionality and just plain fun! It also makes a great pet and people transport vehicle. I love it!

I Love my Element

3.8
Rick H on 12/18/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Cons of the Element are few but may be a killer for some. There is not a abundence of power. The 4 cyl gives enough power to survive, but not to thrive in high speed take offs in very busy traffic. Pick up & go is best when swiching off overdrive and running thru the gears(Auto version). This is an old school trick almost nobody uses any more. The plactic (just like out side panels) under the seat belts wears from the belt connector rubbing against it. There is no way to make it look new again or bring the color back to normal.

Versatile and functional

4.8
mthorn on 12/14/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element is the most adaptible vehicle I have ever owned. It allows me to use it for any task. It also allows me to have access to the rear seat comparment with having to move. This was critical to me because I use a wheelchair. For this reason alone the EX was the vehicle for me. Since my prior vehicle was a MB I have certain standards for quality and finish and I found the element offered these at a reasonable price.

Perfect for what it is designed to do

5
Larry on 12/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The vehicle is just about perfectly suited for our needs (2 adults, 2 teenagers, one large dog); both long and short drives. It cruises easily at 80/90. The vehicle corners well and is surprisingly quick. Some other reviewers wanted a larger engine – none is needed if you get the manual transmission and rev the engine a little while shifting – Honda has low rev shift points the auto transmission. The EX comes with a better suspension than the model below it. I have had several vans, various sedans, and several sports cars, so I have a reasonable idea of different vehicles – no one wants to use our much more expensive conversion van anymore, other than for camping trips.

Not your average SUV

4.8
Thomas on 12/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Not your average SUV. The Element is EXACTLY what a SUV should be .... versital, functional, and of course fun to drive. What more could one ask ?? And of course it is a HONDA !! Seeing that my first Honda, a 1990 CRX is still on the road that is saying quite a bit.

E is Excellent Everyday SUV

4.3
RAMZOHIO on 12/10/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After 6000 miles in 5 months. I love it, but it is not sporty enough or fun to drive with the automatic transmission. The Element is an excellent work vehicle if you need cargo room and ease of use and loading/unloading for delivery. The Element is great if you have small children, or dogs, or get messy, because it is easy to clean...I recommend it, but not for everyone. I carried a 7-foot sofa without removing the rear seats, just folded them up. WOW! Hey, it is a HONDA!!!!

Honda Reliability

4.8
mascolt on 12/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element is definately misleading at first glance. Once you are inside the vehicle, you forget that you are driving this boxy, compact SUV. The ride is extremely comfortable and, being 8" shorter than a Civic, one can park anywhere with ease. The AWD has been perfect in the ice and snow of hilly Connecticut. The special material used for the seats and floor is easy to clean and doesn't absorb odors or spills. The one downside is that the fuel economy and could be a little better. It is still excellent with a 22.5 mpg, but, if Honda can get it up to 30, it would be perfect. On the flipside, I'd like to see a model wit increased hp, even though 2006's is slightly decreased.

Fun to Drive

4.9
Jim on 12/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun car - well thought-out. Great for outdoor activities. Interior made for bicycling, fishing, camping, etc. Far above average stereo. Very stable, brakes superbly. A life-style choice.

Lovin' my Element

4.9
gary on 11/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the most practical vehicle I've ever owned. It's a hoot to drive and it's as rugged as it is dependable. Sometimes aerodynamics are overated. This little "box" gets 25+ MPG and keeps up with most vehicles on the Interstate. However, it could use a couple more inches of ground clearance.

Excellent vehicle for mothers.

5
honda element on 11/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Who knew someone thought about mothers and their babies. I love the water proof seats and floor and ready made bed for those long days at the park and the mall. Thank you Honda for thinking of us. Now I do not have to worry about my car smelling like Similac or trying to scrub those juice stains.

Salesman's Dream

4.9
beerman19841 on 11/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

As a sales rep for a map company, I use my Element to haul my product to service my route. I love the amount of cargo space and headroom (I'm 6'5") and it is just plain fun to drive. I have plenty of power and the gas mileage (22- 25 mpg) is a major plus.

True MPV Not SUV

4.8
4fun on 11/08/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very unique vehicle. You'll get the stare. It's an MPV not an SUV. Small but great for big people. Gets tossy not tippy on high speed. Not a racer but a pacer. Front passenger seat is too low and cannot be adjusted like the driver seat. Fun to drive with great sound system. Good low center gravity well grounded. Fits my lifestyle and certainly not for everyone. I prefer the EX-P Tangerine model with matching body color panel.

In My Element

4.6
Daisy on 11/07/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element is so much fun to drive that for the first time ever I don't care if I'm driving the ugliest car on the road. I rather enjoy the looks! Also, the car feels solid. When you close the rear doors, it sounds like a heavy, well-made vehicle, not a hunk of metal just put together cheaply. I'm looking forward to the AWD in the snow this winter.

Nice Alternative

4.8
Chewdoggie on 11/06/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I actually just bought my second Honda Element this last August. I was a little leery of its initial looks, but once I sat in the car I was sold. Have not regretted it since. Sure its boxy, but there is so much room and versatility. Mileage is good considering the shape - 22/26. Enough power and the AWD does just fine in the dunes/beaches of Pismo, CA. Plus it's a Honda... great reliability.

Fun and Functional

4.9
Glenn on 11/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element has been the most fun and functional vehicle I have ever owned. I can use it to haul most anything I need, including passengers comfortably. The fit and finish have been incredible: not a single trip to the dealer for anything other than oil changes in 18 mos. What I like most is its funky looks. Stands out from the crowd, and is easy to find in the parking lot.

A great little SUV for all around duty

4.9
Wm. Rohrey on 11/03/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I think this is one of the best for overall use. It has enough power to do most all jobs its ask to perform & the gas mileage is good. The use for hauling things is great & its easy to load. The only thing I see wrong is the fact that you must open the front doors to be able to open the rear doors. I guess this is a safety thing? But overall the Element has been great fun to drive & handles very well.Hope Honda makes more improvements to this car.

MY FAVORITE ELEMENT

4.9
BIGDOG on 11/03/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has solved so many of the reason why we needed a new car. Affordable, reliable and fuel efficient for an SUV. I am 6'2" and 250 and have long legs and this is the only SUV we found that had sufficient headroom and legroom. Plus with the seats in the cargo configuration, I was able to buy a washing machine and was able to take it home in the element. Awesome machine. Thanks Honda.

It's Elemental

4.6
elaygee on 11/03/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We liked the Element we bought in 2003 so much we bought another in 2004. His and His models. They are versatile, super functional and really zip around. Can cruise at 90 on turnpike or slow go at the beach.

The Perfect Solutioin

5
Arnold B Bondley on 11/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is an excellent utility vehicle capable of hauling large-volume loads and filling the need for reliable and economical everyday transportation. The design inside and out was carefully considered and has proven to be ergonomically correct and durable. The styling will prove to be much more timeless than most other vehicles. Resale value remains excellent.

I love my Element

5
JayRod on 10/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had this vehicle for 6 months now. The ride is stiff. It uses more gas than my accord 4 cylinder. But it's considered a truck or compact SUV so I'm not taking anything away for that. For the $21k sticker and fully loaded with premium wheels, AWD, and XM satellite radio, it's a bargain for a SUV.

Needs a hybrid 6

3.9
Needs a hybrid 6 on 10/28/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great design - the folding seat, the suicide doors. It already seems to appeal to eco-friendly types. Listen to the other reviews and give it a 6 cyl engine for more HP, but make it a hybrid for better gas mileage.

I love my Element!

4.9
MK on 10/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The thing I love most about my Element is that it's so unique. There are no other SUVs out there that even compare to the Element, inside or out. It drives great and corners very well for an SUV. It's extremely spacious without being too plain. It has so many accesories you can get to personalize your Element to fit your lifestyle. It's really an SUV that will do anything you want it to do, be anything you want it to be. Whether it's hauling people from place to place or using it as a tent, it does all things well!

Function, Fun, Turns Heads!

4.1
baddawg on 10/27/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Purchased EX ltd ed last summer - great function (holds 8ft lumber), very functional and convenient entry rear and front, seating OK, great flexibility. Good driving - sufficient power, Excellent saftey features, many convenience items Std., sound system VG. Suburban (40mph) and highway (60- 70 mph) mileage a bit disappointing, but it is an SUV. Well engineered and built. No regrets, zero initial problems!

A Home Run by Honda

5
Anthony on 10/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Honda hit a home run with the design of the Element. Element gives you the best of all worlds. It has the smooth ride of a car, the safety of an SUV, and the cargo hauling ability of a truck. The functionality and design of the Element has to be seen to be appreciated. Fuel economy is acceptable. The 4 cylinder engine has surprising pep making everyday commuting fun and comfortable. The stereo in the EX AWD is awesome. The price of the Element is very reasonable, especially considering the quality and features the Element offers. Our first camping trip with the Element was so much fun. There was enough room for 2 adults and a dog to sleep comfortably inside.

Flawed But Fun

4.5
steve on 10/25/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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 it's boxy shape and weight. Acceleration is decent, handling for a four-wheeled box is reasonable and the amount of roominess inside is amazing. It's also very comfortable on a long road trip. On the whole, this is a lot of car for the money.

Owner and lover

4.9
stan bost on 10/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this car. It has orignal ideas, great visiabilty, good fuel mileage, and is very easy to get in to and out of. I would have put lights in the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel. The price of the add on options like side steps and mud guards and other items is way too high. Also I would make the sun roof in the back a slide back not a lift out so it could be used while driving

Awsome Work Vehicle

4.6
Rivak Hoffman on 10/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My 2005 Element is my work vehicle. I travel approx 200 miles per day as a mobile Personal Trainer. The Element easily stores all my equipment in it, and things are easy to get to. The only negative is the gas mileage. Highway is approx 21 mpg and city is 18 mpg. With the 12 gallon tank you can go 250 miles before fill-up Other than that, this vehicle is an awesome eye opener! And you feel very safe in it. The car represents to future of SUV's

Love my Element

4.5
Terry Mull on 10/16/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great, affordable and useful vehicle. I needed a versatile car that could haul my hang glider and still cart my family around during the week and me to work. This car does it all.

What an SUV is supposed to be

4.8
Terry on 10/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

SUVs were meant to be used for working..the home improvement store, dogs, etc. The Element fits that category. Great for driving to work, but hauls hay too. Handles difficult weather conditions on the road extremely well. Easy to clean...aimed towards kids going to the beach..Honda has found that its the adult of any age with an active lifestyle that's purchasing them.

Honda Element EX is GREAT!

4.3
seattle_driver on 10/11/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Wow! I just bought a Honda Element EX and it is so cool! You're likely to get funny looks from people, but this is a really great car and quite versatile. It has great pickup, cool features, a lot of flexibility for carrying gear or up to 4 adventurers (extra cargo space required if traveling with 4--use the roof rack). Also, you gotta love the suicide doors.

Fun and reliable

5
Pat on 10/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very comfortable, easy to drive, pretty good gas mileage and very relable. what else could be said. The most fun car I have ever owned.

Only one problem

4.1
Mr. E on 10/07/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I hate the instrument cluster. When are automakers going to get a clue, and start mounting the instruments so we don't have to peer through a tiny hole in the steering wheel to see the gauges? Counterexamples: Scion xB and Mini Cooper, whose instrument visibility is unmatched. So, even though the Element's steering wheel can "adjust" (DOWN, helpful if you're 4 feet tall) and the driver's seat can "adjust" (UP, improves visibility using the generous headroom), the only way I can see the speedometer is with the seat DOWN and the steering wheel UP. So no adjustment is actually possible, if you're an average 5'8" guy like me! If you're taller, you'll likely never see half the speedometer...

Fun, Fun, Fun

4.8
Kim on 10/07/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Always fun to drive. Room and then some inside. Comfortable and versatile. The only thing I would change; more HP!!

Very Practical (but for 2 people)

4.8
sundeep on 10/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have enjoyed driving this vehicle very much. Very comfortable for long drive. Rear doors can be little bit uncomfortable in the parking lot when you have passengers but it is great when you have bags, you can throw it at the back seat easily.

Great Car - Few Problems

4.6
Leah on 09/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Love the car, but miss a front seat sun roof. Only other problem is the lack of protecton for the radiator. Had to go out and purchase Gutter Guard to attach in front to protect radiator from rocks and such. Also, daytime running lights should have been standard. If gas mileage were as advertised, I would recommend the Element to everyone; however, the mileage sticker borders on fraudulent.

Best MPG for the Cargo space

3.8
Michael S. on 09/23/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

My review has to do with your MPG vs. Cargo space... and I believe this car/SUV accomplishes the best in its class. Very happy with gas mileage. Solid construction. Good suspension. Fantastic brakes. Freezing AC. Very little to complain about.

2004 Element 4WD EX

4.9
Nate Hawkins on 09/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I highly recommend an Element to anyone interested. Goes great in the snow! The all wheel drive is, in my opinion, mandatory. It is seamless. Very reasuring on otherwise hazardous roads. I currently have 51,200 miles (I bought it new) on my 2004 and have had no service issues. This thing is built great! I'm even still on the original tires.

not for elderly passengers

4.8
hawaiigirl on 09/23/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I truely love to drive this car and its great for just 2 and the dog holds everything, but taking elderly passengers in the back seat can be challenging. They have a hard time getting up and in and getting out. With the front door open, there is no frame for them to hold on to and you need a lot of side space to open the back door. I have a sun roof which can be too bright for those in the back seat while traveling since there is no ceiling panel to close it off. Thinking about tinting it darker. Unless you are a basketball player, you need a ladder to wash this car.

Windshield concerns

4
Vick on 09/23/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The only complaint is that in less than 18 months and more than 30,000 miles of ownership I have experienced THREE windshield cracks from pebbles hitting my windshield. I emphasize pebbles! These were not even what I would classify as small rocks. Two fractures were repairable at $50 each but the third one was a major fracture that could not be repaired and required the windshield be replaced. This has made me seriously consider trading this vehicle in for something else.

Missed your target market by a mile!

5
Barb on 09/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned lots of cars, from sports cars to Suburbans to pickup trucks. This is the best! I am an older woman with dogs and an active lifestyle. My husband and I are also King-Sized people and the dogs are Golden Retrievers. We go to dog shows, we drove back and forth to Florida twice, we even go offroad! This car is fabulous AND comfortable. And my i-Pod fits right into it with awesome sound from the sub-woofer. The car is fantastic on our steep driveway in NY for the winters, and great on the sandy beaches. And it is so easily cleaned --- no dog hairs! I think the design is funky and I just love it.

Best all around vehicle I've owned

4.9
David George on 09/21/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

You can take a long trip in this car and not feel completely wrecked when you arrive. Very comfortable ride and tons of passenger space. Limo room, turn on a dime, and short enough to parallel park anywhere! Use the cruise control though; it feels like 50 mph when you're doing 70 mph or better. I have a Honda DelSol which feels like I'm wearing it when I'm driving; the Element is the same length and feels like you're in your living room. I can't say enough. Also 25mpg from day one!

Excellent, a car for everyone!

5
Silly boy on 09/20/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this Element! I would buy this SUV again. The gas mileage is perfect and the price I was given was just awesome. This suv couldnt get any better! The comfort was superior. Anybody who thought this car was a poor decision to get, well, they thought wrong. I am really glad that Honda came out with an SUV that would put up to many customers standards.

Excellent SUV

5
Joseph Lipnickas on 09/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A versitile SUV. The various ways the seats can be folded or removed makes this truck great. Combines a SUV with a cargo van. Waterproof interior a breeze to clean-just don't aim the hose towards the speakers. Plus Honda's reliabilty. I traded my 1991 Honda Civic with 189,000 miles in for the Element. The Civic was still running great 14 years later but my kids need something bigger.

Looks aren't everything

4.6
stevexjet on 09/17/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Remeber that girl from high school that everybody liked but didn't want to be seen with? Well the car version of her is the Element. Got one of the review in Car and Driver '04 and simply love it. C & D said it was the most useful car they had in their long term fleet and I can't find fault in their opinion. Hauls the family, dog, bikes and assorted gear like an favorite backpack. With the 5 speed the car is much more fun to drive than the auto 4. Steering is percise and the braking good. Fuel economy could be better but lets face it, the thing has the profile of a cinder block.

The best

4.1
ever on 09/16/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this "truck." If I could get another, I would. Whenever I go camping, mountain biking, or even just to drive around, it is an awesome piece of machinery.

honda element ex 5sp awd practical

3.4
viking on 09/14/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

a practical auto with good ride and handling characteristics. Performance just ok but fine for a vehicle of this type. gas mileage not great but liveable. Concerned about high rpm. My saab at 70mph operated at 2700, the element at 3700. Should have a 6th gear which would also increase gas mileage.

Mila and Daniel's Element

4.6
Mila Brothers on 09/11/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is sooo much fun. We love the variety we have with the seat configurations. It's great for our two dogs because you can practically hose out the interior. The seat, dash and floor can be cleaned with a damp cloth. The only things we would change would be the center console could be higher and it could seat more than four passengers. Otherwise it's a great, durable, fun SUV!

In my element

4.3
J. Hubartt on 09/10/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned 7 Hondas in my life and this one is the most fun.Lots of room inside, sound system kicks you know what. My two large dogs love it, its amazing how much stuff will fit in it.

Perfect for DINKS

4.8
foredaughs on 09/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car, albeit a design for the under 28 crowd, is also perfect for 40+ year old DINKS (dbl income, no kids.) It is one of the most comfortable cars you can drive; we drive it long distance, 1100 miles non stop on a bimonthly basis. With the 3 dogs in the back! They are Eskies. And there is still enough room for the non-driver to catch some easy zzzz's. Vehicle is fun and ultimately practical. We plan to buy another when we hit 160,000 miles.

Great car

5
F Smith on 09/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased the vehicle to carry college supplies on 5-6 hour trips. It has not disappointed us at all. The interior is spacious and holds a lot more than might appear from the outside. The front seats are very comfortable and it handles very well. Even on long drives, I do not feel tired and don't feel the need to stop to stretch etc. The back seats are easy to take out and then reinstall. Shortcomings include its seating capacity, which is only 4 people, and its donut spare time (the wheel well is not large enough to house a full size spare). I highly recommend this vehicle and would definitely consider purchasing another one.

My most favorite car ever

4.9
wattscyn on 09/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this vehicle, after driving everything from Cadillacs to Pintos, I can say this is my favorite car ever. It is a blast to drive and a breeze to keep clean with two kids and three dogs. I love being able to reconfigure the interior on a whim. I'm a master gardener and a tree-a-holic ( I fit five) A blast for family road trips. A great road car

Details are not as good as other Honda

3.8
Daniel on 09/06/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Found the car to be fun to drive but the ride is choppy. The finish is not as good as other Honda models, i.e. rough plastic edge under the steering wheel bothers my fingers, The plastic panels are also seem to be made of weak / thin materials.

Drive it You'll Buy It

4.8
Vishnu on 09/06/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Super roomy (I'm 6'4") and super quick to reconfigure the interior. Great 5 sp and good in midwest snow. Great A/C, Great stock stereo, I've had stereo shops question why I'd want to upgrade. Styling grows on you like a funky lovable dog (to know it is to love it). Not quick like my SRT-4 (of course) but plenty fast on the highway. Lotta business trips to KC in the 80s-90s.

My beach buggy

4.8
Donald Wildes on 09/06/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great beach vehicle and for going antiquing. Plenty of room and love the adjustable back seat configurations.

Love my baby

4.9
momofalot on 09/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We got this car last week and I am totally in love with it. It is very comfortable with loads of room. As an older driver with older friends it was important to have easy access to rear seating and room to stretch out when in the rear. This car has it all including reclining seats front & rear. The only fault I have found so far is the "sun roof" in the rear which is really only a removeable rooftop window. (why??) I am told it should not be in the open position when driving as it might come off. The only use I see for this is more light in the rear section, so why have it removeable? Other than that almost insignificant fault, I think this is a great vehicle, both fun and utilitarian.

Element after 43,000 Miles

4.5
Paul Christie on 09/04/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my Element except for one nagging problem. My doors have a bad rattle in them that causes everyone who rides in it to think they aren't closed completely. I took it to the dealer while it was still under warrenty to have it fixed and they had to replace the door latches. The rattles continued. I will probably take it back again. A coworker has an Element and she says she has the same problem.

MPG Misrepresented

2.8
ronimac on 09/04/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

I am very disappointed in the gas mileage. I drive an equal mix of city/ highway miles and I average approx 200 miles per tankful. I fell that Honda has misrepresented the stated MPG listed on the vehicle. I have over 25 years of driving experience and I know that the poor gas mileage is not due to my driving habits. According to Consumer Report Oct. 05, one writer stated that he gets 14 MPG with his Element. I've driven Hondas since '92 and have seen the quality decline. I regret not purchasing a Rav4.

The Best Car I Ever Have Had!

4.9
Donette on 09/03/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

L-O-V-E it! This is the best car yet for me...It is great to load my hockey gear - My dogs love the seats down and they cruise the whole car. Next trip camping - looking for to it - I still get some strange looks - but you just gotta smile - cause it is so fun to drive. Anytime someone wants to check it out stranger or not - I let them! I should be selling these cars-

The Future of the SUV is here now!

5
Ted A. van Landingha on 08/31/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

Luvin' my Element

4.9
MARCRAW on 08/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I don't know if I could ever own another type of vehicle. I love my Element. The vinyl floors are a lifesaver. i never worry about spills, smells or allergens. Performance is fun! i was in an accident. A car pulled out in front of me. i was impressed with how my Element protected me.

Love it

4
bronco on 08/28/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We got the magnesium loaded EX AWD with fog lights because having those bulbous orbits empty seems silly. The rear is great for moving baby in and out in the car seat and being able to move to the back to calm baby without having to get out like when we had a Civic. We love the interior -everyone we know think it's awesome even those who think it looks ugly are sold when the check out the inside.

Love this car!

5
marilyn barker on 08/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I'm very happy with my new Element. It's very comfortable to drive, I love the way it looks both inside and out. I get so many compliments from people that see me driving the car. I added roof racks and running boards which adds to it's cute appearance. At first I was tripping over the running board as I got in the car but after a few days I adjusted and now it never happens. I love the worry free interior....no panic over spills that could ruin the usual carpeted floors or plush fabrics. I'm tall and the seats are very comfortable for me. The waterproof upholstry is comfortable to sit on even in a bathing suit. I just couldn't be happier with my new car.

Honda Element

4.5
bill on 08/25/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Needs smoother ride. It has high RPM when you drive in the 70's - could be geared better.

In the Element

4.9
Mark on 08/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun to drive. Peppy with low center of gravity so it corners very well without feeling top heavy. Agile with a very short turning radius. Unbelievable room inside. Rear leg room is more than full size sedans! Easy to maintain with rubberized flooring and upholstery that is water resistant. Can be used as a small delivery vehicle, or, treated as a sports sedan. A very reliable unique automobile.

Happy driver

4.9
ibasc on 08/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great cargo space, superior seat comfort. Incredible pick-up. Wonderful storage nooks, drawers and crannies to discover. The overhead reading lights are great! There is just so much car in a small space, I've never enjoyed driving and been so proud of a vehicle!

Best Car for $20,000

4.8
jim on 08/22/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element is fun to drive and has a lot of excellent features for a cheaper car. It's not quite a real SUV but it's not quite a car either but it has many of the best and qualities of both. You would be hard pressed to find a car in this price range that has its cargo space, utility, and built in features. Plus it has a lot more character than the CR-V, a Civic, or a Caravan. This wagon is great if you're looking for a versatile vehicle but understand that for this price it won't have everything: as a car it has mediocre gas mileage (but if you're used to driving a bigger SUV - then you will probably love the gas mileage), and a somewhat rough ride.

Larger than it looks

4.3
Jerra on 08/20/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We've owned our Element for about a month. It is very roomy with plenty of headroom for my tall husband. Plenty of places to put things. My son loves the stadium seating in the back--now he can see out of the windows. Surprised at the good turning circle. Didn't realize how much fun XM radio could be. Looking forward to seeing how the uncarpeted flooring works during the winter.

It fits me

4.9
mveach on 08/20/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I stopped by just to lock inside one. Test drove it. Took it home for the weekend and, didn't want to give it back. The room in the front did it for me. I hate things close to my face. No problem here. My wife has a pilot and for every day use, I prefer the Element. My grand kids love the rear seats. They set up high enough to see out.

LOVE IT!

5
Mike on 08/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Got my Element last Saturday and love it! Had a 98 Odyssey with 181k miles on it and decided the Element was the way to go. Lots of room - easy to drive - hadn't driven a stick in 30 years and after 1 week it's almost like driving an automatic (and I live in Chicago). My only regret is that I didn't buy it sooner.

Love the "Box on Wheels"

4.9
Jay on 08/18/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We've only had this "box on wheels" 3 weeks, but the whole family really loves it. Great for hauling the kids to school or camping gear and mountain bikes to the mountains. The ride, fit and finish is typical Honda, spot on. Could use a little more horsepower to fight the NASCAR like Atlanta traffic.

Great in place of a minivan

4.9
John on 08/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car only drawback is that it seats only four. With kids great with the plastic floor and the waterproof seats. I would recommend

Function before Form

4.9
Rick Vera on 08/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It's fun to drive and has exceptionally better performance than other small, car-based SUV thanks to Honda's slick stick and ever slicker i-VTEC engine that revs with ease thanks to it's twin balance shafts to cut engine vibrations. You won't find a car anywhere near this price range or class that has this much interior room too. One suggestion though, find an aftermarket stainless steel grill as I did to cover the front and especially the lower grille. If ya don't, you'll have a really dented up radiator since it's way too exposed. Want something different, this is it! Want to beat your neighbor's VUE, Escape, Equinox, or RAV4 in a little race or a who-can- hold-more contest, this is it too!

In my Element

4.9
wili315 on 08/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have always been an 8 cylinder truck driver. I never thought i would find myself in a 4 cyl. I LOVE IT. The versatility is WONDERFUL and it is all the vehicle you will ever need!

Surprised me!

4.4
russ on 08/11/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I went to the dealership to buy a CRV but stopped and looked at the Element 4wd EX on my way to the office. It is red and I got on the goodies put on it to make it really sharp. The roominess was the 1st impressive feature, followed by the functionality. What a great car/truck! It took me about 3 weeks to get used to it's looks but I did and think it's cute. I am a Realtor and my clients love the car when they get in. It is perfect for me, my wife and the 2 dogs as well. The stereo system is another bonus along with the seats folding up fairly easily. And I certainly don't care if it gets a bit dirty on the interior because it is so easy to clean! Fun car and it's a Honda too. What a perk!

Cargo Khaki

4.9
Paul Frichtl on 08/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had my "E" for a little more than a week and have put over 500 miles on it - and love it! I bought it as our crossover car and my daily driver. I drive in DC traffic and have found that having a 5 spd manual a plus - especially with four cylinder engine.

Need Cheap? Need Reliable? Need AWD?

4.1
Van on 08/06/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've not had this car for very long but I am already getting a feel for it. This car handles very well for being the shape of a brick: VERY restrained body lean, and it goes just where you point it. (You feel every road imperfection, though.) In my opinion this is the best car you can get if your needs are for a low-priced vehicle you can drive into the ground that can also help in bad weather. It's funky and unique and utilitarian. Stereo system is quite good, visibility is not. But for the price and level of equipment, especially as compared to its competitors (including the CR-V), this car is tough to beat.

Lovin' Our Element

5
Micks M on 08/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We've been driving our Element between Phoenix and Los Angeles for the past couple of months. The interior space is our favorite feature - plenty of room to kick back and sleep on long trips / it cruises between 75 and 90 mph smoothly with plenty of power to spare. We also like how easily the rear seats can be removed [ recently moved a full size bed and headboard with no problems ]. We also love the fact that we can go to the beach and not worry about the sand and water messing up the interior. So far we're having a blast with our Element!

Love my Element

5
Pat Dunham on 08/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Driving the Element is the most fun I have ever had driving a vehicle. The gas mileage is great; about 22mpg city and 26mpg highway. The sound system is great and caring for the interior is a breeze! Love my Element!!

I love my Element!

4.4
Elizabeth Veazey on 07/31/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have always been a sportscar person, but I am also a local muscian and have too much equipment for a car, I also have 2 kids and a dog! I needed the room! The Honda Element has room for days! We took the car on a trip to the mountains the week after I bought it, fully loaded with my PA equipment and all our luggage(I also had a gig there) the car performed great, the gas mileage is somthing to brag about. Everywhere we stopped people would come over to us and ask to look at the car while telling us how crowded and uncomfortable they were. My daughter who is 16 is trying her best to talk me out of my Element and buying myself something else. If I did, it would be another Element.

What was I thinking?

3.5
Debbie on 07/29/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

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.

sara

4.8
Letisha on 07/28/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

This is a great mini truck. It handles well in the snow but not in Long Island sand. I was told it could be taken on the sand and it almost got taken away with the current. It has alot of fun things in it and that you can buy. It's like a little camper. I think this is a great car for people who like to go on road trips or just like to chill out in there car. I would not recommend this car for a family ;it is more of a singles car. Love it!!

I Love It

5
Melissa on 07/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After having so many problems with my prior American cars, I chose this Honda. I couldn't be happier. Well worth the money and is a blast to drive.

Fits our lifestyle

4.9
Brian on 07/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We take our new Element everywhere. We load our snowboards under the seats to go up to Big Bear. We put our surfboard inside to head to the beach. We just got back from the High Sierras and head to the desert as well. We are very active and the Element keeps up. Easy to wash down the interior of sand, slush and mud. Great sound system for the road. Downside is a louder than normal ride and lower than wanted fuel economy. I would have allowed for two more feet of storage in back. Oh yeah, the seats fold into a great bed with a sdylight in the back. We go to the drive in and lay in the bed. Love the Element and can't imagine a more perfect vehicle for our lifestyle.

Wow!! A fun car!

5
MARILYN on 07/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I just love this car!! I thought a long time about what to buy. I test drove it twice,and stopped everyone that i saw driving one and asked their oppinions....Nothing but rave reviews. I've had my car for a few days now and i couldn't be happier. It's so comfortable to drive, plenty of sensible room and a great stereo. I love the way it looks....I chose a blue ex model and had roof racks and running boards put on. I was already a honda fan....I bought a 1990 accord new and had trouble parting with it. But it was time and i'm so happy that i chose the element. I'm a 64 yr. Old female and i have no surf boards or off-road bikes to put in it but my friends are going to love the ride!

Honda Element

1.6
William Rohrey on 07/19/2005

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 2

So far it has been very good ,as much or more than I expected. I like this for its room & easy 0y entry from both sides & rear. The bad part is having to open the front doors to be able to open the other doors.I think Honda builds a good product in all their cars. Bill

very cool

4.8
elemental-00 on 07/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It's just me and my son. We are always putting a seatup and stuffing large items in the back. We just came back from the beach and it was not a problem, just hosed the car out. I can even leave the sun roof open during a rain and hardly get any water on the inside. We relly like our element!

Suits my needs just fine

4.5
knitwit on 07/18/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am pretty rough on cars & when i first looked at the elment i knew right away that its utilitarian style would definitely suit my needs. I'm sort of short, so theres a LOT of headroom anywhere in the car for me...so i'm 99% sure a giant could fit. the only bummer is the gas mileage isn't ideal, its not HORRIBLE but still i feel slightly guilty about driving a car that gets under 30mpg.

Quality!!

4.9
Tim on 07/16/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Can't find any thing wrong...perfect paint and body alignments. VERY practical car. You either luv it or hate it as far as looks.And Honda dependability. Tim

I'm Lovin It

4.9
santoim on 07/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. It has great features and I feel like in driving a SUV twice the price. My only complaint is that you feel the ride on rough surfaces. I really enjoy driving again.

Consumer Feedback Makes a Great Car!

5
mwauky on 07/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is one great car... iPod compatible, fun to drive, handles well in all road and weather conditions, nice stereo sound system, ROOMY.

My Element

5
Lynne on 07/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 4th Honda and my favorite......... looks and feels so cool...... love the xm satellite radio included...... so glad i bought it......

My Element

4.9
SallyV on 07/16/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When my husband first suggested it I said, "you mean that ugly box looking thing?" But when I saw it and drove it, I started to change my mind. I guess my favorite feature is the vinyl floor. If anything spills, you can clean it up and it looks as good as new. I love the interior, gas mileage and believe it will be a reliable car since it is a Honda. You can take the head rests off the front seat and lower it to be a recliner/foot rest for the back seat rider. It is like a recliner for the back seat rider. Kids are grown now and it is Wonderful for traveling for us and also roomy when we have others in the car. We love it the most of any car we've owned. :)

Like the E

4.5
gkrum on 07/14/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I now have 5000 miles on my Element - it is working out very well. It has lots of room and gets about 23 mpg in mixed driving. My growing son loves the room in the back seat, and my dog enjoys the space too.

honda turtle

4.4
Ed Bejsovec on 07/14/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

my honda is the perfect vehicle for hauling...with the seats removed there is tons of room..as much as a pickup. the ride is a bit choppy becuase of the short wheelbase..the engine is good and if you need the power the engine reacts quick enough to get you in traffic..the seats and the interior is washable making it great for all kinds of loads.. the stereo in the ex is supurb great sounds with XM..the car sits up nicely and it is easy to see traffic. I've been averaging 23mpg in mixed driveing. the only drawback is the silly moon roof which is lcated in the rear of the vehicle instead the front because the Element has alot of headroom.

My "E" - best value for my money

5
Marina on 07/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I drove my "E" out of the Hudson Honda parking lot on June 23, 2005. I love this BIG Car in a little body! Even my 6'4" - 18 year old son loves my "E". It is sooooo roomy inside. Who would've known. It is so economical on Gas! Big plus with gas prices as high as they are. I absolutely appreciate all of the storage places found inside at hands reach from the driver! The exterior design is just absolutely awesome...I feel like I'm going away to my own little safari every morning when I drive my "E" to work. I feel very safe inside my "E". With Honda's reputation for quality and reliability, purchasing my "E" was a win-win option for me.

a great car

4.9
doug adams on 07/11/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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

Element

4.8
yolonda on 07/10/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Does everything the manufacter says it does and then some. A truly versatile vehicle, performs well in all types of driving conditions. Gives a smooth ride for a suv, and has a solid pick-up from the 2.4l 4 cilinder engine. The four speed automatic is smooth in it shifting and does not drop in to lower gears when pressed.

my baby

5
molly on 07/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I would advise everybody to buy this or any honda. It is the greatest. It drives smoothly. When you make turns it doesn't tilt. Back seats are so roomy that my 6 foot Uncle has plenty of room to stretch out. The inside is so easy to clean out it's so funny. The big thing about this car is that there is soooo much room (legs, storage, back seat). All I can say is that you need to go test drive one and you will see that it is a car you need to get.

fun car

4.5
ralph on 07/09/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

had the element now for over 2 years and i can say its been nothing but fun and the reliability has been great

My element

5
Jami on 07/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Everything I thought it would be. roomy, fun to drive, good gas mileage. No problems to date. I would buy it again i a heartbeat!

First 90 Day Impression

4.6
Skip2r on 07/04/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought it to haul my Great Dane and Lab mix dog. Works great, however the Dane likes to look out the front window and obscures my view to the right. Things I love: The massive amount of room. Quick clean up and multifuctional back section, rear seats are completely out in less than a minute or they can just be folded up and out of the way. After a week of hauling dogs, cleaning took 3 hrs in our 2004 Honda CR-V, the Element less than 15 minutes.

Honda Element: Utilitarian all the way!

4.9
Drew on 06/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had this care for about 7 months and am so happy. The car is very utilitarian, there has not been anything that I cannot fit in this car. The seats fold up to the sides, and even come out (very easily). I mtn. bike and can fit two full suspension bikes w/o taking the tires off and still have room for my gear. The car is very easy to clean and gets great gass mileage. Get this car, you will not regret it!

I love my Element

5
Teke Mohill on 06/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great car. It does everything we want: goes up steep driveways without a problem, handles bumpy dirt roads, easy clean out after a trip with the dogs or a visit to the beach. It is ideal whether we are in Oregon or Mexico.

Ugly Duckling

3.3
Bill Walsh on 06/28/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

The only thing I can say is this vehicle is functional. It is ugly but practical. I am a woodworker and it does all I need it to do. It carries 4X8 sheets of plywood or dimensional lumber. I like the fact that it is not carpeted. It has no "gonads". You are not going to burn rubber with it. The good gas mileage is a tradeoff. When I first bought it, I was embarrased to be seen in it. (After being MR. PICKUP). Now I can live with it.

Work Vehicle

4.6
Honda Bob on 06/27/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I use this vehicle in my business of servicing Honda's on site. I drive about 100 miles a day and have modified the vehicle with air tanks and air compressor. Also, I have my tools in the back. I installed a 750W invertor under the hood for 110V power when I need it. My laptop sits on a Jotto-desk on the right side. The backup sensors I installed really come in handy sometimes.

It's Elementary, my dear!

4.9
Pat on 06/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It is so ugly its cute! I wanted one from the first time I saw it & would buy it again in a heart beat. It is my trendy granny van. I am way past the minivan stage but missed the all- purpose function of one. I am always hauling people and things. The Element is a socially fun car and practical for most of those needs. I love the versatile clam shell doors until I have back seat passengers who need to exit while in a parking space between two other cars. You have to maneuver doors strategically to make it work or you end up trapped or square dancing... My gas mileage is a disappointing 19.9, under the suggested 22 mpg, but an improvement over most SUVs.

Fun Car

4.8
ColleenpWhitlow on 06/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I really like this vehicle, but it can't pull my horse trailer. That is the only downside that I've found so far.

Love my Element

5
Janine on 06/24/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my Element! Great standard sound system for a long daily commute. I had read reviews that it drove a little "trucky" but I haven't found that to be the case. I love being able to remove the backseats so easily to carry suitcases or artwork. I'm tall and the headroom is great and not claustrophobic like so many other vehicles.

Solid All Around

4.6
Billr on 06/24/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Like many, did not like the style until I test drove one. Our family now loves the car we bought since it is as much fun for our 6 year old as it is for us. The stereo is superb along with the handling, quality, etc. The headroom and rear room is great but the driver could use about 1-2" more legroom. A carpeted trough to hold small items in the rear cargo area would be nice. The center console tray could be higher to be able to reach drinks etc. easier and there could be an out-of-sight (covered) area for change, phone, etc. These are minor things. The car is fantastic and a joy to drive. Our first Honda and definitely not our last.

Functional Goodness!

4.9
kawa on 06/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

no other SUV compares to the element. completely functional, easily maintainable, very affordable.. and too too fun to drive!

Overpriced

1.8
Joseph Noriega on 06/22/2005

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 2

My car was overpriced for what it is!It rides comfortable for the two front passangers but for those who ride in the back, it rides rough. Pick up speed is slow.The outside look of the car draws attention. I put my car through many tests and here are the results per each senario.For moving and shopping with my truck was nice,the car was useful with the spacious back space. When used for long distance rides the car rated fair for me. My passangers was missing comfort especially now that we have a new baby in the family my car is not baby friendly. Overall my car rates fair but its definitely not a car for everyone. Take a test drive before you decide on this model, I know I should of.

Orange Box

4.8
Duane on 06/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love the headroom. Most cars just do not have the headroom I need. I could wear a top hat in this thing. The feeling of massive room inside is amazing. Straight side windows add to the spacious feeling.

my element

4.8
Jodie Welk on 06/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I LOVE this little SUV. My last car was a BMW325is purchased new also, so I like fast zippy good cars. The element didn't let me down...not as fast...but equally fun to drive. I wish they had a little better beefier interior seating or leather seating, but I was in the in the furniture industry, so I am overly picky about that area. The fabric and materials used on the seating are excellent for repelling most stains or liquids. The stereo is WONDERFUL and the ipod connection is PLUS! The XM radio is a nice feature too. Because there is no carpet, a only rubber matting feature which I love, I think that the element is probably a little noisier than usual on the highway. So turn up the tunes!

honda element

4.6
dan hernandez on 06/18/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

suprising legroom and comfortability. Actually has much more storage area than I thought at first glance. Pick-up can be iffy but holds its own in traffic w/good handling.

Element

5
Alejandro Gonzalez on 06/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Simple but great vehicle. Able to put 5 peoople into the car without problems. Handles my mountain bikes easily...

Ugly is beautiful

5
max on 06/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Based on about 8,000 miles of use my Element may be the best car I've owned...I bought my firstcar in 1949. After a 2800 mile trip I was not fatigued at all (I'm 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 6'7" sat in my Element recently and remarked that there was more head room than he had found in any other car.

Form following function

4.9
Colorado Dave on 06/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great urban cruiser with the short front and back overhang. The design is functional as well. On Saturday, it fits my road bike, on Sunday, it fits a 9.5 foot Kayak on the inside! We are all looking forward to our first camping trip. The seats are firm and confortable on long trips- the 270 watt XM Radio makes the trip go by that much quicker. The initial milage has been good- nearly 24 MPG for a combination of city and highway. As with other cars that I have purchased- the Honda has great fit- what is different is the great finish. Great selection of materials go together well. Hope this Honda continues to exceeds our expectations at 100k miles

Element of Elements

5
millernutz69 on 06/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my new Element Ex from Honda of Essex this past winter. Aside from the incredible service and treatment I received by the dealership and its staff I also recieved a great price, just under TMV. I could not be happier with my Element, it got me through all the rough weather this winter, and is tons of fun on dry roads. I would recommend both the Element and Honda Of Essex to anyone looking into a new AWD vehicle.

A Honda At Last, met expectations?

4.9
Another LT Cust? on 06/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Way back in '75, I wanted to purchase a Honda Civic , for its fuel economy, features, and efficiency... well 30 years later, after research, etc, I purchased a Honda Element. It exceeded my expectations in these areas. IT IS WHAT IT IS: (1)The power of acceleration exceeded my expectations. (2)Great functionallity- minimal wheel overhang, (3) complements my Jeep Wranger as a "luxury version", (4)I know what great "Finish" is. I have had several cars that had great "fit", but now great "finish". (5) Great room, (6) seat support like a my BMW- Fun to drive and capmp with- you better believe it!!!

Japanese Hummer

4.8
Richard W on 06/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This must have been one of the Ugliest truck when it first came out. However, for some reason, it was also the reason that I purchased it, its ugliness caught my attention. Best choice that i ever made, I must have went through 40 cars already and I love the element based on price, value, and reliability. I cant believe how useful this truck is hauling the weirdest stuff around. There are many things that i like about this truck and things that i think Honda can improve on. Things that I like about this truck is it hauls alot I mean alot of stuff. Its cheap from the dealer, its awd, good in the snow and comes pretty loaded for around $20k. cant complain at all!

Much Better Than Originally Thought

4.8
inourorangeelement on 06/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have the 2004 model, but in comparing the 04 w/th 05, I see little difference. I agree with the Edmund's PRO's & CON's. I would really like to see an extended version of the Element made, but that would likely compromise it's unique design. When I first started looking at the Element, I immediately thought "new-age ice cream truck". But as I got used to it and enjoyed it's features, I honestly don't know what I would do without it now. I've gone camping in it and didn't need to pitch a tent. I've gone on long road trips and with family and have enjoyed the "stadium seating" from the backseat. I just wish it held 1 or 2 more people. It would be ideal for a small family in that respect.

do all vehicle

5
ron on 06/11/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element does it all extremely well. The exterior is rather quirky, but the look grows on you.Interior layout is exceptional; seat recline for camping or fold up on the side walls to haul large items. An overall great vehicle!

Better than a Porsche

4.8
forepaughs on 06/07/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We love this ugly duckling. It is fun to drive, and offers much cargo room under cover for transporting all kinds of things, esp our four (4) dogs. Best of all: we take it on non-stop 1,050 mile long drives and the seating is superb. The seats place you up high enough so you can drive with knees fully bent. Best car I have ever had for long distance driving. And the head room is beyond anyone's need. One of our all time favs!

It's the Ugliest Car I've ever Loved!

4
The Rat on 06/04/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I am a retired female age 63. I needed a vehicle to transport a lawn mower and after looking at various trucks, I decided for the $$ the Element was the best value. It had what I needed to haul large items and run the rough roads to my lake home. I am very pleased with the Elements preformance. The steering is a little looser than my car. ButI love the visibility it gives the driver and handles well. Still checking the gas mileage. Love the tan color! Would have liked a light enterio

I am finally in my Element

4.9
Adam on 06/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When I first saw the 2003 Honda Element, I did not find it as unattractive as some but I did think it looked odd and unusual, which I liked. My cousin recently got a 2004. As soon as I stepped inside her Element, I knew that I wanted one. The outside appearance is deceptive because it leads you to believe that the interior will be small. WRONG!! I ordered accessories for my Element the day after I bought it. I love driving it. Even though Honda created this vehicle to appeal to young males, I'm sure that they have been pleased to find that men and women of various ages like the vehicle. Bottom line...it's a lot of SUV for the money!!

Love My Element

4.9
Jamie on 06/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is definitley my favorite vehicle I have ever owned! It's so fun to drive, and extremely comfortable! My favorite is when someone says....EEEEWWWW You drive a BOX!?!? Hey, my "box" has character! (Plus I never lose it in a parking lot!!) It definitley shows you are an individual when you step out of the "norm".

Excellent Buy

4.8
Keith Cochrane on 06/01/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Must admit took me a little bit to get used to the shape of the Element when I first looked at it at the dealership, but when I took it for a test drive I fell in love with it. The element is the most practical, well though out vehicle that I have ever purchaced. I definitely recommend this vehicle for any age or lifestyle!

Excellent

4.9
jewlesinaz on 06/01/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

For the price, it is very good. If you have big animals that you take on the go, it is more than perfect! Underneath the back hatch handle is a piece of plastic(handle) used for closing it, comes out very easily. The flooring gets scratched easily, if you want it to stay in new condition, don't haul anything.

Bob's Review

4.9
Robert Wickens on 06/01/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has been both fun and extremely reliable to operate. It in well-built, and has needed no repairs or servicing since I acquired it. Our family had previously owned a Honda CRV, and this car is just as well-made as the CRV.

Honda Element

5
KGas on 06/01/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My experience with my Element has been perfect. No problems whatsoever. The interior and exterior design is magnificent.

2 months in

4.9
kayaker on 05/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My first Honda after having a Blazer. Chevy was big, heavy, sucked fuel, like a nice lazy boy chair to sit in. I'm 6'3. It had a bit better leg room. As far as utility goes, Element's better. Fuel economy decent. Easy to clean (no carpet to get musty). Roomy - no complaints from passengers - friends are won over after a road trip. Also, I don't tow so the engine is fine for me. And tested the AWD - works great - will get me out of the roughest putin I'd find myself near - steep, gravel windy path. Can easily accelerate onto freeway, do 85+ mph with 3 kayaks on top, but is not supposed to be a sports car.

My Car is Elemental

4.6
wamba on 05/27/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've owned my 2004 EX $wd AT since September. It has just shy of 10,000 miles of trouble free miles. Ultimate in flexibility, great for tall people and my tall teens, and plenty of guts to move on the highway. Took a business trip to a conference with an associate and loaded the E with the Booth/Display, brochure, stands, luggage, etc. We were cruisng down the Interstate about 82 mph and he was amazed at how rock solid it felt and relatively quiet---no wind noise and average road noise for a small wheelbase SUV.

In my Element

4.9
mmurphy162 on 05/27/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I fell in love with these at the Car Show in San Diego. I went out the next day and bought one. The acceleration is impressive considering it's only a 4 cylinder. After installing an after market intake from AEM it is down right scary. My wife and I love it for our dogs. On long trips we don’t worry about them being in the back of a pick up truck.

Fun to Drive

4.9
aggieweather on 05/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Although I just bought a Honda Element it has been a joy to own. It is so much fun to drive and handles suprisingly well for being a SUV. It is so easy for dog owners to get in a clean all the hair, and much more fun for our dogs to run around the back with the seats up. Great Vehicle.

love it

5
Kimitha on 05/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It is like this car was designed just for me. I love it. It drives like and feels like a car but with the room of a van. Its stain resistant seats, and easy clean floors make this the perfect car for slobs like me. My job requires me to haul around lumber to a sofa all which fit perfectly into this car.

A fun car.

4.6
WV owner on 05/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element was a great little car. I love the no carpet....great for hauling for my yard work, and great if you have a dog. The seats being water-proof is a plus. Took parents on vacation....plenty of room. Enormous head room....easy to drive. Great pick up on the highway.

Luv It Luv It

4.9
Katherine on 05/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the best car I have ever had. Its great for my business needs and my family needs. We have a florist and it can be turned into a delivery vehicle in no time. Its also great for my family. We have 2 children and 2 German Shepards. We take it camping or on trips and we all fit comfortably.

Great SUV

4.9
Dorisse on 05/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Its has been the best little big Suv I have ever owned. Don't think it does not have any pickup because it is a 4Cy. it will fly if I am not careful. If you want a good SUV and not lose you shirt then I highly suggest an Element.

My Element

4.9
Element on 05/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Get past the ugly looks. Yes, we know. If the trunk was up front we'd call it the elephant. Really, this little SUV (?) is the most practical vehicle I've owned in 50 years. The only problem encountered is a little wind noise from the window gasket. Try it, you'll like it!

practical and reliable

5
C.Y. on 05/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After thorough research, I decided to purchase a Honda Element before making a 650-mile move last year. It turns out to be one of the best decisions I've made. Last year alone, I made countless long distance trips in it. Most of them at least 9 to 10 hours, and sometimes with the car packed solid. Through snow, and thunderstorm, Element delivers. I feel safe and comfortable in this vehicle. The mileage is better than other comparable models. and it offers great features while reasonably priced. My sister is even thinking about buying one after driving mine.

What I love & don't love of my Element !

4.8
Marty Wilson on 05/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I do love this car but don't like the suicide doors in parking lots. Can't load anything unless you have lots of room to open doors. I also don't like the AWD. The cars a little low. We get snow and had a hard time. Ending up pushing the snow like a snow plow.When I want 4 wheel drive I want to engage it myself. I think this car would be great with regular doors. I don't like having to open mine to let clients out of back.

Little Blue Toaster

5
Chris on 05/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have loved the blue toaster since the first day off the lot. The manual transmission has great pick-up and can get out of its own way. This is a great little car for someone like me who has three dogs and a back yard that has needed lots of love in the last year. That means lots of trips to home depot to use the mop clean interior of the car. Also the bike mount on the interior of the car has come in handy. But here is a tip...you can make one yourself instead of paying the dealer $300 for the accessory. Get the mount at REI and a large screw some washers and a small piece of wood from home depot. Happy toasting and see you on the road. Remember to wave hello in your new toaster.

Honda Element Rocks!

4.8
J. Michael on 05/20/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Did someone say the Element was designed for the 20s crowd! Well, excuse me for showing up invited and crashing the party. Sure, it is a great vehicle for bikes, camping, skis and all that active lifestyle stuff. The wife says (yea, officially it's 'her' car) it's also great for hauling stuff from garage sales, craft shows, and any other sale that gets in her way. It's also great for hauling the grandkids around with all their stuff. What's not to like? Practical, functional, reliable, relatively inexpensive plus AWD and all the normal safety features!

Delivery vehicle

4.6
John Hurley on 05/19/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A solid, reliable, economical option for a delivery vehicle. Just enough style to prevent embarrasment. Great cargo capacity combined with low cost of purchase and operation.

2005 Element EX Standard AWD

5
elementred on 05/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I expected lower gas mileage with the lower gear ratio on the Standard. BUT, we received higher gas mileage 25- 27mpg. Very peppy engine, Great to take bikes in. Rear seat is more like sitting in a limo. Handles very well.

Gen Y Extremo

4.9
Biker Box on 05/14/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car proves that Honda knows what to do. Nothing the US produces can even match this car. I am a mountain biker so I am often dirty or wet. This thing gets me where I want to be and back. I have shown so many people the inside that it is becoming boring, but they love it. Most everyone had mocked me before. It is affectionately known as "the box."

Practical AND Cool

4.9
Lorri on 05/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I live a couple miles off of a paved highway, so I average 4-6 mileas a day off the pavement. The Element handles the hills and bumps as well as a larger SUV, and the lower center of gravity makes it corner more like a sedan. It is surprzingly roomy inside. The seats are comfortable and spills wipe up like a breeze. The hatch doors make it easy to get larger objects inside. With the seats folded up to the sides, you can get a set of patio furniture inside easily. In addition to all of this, it's just plain fun to drive! Pop out the removeable sunroof and open the windows and you're ready to enjoy the day! Drawbacks - not many, It's a well thought out and fun vehicle.

Don't know where I'd be without it.

5
The Lazer Viking on 05/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car because I am in a band, and I needed a strong and rugged car to haul all of my equipment in. At first sight I thought it was the ugliest thing in the world, but as time went on I became much more attached. I love the seats; not only are they comfortable, but they are waterproof and stain resistant. The audio system is amazing and the fact that the rear seats fold up easily makes it very easy to transport my stuff. What really surprised me, and something that I haven't seen mentioned, is the incredible handling and sharp turning capability of this car compared to others in the same price range. I would highly recommend the Element, even if you think it looks funny.

She Loves it so do I

5
Mike on 05/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We have been shopping for about two months. What we liked about the Element was ease of entry, no stain easy clean interior and the versatility of the interior. I have not seen my wife this happy ( about a vehicle ) in a good while. I consider myself a professional car buyer. I have purchased three vehicles this year and sold all three at a tidy profit. I have an idea this Element is a keeper. It has a little more road noise than I like, but the powertrain is very smooth, peppy and quiet, controls are easy to use and the vehicle is fun to drive . The visibility is good and it handles windy days with no adverse surprises. The cruise is as smooth as the powertrain...great vehicle...

Our wonderful Honda product.

5
Milton L McConnell on 05/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is our 4th Honda, two Civics, One CRV and now the Element. It is Just what we need up here in the mountains. Easy to keep clean, plenty of power, good gas mileage for an SUV. Very practical. Dependable.

Super SUV!

4.9
Kristen on 05/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I haven't had my Element for quite a year yet, but I love it! It's got some major get-up & go considering it's a 4CYL., & its an SUV. I love driving it, I feel very safe in it, it's practical and a HONDA! A month after we got the Element we drove it from Ohio to Florida, of course being brand new, it was great. We occasionally take little road trips and ("knock on wood") it has been so wonderful, we've had no problems. We recently drove to VA Beach over the weekend, we stopped @ a rest area and slept better than in our bed! The things I would change are more materialistic items, but you're paying a good price for the name, you mihgt as well get al lthe bells & whistles!

Love my Honda Element

5
gidget 2 on 05/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have been looking at them for 2 years. I have had and still have a Land Rover Discovery and love it. The honda element gets the same: LOVE IT. Better on gas than my 8 year old Discovery. I am 57 and I think they are marketing to the wrong group of people. With the price and mileage and the room, it is excellent.

I love my "Ugly Truckling"

5
Gary on 05/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Though utilitarian in concept, it offers all the comfort imaginable. The interior is huge and easily maintained. It's extremely economical. And it holds it own on the freeway. Only deficit is the low clearance. It's been years since I had so much FUN with a vehicle.

2004 Element

4.5
gatorfan on 05/05/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My Element is a great car. The interior design is fantastic. I really enjoy the versatility of the fold down and removable seats. The rubber floor is easy to clean, either by sweeping or just using a yard blower. The interior layout is nice and all displays are clearly marked.

2004 Element

4.5
gatorfan on 05/05/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My Element is a great car. The interior design is fantastic. I really enjoy the versatility of the fold down and removable seats. The rubber floor is easy to clean, either by sweeping or just using a yard blower. The interior layout is nice and all displays are clearly marked.

Tough Little Work Horse

4.5
Drew on 05/04/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my first Honda,and I can't say enough about it. I drive to customers homes, and workplaces for my job and cover about 1000 miles per week. Great in the New England snow! Don't think twice about buying one. You won't regret it.

My favorite car ever, and here's why

4.9
Kimberly Stone on 05/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had many cars, and liked many of them a lot. But I honestly love my Honda Element. Its style, function, performance, reliability and FUN are beyond anything I've ever driven. I have the AWD EX model with side airbags, so I'm getting everywhere safely. I love the ability to fold up the rear seats or remove them altogether if I've got a haul from the garden center or flea market. The Element is so easy to keep sparkling clean. It's light and airy inside, with tons of head room, shoulder room, and space around you. Also great little nooks and cubbies for storage. Road trips are a must with this car. Love the Aux port for my iPod and the subwoofer. I just LOVE this car! Test drive one!

Teen car

5
Nancy on 05/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great teen car has the safety feature we wanted and not too large to pack on to many friends. Plenty of leg room both in front and back.

In My Own Element

5
Rita on 05/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I owned a 2003 and traded it in for a new 2005 good gas mileage and handles nicely, comfortable and gives a feeling of security with little ones in the vehicle

buy one, its a Honda

5
rick on 05/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

bar-none,the best vehicle i have ever owned.not one complaint. goes like a tank in the snow.and in the summer its fun and cool.

Love it!!

5
MadMumbler on 05/01/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

With a disabled child who races wheelchairs, and being service dog puppyraisers, a tough vehicle is a must, and this is easy to clean and tough to stand up to what we put it through.

Roomy, Zoomy, and So Much Fun!!!

5
Chinta on 04/25/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this vehicle. It's so neat, I really researched before buying. It's smooth and accelerates fast enough to enter traffic competitively with everyone else. Have been in 20 knot winds driving across the desert, it held strong, and only buffeted along with other cars on the road. Held a feeling of security and reassurance! Also, there aren't any blind spots, just fan out those mirrors all the way out till you barely see a "sliver" of your vehicle, point them slightly down to catch those sitting lower that we do :O) and bingo, great view of the whole passing lane. I love the clean interior, easy sweep, the seats are comfy and the sunroof terrific! Manuverable too! Love the space!

Great For Cyclers

5
R. Laurence Bird on 04/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My Magnesium Metallic 2005 Element safely holds my two racing bikes and all my gear. I take out one rear seat and put the other up on the side. I can pull the bikes straight out of the back, which is preferred over the side doors because of the clamshell design. The new color along with the black plastic panels makes this a unique looking Element. XM Radio is great. Put the subwoofer on 5 and just cruise. You don't really need to use your iPod, but the car has a jack just in case. Handling is better than expected. The car will offer me many years of utility and better mileage than my old Chevy Tahoe. I am 43 years old.

Honda Element

4
Phil on 04/21/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great little SUV. Cargo space comes in handy and is flexible. It's a great car for running errands. However, I find highway driving a challenge. Since there is no carpeting, car tends to be noisey. Due to the boxiness of the vehicle, I find it difficult to steer at higher speeds and find myself fighting the steering wheel to compensate for lane drifting. There is a terrible blind spot from the right side door post. The post is wide and hides vehicles from view. Very dangerous! Brake grinding noise is also a problem. I was told the noise would disappear after 100 miles. I now have 5,000 miles on the car and the grinding has not disappeared.

My first SUV!

4.9
djsan99 on 04/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this Elment this week and all I can say is I love it. I liked them when they came out in 03 and wanted to to trade in my 98 Accord. But after losing my civic I was able to get it. This mini SUV is great for trips, and for a small family.

This one's for you!!!!

4.8
Tim Smith on 04/14/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Wow!! Am I ever glad I bought this vehicle. After owning two ISUZU Troopers since 1991, it was time to look at something else. While I'm too old to be in the target market group for the Element, I love the vehicle. I'm a big guy and the Element has more driver room than my previous Troopers. It gets much better gas mileage too! I put a lot of miles on my vehicle commuting 70 miles round trip every day. The Element is fun to drive, easy handling and versatile. I know several people with disabilities that have purchased an Element and they think the vehicle is the best around. Plenty of room and a place for their wheelchair behind the front seat without having to fold up the back seat

Hummer Wanna Be

5
dave on 04/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

first time when i was looking at this vehicle i was like " hummer wanna be" but now i own it 2005 ex awd, deale gave me great deal on it and i have the best version, so far fun to drive, huge interior, great looking interior also, i am using this truck for business, i got x5 in garage now, i love element so my bimmer will relax for a while.. :)

I love my new element

5
LAUREN WOODS on 04/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love driving my element, i have driven hondas for many years and am really pleased with this small suv. It handles easily and is easy to park, drive etc. It is economical also.

Small car, big interior

4.9
Graverober on 04/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

OK, everyone who has seen my car can't believe that I bought such a small 'wierd' car. Let me tell you, the element only looks small! I am over 6'1" tall and over 300 pounds, I'm a big boy! I have over 5 in of head room to the roof, and can streach my legs out fully (sliding up just a bit on the seat, but I still can't do that in most cars). Even in the back I have headroom and a fir amount of leg room. The clam shell doors and smooth floor are actualy a benifit for 'semi-disabled' people. my dad is handycaped, but happily sits in the back of my car. he has pleanty of room, and when he needs to get out, he just 'plops' (his words) onto the floor and slides out, he realy loves it!

Baby Landrover

5
Element Driver on 04/06/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We LOVE this auto! No other car had come out that we were so impressed by. From the comfort to the utility for the price. Plus, it is just plain fun to drive. We were amazed at how well built these cars are...not to mention the reliability...it is a Honda! If you are thinking about buying one, do it...you won't regret it.

My First Car

4.9
Tony Cross on 04/06/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my very first car and I am loving this Element. The gas mileage is wonderful and I love the interior design. The easy wipe floor is the best because if I had carpet I would have a big red stain on it because I spilled a strawberry soda. This little truck was a blast when I to Panama City for Spring Break. I only had to fill up this truck three times. One time I just did for the cheap gas price, but the other two times was before I left to go and before I left to come back home.

The SUV that could.

4.9
Dave on 04/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a fun vehicle. The salesman told me that they sell most of their Elements to over 40 crowd. I am 50ish.This is a great all round vehicle, that does not have the foul carpet smell from wet snow.

Marys element

5
mary Boucher on 04/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The honda element is the best design in a new car I've seen in years. I have a 3 year old that just loves it. My husband and I like to drive it more then our Audi or suburban.

nothing compares

5
Believe on 03/31/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought our "E" Easter weekend. I can't remember another vehicle that was so unique. My wife traded in a 2003 Odyssey for this box of fun and I have to say that she really has fallen in love with how practical this vehicle is. I've never seen here get excited about any car we have purchased until this one. I'm not one for keeping cars very long but I think this will be a "keeper" for sometime. If you have not driven one ..you need to do so. It is one of the coolest and practical cars out there today. Just drive one.

2 Honda Elements

5
William Grenoble on 03/31/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My wife bought a Honda Element AWD EX in July 2004. We pull a 4 Kayak trailer with it, and have a roof rack to haul one additional kayak up top if needed. We have two Golden Retrievers, and a Border Collie . The Element is ideal for boating and hauling dogs. With the plastic floor, clean up is easy. With both doors open on one side, it is simple to stand up on the floor and tie down the boat on top. I was driving an Chevy van, and was due to trade. I liked my wife's Element so much, I went out and bought one for myself. My other hobby is radio control sailplanes, and with the rear seats out, it is simple for me to haul planes and my wife , for a week of flying. 2 Elements are great !

Honda Element greatest vehicle made!

4.8
Christne on 03/30/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Besides being the cutest vehicle on the road, it is the most versatile! I am constantly hauling stuff from one place to the other and this vehicle can handle almost everything. The seats are a snap to fold up against the side and the floor is equipped with bungee tiedowns. The back seats are stadium seats, so the rear passengers can see over the front seats. The doors on either side open up opposite each other making a huge opening so you don't have to put items inside in an awkward position. The turning radius of this vehicle is also great. I can flip a u- turn in the tightest spots. For such a small compact vehicle, it sure has a lot of room and really easy to drive.

Good Suv

4.3
John on 03/30/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Overall very good SUV, sold an expedition and have been very happy with the honda. Great interior space and easy to keep clean.

You have to Drive it to Like it

4.4
michael riedel on 03/29/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It doesn't grab you on it's looks - unless you're the type of driver that likes to set yourself apart even when standing still. The real love comes when you get behind the wheel and drive it. It has very nimble handling, a cavernous interior, versatility par excellence and simply solid quality. It is a bit buzzy on the freeway @ 3800 RPM but other than that, you'll fall in love with the features, mileage, durability and versatility. Great for picnics, shopping, dogs, camping, etc. Love the stadium seating for 2nd row passengers. Great gas mileage. Only wish I had waited until the 2006 models when they will be all body color paint and not the gray plastic body panels.

Fun, fun, fun!

4.8
lroberts on 03/24/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My last vehicle was a Honda minivan which was an excellent vehicle also. The Element is much more fun to drive and more kid friendly with it's waterproof interior. As with all Honda products the quality of the engine and overall handling are wonderful. Would recommend this vehicle to any age driver!

I like it!

4.6
opppstopp on 03/24/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I find the element a very fun suv to drive. it handles nice & gets reasonable gas mileage. Interior is very roomy, plenty of shoulder & head room. The element feels like a much larger vehicle without the large mass.

Honda Element, Fun, Inexpensive, Roomy

4.8
poohhbearr on 03/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It's a fun little SUV. A lot of extra space.

BEST CAR EVER

4.9
DESERT TRAVLER on 03/19/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am a baby boomer with on the go lifestyle; this car does it all, comfort very functional ez-driver great inside space. Good light use for off road. Gets the looks from others, makes a statement--last month used it like a truck hauling stone tools bricks sand. Ran like a champ even with load. Have also camped in it. Works well for a night or 2 enough room for all the gear and you can sleep in (but cramped) I have had cars that were twice the costs and they weren't as good when comparing overall use. This car is a winner, and probably a classic in it's own right, no disappointment here--

The Element: So Ugly, It is CUTE!

4.8
Dean on 03/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It runs well, and gets over 21mpg REAL mileage, in the city and mountain driving. TALL PEOPLE ALERT! More important to me, it has enough headroom -- I am 6'5". I cannot safely sit in and drive most cars. The element is a joy to drive. Big rear door and tailgate, removable moon roof, and big side doors with no post are really great! Great power with good mileage. Only has two rear seats, but they fold up and come out easily for major loads and camping. I love it! I have had Isuzu Trooper and Suzuki Sidekick and other cars, but I really like this and recommend it. I have received (jealous) jokes about it being a delivery truck, but it is so ugly, it is cute!

element by Honda

4.6
kay on 03/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love this vehicle...however the one thing that does scare me is the back doors that do not open unless the front ones are opened. Love the "feel" that this car gives when driving. I may suggest that the lack of carpeted mats may be a drawback for people that are not sports orientated or wish to "hose" out the car!! Felt that the carpet mats should have been included and not as a charge of $300 something.

Fun to Drive

4.5
BobD on 03/12/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had my Element for 9 months and I love it. It is a blast to drive, it reminds me of the VW "Bugs" from the early 70's. It averages about 24 mpg as long as I keep my foot out of it. I use it as my commute car and have had to deal with its share of snow, ice mud and rain and the Element always handled it predictably. At highway speeds the Element tracks extremely well so long driving times and not too tiring. The shift is in a perfect position although it looks like it would be a long reach. I would buy another one in a second and I enjoy all the comments it brings, people either love of hate the looks. My daughter and I love it and my wife hates the looks, but she enjoys driving it.

Best of the best in this catagory

5
paul on 03/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun to drive, for 4 cyl. goes like hell, great in snow, easy to park, turns on a dime - can not say enough good about it.

Elementary

4.4
sstein on 03/09/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Element is not for the pretentious, or luxury driven, but if utility, reliabilty and flexibility in use mean anything to you, then the Element will give you much more than you expect. Handling is surprisingly good, as is acceleration. And, on the open road, the engine actually responds at high speeds. As far as the interior flexibility, awesome.

chev tahoe to honda element

4.9
bill on 03/06/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

If you want to own an suv with low cost then this is for you, I have driven for five years a 2000 chev tahoe and this element delivers room plus!! All the room inside without cost! My tahoe had all the bells and whistles but the element delivers!! The only negative is with the 285hp in the tahoe I could just pass or pull out without pause whereas the element is slow but on open highway it is the same. but one thing to remember is getting in out if you have children, mine are grown so it is a pain to the sucide doors, I just wish I bought the element five years ago. I do miss the sitting up higher in the tahoe but the element can move in and out of traffic easy.

Very Spacious Interior

4.8
Carl on 03/05/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Roomy versitile cargo space in a small package. Ease of entry and exiting car is superb. Free of rattles and noise level is accepable. Same engine as Accord so power is adequate. Finish is good but lots of composite parts. If you want a practical, economic SUV to haul things and carry four people in comfort it's great. This is not plus inside,no carpeting and seats are comfortable but basic.I have not yet tested the 4WD feature in bad WX like snow. It works for me.

Very Spacious Interior

4.8
Carl on 03/05/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Roomy versatile cargo space in a small package. Ease of entry and exiting car is superb. Free of rattles and noise level is accepable. Same engine as Accord so power is adequate. Finish is good but lots of composite parts. If you want a practical, economic SUV to haul things and carry four people in comfort, it's great. This is not plus inside, no carpeting and seats are comfortable but basic. I have not yet tested the 4WD feature in bad WX like snow. It works for me.

Too Much Fun

4.8
Betty on 03/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I find this vehicle to be a blast to drive. I have never owned a four cylinder vehicle and this I must say has the pick up I need. It is simply amazing at what you can pack in such a compact vehicle. It does have some road noise but the super sound system takes care of that. I find this vehicle has most all the opions a person needs to be comfortable. The seating is great and I have back problems. I would highly recommend this car to anyone and too, I must say the fuel economy is super and in this time and age we need to consider that. Overall it is just a fun little SUV that packs an amazing amout of stuff and is a lot of fun to drive.

My second one

5
kathleen sims on 03/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I loved my 1st Element and I'm sure I will love my second. I am constantly hauling something, flowers, antiques, laundry to the cleaners etc, etc. Loading and unloading are a breeze when you can open both doors to one space. I didn't trade in my 1st Element as my daughter is now driving it. She has 2 sons and needs lots of room and a cleanable car.

Loving the elements

4.5
CSKID on 02/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Do alot of traveling...Love the way the element drives and looks. Handles the curves of hwy 299 excellently at decent speeds !!!! Didn't feel too top heavy. The element shifts up and down easily...Fifth gear did great going up i5's grapevine with the best of them and even on steep grades going down, hardly needed to use the brakes going down in third.

The perfect surf vehicle

4.4
bryan on 02/24/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

While the element certainly is not for everyone, the decidedly non-SUV/minivan shape and the waterproof interior make it the perfect car to take to the beach with your surfboards strapped on. Not only is the floor made of rubber, but the seats are made of a waterproof material. Upon returning home, just open the doors, hose out the sand and let it drip dry.The 2WD EX 5-speed has excellent acceleration and plenty of power in all gears. Fuel consumption is OK.100s of satellite radio channels and a way-above-par radio for a honda product make choosing the EX trim line a no-brainer.In short, you certainly won't see (nor expect to) five kids in soccer uniforms come pouring out.

Great Design

5
Hairy on 02/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

On the way to buying a BMW all wheeldrive 3 series wagon, we bought thiselement. The wife had the choice betweenthe Element and the BMW. The decisionwas not close; the Element had the appeal.It is a great little vehicle. Verypractical and fun. The BMW is quicker,but more expensive, and a lot lesspractical.This vehicle will easily carry fouradults, a big dog, and luggage. This isvery unusual in a small SUV or wagon.This vehicle was aimed at the surferdude market. While it may be great forthem, it is also great for the 40+ crowdwho are not trapped by stereo types.

two years, still love it

4.8
robert on 02/20/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had my Element for two years now (33+k miles), no problems at all. of any kind. It's great for camping, and typical "family-duty" hauling. It's a lot smaller than my old Dakota, yet I find it'll still carry all my stuff. the doors are odd, and are a hassle when wedged in a tight parking spot, but have a lot of advantages too.

Element

4.4
jpowens03 on 02/20/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The only problem I have is the gas mileage. Other then that I LOVE this car!!!

Disappointed But Satisfied

3.3
JOSEPHPLAVIAK on 02/17/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

The Element has fallen short in a few areas. The "AWD" is far from AWD. When I bought the Element, it was called REALTIME 4 WHEEL DRIVE. In essence FWD assisted by the rear wheels when the computer senses slippage. Granted, I have never been stuck. My next disappointment is the "A" post. The "A" posts cause serious blind spots when making 90 degree turns. Next, I go on to the tires. The 215/70/R16 is a unique tire size, which makes it expensive and hard to find in anything other than an all season radial. Lastly, the front end construction. DONT get in a fender bender, it'll be expensive. There is literally no bumper to stop the radiator from being damaged in a minor collision.

Element

4.6
John on 02/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very good suv, fun to drive and has the honda reliablity. Very good interior space and easy to drive. I am very happy with my purchase, sold a ford expedition and like the honda better.

2005 Rallye Red EX

4.5
beaker on 02/11/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I really like the Element. It drives well,and has excellent acceleration. I would suggest if you are considering any color that is paired with the blue or black composite panels to reconsider. The black composite panels are difficult to keep clean. I had owned my car for about 5 days when a thunderstorm came through. I drove on all paved roads, yet the dirt and mud that accumulated on the panels was unreal. I had to wash the panels at least 3x to get rid of the dirt. Water spots are also a problem. The regular gray panels would be much easier to clean. The red and black look sharp together but it takes a lot of time to clean the panels.

It's a Gimmick

1.3
Bryan on 02/08/2005

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 2

For an SUV the Element is incredibly under powered and the AWD is no help at all with out ABS,which is not available on the LX model. The suicide doors are just a hassle especially if you are in a car pool. The person in the front seat needs to take off his/her seat belt and open the door just to let someone in the back.

Best vehicle I ever had!

4.9
PatB on 02/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned a Blazer, Explorer, Honda CRV and I have to say the Honda Element is the most outstanding SUV. No carpeting makes it easy to keep clean and is great for hauling. The back seats are completely removable or fold them up against the side windows.This SUV is small enough to be fuel efficient yet the interior space is physically roomy and great for cargo. Best of all it hugs the road and I feel safe inside. CD player & speakers are superb! Great buy for the money-I will do it again!!

2004 Element

4.5
Mdmeyer on 02/07/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Dealer claims there is not much mark up in price. Dealer will offer more for trade to off-set price. Also adding fog lights, side steps, and tent package after haggling.

Love That Element!

4.9
Estie on 02/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I actually bought mine in July, 2003 but 2003 wasn't listed on this. I get asked frequently how I like driving it, and my answer is I love it. The price, look, functionality, design, performance, comfort are excellent. Every day we drive it, my husband & I are glad we bought it. We've done so much with it - I'd recommend it to anyone. This car seemed to be marketed for college kids but I see people of all ages driving them.

Love Affair With An Odd Duck

4.9
Bald Eagle on 02/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Haven't enjoyed a "car" this much in a long time. Roomy, versatile, fun to drive, and above all, unique. Four cylinder engine provides good acceleration with decent gas mileage, and you can't beat Honda's reliability. It's not meant for serious off-roading, but the on-demand AWD is great on snowy roads. Seating for four may be drawback for some, but those for passengers will be comfortable and there is a ton of room in the back seat. The ride is firm, but not jarring. Quite nice for a small SUV, but if you're used to a Buick, it may be a little rough. Designed for active young adults, at 63 years old I don't fit the demographic. Maybe I'll take up kayaking.

Cool and Cheap

4.8
Dave on 02/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love it, looks cool, has great floor and foldable seats. and it cheap. what more do you want

My Element

5
diane on 02/03/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I chose the Element because I needed more room then a car but not too much. I have one son and we do a lot of camping, fishing, boating and I have a dog. Origionally I was looking for a small truck until I saw the Element. I LOVE it. All wheel drive is wonderful, good mileage, lots of room, lots of windows. A all around great vehicle. I highly reccommend it.

An All Purpose Vehicle

4.9
Tom Fulton on 02/03/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Handles like a Civic, turning radius shorter than my Accord, great for hauling stuff and if you have kids they will love it. Floors and seats are made for use - no carpet and you can hose it out. Drove it in the snow and ice and it tracks like a dream. Gas mileage is not great but I've only had it 3 weeks.

The Swiss Army Knife of vehicles

5
Fred on 01/31/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It is all that I had hoped it would be and somewhat more. The "suicide" rear doors take a little getting accustomed to, but are beautiful in their design and integrity. What can you say about being "bullet proof", dependable and of great value ...it's a Honda!

Elemental

5
Brian on 01/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very Versatile. Roomy with the ability to hold anything you need. The AWD is a very good feature.

Small Outside? XL Inside

4.5
Cool Ride on 01/30/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Only had it for 1 week. Comfortable ride in front seats. Little bit chompy ride in back seats over bumps. Looks smaller than other SUV on outside, rides tall feels large inside, enough to accomadate 6-2 drivers. Gas mileage is average for this 4 cylinder SUV, only got 229 city miles on first full tank. Also some wind noise when driving on freeway at higher speeds.

Small Outside? XL Inside

4.5
Cool Ride on 01/30/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Only had it for 1 week. Comfortable ride in front seats. Little bit chompy ride in back seats over bumps. Looks smaller than other SUV on outside, rides tall feels large inside, enough to accomadate 6-2 drivers. Gas mileage is average for this 4 cylinder SUV, only got 229 city miles on first full tank. Also some wind noise when driving on freeway at higher speeds.

love my element

4.9
Sara on 01/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

very comfortable and lots of room inside.Could be better on gas mileage, but good for an suv. Great acceleration and performance.


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Overall Rating
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