This is the Honda Element (which was launched in Japan in 2003 and continued to sell until 2011).
As you can see, it is a very versatile, boxy, compact crossover with chunky design elements that delivers a very durable utilitarian design and on the inside you have removeable seats and easy to clean rubberrised flooring.
The Element excels as a camping, pet-friendly, or hauling cargo vehicle, featuring a 2.4L engine, available AWD and with unique clamshell (like in the RX8) doors. While criticised for poor fuel economy, a rather stiff ride and seating only four, it remained popular in Japan for its immense practicality.
Sadly it was never considered as an ASEAN possible best seller for Honda and today we see similar looking rivals from Chinese auto manufacturers taking high sales numbers.
Should ….. maybe …….. we think …… Honda Japan should reintroduce this Honda Element with a new powertrain (1.5L iVTEC or hybrid or full electric maybe) and add the large screen from the electric Honda e.N1 and it will be a sales success. What do you think?
Key Features and Performance
- Engine & Reliability: Powered by a reliable K24 4-cylinder engine, though it is not particularly fast. It is an all-aluminum engine that produces 166-horsepower at 5800 rpm and 161 lb-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. The Element’s i-VTEC system combines Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) and a cam position-adjusting Variable Timing Control (VTC) system to enhance low rpm torque while extending high rpm horsepower. The result is a broad torque curve that starts early at low RPM’s while still delivering high-RPM horsepower. The 5-speed automatic transmission delivers exceptional smoothness, economy and intuitive shift points. Grade Logic Control minimizes “gear hunting” on hilly roads.
- Utility: Features a 2-part tailgate, removable rear seats, and ample storage, making it ideal for large cargo or “van life” setups.
- Design: Known for its unconventional, boxy look, rubberized floors, and rear “suicide” doors (clamshell).
- Handling: Built on a sedan platform, providing responsive handling and a good turning radius, but with a firm ride.
- Weaknesses: The suicide doors can be inconvenient in tight parking spots, and this crossover is known to consume brake pads relatively quickly which is not really a big issue.
Model Year Considerations
- 2007-2008: Added more horsepower, seat-mounted seatbelts, and increased safety features (like side airbags and stability control).
- 2009-2011: Received a restyled exterior and improved interior.
By the way, it does have some design cues of the current popular Land Rover Defender. Yes?
