2009 Honda Element User Reviews

Pros

Practical. Comfortable. It's a Honda.

Cons

Kind of strange looking... at first.

Purchased As New

I'm not sure when it happened, but at some point over the last twenty years a lot of "Sport Utility" vehicles sort of morphed into large "cars". Sure they have four wheel drive and the driver has an elevated position, but other than that, there doesn't seem to be much to distinguish most of them from the average sedan or station wagon.

Anyway, I went to the dealer fully prepared to buy a CR-V. I just happened to look at the Element, and slowly began to realize that this was the vehicle I ACTUALLY needed, despite its looks.

Good points are as follows: Rear seats come out and go back in easily, so it can function as a small truck/panel van when needed, and can still haul around four people at other times. Driver's visibility is excellent. It "tracks" the road better than any truck I've ever driven. Tight turning radius. Ride is not "soft" like with many SUV's, but offers the typical Japanese car "responsiveness". Plenty of power for the highway and zipping around town. Four wheel drive will be great for snow (which, if I'm honest, is all I ever really use 4x4 for anyway). Tough poly floor is great for my dogs, bikes, muddy boots, and spilled soft drinks. VERY easy to get into and out of, both through the sides and back. Gas mileage is significantly better than my old 4x4. Best of all... Honda built it, so you get the legendary quality and reliability that comes with that name.

In summary, I suspect that many people who would really like this vehicle probably never consider it because of its looks. Fact is, I am hard pressed to think of a more "utilitarian" sport-utility vehicle. This little box does a lot of things very well, and is a great choice for somebody who needs a truck, a car, and a dependable winter 4x4.... but only wants to buy one vehicle. If you can get past the unique looks, it's worth considering. Ironically, I'm finding that a lot of people actually like the way the thing looks. That's just a bonus.