2008 Honda Element [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 46 Element reviews and test drives.
Honda Element - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Honda Element ranks 4 out of 27 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 46 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Element, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Element ranks near the top of its class because it offers a distinctive and fun exterior design, comfortable front seating, and class-leading versatile cargo space. However, with somewhat uncomfortable back seats and occasionally awkward reverse-hinged rear doors, it isn't the best choice for buyers who carry many passengers regularly.
The 2008 Honda Element, virtually unchanged from the 2007 model, is a small SUV noted for a very good engine, the versatility of its interior, and its unusual, boxy appearance. "With its signature boxy, utilitarian shape, the 2008 Honda Element may not be the prettiest girl at the dance, but its incredible versatility, huge cargo capacity, and affordable price tag make it the car you just might want to come home to every night," says the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. With the reliability of a Honda, competitive pricing and very good long-term cost of ownership, the Element is a practical choice for many. But note that the emphasis in the Element's design is only in its cargo capabilities -- the rear seats are not practical for regularly transporting friends or family members.
A new cost of ownership concern emerging for small SUV buyers is the high cost of gasoline. With gas prices setting records throughout 2008, it's worth noting that the Element doesn't place in the top half of its class when it comes to fuel economy.
The Element comes in several trims -- the base LX, mid-level EX, and sporty SC. It comes with either two- or four-wheel drive.
- "The CR-V-based Element is Honda's answer for the young and active and offers unmatched cargo versatility. It's so unconventional, however, that we couldn't really warm up to it, and it finished last in a comparison, behind a Scion xB, a Chrysler PT Cruiser, and a Chevy HHR." -- Car and Driver
- "The Honda Element is a funky, fun little SUV that defies convention and is as practical as it is quirky. Its versatility will appeal to active, outdoorsy types who cart bulky sporting gear and go camping, as well as young parents looking for a practical and safe vehicle." -- Forbes
- "Despite the Element's well-deserved reputation as a fun crossover vehicle for young motorists, a fair number of 30-somethings and baby boomers will take a good, hard look at the SC model. It has enough extras to please that crowd, and obviously, there's no law against having fun well into middle age." -- Sacramento Bee
- "Element is a triumph of function over form." -- About.com
Element Performance - 7.4 (Good)
On balance, reviewers find the performance of the Element satisfying, peppy, and nimble, leading to a ranking in the top half of its class. Forbes says it "delivers solid overall performance" and adds, "No speed demon but also not a slouch, the Element feels zippy." Continue with our full Performance review to learn why test drivers are unimpressed with the sportier SC model. continue
Element Exterior - 7.7 (Good)
According to just about every observer, the Element has one of the most unique profiles on the road, earning it an exterior ranking near the top of its class. Car and Driver calls it a "rolling breadbox," while The Auto Channel says, "It produces smiles from on-lookers." However, what doesn't produce smiles is the unusual design of the doors. Continue with our full Exterior review to learn why reviewers say the doors create problems, or check out our Photo Gallery. continue
Element Interior - 7.8 (Good)
Reviewers widely observe the interior of the Element to be extremely spacious for its class, with comfortable front seating and extremely functional cargo capabilities. Though the interior ranks near the top of the class, some reviewers still complain that the rear seats are not particularly comfortable. "If you're used to a lot of lateral support from your sports car seat, you'll find the Element's seats a little disconcerting, but they're very functional and easy to slide in and out of," says About.com. Continue with our full Interior review to learn why reviewers consider the Element's cargo capabilities to be "exceptional," or check out our interior photos. continue
Element Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
The Element has consistently performed well on safety tests, and is one of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's "Top Safety Picks" for 2008. In addition, the Element's active safety systems are very impressive for this class of vehicle. Continue with our full Safety review to learn how Honda has considerably improved the Element's safety by offering new standard equipment. continue
Element Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Honda Element reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Honda offers a three-year, 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty on the Element. Continue with our full Reliability review. continue
