2009 Honda Element
- 2008 Honda Element
- Used Honda Element
Based on analysis of 46 Element reviews and test drives.
Honda Element - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Honda Element ranks 6 out of 23 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.
With suicide rear doors, a highly configurable cabin and an incredibly angular shape, the Element is perfect for those who march to their own drummer. But the SUV is designed more for utility than sportiness or comfort.
The 2009 Honda Element's versatile cabin, eye-catching design and Honda lineage give it a leg up on much of the Affordable Compact SUV class. Although many auto reviewers say the SUV doesn't have the comfortable accommodations or sportiness of some of its competitors, it excels at the important characteristics of its segment -- great utility, reliable performance and a provocative exterior style. For a sportier ride, consider the Volkswagen Tiguan. Or, check out the Honda CR-V for a higher level of comfort.
The Element has changed little since it was first introduced in 2003. The 2007 model year saw the birth of the sporty "Street Custom" SC model, but besides that, the SUV continues to sell in an LX or EX trim. All models but the SC are available with all-wheel drive.
Be sure to check for current Honda Deals that may be available on a new Element.
- "With its box-shaped interior, wipe-clean floor and removable seating ... Element offers plenty of practicality at a reasonable price. However, it's utilitarian wrapper may put off buyers for whom SUV ownership is as much about style as it is about functionality." -- Edmunds
- "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
- "Element isn't so much an SUV as a motorized gear tote for 'active lifestyle' types. It sacrifices some convenience to rear doors that don't open independently of the fronts. And posh comfort or serious off-roading aren't on its agenda. It is, however, a roomy and adaptable little wagon with Honda's expected solid workmanship." -- Consumer Guide
- "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
- "Even with the new SC model, the Honda Element is a utility first vehicle. It's designed to maximize space and people/cargo hauling options in a fairly small package, with driving characteristics similar to a small sedan and optional all-wheel drive for a measure of security. ... In total, it's a good vehicular appliance, and the new SC model adds a notch more attitude." -- New Car Test Drive
- "Element is a triumph of function over form." -- About.com
Element Performance - 7.7 (Good)
The 2009 Honda Element's car-like handling and smooth engine are popular with reviewers. Still, many say a top-heavy feel and sluggish acceleration potentially prevent the SUV from being a contender for best in class. As About.com's driver explains, "Element is in its element around town. Get it out on the highway, and the boxy shape reveals the wisdom of considering aerodynamics in design. Element never feels unstable or unsafe, it just feels like it is working very hard to counteract wind resistance at speed." continue
Element Exterior - 7.9 (Good)
The Honda Element's rectangular exterior hits a home run with the automotive press. New Car Test Drive is one of many to favorably say the SUV's "shape proudly proclaims its utility." There are a few design differences between the base model Element and the "Street Custom" SC model. continue
Element Interior - 7.9 (Good)
The Element is very spacious, and its configurable rear seating offers numerous cargo options. But when seats are used for passengers and not their things, reviewers find they're not as comfortable as they could be. Consumer Guide says, "In LX and EX, comfort depends on where you sit. Rear occupants nestle between the wheels and thus endure marked chop and thump over bumps. Front-seaters are more comfortable." continue
Element Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)
The 2009 Element receives top scores in federal government crash tests. It's also an insurance industry "Top Safety Pick" for its good performance in front, side and rear impact tests with electronic stability control. continue
Element Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2009 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). The 2009 Honda Element has a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. continue
