In the early 2000s, Honda wanted to step out of the box and create a…boxy crossover with plenty of character and a super versatile interior aimed at the young generation. They took the platform from the HR-V, strapped a different body on top, redesigned the cabin and the Element was born.
Offered between 2002 and 2011, and built at Honda’s plant in East Liberty, in Ohio, it came with front- or four-wheel drive, matched to a 2.4-liter petrol engine, rated at 166 HP and 160 lb-ft (217 Nm) of torque. Customers had three transmissions to choose from, 4- and 5-speed automatics together with a 5-speed manual.
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The raised roofline and front seats that could slide all the way back made it friendly to tall passengers, while the rear suicide doors and the fact that the cargo area had hard plastic and not carpet turned it into a hauling-friendly machine. Having too much rubber and plastic inside is not always a good thing though, as the Element proved to be very noisy out on the open road.
It wasn’t that fun to drive either, especially when combined with off-road tires like this 13-year old example that came with the 5-speed stickshift sporting some additional mods, like the 3-inch (76 mm) lift kit, roof rack, trail lights and more. Its owner put around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) on the clock since he bought it, and did not seem to regret his decision. Was it a wise choice? That’s for you to find out by checking out the review, which covers every basic element (pun intended) of the car, in a humorous manner.
As for the cost of a used Element, it depends on use and condition, ranging on Autotrader from as low as $3,000 to as high as $17,000 for newer models (not including a single example that’s listed for an absurd $29,900).