2008 Honda Element Review

The tall 2008 Honda Element makes the most out of a vehicle that's actually quite compact and easy to park, with a van-like body, an extremely versatile interior, and rear-hinged back doors that allow wide loading access. Inside, a black urethane utility floor cleans up easily, and the seat upholstery is moisture-resistant, making the Element a good choice for those with pets, babies, or messy cargo. There's seating for up to four people, but the back seats flip up easily for larger cargo, or they can be removed completely. All Elements have five beverage holders, a large multi-bin tray above the glovebox, cargo hooks for strapping down larger items like bikes, and door pockets for all four doors.

The Element comes with a single engine, a 2.4L iVTEC four-cylinder that produces 166 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. It can be paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic. An available real-time 4WD system brings more traction for driving on snow or sand; when wheels slip, the system can send up to 70 percent of engine power to the rear wheels as needed on slippery surfaces or up to 30 percent on dry surfaces.

The Element is available in three versions: base LX, luxurious EX, and sporty SC. The LX and EX models are available with 2WD or the 4WD system, while the SC is only available with front-wheel drive.

The SC model adds a sporty edge to the Element, and includes a lowered sport suspension, stronger stabilizer bars, a faster steering ratio, larger 18-inch alloy wheels, projector-beam headlights, a carpeted floor with an enhanced center console, and various appearance changes. This model is available in a Root Beer Metallic hue that's not offered on other Elements.

All Elements have standard vehicle stability assist (VSA), anti-lock brakes with brake assist, front seat-mounted side air bags, and side curtain air bags with a rollover sensor system. Even the base LX comes with air conditioning, keyless entry, power windows and locks, and a four-speaker CD audio system. The more luxurious EX adds alloy wheels, steering wheel audio controls, an overhead console, and an upgraded, seven-speaker audio system with a subwoofer, input jack, and XM satellite radio and MP3 compatibility.

Options are quite activity-focused. For instance, they include cargo organizers, a tailgate seatback, and kayak, bike, snowboard, and ski attachments.
The Honda Element enters 2008, its sixth year, with no major changes from the previous model year. see less