2006 Honda Element: Unique Monster?

Website design By BotEap.comI admitted it. When I saw my first Honda Element a few years ago, I thought it was one of the most horrible looking vehicles on the planet. Then I saw the Scion xA and Scion xB, so I quickly relegated the Element to third place. I confess that my previous feelings about the Element have changed, possibly because I see so many of them on the road these days and perhaps because I see their usefulness. No matter, the Honda Element is a unique looking vehicle and it’s a lot less weird than you or I might think.

Website design By BotEap.comFreedom of convention. That’s the saying on Honda’s website when it comes to labeling the Element. In many ways, this marketing slogan is true. Who says that any vehicle has to conform to what you expect? It is true that the non-radical models failed miserably. The Ford Edsel and VW Thing are two that come to mind. However, times are different and a truly “radiant” look is in fashion. Real in, if you know what I mean.

Website design By BotEap.comThe Element has a practical side. Although it is shaped like a bread box and is equipped with two large doors and two smaller doors [reminds me of the Saturn ION], the 4WD LX Element has just about what any driver needs for just under $20K: ABS; robbery dig up; air-conditioning; cruise control; power windows, doors, mirrors and locks; and an AM/FM/CD audio system with 4 speakers and clock. The standard powertrain includes a spirited 2354cc I4 engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission; a four-speed automatic is optional, but considering this car is geared towards youth, you can count on plenty of transgender drivers who will beat the automatic.

Website design By BotEap.comMany of the Element’s components are borrowed from the Civic to give it a more car-like ride while maintaining its truck-like appearance. Open all four doors at the same time and the Element evokes a strong resemblance to the “suicide doors” that were standard on 1960s Lincoln Continentals as well as the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Honda likely thought this design would make it easier for passengers to retrieve all of their gear without opening the rear hatch and getting in. In fact, everything on the Element is easily accessible, and the vehicle was designed for the outdoorsman.

Website design By BotEap.comPrices start at around $17,500 for the base 2wd model and go up to just over $21,500 for the fully equipped 4wd version. Compared to the average SUV, the Element is very competitively priced and opens up a niche of buyers that Honda hopes to exploit.

Website design By BotEap.comRegardless of what you think of the Element’s looks, the vehicle commands attention. Judging by sales, it’s a hit with the young crowd.