2007 Honda Element EX 2.4
Summary:
Honda has a winner on its hands
Faults:
Nothing.
General Comments:
In my humble opinion, it could quite possibly be the most perfect small SUV ever made.
The 2.4 litre V-TEC engine has been around for 25 years, and is stone reliable. Interior space is cavernous. Sound system is very good, bordering on great. Manual transmission shift is smooth and predictable, even if it does not like to be shifted fast, (hey, its not a Corvette). AWD has been unstoppable in the snow. Gas mileage is exactly the claimed 22-23 MPG.
Water-resistant upholstery and rubber floor are nearly maintenance-free and tough. With the suicide doors open, one can almost "walk" into the back seat.
Ride is where I like it; not too harsh, not too floaty. The Element also has all the equipment one needs, and no costly luxury extras that add weight and maintenance.
First car I have ever owned that I feel I can drive around the world in total confidence.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 31st December, 2010
25th Oct 2009, 22:23
I am the original poster. I now have 20k on the car. No problems at all. I do have to bring it in to the dealer for a recall notice - supposed issues with the hands of the tach/speedo can fall off in cold weather (something like that)... so I do have to have that fixed.
The stock tires are not very long lasting. I just had them rotated again and was told I have about 10k left on them - they do seem to have very little tread depth left.