Honda Element 2011 Review

By Zaheer on Jun 08, 2011 with Comments 0

Since its inception in 2003, the Honda Element has not undergone any major changes. For 2011, Honda decides to declare that this will be the final production of the Honda Element and also decides to do away with Element SC trim level.

The Honda Element 2011 SUV is offered in two trim levels; base LX and the uplevel EX. These are available in front-wheel and all-wheel drive. Standard features in the LX include air-conditioning, sixteen-inch steel wheels, tilt steering wheel, keyless ignition, cruise control, full power accessories, folding and removable back seats,4-speaker CD audio system and a urethane utility floor.

The EX steps up with features that include, a center console (with a storage box), audio controls on the steering wheel, sixteen-inch alloy wheels, auxiliary input jack, satellite radio and a 7-speaker premium sound system. Available on the EX model is the Dog-Friendly Package. This has a pet bed, rear car kennel, portable ramp, electric cooling fan, spill resistant water bowl, bed pad, washable dog-patterned seat covers, bag dispenser and heavy duty floor mats.

The Honda Element 2011 comes fitted with a 166 horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 161pound-feet of torque. This is paired to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency for the two-wheel drive according to EPA is estimated at 20 miles per gallon in the city, 25 miles per gallon on the highway and a combined fuel efficiency of 22 miles per gallon. This is low compared to other 4-cylinder crossovers. For the all-wheel drive, the fuel efficiency is estimated at 19 miles per gallon in the city, 24 miles per gallon on the highway and a combined gas usage of 21 miles per gallon.

The Honda Element 2011 has a spacious interior. It can accommodate four passengers. According to Honda, the Element has 64 seating and cargo configurations. The back doors will open once the front doors are opened. This tends to create inconveniences when the car is parked in confined areas. However, rear passengers enjoy adequate legroom.

With all seats in use, the 2011 Element will offer up to 25.1 cubic feet of space and 74.6 cubic feet with the second row seats folded down. Loading items in the Honda Element becomes easy due to its cargo-van style back doors. Typical features in the cargo area include the Dog Friendly Package, hooks, tie down anchors and storage bins.

Standard safety features in the Honda Element 2011 include the front and side airbags (for front and back seat passengers), complete side curtain airbags, anti-lock disc brakes, traction control, vehicle stability control, brake assist and electronic brake distribution. For the EX model, the optional navigation system has a rearview camera.

The Honda Element has not yet undergone the extreme government testing. However, the 2010 Element received five stars for the front and side crash tests and three stars for rollover tests.

The average price of the Honda Element 2011 may range between $16, 288 and $18,759. Honda gives the Element a three year bumper to bumper warranty and a five year powertrain warranty. It also has a five year corrosion protection.

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