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Honda Element: Difference between revisions
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[[image:2007_Element_bluestatic.jpg|right|400px]] | |||
[[Honda]] introduced the Element in 2003 as a way of getting in touch with a younger generation increasingly involved in outdoor sports and activities. It is a [[crossover SUV]] meant to replace the [[Honda CR-V|CR-V]] as Honda's entry-level SUV. [[Honda]] took a bit of a chance with the Element's quirky, unconventional exterior stylings, but with design elements created to fit an active lifestyle, it became a popular vehicle. For 2007, it receives some updates and aims to maintain its popularity. | |||
See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Honda Element Review]]'''. | |||
===Recent Changes=== | |||
The 2007 Element will receive a mild refresh. The Element will be the only SUV on the Honda Civic platform, with the CR-V switching to a new platform for 2007. A 10 [[HP|hp]] increase to the engine is expected, along with a 5-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission, and an Integrated Seat Belt System on the front seats that allows rear seat occupants to exit the vehicle without the need for a front occupant to disconnect his or her seatbelt. | |||
A new "urban cruiser" trim level called the SC will be offered with a custom bumper, lower roofline and 21" alloy wheels. | |||
===Styles and Major Options=== | |||
===Pricing=== | |||
Today's actual prices for the [[Honda]] Element can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/honda/element/prices CarsDirect]. | |||
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008> | |||
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc> | |||
<td colspan=4> | |||
'''MODEL Trims''' | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc> | |||
<td> | |||
Trim1 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
Trim2 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
Trim3 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
Trim4 | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff> | |||
<td colspan=4> | |||
''MSRP'' | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc> | |||
<td> | |||
$Price1 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
$Price2 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
$Price3 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
$Price4 | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff> | |||
<td colspan=4> | |||
''Invoice'' | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc> | |||
<td> | |||
$Price1 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
$Price2 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
$Price3 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
$Price4 | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
</table> | |||
===Gas Mileage=== | |||
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages for the Element are as follows: | |||
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008> | |||
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc> | |||
<td colspan=4> | |||
'''Trim''' | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc> | |||
<td> | |||
[[2WD]] [[manual transmission|manual]] | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
[[2WD]] [[automatic transmission|automatic]] | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
[[4WD]] [[manual transmission|manual]] | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
[[4WD]] [[automatic transmission|automatic]] | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
<tr> | |||
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc> | |||
'''MPG''' | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc> | |||
<td> | |||
21/25 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
22/26 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
21/24 | |||
</td> | |||
<td> | |||
21/24 | |||
</td> | |||
</tr> | |||
</table> | |||
===Reliability=== | |||
The 2003 Honda Element received an overall Green rating from Automotive Information Systems. Reliability was guaged based on several categories, including Engine, Transmission, and Accessories. | |||
===Safety=== | |||
In safety tests performed by the [http://www.safercar.gov NHTSA,] the 2006 Element performed very well. Although results for Rollover are not available, the NHTSA awarded the Element with 5-Star ratings for all front- and side-impact tests. There was, however, some concern in the side-impact test, described as follows: | |||
''During the side impact test, the head of the left rear passenger dummy struck the side upper interior structure, causing a high head acceleration. Head impact events resulting in high accelerations have a higher likelihood of serious head trauma.'' | |||
The 2007 Element has only been tested for front-impact crashes, and in these tests the Element has earned a 5-Star rating. However, since side-impact and side overhead [[airbag]]s have been added, it should achieve a higher side-impact crash rating than last year's model. | |||
Some of the standard safety features on the Element are: | |||
*4-wheel [[anti-lock brakes]] | |||
*Front, side-impact, and overhead mounted [[airbag]]s | |||
*Occupancy sensors | |||
*Side impact bars | |||
*Seatbelt pretensioners | |||
===Photos=== | |||
===Colors=== | |||
Colors will vary according to trim, and a full list can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/honda/element/colors CarsDirect.com]. Here are some of the available combinations: | |||
'''Exterior''' | |||
*Alabaster Silver Metallic | |||
*Nighthawk Black Pearl | |||
*Kiwi Metallic | |||
*Tangerine Metallic | |||
*Tango Red Pearl | |||
'''Interior''' | |||
*Black/Copper | |||
*Black/Titanium | |||
*Gray/Black | |||
===Main Competitors=== | |||
*[[Acura RDX]] | |||
*[[Chevrolet Equinox]] | |||
*[[Ford Escape]] | |||
*[[Honda CR-V]] | |||
*[[Ford Freestyle]] | |||
*[[Jeep Liberty]] | |||
==Hybrid Models== | |||
==Unique Attributes== | |||
==Resale Values== | |||
==Criticisms== | |||
The | ==Current Generation: (2003–present)== | ||
Although the Element is based on the CR-V, its dimensions are significantly different. The length is a foot shorter, the wheelbase has been trimmed 1.7 inches, the roofline is 7.8" higher, the front track 1.7" narrower, and the floor about an inch lower. | |||
Powering the Element is Honda's K24A4 i-VTEC 2.4 L four-cylinder engine that also sees duty in the Accord and CR-V. For the Element's purposes, it produces 156 [[HP|hp]] at 5500 rpm and 160 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. | |||
The | The Element rides on a highly modified CR-V chassis, and because it has no visible B-pillars, it sports reinforced joints, strengthened lower side sills, larger crossmembers, enlarged rocker panels, and five bulkheads per side.The Element is available with [[front-wheel drive]] or Honda's optional Real Time™ [[Four Wheel Drive|four-wheel drive]] system. This is a hydraulically-actuated system that operates only when front wheel slippage occurs. It was discontinued in Japan with the 2006 model. The Element is currently built in East Liberty, Ohio. | ||
==2003== | ====2003==== | ||
[[Image:04element.JPG|250px|thumb|left|2004 Honda Element EX]] | [[Image:04element.JPG|250px|thumb|left|2004 Honda Element EX]] | ||
Line 19: | Line 183: | ||
*The 2003 Element was launched with two trim levels - DX and EX. A service bulletin was release regarding the windshield flange surface being uneven [http://www.hondaelementscrack.com/service%20bulletins/2003%20windshield%20service%20bulletin.pdf]. This bulletin along with the warranty obligated Honda of America to replace the windshield at no cost to the owner. [[Four Wheel Drive|Four-wheel drive]] models come with a large rear sunroof. | *The 2003 Element was launched with two trim levels - DX and EX. A service bulletin was release regarding the windshield flange surface being uneven [http://www.hondaelementscrack.com/service%20bulletins/2003%20windshield%20service%20bulletin.pdf]. This bulletin along with the warranty obligated Honda of America to replace the windshield at no cost to the owner. [[Four Wheel Drive|Four-wheel drive]] models come with a large rear sunroof. | ||
==2004== | ====2004==== | ||
*Original MSRP range: US$16,100-$20,300 | *Original MSRP range: US$16,100-$20,300 | ||
*Colors available: Same as 2003 except Fiji Blue replaced Eternal Blue. | *Colors available: Same as 2003 except Fiji Blue replaced Eternal Blue. | ||
*The LX model was introduced with more standard features. Improvements were made to the front seats as well as the inclusion of an armrest for the passenger's side captain's chair. | *The LX model was introduced with more standard features. Improvements were made to the front seats as well as the inclusion of an armrest for the passenger's side captain's chair. | ||
==2005== | ====2005==== | ||
[[Image:05element.JPG|250px|thumb|right|2005 Honda Element EX]] | [[Image:05element.JPG|250px|thumb|right|2005 Honda Element EX]] | ||
Line 31: | Line 195: | ||
*The DX model was eliminated from the model lineup. Side airbags were an available option, and XM satellite radio and MP3 capabilities were added as standard features in the audio system for the EX model. The charcoal gray that was the standard plastic tone was darkened and a navy blue was offered with the Satin Silver Metallic . Wheel covers on the LX were changed to mimic the styled alloy wheels. | *The DX model was eliminated from the model lineup. Side airbags were an available option, and XM satellite radio and MP3 capabilities were added as standard features in the audio system for the EX model. The charcoal gray that was the standard plastic tone was darkened and a navy blue was offered with the Satin Silver Metallic . Wheel covers on the LX were changed to mimic the styled alloy wheels. | ||
==2006== | ====2006==== | ||
[[Image:06element.JPG|250px|thumb|left|2006 Honda Element EX-P]] | [[Image:06element.JPG|250px|thumb|left|2006 Honda Element EX-P]] | ||
*Original MSRP range: US$17,750-$21,525 | *Original MSRP range: US$17,750-$21,525 | ||
*Colors available: only Rallye Red and Nighthawk Black Pearl carry over with new colors Tango Red Pearl, Tangerine Metallic, Kiwi Metallic, Atomic Blue Metallic, and Alabaster Silver Metallic | *Colors available: only Rallye Red and Nighthawk Black Pearl carry over with new colors Tango Red Pearl, Tangerine Metallic, Kiwi Metallic, Atomic Blue Metallic, and Alabaster Silver Metallic | ||
*A fully painted version called the EX-P became available (an extra $500 compared to non-painted counterpart). It comes standard with a 5-speed [[manual transmission]] or an optional 4-speed [[automatic transmission]] with [[overdrive]]. | *A fully painted version called the EX-P became available (an extra $500 compared to non-painted counterpart). It comes standard with a 5-speed [[manual transmission]] or an optional 4-speed [[automatic transmission]] with [[overdrive]]. | ||
==Origins== | |||
The Element concept vehicle (Model X) was introduced in 2001. The Model X concept was conceived around achieving ideal functionality for a cross-country road trip, hauling surfboards, mountain bikes, snowboards or just about anything else as it combines some of the best features of a [[pickup truck]] and an SUV. The Model X was first conceived by a core group of young R&D engineers in 1998. They wanted to develop a vehicle that they could use for their activities and conducted informal on-site focus groups at colleges, beaches, campsites and in the mountains. | |||
The 4-seat Element is designed to carry large and possibly messy loads. The floor is made of textured urethane that is easy to clean; the fabric is tough and stain-resistant; the individual rear seats recline, fold up, and are completely removable to leave a large load space. The rear clamshell tailgate arrangement is large and the vehicle is tall, allowing large loads to be carried. The rear side [[suicide door]]s open backward, so there is no central pillar and this gives unobstructed access for side loading. | |||
==Worldwide== | |||
==Design quirks and oddities== | |||
==Awards== | |||
The Element was nominated for the ''North American Truck of the Year'' award for 2003. | |||
== | ==See also== | ||
==Advertising== | |||
[[Image:ELEMENTANDFRIENDS.JPG|250px|thumb|right|2006 Honda Element web advertisment]] | |||
In the spring of 2006, a national advertisment campaign featured freeway billboards directing drivers to tune into an AM station to listen to various Honda Element-themed commercials looped continuously. The commercial would then reveal a final piece to the clever advertising trifecta to a website that featured video counterparts of the radio commericals. They could also be seen on television and would reveal the website also. The commercials featured candid conversations between the Element and various creatures, including a crab, rabbit, burro, platypus, and an opposum. | |||
==Video games== | ==Video games== | ||
*In 2003, Honda had the Element featured in | *In 2003, Honda had the Element featured in EA Sports BIG's ''SSX 3'' snowboarding game. It featured in game billboards with the Honda Element logo, as well as the signature car itself parked on the slope with its front and rear doors open to have the snow boarder dart through for extra points. | ||
*In 2004, Element was featured for the first time in | *In 2004, Element was featured for the first time in Polyphony Digital's ''Gran Turismo'' series in ''Gran Turismo 4'' as a 2003 model. | ||
*In 2006, Honda and EA teamed up again to have the Element featured in '' | *In 2006, Honda and EA teamed up again to have the Element featured in ''The Sims'' spin-off, ''The Urbz''. | ||
== External links == | == External links == | ||
Line 64: | Line 239: | ||
This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Element Honda Element], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Honda_Element&action=history contributors]. | This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Element Honda Element], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Honda_Element&action=history contributors]. | ||
Revision as of 15:56, 11 October 2006
Honda introduced the Element in 2003 as a way of getting in touch with a younger generation increasingly involved in outdoor sports and activities. It is a crossover SUV meant to replace the CR-V as Honda's entry-level SUV. Honda took a bit of a chance with the Element's quirky, unconventional exterior stylings, but with design elements created to fit an active lifestyle, it became a popular vehicle. For 2007, it receives some updates and aims to maintain its popularity.
See Wikicars' comprehensive Honda Element Review.
Recent Changes
The 2007 Element will receive a mild refresh. The Element will be the only SUV on the Honda Civic platform, with the CR-V switching to a new platform for 2007. A 10 hp increase to the engine is expected, along with a 5-speed automatic transmission, and an Integrated Seat Belt System on the front seats that allows rear seat occupants to exit the vehicle without the need for a front occupant to disconnect his or her seatbelt.
A new "urban cruiser" trim level called the SC will be offered with a custom bumper, lower roofline and 21" alloy wheels.
Styles and Major Options
Pricing
Today's actual prices for the Honda Element can be found at CarsDirect.
MODEL Trims |
|||
Trim1 |
Trim2 |
Trim3 |
Trim4 |
MSRP |
|||
$Price1 |
$Price2 |
$Price3 |
$Price4 |
Invoice |
|||
$Price1 |
$Price2 |
$Price3 |
$Price4 |
Gas Mileage
As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages for the Element are as follows:
Trim |
|||
MPG |
|||
21/25 |
22/26 |
21/24 |
21/24 |
Reliability
The 2003 Honda Element received an overall Green rating from Automotive Information Systems. Reliability was guaged based on several categories, including Engine, Transmission, and Accessories.
Safety
In safety tests performed by the NHTSA, the 2006 Element performed very well. Although results for Rollover are not available, the NHTSA awarded the Element with 5-Star ratings for all front- and side-impact tests. There was, however, some concern in the side-impact test, described as follows: During the side impact test, the head of the left rear passenger dummy struck the side upper interior structure, causing a high head acceleration. Head impact events resulting in high accelerations have a higher likelihood of serious head trauma. The 2007 Element has only been tested for front-impact crashes, and in these tests the Element has earned a 5-Star rating. However, since side-impact and side overhead airbags have been added, it should achieve a higher side-impact crash rating than last year's model.
Some of the standard safety features on the Element are:
- 4-wheel anti-lock brakes
- Front, side-impact, and overhead mounted airbags
- Occupancy sensors
- Side impact bars
- Seatbelt pretensioners
Photos
Colors
Colors will vary according to trim, and a full list can be found at CarsDirect.com. Here are some of the available combinations:
Exterior
- Alabaster Silver Metallic
- Nighthawk Black Pearl
- Kiwi Metallic
- Tangerine Metallic
- Tango Red Pearl
Interior
- Black/Copper
- Black/Titanium
- Gray/Black
Main Competitors
Hybrid Models
Unique Attributes
Resale Values
Criticisms
Current Generation: (2003–present)
Although the Element is based on the CR-V, its dimensions are significantly different. The length is a foot shorter, the wheelbase has been trimmed 1.7 inches, the roofline is 7.8" higher, the front track 1.7" narrower, and the floor about an inch lower.
Powering the Element is Honda's K24A4 i-VTEC 2.4 L four-cylinder engine that also sees duty in the Accord and CR-V. For the Element's purposes, it produces 156 hp at 5500 rpm and 160 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm.
The Element rides on a highly modified CR-V chassis, and because it has no visible B-pillars, it sports reinforced joints, strengthened lower side sills, larger crossmembers, enlarged rocker panels, and five bulkheads per side.The Element is available with front-wheel drive or Honda's optional Real Time™ four-wheel drive system. This is a hydraulically-actuated system that operates only when front wheel slippage occurs. It was discontinued in Japan with the 2006 model. The Element is currently built in East Liberty, Ohio.
2003
- Original MSRP range: US$16,100-$20,850
- Colors available: Sunset Orange Pearl, Shoreline Mist Metallic, Satin Silver Metallic, Nighthawk Black Pearl, Galapagos Green Metallic, and Eternal Blue Pearl
- The 2003 Element was launched with two trim levels - DX and EX. A service bulletin was release regarding the windshield flange surface being uneven [1]. This bulletin along with the warranty obligated Honda of America to replace the windshield at no cost to the owner. Four-wheel drive models come with a large rear sunroof.
2004
- Original MSRP range: US$16,100-$20,300
- Colors available: Same as 2003 except Fiji Blue replaced Eternal Blue.
- The LX model was introduced with more standard features. Improvements were made to the front seats as well as the inclusion of an armrest for the passenger's side captain's chair.
2005
- Original MSRP range: US$17,450-$20,925
- Colors available: Same as 2004, plus Cargo Khaki, Magnesium Metallic, and Rally Red
- The DX model was eliminated from the model lineup. Side airbags were an available option, and XM satellite radio and MP3 capabilities were added as standard features in the audio system for the EX model. The charcoal gray that was the standard plastic tone was darkened and a navy blue was offered with the Satin Silver Metallic . Wheel covers on the LX were changed to mimic the styled alloy wheels.
2006
- Original MSRP range: US$17,750-$21,525
- Colors available: only Rallye Red and Nighthawk Black Pearl carry over with new colors Tango Red Pearl, Tangerine Metallic, Kiwi Metallic, Atomic Blue Metallic, and Alabaster Silver Metallic
- A fully painted version called the EX-P became available (an extra $500 compared to non-painted counterpart). It comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
Origins
The Element concept vehicle (Model X) was introduced in 2001. The Model X concept was conceived around achieving ideal functionality for a cross-country road trip, hauling surfboards, mountain bikes, snowboards or just about anything else as it combines some of the best features of a pickup truck and an SUV. The Model X was first conceived by a core group of young R&D engineers in 1998. They wanted to develop a vehicle that they could use for their activities and conducted informal on-site focus groups at colleges, beaches, campsites and in the mountains.
The 4-seat Element is designed to carry large and possibly messy loads. The floor is made of textured urethane that is easy to clean; the fabric is tough and stain-resistant; the individual rear seats recline, fold up, and are completely removable to leave a large load space. The rear clamshell tailgate arrangement is large and the vehicle is tall, allowing large loads to be carried. The rear side suicide doors open backward, so there is no central pillar and this gives unobstructed access for side loading.
Worldwide
Design quirks and oddities
Awards
The Element was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2003.
See also
Advertising
In the spring of 2006, a national advertisment campaign featured freeway billboards directing drivers to tune into an AM station to listen to various Honda Element-themed commercials looped continuously. The commercial would then reveal a final piece to the clever advertising trifecta to a website that featured video counterparts of the radio commericals. They could also be seen on television and would reveal the website also. The commercials featured candid conversations between the Element and various creatures, including a crab, rabbit, burro, platypus, and an opposum.
Video games
- In 2003, Honda had the Element featured in EA Sports BIG's SSX 3 snowboarding game. It featured in game billboards with the Honda Element logo, as well as the signature car itself parked on the slope with its front and rear doors open to have the snow boarder dart through for extra points.
- In 2004, Element was featured for the first time in Polyphony Digital's Gran Turismo series in Gran Turismo 4 as a 2003 model.
- In 2006, Honda and EA teamed up again to have the Element featured in The Sims spin-off, The Urbz.
External links
- Honda Element official webpage
- Honda Element Owner's Club of America
- Honda Element Owners Club National Meet site
- Honda Element Owners Club of Japan
- elementandfriends.com
- Windshield Service Bulletin
This page uses content from Wikipedia; see Honda Element, which includes these contributors.