The Element is about three things: Function, function and function. Honda describes the 2011 Element as having a boxy, bold design, but that’s preaching to the choir. People who appreciate and covet its cavernous, washable floor interior are sold no matter what others might think of the exterior styling. With seating for four plus cargo or two plus a lot of cargo, LX and EX models are offered and Honda’s Real Time 4WD is available. There are 64 seating configurations, thanks to the fold-flat front seats and the rear seats’ ability to be folded up against the sides of the Element or removed entirely, which provides 74.6 cubic-feet of cargo room.
Maryland Honda Element | Eastern Shore Honda
A 2.4-liter, iVTEC four-cylinder engine powers the Element and produces 166 horsepower and 161 lb.-ft. of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard and features programming to minimize gear hunting on hills. The 4WD system is good for all-weather and light duty off-road and is the same system used on other models of Honda. Maryland drivers will appreciate the fuel economy. Element is rated at 20 city and 25 highway, which is a few gallons off its platform sibling, the CR-V, but more than made up for by the extra cargo space. Suspension duties are handled by MacPherson struts up front and independent rear double-wishbones. The LX rides on 16-inch steel wheels with covers, while the EX is equipped with 16-inch alloys.
Honda Maryland | Honda Element
A full complement of safety equipment is standard, including stability and traction control, dual-stage front airbags, front side and side-curtain airbags with rollover sensor, antilock brakes with electronic force distribution and brake assist, daytime running lights, tire-pressure monitoring, and active front-seat head restraints. The Element earned five-star ratings for front and side impacts, and three stars for rollover resistance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – an important consideration for drivers in Maryland. Honda Element also received a “Good” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for front, side and rear impacts and roof strength.
Honda MD | Honda Element
The Element LX comes with a four-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and remote entry. EX adds a 270-watt audio system, XM Satellite Radio, MP3/WMA playback, auxiliary input, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and seven speakers including a subwoofer. In keeping with the Element’s utilitarian nature, there are storage bins and beverage holders, six tie-down hooks and storage pockets in all four doors. The EX has a convertible center console with removable cooler/storage box. There’s also a Dog Friendly edition, that includes a soft-sided kennel and pet bed with elevated platform in the cargo area, a rear ventilation fan, spill-resistant water bowl and an extendable ramp. The Element might be the most versatile Honda. MD drivers who want to learn more or test drive an Element should visit Pohanka Honda of Salisbury.