2011 Honda Element

Review

Review

While 4WD enthusiasts will insist on adding the Real Time 4WD, the test ride for the 2WD version of the 2011 Honda Element SC model offered faster steering, a comfortably-low ride height, and a stiffer suspension for the best ride along with the larger 18-inch wheel and tire combination. However, the 4WD experience was sufficiently rugged to please that segment of the market. Regardless of the drive option, the 2011 Honda Element provides a smooth, quiet ride on the highway with its combination of a 2.4 liter, 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC engine and Control-Link Macpherson strut front suspension. Off-road, the Element provides a surprisingly good driving experience and handled the dirt, rocks, and bumps very well for an affordable, 4-cylinder SUV.

Performance

The 2011 Honda Element offers plenty of power for its size with a 2.4 liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC engine that features an aluminum-alloy block and head. It also provides a 166-hp rating, Real Time 4WD, and 1,500 lbs of towing capacity. The Control-Link Macpherson strut front suspension offers a smooth ride and precise steering. Add in a Drive-By-Wire throttle system and Real-Time 4WD, and the new Honda owner has one sweet ride. While no one would want to tow a yacht with the 2011 Honda Element, it provides plenty of power and torque to pull a small travel trailer or lightweight boat for family weekends by the shore.

Interior Features

The interior of the 2011 Honda Element is all about function. For the busy family or animal lover, the utilitarian floor and water-resistant upholstery provides both rugged durability and easy clean-up. No more need to worry about dirt, sand, spills, or messy pets. Simply spray it down, wipe it up, and the inside will be good as new. The fully-configurable seating and the innovative cargo-area design allows the new Honda owner to flip, fold, or remove rear seats for up to 64 different interior options. The driver will never need to blindly search the back seat area for any item again once they choose the 2011 Honda element. With a convenient center console, overhead storage, and a functional instrument panel, everything has its designated place for easy retrieval. The center console even comes with a removable cooler for those long trips.

Performance

As most of the features from 2010 will carry over into the new model year, the 2011 Honda Element should have enough power for most driving situations, although it will not be sports car fast. It will come with a standard five-speed manual transmission, with an option for a five-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive should be standard, but all-wheel drive should be available as an option. More information will be available as the Element approaches its release date and vehicles are available for road tests.

Summary

While the 2011 Honda Element is feature-packed, some shoppers may decide to pass on the box-like styling of this Honda in favor of a more streamlined vehicle with more luxurious features.

The 2011 Honda Element provides an affordable option for drivers who require a substantial amount of space and flexible seating options at an affordable price. Adding the optional 4WD feature adds even more value to this Honda. If the Honda Shopper is looking for usefulness and function in their vehicle, the new Element would make a great choice.