Epinions.com 
Join Epinions | Learn More! | Sign In   
           
HomeCars & MotorsportsUsed Cars2003 Honda Element
Read Reviews (50) Compare Prices View Details Write a Review

2003 Honda Element

2003 Honda Element
Overall rating:  Product Rating: 4.5

Reviewed by 50 users

Reliability:
Seat Comfort:
Build Quality
Roominess:
Handling And Control:
Write a review
See: Most Positive | Most Negative | Most Recent

Complete list of pro's & con's for this fantastic SUV

by lawrance
Jan 09 '05 - Updated Feb 01 '05 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Usable Space, easy cleaning, fun design, decent mpg, sporty handling.
Cons: Blind spots, headlights blink, seats move, cheap-feeling interior.
The Bottom Line: If you want a highly reliable, highly functional and highly flexible vehicle that won’t break the bank, you can’t do better than the Honda Element.

I like my Element. In fact, I might even love it. I bought my E with very specific needs. I needed enough space to load an assembled real estate yard sign in, and I wanted a vehicle with good mileage, as gas was $2.00/gallon when I entered the car ...

Read the full review

Best car I've ever owned!

by d-grap
Jun 21 '07 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: reliability, versatility, ease of cleaning, fuel mileage, low-emissions, cargo space, comfort, leg room.
Cons: blind spot
The Bottom Line: I would highly recommend it- it's a well-built, reliable, somewhat eco-concious, comfortable and versatile SUV.

I purchased my 2003 Element brand-new in 2003. It's my first Honda and I couldn't be happier with it. In 4 years and over 33,000 miles, I have not had a single problem with it ever. It's reliable, comfortable, drives nicely, and it's versatile. It also ...

Read the full review

Honda Element EX 4WD - A Fun Ride

by jpenrod
Sep 26 '03 - Updated Sep 27 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Different Look, Roomy Back Seats, Good Price, Utility (room for junk), Mileage vs. other SUVs
Cons: Only 4 seats, Creature Comforts/Not Extras, Some Add-ons should be standard
The Bottom Line: I love mine so far - Fun to drive, Great utility & value. Not for those needing more than 4 seats or afraid to be different.

This review focuses on the initial impressions after 3 days of driving (appx. 150 miles). We came down to a decision between the Element or a used Land Rover Discovery -- very different cars, I know. But the decision was based on need for something to ...

Read the full review

Very Useable SUV

by willkirschman
Jan 01 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Smooth engine and auto transmission, cool looking, fun to drive, solid feel
Cons: Accessories that the EX should include, no switch to lock in all wheel drive
The Bottom Line: This is a very useful SUV that's fun and comfortable to drive.

I've had mine for a few weeks now and really love it. I've been on snow and ice and it feels very stable though I wish there was a switch (like the Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute has) to lock in the AWD. It feels much bigger inside than it looks outside....

Read the full review

Yeah, it's ugly, but then again, you're reading this review!

by superskunk
Jan 01 '03 - Updated Jul 31 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Fun, unique styling, functional interior, great ride, MP3 jack (EX), nice stock radio (EX)
Cons: Rear windows don't roll down, no standard remote keyless entry, side airbags are not standard
The Bottom Line: A confident, functional, and gutsy car that blows away the cookie cutter design. A gem in the rough, and a true value among dull, overpriced heaps of SUV metal.

Dateline 12/15/2002:

The Honda Element will be released in about four days. I keep trying to put it out of my mind, but no, the damn thing keeps getting in the way of me thinking about important things like work, Christmas, New Years,...

Read the full review

The Element is a fun-tastic vehicle!

by barbie-q
Dec 04 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Tons of interior space; fuel efficient and fun to drive.
Cons: No front sunroof.
The Bottom Line: I'd buy it again...I recommend a test drive!

I am so glad that I chose the Element as my first new car. It is everything I needed and more! The Element initially appealed because of its ultra-practical design (compact exterior/cavernous interior). The very reasonable sticker price didn’t hurt, ...

Read the full review

This vehicle is the "non-SUV"!

by howieinva
Jun 09 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: looks handling ride stereo room versatility price
Cons: Keyless entry should be standard Center console should be standard
The Bottom Line: Go drive an Element!

I'm not a fan of SUVs and much prefer the agility and handling of cars. However, I got an Element b/c I wanted something with more space to chuck my bikes in without cramming them in my car or loading a bike rack.

Well I got that and a lot...

Read the full review

ELEMENT -ary, My Dear Honda!

by scmrak scmrak is a Lead on Epinions in Cars & Motorsports, Epinions Most Popular Authors - Top 50
Jan 25 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: fun new design, versatile, fun to drive, roomy
Cons: limited standard equipment, only seats four
The Bottom Line: Honda's kicky new design is aimed at Generation Y, but Boomers love it too.

Lots of people claim to "live in their cars"; do you? If so, what kind of room is your vehicle? Some are outfitted as media rooms, with high-end audio (and in some cases, video). Some are rolling offices, with clipboards and telephones and plug-in fax...

Read the full review

The Amazing Element!!

by gypsytda
Jul 15 '06 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Versatile, Roomy/Spacious, Comfortable, Unique, Washable Interior, Controls Easy to access & FUN!
Cons: no bungee loops on passenger seat back. No inside tailgate release.
The Bottom Line: Looking for a truck that is a passenger car, that is reliable, has decent mpg, versatile and FUN!?! Get an Element!

When I first saw info on the Element (when it was just a little prototype) I thought odd, perhaps even ugly. I was looking (casually) for a vehicle. I was seriously considering the CRV, but with reservations. I did not like the seat fabric of...

Read the full review

The reinvented square

by chevy54
Feb 10 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: great concept, good mechanic, good power, lot's of room inside
Cons: ugly shape, rigidity of the frame not improved,center of gravity is high
The Bottom Line: That's a good SUV, good gas millage, good performances, good braking, good in everything and it look's like a square!

I think this is the most ugly car in the new concepts this year. Some likes it, and some ates it.It's made on a CR-V platform but there are no sides structure. Same engine. Lets take about it more:

ACCELERATIONS

It does good at this...

Read the full review

An Elementary SUV

by erazo
Feb 17 '03 - Updated Feb 20 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: It's a Honda. High in sport, higher in utility.
Cons: It's a Honda. Few options and color choices. Options overpriced.
The Bottom Line: An economical, inexpensive SUV that is both fun and functional.

Our reasons for buying the Element were four: two dogs and two bikes.

We just sold our Ford Ranger pickup, and our Jeep Grand Cherokee is on the block, as our new Element replaces both of these cars, while serving also as an economical...

Read the full review

Shake, Rattle and Roll....?

by za9ra22
Mar 25 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Great fun to drive. Unique styling, versatile utility. Made by Honda
Cons: Expensive accessories, a little spartan
The Bottom Line: A true utility vehicle and has great versatility. It's appearance is odd but makes sense when you get to know it, and it's fun and engaging to drive.

Not wanting to be un-cool, I tried to suppress the laughter. I’d gone to my Honda dealer to look at an Odyssey, which was of course calm, refined and almost luxurious in exactly the way you’d expect. Then I saw an Element, standing tall and in...

Read the full review

WOW, WHAT A VEHICLE

by tinkerbellbk
Apr 22 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Spacious, practical, and interior is spill proof. Great for shopping or other outdoor activities.
Cons: Must unbuckle seatbelt to let persons get into the backseat. Not a major problem.
The Bottom Line: I would highly recommend this vehicle for several reasons. It's very versatile, roomy, practical and has great visibility. You also feel very safe in this vehicle.

I must admit that when I first saw the Honda Element I thought it was the ugliest duckling I had ever seen. I was looking for a vehicle and thought I'd stop by the Honda Dealership and look at the new Accord, however, was I ever in for a surprise. The...

Read the full review

I think the Element is great

by kaleid
Apr 30 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Lots of room, Handles great, Accessorizing is fun, Good gas mileage, True utility vehicle
Cons: Not a lot of power to spare, Not for serious off-roading
The Bottom Line: If you are looking for an SUV that handles like a car and gets good gas mileage, this is the vehicle for you. Go get one!

When looking for my next vehicle, I wanted something that was fun to drive, yet be comfortable on road trips. I also wanted something with enough space to take all of our stuff camping and on trips.

I test drove the Ford Escape, Toyota...

Read the full review

NOT YOUR EVERY DAY SUV

by jamesthweatt
May 12 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Spacious and an extremely versatile vehicle.
Cons: Seatbelts must unbuckle for rear entry.
The Bottom Line: The Honda Element is the best purchase I've ever made as far as vehicles go. I can't imagine myself driving another car!!!

Great body design, fun, boxxy. It is called the mini-Hummer, is that like mini-me? Hmmmmmm. The lines are cool and interesting. I get stopped daily and asked about this car!!! The shape is interesting and modern. The head room is unreal (I'm 6'5"...

Read the full review

The little SUV that could...

by jordinas
May 27 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Very practical, seats fold up and out of the way
Cons: Somewhat noisy, seating only for 4
The Bottom Line: A unique looking vehicle, which is very practical, but a sparsely appointed interior.

When my wife started looking for a car the appearance and exterior color where her primary concerns (as well as having power steering). We also wanted something which we could use to haul stuff from Home Depot back to our house.

The Toyota...

Read the full review

I LOVE THIS CAR!!!!!!!!!

by makenna9
Oct 14 '05 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Versatile, fun to drive.
Cons: Seats, seatbelts for only 4 people. Gas milage for 4cyl? I get 23-25 hwy.
The Bottom Line: Great car, great features, very few drawbacks. Not for large families. Buying another when the time comes!

I bought this car (new) as a replacement car for my 2-dr Ford Explorer after adding to our family, and having it be nearly impossible to haul a baby in and out of the back of an suv. I did not anticipate how crazy I would become about it! The "suicide ...

Read the full review

Long Term Report

by baldeagle41
Dec 21 '06 - Updated Dec 23 '06 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Excellent long term experience. Would buy another one in a heartbeat.
Cons: Wish it had a six-speed transmission.
The Bottom Line: Highly recommend the Element over comparable vehicles. Tremendous value, loads of fun, trouble free ownership.

I have owned my 2003 Honda Element for just over three years and love it now as much as the day I bought it. I originally purchased it for snowy Connecticut winters and haven't been disappointed...but I don't push the AWD capabilities. The fun and ...

Read the full review

Owner of and ELEMENT & I LOVE IT

by jqbug
Jun 27 '03 - Updated Jun 30 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Great Visability, Spacious, Easy to clean, Diffrent, Comfortable
Cons: Options/Extras are to expensive
The Bottom Line: It's Honda what more can you say. Reliable, and it can last you a very long time.

Design of the Element reminds me of a EURO SUV.... VW? The exterior of the car is not liked by a lot ...

Read the full review

A Great Alternative to a Bland SUV

by mrb95
Jun 19 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Distinctive Styling, Great Cargo Capacity, Price, Honda Reliability!!
Cons: Seating for only 4
The Bottom Line: Besides the goofy design of rear seats and the fact that this SUV only seats 4, I recommend looking into the Honda Element.

The fact is their are so many small SUV's on the market now, that it can sometimes become overwhelmi ...

Read the full review

Honda Element nearly perfect

by mtopinions
Jan 05 '04 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Looks, handling, MPG, roomy, versatile seats/interior. Cleanable after muddy paws & dog hair.
Cons: Low console needs cover or a liner that pops out for cleaning. Bigger rear bumper!
The Bottom Line: I recommend this SUV to anyone looking for a great combination of price, versatility, looks, and gas mileage.

This little SUV truck is fun to drive, great for stashing snowy ski or snow gear quickly, hospitable to two dogs, easy to clean (except for console), and a delight to look at (once you get used to it). It handles well in the snow, even on back roads to ...

Read the full review

An Element Experience

by lordikka
Aug 05 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Stylish, Functional, Cargo Room
Cons: Few Standard Features. Safety on Side Impact.
The Bottom Line: Great to drive. Would recommend to anyone who wants a quality SUV/4WD Vehicle

I just purchased a new 2003 Element 4WD DX, Automatic & Air Conditioning. So far it has ran like a ...

Read the full review

Cheap and practical

by ke8yy
Jan 08 '04 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Roomy, handles like a car, easy to clean. Honda reliability.
Cons: Poor rear and side visibility. Poor mileage.
The Bottom Line: For all its flaws, it's still probably the best of the micro-SUVs on the market.

I only buy a new car once a decade, when the last one is on its last legs, and when I do, I do it very empirically. I want (1) reliability (2) room to haul sporting and musical equipment (3) safety and (4) value. I usually end up have two vehicles- a ...

Read the full review

Best Affordable Car on the Market

by ksu96
Jan 20 '04 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Fun! Tight turning radius. Highly practical. Turns heads. Very roomy.
Cons: Um, er, well ... it wasn't free.
The Bottom Line: It's quite simply the best affordable car on the market today. No question.

Let's get one thing on the table at the start: my wife and I *LOVE* this vehicle. I could write a multi-volume novel about the vehicle's neat features, but I'll try to summarize to the greatest extent possible. TIGHT TURNING RADIUS, EASY TO PARK ...

Read the full review

I Love My Element

by geor1845
Apr 01 '07 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: roomy interior, rugged, drives well in snow
Cons: blind spots, people perceive it as ugly
The Bottom Line: This vehicle is perfect for someone that carries passengers and occasionally has to carry cargo.

Anything would have been an upgrade from my Kia Sportage. Anything. I wanted an affordable SUV but could not find anything. That is when a friend that worked at a Honda dealership told me about the Element. I had seen them before and thought that it ...

Read the full review

A Comfortable Box on Wheels

by ab451
Oct 20 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Basic, comfortable, rooooooomy, easy clean. Big enough to carry a lot, small enough to drive.
Cons: Move or add another front DC plug. Only seats four.
The Bottom Line: A roomy, comfortable box on wheels. If that's what you need and can live with four seats, then the Element is your ride.

The Element is exactly what it seems -- a comfortable box on wheels. I bought the Element because, at times, I need to haul around things that would make carpet, seats, soft interior surfaces and, in short, most cars, pretty wrecked pretty fast. The ...

Read the full review

The best car I have ever owned

by SpcCwby
Nov 02 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: It's a Honda. It is functional. It's a Honda
Cons: Bed configuration needs work, seats only 4, side impact rating low
The Bottom Line: Bottom Line? This is my first NEW car and I am positive I made the right choice. My next car will more than likely be another Element.

The most unique feature of this car is how it looks. I got mine last January and I am still turning a head or two. It is BOXY, no doubt about it. Some say to the point it is ugly. SO!!! I have made 2 road trips in it so far and I love it. First trip Sp ...

Read the full review

LOVE MY ELEMENT

by kbacal
Mar 20 '07 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Good mileage, super reliable, comfy ride - what's not to love
Cons: In 4 years of car ownership I never found a negative
The Bottom Line: I'd buy this car again in a heartbeat.

I was one of the first people in Houston Texas to own an Element back in 03. I purchased a blue Element DX and never regretted it for an instant. When I went to purchase a car, I had several candidates, ranging from a Subaru to a Saturn to the Honda CRV. ...

Read the full review

Ultimate Dog Mobile

by agilestar052
Nov 10 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Attractive styling, durability, ample power, versatility, economy, high coolness factor.
Cons: Lack of standard equipment like cruise, A/C and a stereo.
The Bottom Line: yes! I highly recommend this one for anyone with an active lifestyle. Particularly animal lovers!!

Simple, non-flashy, rugged exterior. Simple yet fun colors available (mine is blue). I traded in my 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee for the Element. I have dogs, and we go everywhere together. I'm looking forward to not having to get my carpet steam cleaned ...

Read the full review

My Honda Elephant

by wmmead
Nov 16 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Goofy looking, fun, versatile, big inside, small outside, great for tall people
Cons: Goofy looking, engine seems to rev high, low gas mileage
The Bottom Line: Don't buy one - I don't want to have the same car as everyone else.

Ok, I have had my Honda Elephant for a week and I love it. The name came from my son and seems to fit. It is such an unusual, goofy, weird looking, ugly car that it is cute in spite of itself. I purchased the EX model with standard shift, and it is fun ...

Read the full review

Think INSIDE the Box!

by rodaniel
Jul 05 '04 - Updated Jul 06 '04 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Awsome interior space, peppy 4-cyl engine, funky & fun Hummer-like looks without the tradeoffs!
Cons: Your friends may make fun of the boxy styling. Washable interior doesn't appeal to everyone.
The Bottom Line: Its a fun, funky, and extremely function vehicle that won't break the bank. Get it!

The Element seems tailor-made for people who are of less then average dimensions and/or those who seek something a little different and more practical than the average SUV. The vehicle seems - and comparatively is - smallish on the outside, but ...

Read the full review

LITTLE HUMMER...............

by joedemeo
Jan 05 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 4.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Major funk! Roomy and spacious for storage. Adequete pep from engine. Very practical.
Cons: No GPS optional from manufacturer. 4WD is not in your control.
The Bottom Line: I will say if you like Hondas, or specifically the CRV or Pilot you will like the Element.

I bought this car as a second for me to get around town and not put so many miles on my other car. Good move on my part. It is fun to drive and fits in compact parking believe it or not.
My other car is a BMW 540i and it goes when I stomp...

Read the full review

Practicality wins over odd looks.

by neonrh
Nov 06 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 4.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Unique styling, great turning radius, easy to park, good ride, VERY convenient.
Cons: Unique styling, underpowered, stock armrest, not enough standard options. Gas mileage is only adequate. Headlights.
The Bottom Line: I would buy this car again. The key is getting the right options for the right price. Practicality wins over odd looks.

This vehicle was purchased to replace my wife's Audi A4 Quattro. We were actually looking at 1999 and up Jettas, but they just didn't feel like the best solution. We spotted an Element at a dealership and my wife fell in love instantly. As soon as I me ...

Read the full review

Honda Element 4WD EX Such an Average Car

by tryagainplease
Aug 03 '03 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 4.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Versatile, 4WD makes for good starts and it's got a fair amount of options.
Cons: The Space inside is an illusion, most things arent standard (auto-keylock/open).
The Bottom Line: It's a good car, nothing to special about it. But if you need an average car, and you don't have a big family. This is your car.

Different or an Old Trend? The “Honda Element” is not what you would call a new design. ...

Read the full review

Not Quite Sure If You're Out of Your Element?

by SAEGOOSE
Mar 04 '07 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 4.0 Recommended: Yes 

Pros: Functionality, versatility, price
Cons: Blindspots, sluggish engine, Honda doesn't offer deals, 30K warranty
The Bottom Line: Buy it if it suits your lifestyle, but know what you're in for.

2003 is the first year that Honda offered one of the most daring automotive designs to hit the market. Like any first year offering, it has it's share of bumps and warts. I bought the Element as a grad student at Penn State. I had two medium sized ...

Read the full review

Not quit up to Honda's standard

by darkside9923
Oct 20 '06 - Updated Mar 26 '07 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 3.0 Recommended: No 

Pros: It's a Honda, excellent headroom, humongous cargo area.
Cons: VTEC failure @ only 7,000 miles, rear seating, body rattles.
The Bottom Line: It's a Honda, but the VTEC feature leaves one to wonder about reliability in the long haul.

This review is in regards to the 2003 Honda Element EX, well I do not personally own this vehicle, it is owned by my father and I have driven it myself quit a few times and have been a passenger in the vehicle several times. I am a pretty big Honda ...

Read the full review

Element is fun, but not for everyone.

by zanahoria9000
Jul 30 '07 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 3.0 Recommended: No 

Pros: Honda quality, high seating position, fun to drive, durable & flexible interior, decent fuel economy.
Cons: Poor rear visibility, noise issues at highway speeds, stiff jerky ride quality, awkward passenger doors.
The Bottom Line: Think hard before purchasing this vehicle. Ride quality and noise issues will drive you nuts. But if you value Honda quality and enjoy the mutant Accord-on-steroids look, then get one.

I have owned my Element since new, so it's going on 4 years now. I feel I have enough experience with this vehicle to post a comprehensive opinion about it. My Element is FWD, 5-speed manual, no sunroof. Bought new, used 90% for city driving. I ...

Read the full review

Beware the Blind Spots

by parrotlady64
Aug 27 '07 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 3.0 Recommended: No 

Pros: Roomy, comfortable, great to go to the beach.
Cons: BLIND SPOTS, BLIND SPOTS, BLIND SPOTS.
The Bottom Line: I don't recommend for inexperienced drivers due to many blind spots.

I inherited this car from my Dad. It's roomy and a great vehicle to take to the beach, transport our parrots, or drive the dog to the vet. The sound system is good, and it is easy to clean. I have driven for 27 years without even as much as a parking ...

Read the full review

Element - Good with the Bad

by raster1
Jun 28 '04 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 3.0 Recommended: No 

Pros: Practical vehicle, Good cargo capacity
Cons: Really poor seat design/construction. Incredibly poor, unacceptable interior plastic durability.
The Bottom Line: If you can live with the design and manufacturing problems it may work for you.

I have owned Hondas for 20 years now. Extremely practical vehicle with pretty decent fuel economy. I really started out loving this vehicle but for now is now only "OK" in my opinion because of a few major flaws. With 10K on the odometer I have a pretty ...

Read the full review

Not a Fun Vehicle

by atomic201
Apr 13 '04 

Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 2.0 Recommended: No 

Pros: Quirky styling, reliability, TARDIS-like interior space.
Cons: Poor interior finish, poor 4WD system, slow, poor mileage, bad handling
The Bottom Line: Not at all fun to drive. "Tippy" & cheap feeling, slow, with a poor 4WD system and bad mileage.

My wife and I were enticed by the Element's quirky looks and Honda's reputation for reliability, but we soon after began to regret our decision. The Element is, in and of itself, a fine vehicle but it leaves you wanting so much more from it if you are a ...

Read the full review

Epinions Express Reviews
Brave Little Toaster
by baltwins  
Feb 01 '04 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 
Pros: Roomy, Reliable, Realtime 4WD,Price, Romper Room on wheels
Cons: Honda's lack of standard equipment
I was in the market for a small SUV. The Element wasn't even on my list. I was at the point of purchasing a used Land Rover Freelander at a Honda dealership when my wife said "that's a cool looking car." What she was looking at was a Sunset Orange Pearl Element EX 4WD. We test drove it and knew we wanted it. After purchasing the vehicle I have driven it through snow, ice and a mix of both without a problem. It is a comfortable, but not luxurious ride. The kids love the stadium seating and the sunroof in the back. The interior is void of carpeting, making it virtually stain proof. It has some pep but don't expect a race car. The mileage is fair 22-24mpg and the turning radius is fantastic. You either like the look or you don't, it's not really a style that grows on you. If you are looking for a reliable, roomy, utilitarian vehicle, get the Element.
Read more
2003 Honda Element Y-Package
by ryncoke69  
Jan 27 '07 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 
Pros: Style, Versatility, Cargo space
Cons: I can only drive one Element at a time
I have owned my Element since spring 2004 and am very happy I chose to buy it. The AWD is excellent in Canadian winters and the cargo space is unbelievable to everyone.

The towing capacity could be a little better, but I don't really have any other cons.

I purchased the optional privacy curtain and have slept in the a few times. A blow up queen sized mattress fits perfectly with all the seats flat.
Read more
Great car!
by frank312  
Dec 01 '04 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 
Pros: Good mileage, great craftsmanship, reliable, inside and seats are easy to clean. Great stereo.
Cons: Hold the wheel tight in high winds!
Having owned it now for over a year, It has been a great car, very reliable and zero defects. I added the keyless remote control (easy -get it on ebay) as well as a hitch (2hr install- etrailer.com). I had no problems towing a U-Haul with a couch and as much other stuff as I could pack in the 5x8' trailer and it towed it flawlessly even up the hills (1200-1500ft) of SW Wisconsin where my summer home is. The all wheel drive performs great on demand and pulls it up my very steep (and sometimes snowy) driveway like a champ. Most 2wd cars and trucks cannot make it up that slope under the same conditions.

I also just got back from the Smoky Mountains (loaded down) and it traversed the mountains easily but I also didn't try and do over 60 going up the steep parts and therefore didnt exceed 3-4k engine rpms.


Read more
Honda Element Delivers Superbly.
by pearce_dan  
Oct 29 '05 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 
Pros: ELBOW ROOM!!! This car has so much space and is so reliable.
Cons: Power.
The Honda Elements is now probably my favorite auto that I have ever owned. I am a big dude, about 6' 4" and I fit in it incredibly well. When I put the seats up in the back, I have so much room I put four twin mattresses in on their sides (though I couldn't quite close the back door). It's awesome to take on trips and camping because it's so easy to clean and has built in sleeping (the seats fold into cots) and a moon roof.

I haven't had a single problem with the engine and the mileage is very consistent.

It's only a 4-cilyndar engine, so it's not super powerful, but I've never been a big-power kind of a guy.

I'd reccomend an Element for anybody thinking about it.
Read more
I Love my "Box"
by ladytrie  
Mar 15 '07 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 
Pros: Functionality, comfort, easy to clean, ability to change back seats for more cargo room.
Cons: Only seats four. Can have interior wind / road noise. No hybrid option... yet!
I bought my Element in Oct of 2003. I have since put over 45000 miles on it in all types of terrain and situations. From the everyday work commute to the off road and snow driving experience I have been VERY happy with my "Box" as I like to call it.

My friends used to tell me that I must work for Honda cause I ALWAYS talk about my love for it. I would do full demonstrations on the features of it. I have 2 dogs and and very active in outdoor activities including camping, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and scuba diving. I LOVE that whether I am throwing the dogs in for a day hike or over night camp or if I'm throwing in my wet scuba gear, that I can alter the position of the back seats and can practically hose it out when I'm done.
Read more
Honda Element-Great vehicle for lots of travel
by dlbaird  
Jul 06 '05 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 
Pros: Great Gas mileage,inside upholstery great for family, few blind spots.
Cons: fog lights not available on all models, limited packages available.
The inside is great for kids or grandkids. My son took my Element down a mud lane, after words he just washed the inside out with a hose and towel. Soft drinks have been spilled without the upholstery being stained or ruined. I have the sub woofer and the sound is great in the back equally to the front seats. Pop the seats up and you have a nice amount of room for hauling items. This little jewel turns on a dime, I have yet to find a spot too small to get out of...you know the spots were people park on both of your bumpers. I live 34 miles from work and this little vehicle has handled wonderfully on the slick roads. Gives the effort of a much bigger vehicle in a small package, where you do not feel like your driving a 4 wheel drive vehicle that seats you up too high.
Read more
The 2003 Honda Element is a great car!
by dameez_good  
Jul 02 '08 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 5.0 Recommended: Yes 
Pros: The Element is a very convenient vehicle and very comfortable.
Cons: It would have been nice if they started out with painted panels.
The Honda Element is a great utility car. Take it to the beach and transform the seats into two lounge chairs. You get nice sound from a stock system. There is a sub under the stereo up front and it puts out a good amount of bass. The seats fold up and even come out to maximize interior storage. The drink holders for the driver and the front passenger seat are on the floor between them. This is cool because you don't have to worry about the drinks falling on you. The rear seats sit a little higher than the fronts to give a theater feel. The benefit to this is that everyone can see the road and can react at the same time if there is an accident. Plus it helps out if you want to go to the drive-in. A friend of a friend was driving home, had an accident and rolled her Element 7 times. She cracked a rib and had a little blood come out of her ear. When she got the claim money she went out and bought another one. I will keep my Element forever.
Read more
Fun, convenient, reliable, but slow and tippy
by nmct1961  
Jul 20 '04 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 4.0 Recommended: Yes 
Pros: convenient, durable, cheap to fix body parts
Cons: thirsty and unrefined
Ok, this car is awesome, but with a few shortcomings. You have to be under a certain age, or just think you're under a certain age to really appreciate an Element. If your idea of a great car is a new Volvo with heated seats, a Mercury Grand Marquis, or a RX-8, go get one, and don't even look back. If you always wanted an old Land Rover, or you value practicality over plush, or you simply want a super reliable all wheel drive vehicle, then the Element is for you.

It's large inside, but only rated to carry 4 SKINNY passengers and their luggage. So don't go carrying cement blocks in the back.

The stereo system isn't as awe inspiring as they claim.

It needs a V-6. The 4 is okay, but it only averages about 21 mpg, and is slow to accelerate on hills. It's not like a Ford Aspire towing an Airstream, but I think I was passed by a Pinto!

Oh, and if you're a passenger, don't read. The center of gravity is way high, and the thing rolls something fierce.

All in all, a nice, if unrefined ride.
Read more
Oh look! Another crack in the square-shaped totally non aerodynamic windshield!
by renisstupid  
Apr 28 '07 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 3.0 Recommended: No 
Pros: I can always find it in a parking lot
Cons: The back seat cushions are just big enough for half legged monkeys.
I bought my Honda Element when I had just finished smoking crack. I thought it would make a great car for hauling gear and getting all messy, and I guess I had a thing for Legos back in '03. But now I'm still making payments on the gigantor toaster from hell.

The Element goes 0 to 60 in about a day and a half. It gets tossed around in light wind, and it sounds like a washing machine that's cranking the spin cycle with an unbalanced load.

On the plus side, my windshield is always clean...because it's always new. The angle at which the windshield is mounted causes it to crack at the slightest tap. Since this car was designed for rugged outdoorsy types, this feature is quite peculiar.

The four seats in the element also fold down to make a bed...very romantic for amorous campers...very convenient for the hobo down the street. The sales guy reported only two hobos had slept in my car before I bought it, then he gave me free mud flaps.
Read more
This one has some interesting features you may not recognize ...
by rocks213  
Sep 24 '03 
Author's Product Rating: Product Rating: 3.0 Recommended: Yes 
Pros: Honda, enough said
Cons: Cant shift into 4WD when you want
This is all wheel drive, and it shifts automatically, which i would rather shift on my own. the sunroof is in the back, and all the seats, including the front 2, fold all they way down so you can lay down in it and look out the oversized sunroof in the back.
Read more
Showing 1-50 of 50 reviews Back to paged view
Related Search Terms   
2003 honda element honda element 2003 honda

Subscribe to More Reviews on Used Cars
Get the RSS Feed: - Add to My Yahoo!: Add to My Yahoo! - Add to Google Homepage: Add to Google

Help | Member Center | Message Boards | Site Rules | User Agreement | Privacy Policy | Site Index | Topic Index  
About Epinions | Careers | Contact Epinions | Advertising  

Epinions | Shopping.com | Rent.com | Free Classifieds | Price Comparison UK

Shopping.com Network © 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc. Trademark Notice

Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources,
so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.