First Look at the Honda Element
The Element has one of those “love-it-or-hate-it” exteriors. Its cube shape is not for everyone, but count me in the “love-it” category. It looks like something that a futurist from 1975 might have designed for the car of 2005.Matte-textured composite panels guard each fender and bumper, contrasting with the painted surfaces of the doors and hood. The panels are dent- and scratch-resistant, so go ahead and lean your kayak against the car while you rehydrate. Or go ahead and park at that grocery store, and dare the carts to do their worst.
The Element is equipped with a clever arrangement of doors. The clamshell rear doors are hinged at the back, and can only open when the front doors are open. There’s no B-pillar between the doors, so when you open front and rear, the Element is wide open, offering easy access to the back seat. The tailgate is also uniquely hinged, as about three-quarters of it goes up, while the lower quarter folds down, making access to the load floor an easy reach.
I drove a “Rallye Red” Element with black composite panels, a high contrast, eye-catching look, like a Swiss Army knife on wheels. Throw open all the doors and marvel at the utility. Airing out your Element is a blast. This is the Transformer of cars.
