2003 Honda Element Review
2003 Honda Element Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Impressively versatile interior, optional four-wheel drive, trick audio system, styled as if out of a Japanese animation movie.
Cons
- Only seats four, Elements with automatic transmissions and 4WD can seem sluggish.
What’s new
The 2003 Honda Element is a completely new vehicle for Honda. It's also the most adventurous Honda vehicle in quite a long time. Its blend of features, such as barn-style doors and waterproof seats, make it a good choice for those with active lifestyles.
Edmunds says
A specialized Honda that is great as along as you need something so specialized.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 Honda Element DX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$198/mo for Element DX
Element DX
vs
$179/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2003 Honda Element.
5 star(86%)
4 star(10%)
3 star(2%)
2 star(1%)
1 star(1%)
512 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
Utili-toaster
jlawton, 10/19/2010
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
At its heart, the Element is exactly what a small SUV should be- practical, reliable, and easy to drive. What sets the car apart is simply how over-the-top utilitarian it really is. The interior is nearly indestructible. The rubberized floors are easy to clean, the seats are waterproof, and the folding rear seats open up a cavernous cargo area that will easily accommodate mountain bikes … with the wheels still attached. For a giant rolling box, it handles surprisingly well- though not a sports car, the car feels stable and relatively nimble on mountain roads. An excellent buy for dog owners, college students, or anybody with an active lifestyle.
5 out of 5 stars
This car feels like home now
chasitye, 07/13/2014
2003 Honda Element DX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
When i first saw this car I thought it was the ugliest thing I had ever seen. Upon further driving and testing, it was PERFECT! The roominess has spoiled me. I can't even tell you how many times I've hauled things inside the car with the seats up and peoples jaws drop because they "had no idea". Countless times I have used the suicide doors to get the kids out and people come up to my … car to check it out. It's a 2003!!! Don't act like you've never seen one. With two kids under 10 the rubber floors have been a Godsend! I can't tell you how many ice creams and food disasters have been avoided. Not to mention that after beach trips I just take my leaf blower and blow ALL the sand out of the car
4.63 out of 5 stars
Hard worker
Raye , 07/07/2010
2003 Honda Element EX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
My 2003 has 200100 miles on it. Still has the same rotors on the front, shock and struts, muffler system, and surprisingly the same spark plugs that have been checked frequently if they need replacement. Yeah, i have the frozen door lock syndrome and the drivers seat is ripped and uncomfortable, and noisy ride, but this little baby has been good to me. I will be replacing struts and … brake pads etc. soon to be on the safe side. Best reliable vehicle I've ever owned.
4.88 out of 5 stars
In my Element
In my Element, 08/15/2010
2003 Honda Element EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
I purchased the Element new in 2003. It was easily the ugliest vehicle I had ever seen, but after one test drive (on a dare) I bought it. Best car I've ever owned.
2003 Element Highlights
DX
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $16,100 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 21 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $198/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 25.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalPoor
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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