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Used 2009 Honda Element Consumer Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
96 reviews

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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Element, so we've included reviews for other years of the Element since its last redesign.

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Pros
Cons
5 out of 5 stars

My Toaster

Sue Keller, 06/04/2008
2008 Honda Element EX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

My sweet toaster is the best car I have ever owned and believe me I have owned a lot of cars (i.e. Acura, Toyota, Chevrolet). I have elderly parents that I have never been able to haul around but with the Element it is very easy for them to get in and out of, even in the back with a little step stool. During the winter months is is basically the rolling dog house with my two dogs who totally love riding in it as they can see out of all the windows with the two back seats down. They feel they are special as they are the ones with the sunroof.

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5 out of 5 stars

Love my Green Toaster

Rob, 10/30/2008
2008 Honda Element EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I was looking for an all around vehicle for hauling stuff, commuting, and occasional 4wd needed when camping, but didn’t want a truck and this car fits perfect. Always loved the ‘funky’ looking unique design on the outside, but was surprised how big this small SUV is on the inside. More headroom and driver space than my wife’s Suburban. Great for moving furniture, trips to Home Depot, Costco, etc. Consistently get about 22 mpg (not bad for an AWD box), although I drive fairly conservative lately due to gas prices. Thought the rear moon roof was weird at first, but nice to see out of when using seats as a bed. AWD makes this a real blast to drive on dirt roads! 6 months and very pleased.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Great but not without flaws

jack31, 08/15/2009
2009 Honda Element LX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Overall great car have had no problems getting the kids in and out of the back (one in car seat), maneuvers nicely and has plenty of power though is no race car. Gas mileage is around 23.5mpg city. Functionality of the vehicle is nice. The interior room is fantastic even for tall people like me (6'3"). Here are the bad points for me; as a passenger I am quite comfortable however driving is another story. I can't seem to get into a truly comfortable position drivers seat adjusted too low hurts hips, too high can't see traffic lights, telescoping steering wheel would help also. I'm thin and seat could use more cushion. Wife loves car and it's hers so it's ok. Road noise can be LOUD.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

This is my second one

Dave Perry, 08/31/2009
2008 Honda Element EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

This is my second Element. My first one was a 2006, same equipment, different color and traded for an S2000 which was fun while it lasted. I use my 2008 Element as a daily driver and I also sell a high-end Swedish car in my day job which I know inside and out (this will explain some of my suggestions later on). I think the Element is the perfect vehicle for me for a lot of reasons. It gets reasonable gas mileage (27 highway, 24 overall), it has reasonable power, is a blast to drive (no S2000, but what is?), is reliable as motor vehicles get, and has great ergonomics and fun to drive.

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4 out of 5 stars

It’s an Orange Beast

Eckler, 02/24/2019
2008 Honda Element EX 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I think the car is great for what it is...a utility vehicle. Wide opening to load things can take the rear seats out or fold them out of the way. Lots of headroom and room inside. Can hose it out. But it rides like a truck...you feel every bump. I’ve carried home large recliner chairs, fireplace and odd shaped equipment. Lots of ground clearance and still running great after ten years. Great turning circle. Wonderful stereo sound. Was late hubby’s dream car. Replaced our 1979 VW Bus with this car and could still haul and carry almost anything anywhere. Car is made for adventures.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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