Honda axes the Element

 Honda axes the Element
2009 Honda Element

Ends a nine year production run

Citing declining demand and a consumer preference for crossovers, Honda has announced plans to axe the Element after a nine year production run.

While the move isn't unexpected, it is interesting to note Honda won't offer a direct replacement for the Element. Instead, customers will be shifted to the CR-V which is more powerful and fuel efficient.

According to John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda, "The Element proved that ultimate functionality can often come from thinking inside the box. It made boxy vehicle designs cool, and Element owners continue to enjoy its unique styling and unmatched versatility."

If you're saddened by the news, rest assured, Honda still has some Elements available and they're priced from $20,825.

Source: Honda

2011 Will Be Final Model Year of Production for Honda Element

The 2011 Honda Element will be the final model year of production of the innovative and functional crossover utility vehicle, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. First introduced in concept form as the Honda Model X at the 2001 North American International Auto Show, the Element virtually created its own functional class and became an immediate favorite for small businesses, outdoor enthusiasts and pet owners. After a long life cycle, utility-seeking customers have more recently embraced other vehicles in the Honda lineup like the versatile and comfortable CR-V.

"The Element proved that ultimate functionality can often come from thinking inside the box," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. "It made boxy vehicle designs cool, and Element owners continue to enjoy its unique styling and unmatched versatility."

Developed from the inside-out, the Honda Element entered new territory when it debuted during the 2003 model year by providing a multi-functional cargo area, innovative and versatile seating, a durable and dirt-friendly interior, energetic performance and outstanding value. Major upgrades were made through the years including more power and safety features in the 2007 model year. More recently, the Element embraced its long-held position as a pet-friendly vehicle by introducing the Dog Friendly Element accessory package in 2009.

More than 325,000 Elements have been sold in the United States since its introduction in December 2002.

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 moodyaaa moodyaaa
LOL
December 6, 2010 11:57 am
 Hero Sina Hero Sina
i don't care about designing but this is one of the most uncomfortable cars in history
December 6, 2010 12:04 pm
 jerry05cod4 jerry05cod4
"It made boxy vehicle designs cool"...im pretty sure that the MB G-wagon is the godfather of awesome boxy vehicles.
December 6, 2010 12:17 pm
 najdier najdier
I'm sorry to hear that. I had ben hoping Honda would export it. It would have been a good errands vehicle.
December 6, 2010 2:06 pm
 Douglas6250 Douglas6250
Big big shame really. This car should survive if Honda revised it with a more modern drivetrain. Brilliant car design that I'll remember for ever.
December 6, 2010 4:19 pm
 joshg_5 joshg_5
They alllllllllmost had the right idea. I think if they had done a new model after the near decade it was out, it would have been a success. They needed to fix: - The suicide doors so they could open independently. - Have the seats fold down and under the floor. (they were very obnoxious folding up and to the side) - Put a decent power plant with a proper all-wheel drive train in. - Keep it cheap. - Keep the plastic floors, but get rid of the horribly uncomfortable and cheap feeling.
December 6, 2010 10:03 pm
 Sacto8780 Sacto8780
I think Honda dropped the Element because it frees up space for Honda to build the replacement for Stream and recently-discontinued FR-V MPV's with a new model that will be sold worldwide, including North America.
December 7, 2010 1:39 am
 Siawa Siawa
Never liked it despite Top Gear declaring it a "cool" Honda. Won't be missed.
December 7, 2010 9:53 am
 SZQ SZQ
honda has lost it's identity...sack the ceo and bring back honda of the 90's...
December 8, 2010 1:33 am
 ransomeliolds ransomeliolds
will miss this box
December 9, 2010 10:09 am