It’s been a full decade since Honda’s small boxy crossover was discontinued. Originally introduced in 2003, the Element was a pretty revolutionary thing at the time. This was still the era of sedans and other passenger cars and the Japanese manufacturer came up with something rather untypical. The new model comes with a boxy styling. That was meant to combine compact, urban-friendly dimensions with a high level of practicality and overall functionality. These days, we are hearing rumors about the possible comeback. According to them, the new model could arrive already as the 2023 Honda Element. The officials are still quiet.
There are so many directions in which the new 2023 Honda Element could go. Of course, we presume that its base layout wouldn’t be much different. The new generation would feature a similar boxy shape, with a spacious and super-practical interior. However, we would see an implementation of all kinds of new technologies and that particularly refers to the drivetrain. Of course, electrification is the first thing that comes to mind. Some rumors even speculate about the all-electric version.
At this point, the 2023 Honda Element is just a rumor. Those rumors suggest it could arrive already in the next year. In any case, we suggest you take the following paragraphs with a big reserve.
2023 Honda Element Design
Considering that the new 2023 Honda Element would come after a break that lasts over a decade, we presume that not many things would be in common with the original model. This particularly refers to the platform and technology in general. This aspect would bring a lot o new things, starting from the new platform. We presume that Honda would use the same architecture that underpins the new HR-V, which is great in many ways. Not only that this platform offers a good level of athleticism, but also supports all kinds of powertrain options. This includes a battery-electric setup as well.
Exterior Design
When it comes to the exterior design, we have no doubt that the new 2023 Honda Element would follow the path of the original model. This refers to the legendary boxy shape, which has always been a trademark of the Element. With such a layout, this SUV was able to offer plenty of room on the inside, while the cargo area was particularly friendly to bulky objects. At the same time, the overall dimensions were pretty modest, which made this SUV highly maneuverable.
The new model wouldn’t be significantly different, though we would probably see slightly bigger dimensions, particularly in terms of the wheelbase. For reference, the original model measured 101.4 inches in wheelbase, 169.3 inches in total length, 72 inches in width and around 70 inches in height. We presume that the new model would share the wheelbase with the new HR-V, which is good for about 102.8 inches between the axles.
Styling
The styling is a bit of a mystery at the moment. If you look at the original model, it didn’t have too many things in common with the rest of the lineup. A few years later, the Ridgeline pickup truck came with a similarly designed front end. Therefore, we presume that the new 2023 Honda Element would feature the same front end as models like CR-V or Honda Civic, for example, as it would be pretty hard to integrate such a design language into the model’s boxy overall shape.
Instead, the new Element would look pretty unique, we presume. Most likely, we would see some influence from the new Ridgeline, which has been updated last year and which offers a pretty rugged appearance now. Naturally, we would see a full load of exclusive details as well.
Interior
Of course, the first thing that comes to mind about interior design is practicality. Just like the previous generation, the new 2023 Honda Element would come with a cabin that offers plenty of room, thanks to the model’s overall boxy shape. Thanks to the slightly longer wheelbase, we would probably see a little bit more legroom, while the headroom would be as generous as always. Therefore, the new model would have no trouble accommodating five adults with ease.
The same thing goes to the cargo area. We won’t talk about numbers at the moment but have no doubt that the boxy shape and wide tailgate opening would ensure super-easy loads and unloads of bulky objects. Of course, we wouldn’t be surprised if we see sliding doors as well, just like in the original model.
Besides plenty of space, the new cabin would also come with a modern design. This particularly refers to the dashboard, which would probably take some inspiration from the new Civic. In any case, we expect to see an attractive design, as well as high-quality materials and good overall build quality. Furthermore, we count on a full load of tech features, including the latest infotainment system, large touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone integration etc.
2023 Honda Element Engines
There are various possibilities when it comes to the powertrain for the 2023 Honda Element. The original model was equipped with a good-old K24 engine but we expect that the new model will come with something smaller and more efficient. One of the first engines that come to mind is a 1.5-liter turbo-four, which puts out around 190 horsepower.
A hybrid version is expected too. At this point, we presume that the biggest chances go to the company’s proven setup, based on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which comes in a combination with a couple of electric motors. The same system powers the Accord, as well as the CR-V, with the combined output of 212 horsepower.
Finally, we wouldn’t exclude the possibility to see a new, plug-in hybrid setup. That model would come with a bigger battery and decent autonomy, though the details are still unavailable.
All powertrain options would probably come with a CVT gearbox.
All-Electric Element
As we live in the era of electrification, launching an all-electric Element makes perfect sense, especially if we consider the model’s unique design, which would perfectly go in a combination with electric motors. At this point, Honda is still working on the new technology for the all-electric powertrain, which will probably be shared with General Motors. We presume things will become clearer in the months to come.
2023 Honda Element Release Date and Price
At this point, the 2023 Honda Element is still just a rumor. The officials are quiet but we can hear reports that suggest this model could come already in the next year. When it comes to the price, we presume that base versions would cost around 25.000 dollars, though it’s still early for more precise estimations.
Hope this is true. I have a 2006 and waiting for them to bring the element back. I want an orange one.
Purchased the original in 2003 and still drive it. Love this vehicle but it is time to go hybrid or all electric. Not willing to part with our 2003 until a new model Honda Element is available!
Give me a gas-electric plug-in Element hybrid. I woiuld lobe it fully electrified, but I want to be able to take it places where there’s little/no electric charging infrastrucure. Make it flexible enough to run off gas or high-capacity batteries. Then give me the option to charge from solar panels on that big, flat roof.
TAKE MY MONEY!!!
Have had a 2003, 2008 and 2011 Element. Love my Element….
Needless to say it has been the best most practical vehicle I have had ever.
I take out the 2nd row of seats immediately as I use it for carrying my bikes golf clubs etc. 2nd vehicle 2005 Dodge Dakota SLT is my car for transporting people… Funny my Element is my truck and my truck is my car.
Please bring back the Element maybe larger and quieter. road noise is terrible
I have a 2007 Green Element 15 yrs old, 291,000 miles and just recently having to face preparing to part with it due to transmission issues. I am crushed and would absolutely love to purchase another one! I am so attached to this car. Please, please, please bring back a new and improved version! I want heated seats lol I love my toaster!!!!
I have a 2005, it still runs great over 200k miles. The interior seats need better material to withstand time and the back seats need more height and headroom for adults. Everything else I love and gas is not a problem but if it goes electric then hybrid is preferable with the ability to tow over 3000lbs so that one could tow a small camper. I would buy it again at that price!
I had a 2008 and it had a cracked head at 167K. I did not want a new car and bought a Hyundai Tucson. Please leave the shorter wheelbase on the Element!!! Loved the turning radius – the Tucson seems cumbersome in comparison. Also please leave the gear shift knob on the dashboard. Hate having it down on the console between the seats.
Yes to heated seats but plz don’t crap it up with a ton of technology. That is frustrating and such a pain and more to go wrong. The beauty of the Element is that it was a simple utilitarian vehicle! Stay true to your roots on this one.
I had 3 elements so far, two still with me. It is the best car ever, no question about it. One has over 300,000 miles, 2003 ex version, the other one is a 2007 sc. Now I am waiting for the modern version from Honda. I would buy a third, no question about it. Honda, please oh please bring it back.!