Topic: Buying A Honda Element

[HeliDriver]

Not sure where your numbers came from, Sparky, but they don't quite jive with what I've seen.

AFAIK, the Element's GVWR is 4450 pounds. In the worst case scenario (auto tranny and 4WD), this leaves a payload of 872 lbs (4450 less 3578). Best case (manual tranny and 2WD) gives a payload of 1077 lbs (4450 less 3373).

For comparison, Toyota's website lists the payload of an automatic, 4WD RAV4 as 901 lbs. Payload for a manual, 2WD RAV4 is listed as 1144 lbs.

For something a little closer in spirit to the Element, the PT Cruiser has a GVWR of 4071 lbs. Subtracting the curb weights of an automatic PT (3176 lbs) and a manual PT (3101 lbs), leaves payloads of 895 lbs and 970 lbs, respectively.

Although it may seem low in relation to the Element's cavernous interior, it seems to me that the Element's payload capacity is at least in the ballpark with that of its competition.

[sparky]

The 650 figure came from a number of reviews of 2003 Elements, calculated just the way you've done. So there's been a marginal improvement to 872 pounds. Still not very impressive, and it helps to explain why they didn't put a fitfh seat in it.

[carperson]

This is a real blow, I need a small van, I don't want any Domestics, I have even taken the Element yesterday for a test drive. I love the van. I took the van down the Don Valley and around Queen West.  There is nothing on the market that can match the van. I even picked the color. So now I'm at a lost what to do. I really want one. but if can't carry more than a fly. what Japanese vehicle can?

[jeeper]

Shnak i guess Ten post answers your question.

[sparky]

Carperson, even the CR-V, which shares many parts with the Element, is a heavier hauler. It's good for 1,033 pounds. Suzuki XL-7 has just as much or more volume, the option of 7 seats, and carries just over 1,200 pounds. Nissan X-Trail is good for 1,254. Subaru Forester doesn't have as much volume and is more like a car, but it's good for 1,230 pounds. I don't know why the Element is so far behind these similar-sized vehicles.Some owners don't care, but it's been a sore point with others. But you do have alternatives. Consider your needs. Clearly you love the Element. Maybe it's all you need.

[boytoys]

carperson, i own a hobby store in mississauga, ontario and needs that odd look for advertising my business. I decal'ed the van with messages and with my other business coming alive, the ELEMENT provides very usable space for vinyl lettering/graphics.

For practicality, I go to my local suppliers twice a week and carry hobby products.  

I have had a Odyssey before and the current Element AWD just gives me a lot more extra - including the fuel savings.

I also tow a full box trailer that itself is 1000 kg already. Not much stuff in there except for plastic barriers.

The reason for 4 seats I think is not because of payload, it is because of other safety standards w.r.t foldaway seats and seat belts.

After the first winter i had it for, i recently cleaned the interior, it was so simple.

I bought it from Ideal Honda, look for M. Otto , he offered me a very good lease rate. I now compared mine with some of the leasebuster's ones. it was a good deal.

The suicide door is not convenient if you have 3rd person. I have a 5 year old. you know what, she loves the interior and we live with that suicide door quite comfortably.

[850t]

worth a check on the new Mazda5 for a comparison, similar cargo volume, price with a more city look