It is a fact that the Honda Element EX gives maximum importance to functionality and less to aesthetics. There is no over-designing but enough of clever functional features, smart low tech solutions to satisfy all requirements. Whether you love it or hate it, the Element with a 2 year/35,000 mile warranty is the outcome when the manufacturers begin to think out of the box and give importance to utility.Its cube shape may not be to everyones taste, but several buyers are terribly excited about it. Matte-textured composite panels designed to guard each fender and bumper is in direct contrast with the painted surfaces of the doors and hood. The panels are of course scratch-resistant as well as dent-resistant and the user need not be over-concerned when parking in busy areas.What is conspicuous about the Element is the clever arrangement of doors. The clamshell rear doors are hinged at the back, and can thus open only when the front doors are open. As there is no B-pillar between the doors, the Element is agape when the front and rear doors are opened, offering comfortable access to the back seat. The tailgate is also uniquely hinged, as about three-quarters of it goes up, while the lower quarter folds down.The seats are firm and flat and perfectly comfortable covered with a fabric that feels a lot like neoprene. Tough and gripping rubber mats cover the entire floor of the car. The whole interior wears a sturdy and stunning look that you will feel like spending hours inside. Another feature that needs mention is the headroom clearance is so high that the cabin feels looks like a commodious room.The functional emphasis is logically carried into the cabin features of the Element. Quality materials are used all along in the Element. The dash is a vast flat non-skid expanse. Gauges are perfectly set and readily readable. A useful ledge runs the length of the dash at convenient knee level, with troughs to hold your spare glasses and other detritus. The center stack houses are provided with climate control knobs, radio and more compartments, along with the stubby gear shift lever to aid the five-speed manual transmission.It has to be admitted that this is a car for everyday driving, but not cross-country highway trips. Even though the Element is ruggedly built, the manufacturer still needs to take care of certain areas. Even after driving the Element for hardly 5,000, the floor under the gas pedal was showing significant wear and a strong durable set of floor mats would help remedy that. The painted surfaces on the exterior of the Element and the composite surfaces need to be kept clean all the time to avoid discoloration and pitting.
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