The comeback of Element has been in talks for years. People have been speculating about its revival pretty much since the discontinuation. This boxy, uniquely designed crossover has been in production between 2002 and 2011, and from today’s perspective, it looks like it was way ahead of its time back in the day. Honda management is perfectly aware that the revival would probably be pretty successful, considering the overflow of crossovers. Allegedly, the new model could arrive already in the next year, as the 2023 Honda Element.
At this point, the officials are still quiet about this comeback. Therefore, we can only rely on rumors, which means that you should take the following paragraphs with reserve. In any case, some things about the new Element are pretty easy to predict, especially when it comes to the base design approach. It was and still is rather unique, especially in the segment of subcompact crossovers.
2023 Honda Element Design
As we’ve just mentioned, some things about the new Element would be pretty easy to predict. That particularly refers to the overall design approach. The original model came with a pretty unique design and we are pretty sure that the successor would follow the example. Therefore, we would expect to see a boxy design, which would provide a great combination of practicality and maneuverability, something that’s highly appreciated by so many drivers.
At the same time, the boxy design would make this crossover look pretty unique. Speaking of the uniqueness, we presume that the company would once again come up with lots of interesting design solutions. This would also include those slide doors and similar things. Of course, the front end would bring a contemporary design, though we aren’t sure if it would have too many things in common with the rest of the lineup, considering that the boxy shape doesn’t fit Honda’s design language.
Platform
While it’s quite easy to predict the overall exterior design, things about the mechanics are still a bit of a mystery. Considering the segment where this model would compete, as well as the fact that the HR-V has become bigger, there’s a big chance that the 2023 Honda Element would continue with a simple chassis setup, which includes a solid rear axle and a pretty simple, naturally aspirated engine.
On the other hand, we presume that most drivers would love to see the same design approach as with the new HR-V. That model now rides on Civic’s platform, featuring independent rear suspension and many other upgrades that drastically improve the ride quality. Also, this platform would open up a lot of new possibilities regarding the powertrain. This includes the new hybrid setup, as well as the familiar turbo-four unit.
Interior
The main thing about the original Element was interior functionality and practicality. We do not doubt that Honda designers will have that thing in mind. So, the boxy shape would provide a practical cabin once again. We count on plenty of headroom, while the legroom should be pretty decent as well. Of course, the cargo area would be extremely functional as well, not just because of generous volume, but also because the boxy shape would make loads and unloads of bulky objects super easy and convenient. The new 2023 Honda Element could also come with lots of practical details. This would include those sliding rear doors that allow much easier access to the second row and cargo area.
On the other, we expect to see big improvements regarding interior quality. Back in the day, the Element was a typical small Japanese car. It featured lots of hard plastics and functionality over aesthetics. Today’s buyers have much higher requirements, so we expect to see a much nice layout, with soft-touch materials, better build quality, and the latest tech and safety features.
2023 Honda Element Engines
If we take the Civic-based design as the most probable scenario, we presume that the engine offer would start with a good-old K20 engine with 158 horsepower. A 1.5-liter turbo-four with 190 horsepower could be offered too. Still, we expect that the primary choice would be the new hybrid system, which combines a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with two electric motors, with a total output of 181 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque.
Fuel Economy
The new hybrid powertrain would probably bring significant great results in terms of fuel economy. We would expect to see something like 45 mpg combined, which sounds great for this segment. In the case of a turbo-four engine, we presume that the average consumption would go around 30 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The naturally-aspirated engine would bring slightly lower mpg ratings.
2023 Honda Element Release Date and Price
The 2023 Honda Element revival is just a rumor for now. Still, if we can trust the latest unofficial reports, the new iteration might come already in the next year. If that happens, we presume that the base price would go between 20.000 and 25.000 dollars, depending on the engine and features offered.