Cars Comparable to the Honda Element: Exploring Your Best Alternatives

The Honda Element, with its unique boxy design and incredibly versatile cargo space, has long been a favorite for those needing practicality and a bit of adventure. If you’re in a position where you’re considering moving on from your Element or seeking a vehicle with similar attributes, you’re likely prioritizing cargo capacity and fuel efficiency. Let’s explore some of the best cars comparable to the Honda Element, focusing on these key aspects.

When looking at 2017 models, several SUVs stand out as potential alternatives. The Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester frequently top lists for their blend of practicality and economy. The CR-V boasts impressive cargo dimensions, offering 39 cubic feet with the rear seats up and expanding to 75 cubic feet with them folded down. The Forester is slightly smaller but still generous with 31 and 71 cubic feet respectively. Both models achieve comparable fuel economy, around 26 MPG city and 32 MPG highway.

While the CR-V appears very close to the Element in cargo space and betters it significantly in MPG, some potential buyers might have concerns about reported oil dilution issues in CR-Vs with the 1.5L turbo engine. It’s worth noting this issue isn’t universal, and many owners have experienced no problems. However, if this is a worry, the Subaru Forester presents itself as a very strong contender with similar cargo capacity and fuel efficiency figures.

Other SUVs in the same category offer varying degrees of comparability. The Toyota RAV4, another popular choice, provides 38 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 73, and achieves 23 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. The Nissan Rogue matches the CR-V’s initial cargo space at 39 cubic feet but falls slightly short on maximum capacity at 70 cubic feet, while maintaining similar MPG to the CR-V. Models like the Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, and Kia Sportage offer less cargo room, while larger SUVs like the Honda Pilot and Passport, and Jeep Grand Cherokee, although offering good cargo space, tend to have lower fuel economy.

Ultimately, for those seeking cars comparable to the Honda Element, the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester emerge as leading options, particularly when prioritizing cargo space and fuel efficiency in a more modern SUV. Exploring these models, and perhaps test driving both, will help determine the best fit for your needs.