2020 Honda Element Changes and Hybrid

The Honda Element could be back on the streets in the near future. There are certain rumors in the automotive world regarding this crossover SUV. Sincerely, we can’t wait to see this model in action once again, since the previous model was such a good vehicle. So, what to expect of the new 2020 Honda Element? First, the shape will definitely be more squarish than before. The Honda designers must find a way to make this model visually appealing, to keep up with the competition.

The old Element fans will probably be disappointed with the less space in the cabin and reduced ground clearance. But the upcoming model will bring elegant interior design, a good looking and practical dashboard and improvements under the hood as well. We should expect the hybrid version, besides the upgraded and lighter version of the old engine from the previous generation.

2020 Honda Element Changes

The announced Honda Element will make its return to the States after nearly ten years. That’s a quite long period, especially for the industry in which you must always coming up with something new and appealing, just to stay afloat. In the meantime, a lot of things have changed. For example, the crossover SUV advance during its production, but for the majority of the fans, the changes didn’t seem right. However, it looks like Honda will try with the Element one more time. According to the news from the company, the new 2020 Honda Element will be a subcompact model. Whit that configuration, it only means less space inside the cabin.

The layout of the previous version and the legroom together created a comfortable interior. But, by reducing the space upcoming Element won’t be too generous in the legroom area. Moreover, the first generation of this vehicle offered 7 inches of the ground clearance, back in the day. Now, the new one will reduce it to around 6 inches, making the Element less capable for an off-road drive. But, if you need good ground clearance for your crossover, we suggest going with the Honda HR-V. This model offers 7 or 8 inches, depending on the trim you choose. For the 2020 model, Honda Element will drastically improve fuel economy and seating comfort for the 5th seat. Also, the AWD option should be available.

Interior

Interior of the upcoming 2020 Honda Element is still a bit of a mystery to the automotive experts and fans. One thing is for sure, the boxy squared shape will ensure a high level of functionality. The previous cabin of Element was very well-built, with enough space and driver-adjustable features. Now, it’s up to designers to come up with something new and attractive, at the same time maintaining the practical aspects of the previous model. The new Element will offer a decent amount of space for the legroom and headroom, that’s for sure.

The cargo area will probably follow the same path and provide good cubic feet figures. Also, the bulky shape of the vehicle will be perfect for ins and outs, both for passengers and the large things or gear. Although the interior styling is also a bit of mystery, we expect that the design language will be very similar to the other crossovers in the lineup. That mainly refers to the dashboard, that will look practically the same as in the Pilot model. However, we also expect that the cabin will have some unique and distinctive details and the simple but effective design, to keep the overall functionality of the vehicle.

2020 Honda Element Hybrid

The Honda currently already have a vehicle in the subcompact crossover class. It’s the HR-V model, which offers a hybrid variant. However, that hybrid model still isn’t available in the US. As a matter of fact, the Japanese company probably wouldn’t bring it overseas any time soon. So, the Honda plans to make a new subcompact model with a new type of engine. It easily could be the 2020 Honda Element Hybrid. This model will be the US electrically-supported vehicle.

Also, the mileage of this powertrain will top most of the competition. The HR-V returns up to 34 mpg, from a 1.8 liter 4-cylinder engine, and the upcoming subcompact Element will beat that easily. We expect that the hybrid version will return at least 35 mpg combined. Furthermore, an important update will be introducing the AWD. The previous generation delivered only a two-wheel drive. But now, the subcompact versions are usually don’t like to spread power to all wheels. That could be an advantage of the new Element. However, that could really harm the mpg rating. Still, there are benefits from using the AWD – better balance and traction.

Specs

Once again, we will return to the previous version of the Honda Element to get some information. Under the hood of the first generation model was a 2.4-liter inline-four engine. This unit was capable to produce 165 hp and 160 lb-ft of torque. That’s good enough for the compact class to this day, but in the Japanese company will probably try to make a lighter engine for upcoming 2020 Honda Element.

So, it could be a 1.8-liter drivetrain that is in current HR-V. Or, it could be a 2.0-liter engine from one of the past models. These engines should bring a lower consumption, but the power and torque levels as well. However, the good thing is that the units can be paired with a manual transmission.

2020 Honda Element Release Price and Date

Ever since the termination of production back in 2011, the Element is on comeback wishlist of its fans. Although there is no official confirmation of the return, recent rumors are showing beyond doubt that the company is planning to re-establish this model. The 2020 Honda Element will definitely bring the good sale numbers to the Japanese carmaker, especially with the electrification trend in the industry.

We expect that the new Element will have a starting price under $20,000. Also, the maintenance cost shouldn’t be too expensive, and the good warranty deal from the Honda is always expected.