For years, we’ve been hearing rumors about the comeback of Honda’s super-practical subcompact crossover. However, it looks like that won’t happen ever, because it looks like Honda officials don’t intend to work on such a vehicle. However, some experts claim that there is still plenty of room for the all-new 2023 Honda Element, even though the company has just expanded its SUV lineup with the Civic-based ZR-V model.
In any case, if the company is willing to bring back the new model, we know what to expect. We are pretty sure that the Japanese manufacturer would stick to the same formula, which made this crossover very popular in the initial production years. In other words, we count on a small and boxy crossover, which will offer interesting aesthetics in a combination with an impressive level of practicality and functionality.
At this point, the officials are still quiet on this matter, so make sure to take the following paragraphs with a reserve.
2023 Honda Element Design
As we’ve just mentioned, if the company is willing to launch a new version of the Element, we know what to expect. We are pretty sure that Honda engineers would stick to the same formula. This would mean the same design approach, though in a completely new layout. We presume that the new SUV would be based on the Civic’s platform, with independent rear suspension and quite an advanced chassis setup.
In terms of the size, we believe that dimensions wouldn’t be significantly different compared to the original. For reference, the original model measures 101.4 inches in wheelbase, while the total length goes around 170 inches long. The vehicle is 72 inches wide and 70 inches high. We presume that the new generation will grow slightly in size, especially in terms of the wheelbase and total length.
When it comes to styling, we expect no surprises. The 2023 Honda Element should also come with a super-boxy shape, which would ensure a high level of practicality and functionality. On the other hand, it’s still unclear what the front end would look like. We don’t expect Honda to adapt this crossover to the latest design language, but rather to come up with something pretty unique, which would attract a wider range of buyers.
Interior
Interior practicality was the biggest strength of the original model and we have no doubt that this would be the case with the new model as well. At this point, it’s early to talk about details, but we are pretty sure that the vehicle’s boxy shape would ensure a super-high level of practicality. Thanks to the cubby shape, the new 2023 Honda Element would offer plenty of passenger space, particularly in terms of headroom, while the longer wheelbase would ensure more legroom as well.
The cargo area should also offer plenty of space. More importantly, the rectangular tailgate shape would allow easy access and easier loads and unloads of bulky objects. Of course, the cabin would come with all other kinds of practical details, including slide doors for easier access to the second row of seats.
On the other hand, we can’t predict what the dashboard would look like in this aspect. The original model was pretty simple in this aspect, while the overall quality wasn’t all that impressive. We presume this would change and that the 2023 Honda Element would feature nicer materials and a more attractive dashboard design. Of course, we also count on a full load of advanced tech and safety features.
2023 Honda Element Engines
When it comes to powertrain, we presume that Honda would rely on proven units. Most likely, based versions would come with the good-old K20 engine, which still powers models like Civic and the upcoming ZR-V. This engine may be old, but it’s extremely durable and reliable, while refinement is at a super-high level as well. The max output would go around 155 horsepower.
The second option would be a 1.5-liter turbo-four, with 190 horsepower. Both engines would come coupled with a CVT.
Still, we presume that the company would offer some form of electrification as well. A hybrid version seems like a certain thing, with Honda’s familiar system that combines an inline-four engine with a couple of electric motors. Also, some experts believe that the Element’s unique design would be perfect for the all-electric powertrain.
2023 Honda Element Release Date and Price
At this point, the 2023 Honda Element is just a rumor. So, make sure to take with reserve everything you’ve read in this article, even though some rumors suggest the arrival already in the next year. If the new Element arrives some day, we presume that the base price would go under 25.000 dollars. It would compete with a wide range of subcompact crossovers, but we believe that boxy models like Kia Soul and Jeep Renegade would be key competitors.