The Honda Element I 2.4i 16V 4WD EX, produced from 2003 to 2006, represents a unique offering in the early 21st-century compact SUV market. Built on Honda’s robust platform, the Element aimed to blend the practicality of a minivan with the ruggedness of an SUV, targeting an active lifestyle demographic. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.4-liter inline-four engine and a five-speed manual transmission coupled with all-wheel drive, occupied a mid-range position within the Element lineup, offering a balance between capability and affordability. It was positioned above the base LX model and below the higher-trim SC models that featured additional cosmetic and convenience upgrades.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Element |
| Generation | Element I |
| Type | 2.4i 16V 4WD EX (162 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 162 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4500 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K24A4 |
| Engine displacement | 2354 cm3 (143.65 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 710 l (25.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2112 l (74.58 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4229 mm (166.5 in.) |
| Width | 1788 mm (70.39 in.) |
| Height | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2575 mm (101.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Rear track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Element I 2.4i 4WD EX is the Honda K24A4 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine is a member of Honda’s K-series, known for its reliability and relatively high output for its displacement. The K24A4 utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design for each cylinder bank, operating 16 valves in total. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine’s 9.7:1 compression ratio contributes to its efficiency and responsiveness. The five-speed manual transmission provides drivers with direct control over gear selection, enhancing the driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system, Honda’s Real Time 4WD, automatically engages the rear wheels when front wheel slippage is detected, providing enhanced traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 162 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque produced by the K24A4 engine, when paired with the five-speed manual transmission, provided the Element 4WD EX with adequate, though not exceptional, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was typically achieved in around 8.5 to 9 seconds. The engine’s torque curve is relatively flat, offering usable power across a wide RPM range, making it well-suited for everyday driving and light off-road excursions. Compared to the base LX model, the EX trim offered a more engaging driving experience due to the manual transmission. Compared to potential higher-output variants (had Honda offered them), this configuration prioritized fuel efficiency and usability over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The EX trim level of the Honda Element included a number of standard features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with audio controls, and cruise control. The interior featured durable, water-resistant upholstery, reflecting the Element’s focus on practicality. Optional extras available for the EX trim included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. The Element’s unique interior design, with its flat-folding rear seats and easily washable surfaces, was a key selling point.
Chassis & Braking
The Honda Element utilized a unibody construction, providing a good balance of rigidity and weight. The suspension system consisted of independent MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The braking system featured ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard equipment, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Element received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its unique design, spacious interior, and practical features. However, some critics noted its relatively modest performance and somewhat utilitarian interior styling. Compared to other compact SUVs of the time, such as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, the Element offered a more distinctive and adventurous image. Fuel economy was respectable for its class, averaging around 22 mpg combined. Reliability was generally considered to be excellent, consistent with Honda’s reputation.
Legacy
The Honda Element, despite its relatively short production run, has developed a loyal following among enthusiasts. Its unique design, practicality, and reliability have made it a popular choice in the used car market. The K24A4 engine is known for its durability and longevity, and with proper maintenance, can provide many years of reliable service. The Element’s distinctive styling and versatile interior continue to appeal to those seeking a vehicle that can accommodate an active lifestyle. Today, well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, reflecting the vehicle’s enduring appeal.
