Recently, there have been rumors around the web regarding the comeback of once-popular Honda Element. However, despite the numerous speculations on automotive blogs, there’s no official report that says it is possible. All of these blogs and automotive sites just spread fake new about the potential return of this vehicle.
The Japanese company produces Element from 2003 until 2011 in East Liberty, Ohio. Then in 2011, the model was discharged. Since that time, Honda did not reconsider to re-establish the Element and develop a new generation of compact crossover SUV. So, let’s see what the alternatives are and which models you should check out instead of the Honda Element.
Honda Element Replacement Suggestions
2020 Kia Soul – One of the Best Small Crossovers on the Market
The overall quality, comfortable cabin, attractive design, and great value for the price are the soul of Kia’s small crossover. Under the hood of this model, you’ll find a base 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque. The standard unit is paired to a 6-speed manual transmission, while the CVT comes as optional. However, if you want a more energetic ride, 2020 Kia Soul GT-Line Turbo offers a 1.6-liter turbo-four powertrain. This mill generates 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque.
On top of that, it is connected to a refined 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. But, the Kia Soul lacking the all-wheel-drive since the FWD is an only available option. According to the EPA, the base version of 2020 Soul returns 27 mpg city, 33 highway, 30 combined with an automatic transmission. The manual-equipped versions rates 25/31/27 mpg. The MSRP of the base model with manual transmission starts at $18,485. The destination charge is included in the price. But, if you want the CVT, it will raise the price to $19,985. Furthermore, the X-Line version costs $22,845, while the GT-Line Turbo comes with a price tag of $28,485.
2020 Ford Transit Connect Passenger Wagon – The All-American Minivan
2020 Ford Transit Connect is an excellent alternative to the full-size vans. It rides on a car-based architecture, which allows easy maneuver, especially on the crowded city streets. This minivan comes in two body styles, two wheelbase lengths, and three available trim levels. Also, it is highly customizable, so the users can adjust almost everything as they please. The most expensive trim level, the Titanium, includes leather seats, a touchscreen-based navigation system, rear climate controls, and much more.
Also, all models offer a comprehensive suite of optional driver assistance technology. As for the engine room, 2020 Ford Transit Connect comes with a gasoline 2.0-liter 4-cylinder 8A powertrain that produces 169 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. The gasoline engine is connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission and returns 25 mpg combined. Also, the XLT and titanium short-wheelbase versions include a diesel-fueled 1.5-liter engine. The starting price is around $24,275, while the loaded base model can cost up to $32,000. The front-wheel-drive is standard on all models.
2020 Jeep Wrangler – The Rock-Crawler
2020 Jeep Wrangler delivers refreshed exterior design, an excellent amount of premium features, more power, improved safety, and off-road performance. Moreover, the customers have to choose between two or four-door configuration, as well as a couple of roof setups. The Wrangler comes with two engine options under the bonnet. Also, there’s a rumor regarding the diesel engine.
So, the first powertrain option is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, which makes 285 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. The Pentastar V6 mill comes with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, the customers may choose a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder drivetrain, which generates 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. This unit is available through all trim levels, however, only with the 8-speed automatic gearbox. Also, every Wrangler comes with a four-wheel-drive system, which includes the Command-Trac part-time 2-speed transfer case.
The Select-Trac 2-speed transfer case with a full-time 4-wheel drive is available as well. As for the fuel economy, the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 unit returns 23/25 mpg (2-door model), and 22/24 mpg (4-door version). On the other hand, 3.6-liter V6 mill ratings are 17/25 mpg (manual transmission), 17/23 mpg (manual transmission, 4-door), and 18/23 mpg ( automatic gearbox). The maximum towing capacity for both of these powertrains is 3,500 pounds. As for the price, 2020 Jeep Wrangler starts around $30,000 for the base model. However, a fully-loaded Wrangler Rubicon passes over $55K mark.
The Conclusion
So, we see three vehicles that can be perfect substitutes for the Honda Element. But, which one is the best solution? Our opinion is that the 2020 Jeep Wrangler is the best choice among these models. However, if you go for the most price-quality balanced vehicle, the logical choice is Kia Soul. Also, for the customers that need a modern minivan, the perfect option is Ford Transit Connect Passenger Wagon.