What To Know
- When it comes to fuel efficiency, the CR-V takes the lead with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model equipped with the 2.
- The Element, while not as feature-rich as the CR-V, still provides a respectable array of amenities, including a 5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
- Both the Honda CR-V and the Honda Element come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
In the realm of compact SUVs, two contenders stand out: the Honda CR-V and the Honda Element. Both vehicles offer a blend of versatility, practicality, and fuel efficiency, making them popular choices among families and adventure enthusiasts alike. However, there are key differences between these two models that may influence your decision-making process. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the details of the Honda CR-V vs. Element, exploring their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed choice.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the Honda CR-V offers a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 184 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The Element, on the other hand, is equipped with a single engine option: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 166 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the CR-V takes the lead with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model equipped with the 2.4-liter engine. The Element, with its larger engine and boxier design, falls slightly behind, achieving an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Interior Space and Versatility
The Honda CR-V provides a spacious and comfortable interior with seating for up to five passengers. The rear seats can be folded down to create a flat cargo area, expanding the vehicle’s cargo capacity to 68.7 cubic feet. The Element, known for its unique boxy shape, offers even more interior space and versatility. Its rear seats can be folded flat or configured in various ways to accommodate different cargo configurations. With the rear seats folded down, the Element boasts a cavernous cargo area of 74.6 cubic feet.
Features and Technology
The Honda CR-V offers a wide range of features and technologies to enhance your driving experience. Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features, including lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. The Element, while not as feature-rich as the CR-V, still provides a respectable array of amenities, including a 5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
Off-Road Capability
If off-road adventures are your thing, the Honda CR-V offers an optional all-wheel-drive system that provides enhanced traction and stability on rough terrain. The Element, however, comes standard with all-wheel drive, making it a more capable choice for tackling challenging off-road conditions.
Safety and Reliability
Both the Honda CR-V and the Honda Element have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Honda vehicles are renowned for their reliability and durability, and both the CR-V and the Element have consistently received high marks in various reliability surveys.
Price and Value
The Honda CR-V has a starting price of $25,350, while the Honda Element starts at $26,420. While the Element has a slightly higher starting price, it offers more standard features and a more spacious interior. However, the CR-V offers better fuel efficiency and a more modern design.
Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between the Honda CR-V and the Honda Element ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, a modern design, and a comfortable ride, the CR-V may be the better choice. However, if you value interior space, versatility, and off-road capability, the Element might be a more suitable option.
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to the factors discussed above, there are a few other aspects you may want to consider when making your decision:
- Towing Capacity: The Honda CR-V has a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds, while the Honda Element can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.
- Cargo Capacity: The Honda CR-V offers 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, while the Honda Element provides 43.5 cubic feet of cargo space in the same configuration.
- Warranty: Both the Honda CR-V and the Honda Element come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Common Questions and Answers
1. Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V or the Honda Element?
- The Honda CR-V offers better fuel efficiency than the Honda Element, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway compared to the Element’s 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
2. Which vehicle has more cargo space, the Honda CR-V or the Honda Element?
- The Honda Element offers more cargo space than the Honda CR-V, with 43.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats compared to the CR-V’s 39.2 cubic feet.
3. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity, the Honda CR-V or the Honda Element?
- Both the Honda CR-V and the Honda Element have a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.