Exterior Design
The 2026 Honda Element makes a striking return with a complete exterior redesign that combines rugged functionality with modern aesthetics. Its boxy shape and upright stance remain true to the original, but with updated proportions and sharper lines. The overall dimensions have been slightly increased, resulting in a more spacious cabin and ample cargo capacity.
Styling Cues and Design Elements
The new Element showcases a bolder and more aggressive front end, featuring a redesigned grille with a honeycomb pattern and a prominent Honda logo. The headlights have been updated with LED technology and daytime running lights, while the fog lights are now integrated into the bumper. The side profile is characterized by sharp character lines and flared wheel arches, giving the Element a muscular and athletic stance. The rear end features a new tailgate design with a centrally mounted license plate and vertical taillights.
Interior Design
The 2026 Honda Element’s interior has undergone a significant redesign, offering a spacious and versatile cabin with a host of new features and amenities. The overall layout is functional and user-friendly, with a clean and modern design aesthetic. The ergonomics are well-thought-out, providing a comfortable and supportive driving experience.
Cabin Layout and Ergonomics
The cabin is designed to maximize space and comfort, with a wide, open feel. The front seats are supportive and offer ample legroom and headroom, even for taller drivers. The rear seats are equally spacious and can be folded down to create a flat load floor. The dashboard is well-organized, with easy-to-reach controls and a clear, concise instrument cluster. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped and features integrated audio and cruise control buttons.
New Features and Amenities
The 2026 Element comes equipped with a range of new features and amenities, including a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The system also includes a built-in navigation system and a premium audio system. Other standard features include keyless entry and ignition, automatic climate control, and a rearview camera.
Materials and Colors
The interior of the 2026 Element is finished in a combination of high-quality materials, including soft-touch plastics, leather, and fabric. The color palette is subdued and tasteful, with a choice of black, gray, and beige. The overall effect is a cabin that is both stylish and durable.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2026 Honda Element makes a comeback with a powertrain that combines efficiency and performance. The Element’s powertrain is designed to provide a smooth and responsive driving experience while prioritizing fuel economy and reducing emissions.
The Element is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that offers seamless gear changes and optimizes fuel efficiency. The CVT also features a Sport mode for a more engaging driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency and Emissions
The 2026 Honda Element is expected to deliver impressive fuel efficiency. The EPA estimates that the Element will achieve up to 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. These figures are attributed to the efficient engine, CVT transmission, and lightweight construction of the vehicle.
In terms of emissions, the Element meets the latest EPA and CARB standards. The vehicle’s low emissions contribute to cleaner air and a reduced environmental impact.
Technology and Features
The 2026 Honda Element is packed with cutting-edge technology and features designed to enhance the driving experience, safety, and convenience.
The infotainment system is a centerpiece of the Element’s technology suite. It features a large touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity. The system also includes a premium sound system, navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety Features
The Element comes equipped with an array of advanced safety features to protect occupants and mitigate accidents. These include:
– Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking
– Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist
– Adaptive Cruise Control
– Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Convenience Features
The Element also boasts several convenience features that make daily driving more enjoyable. These include:
– Keyless entry and ignition
– Remote start
– Power-adjustable driver’s seat
– Heated front seats
– Automatic climate control
– Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Honda Element is anticipated to carry a competitive price tag that aligns with its compact SUV segment. The exact pricing details will be announced closer to the release date. However, industry experts speculate that the base LX trim could start around $25,000, while the top-of-the-line EX-L trim may reach approximately $35,000.
The 2026 Honda Element is expected to be available in showrooms in the fall of 2026. Customers can anticipate a phased release, with higher trim levels arriving slightly later than the base model.
Honda is known for offering various incentives and special offers throughout the year. It is likely that the 2026 Element will also benefit from such promotions, such as lease deals, low financing rates, and cash rebates. These incentives can vary depending on the region, time of year, and availability of the vehicle.
FAQ Section
When will the 2026 Honda Element be available?
The exact release date for the 2026 Honda Element has yet to be announced, but it is expected to arrive in dealerships sometime in the latter half of 2025.
What are the key differences between the 2026 Element and the previous model?
The 2026 Element features a host of upgrades compared to its predecessor, including a redesigned exterior with a more rugged and modern look, a completely overhauled interior with improved materials and technology, and a more powerful and efficient powertrain.
What engine options will be available for the 2026 Element?
Honda has not yet released specific details about the powertrain options for the 2026 Element, but it is expected to offer a range of gasoline and hybrid powertrains, including a possible all-electric variant.