Reflecting the popularity of sport-utility vehicles, this year's
MotorWeek Drivers' Choice honors three, beginning with our Best Small
Sport-Utility Vehicle, the Honda Element.
Looking like nothing else in the small SUV class, the CRV-based
Element is one of the most innovative designs of the year. The
center-opening side cargo doors, with no roof pillar between them, allow
unprecedented access to the boxy cabin.
Front and rear seats fold into a bed. The rear seats also fold up
and out of the way or can be removed for total cargo flexibility. Tall
items can stand up through the available rear sky light, while a
rubberized floor makes for easy cleanup if your outdoor activities
involve lots of mud and snow. And the choice of front or all-wheel-drive
gives the funky Element real go-anywhere capability, and all for a very
compact starting price of $16,560. Innovative and affordable, the small
Honda Element is a big winner with us!
