How much space is in a Honda Element?
In general, a Honda Element provides about 35 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, and about 74 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded; the passenger cabin holds roughly 95 to 100 cubic feet of space. These figures come from EPA estimates and Honda specs for the 2003–2011 Element models, reflecting the vehicle’s boxy, utilitarian design that prioritizes flexible load space for gear and passengers alike.
Overview of cargo space
The Honda Element is renowned for a straightforward, boxy interior that makes loading and unloading straightforward. Here’s how the space breaks down for typical configurations.
Cargo space behind the rear seats
Before listing the typical figures, note that cargo volume with the rear seats in place varies slightly by year and trim, but remains in a consistent range across most 2003–2011 models.
- Behind the rear seats (seats upright): about 35.0 cubic feet (≈0.99 m³) of cargo space.
- With the rear seats folded, cargo space increases to roughly 74.0 cubic feet (≈2.09 m³).
These numbers illustrate the Element’s practical, flat-load area, which is especially useful for gear, camping equipment, or pet transport when the rear seats are folded down.
Maximum interior cargo space when seats are folded
To maximize cargo capacity, folding the rear seats expands the usable area substantially, enabling larger items to fit flat and reducing the need to stack equipment vertically.
- Maximum cargo volume with rear seats folded: about 74.0 cubic feet (≈2.09 m³). Some model-year variations exist, but the 74 cu ft figure is a commonly cited benchmark for the Element’s load capacity.
In practice, the Element’s flexible layout excels for bulky items, such as luggage, sports gear, or outdoor equipment, when the rear seatbacks are folded forward.
Interior passenger space
The Element’s interior is designed to maximize usable passenger and cargo space within a compact exterior. Here are the key interior-space figures for most 2003–2011 models.
- Passenger volume: approximately 95–100 cubic feet (2.69–2.83 m³).
- Front headroom: about 39–41 inches (99–104 cm).
- Front legroom: about 41 inches (≈104 cm).
These numbers reflect the Element’s tall roofline and boxy profile, which contribute to a roomy feel for four occupants and abundant cargo room when needed.
Notes and caveats
Space figures can vary slightly by model year, trim, and seating configuration. The numbers above reflect EPA estimates and Honda specifications for the 2003–2011 Element generation. Because production ended in 2011, there are no newer factory figures for this model; modern crossovers with similar versatility may offer different cargo and passenger metrics.
Summary
In short, the Honda Element delivers about 35 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and roughly 74 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, paired with around 95–100 cubic feet of passenger space. Its distinctive, boxy interior is designed for practical loading and versatile use, making it a favorite among buyers seeking a compact vehicle with substantial cargo capability.
How much cargo space is in a Honda Element?
The Honda Element has 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up and can expand to a maximum of 74.6 to 77.1 cubic feet with the rear seats removed or folded up. Its versatile design includes flip-up rear seats, which can create enough space for two upright-standing bicycles, and a large, open cargo area accessible through unique "clamshell" side doors and a rear tailgate.
This video shows the cargo space dimensions of a Honda Element: 49sMotELEMENT Honda ELEMENT CamperYouTube · Dec 10, 2017
Cargo space dimensions
- All seats in use: 25.1 cubic feet
- Rear seats folded up: 74.6 cubic feet
- Maximum cargo capacity: 74.6 to 77.1 cubic feet (depending on model year)
Key features
- Flip-up/removable seats: The rear seats can be folded up against the sides or completely removed to maximize cargo space.
- "Clamshell" side doors: The rear doors do not have a B-pillar and open in the opposite direction of the front doors, allowing for a large, wide opening to load bulky items easily.
- Durable, easy-to-clean floor: Many models have a rubberized urethane floor in the cargo area that is easy to wipe down and clean.
- Rear tailgate: The rear hatch opens with a tailgate, which provides a convenient platform for loading or sitting.
- Flexible configurations: The Element's seating and cargo area are highly adaptable, with configurations that can accommodate items like 77-inch TVs, 12-foot lumber, or even multiple lawnmowers.
You can watch this video to see the seating configurations of a Honda Element: 1mStephen AldacoYouTube · Dec 6, 2024
What are the dimensions of a Honda Element?
The Honda Element is approximately 169.9 inches long, 71.6 inches wide, and 70.4 inches high, with a wheelbase of 101.4 inches. Its exterior dimensions vary slightly by model year, but the overall size remains consistent. The cargo volume is around 74.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
| Dimension | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 169.9 in. (4315 mm) |
| Width | 71.6 in. (1816 mm) |
| Height | 70.4 in. (1788 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 101.4 in. (2576 mm) |
| Ground Clearance | 6.9–7.1 in. |
| Front Track | 62.1 in. (1575 mm) |
| Rear Track | 62.3 in. (1580 mm) |
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Cargo volume
- With rear seats in place: 25.1 cubic feet
- With rear seats folded: 74.6 cubic feet
Why did they discontinue the Honda Element?
Honda discontinued the Element after the 2011 model year because of declining sales, which were impacted by competition from the Honda CR-V, shifting consumer preferences for more fuel-efficient and traditionally styled SUVs, and the Element's niche appeal. The vehicle's boxy design and less aerodynamic shape contributed to a lower overall fleet fuel economy average, and strategic shifts in Honda's lineup made it less viable to continue production.
- Declining sales: Sales dropped significantly from an initial high of over $67,000 in its first year to under $12,000 in 2011, making it less profitable for Honda.
- Competition from the CR-V: The more conventionally styled and popular Honda CR-V was seen as a better alternative by many customers, and even shared the same assembly line, taking resources away from the Element's production.
- Shifting market preferences: Consumer tastes evolved towards sleeker, more aerodynamic designs, and a greater emphasis on fuel efficiency. The Element's boxy shape and lower fuel economy became a disadvantage in this new market.
- Niche appeal: Despite its popularity with a dedicated cult following, the Element was considered a niche vehicle. Honda ultimately found that the cost of production and its limited mainstream appeal were not sustainable in the long term, especially as the company shifted focus to models with broader market potential.
How big is the inside of a Honda Element?
The Element provides 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in use, or 74.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Reviewers say the seats flip up or fold down easily to increase space, and are even removable.
