The Honda Element made its debut as a small crossover sports utility vehicle in 2003. Though the vehicle shared a number of its characteristics with the CR-V, the Element was a foot shorter and was slightly less flabby then the CR-V. It derived its power from a 2.4 L K24A i-VTEC engine that had four cylinders. It was available in all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive versions. The first generation Honda Element came in two versions, the DX and the EX. In 2004, a new version of the LX was launched and the Element now had better front seats and an arm rest for the front passenger. In 2005, the DX version was removed from the lineup and side air bags were made optional. The EX model got a stereo system that could play MP3's and a satellite radio. In 2006, an EX-P version was added to the lineup.

The Honda Element in 2008 comes in three versions, the LX, EX and SC. The element derives its power from a 2.4-liter engine that has four cylinders. While the LX and EX models can be bought either with front or all-wheel drive, the SC comes with only front-wheel drive. The LX is equipped with 16 inch tires, the flooring is made of urethane and is easy to clean and has seats in the back that can be removed or folded. The front seats are now water proofed. Also available with the LX is air conditioning, a stereo system that has a CD player and keyless entry. The EX is equipped with Alloy Tires, its fenders and handles on the doors are the same color as the vehicle, the back seats are water proofed and a stereo system with controls that are located on the steering wheel. The SC version has 18 inch wheels, the roof and bumpers are the same color as the vehicle and gauges are the same color as copper. All versions of the Element come with disc brakes that have anti-lock, air bags in the front and side.