I just don't like the look of the element. Just like a lot of people don't like the look of the xB.

 

my guess would be frustration at the driving instead of it being a box. sounds like he was in a hurry or felt cut off.

 

Well, don't tell my husband I said this, but he doesn't really drive well. Shhh! Don't tell!

 

Absolutely right. That's what you get for a heavier car with a bigger engine and 4WD, in addition to a higher price. That's why I disagree with the folks who want to turn the xB into something bigger with a V6 engine or something - all that stuff comes at a price. Why turn it into an Element? The Element is a fine vehicle for a different market niche - I kind of like them, actually, except for the mileage, cost, and small interior room.

 

 

I'm actually thinking about trading my tC for an element. I was in one yesterday at the dealership, it was HUGE and I like the idea of 4wd.

 

The Element is practically in the same niche as the xB, just a size bigger/more powerful. The xB is tall boxy wagon based on the Echo platform, the Element is a tall boxy wagon based on the Civic platform. If the successor to the xB is a 2.4L like the Element, they will be very close. I nearly bought an Element but I didn't want to spend the extra money and get less gas mileage, and I was happy how my last Toyota held its value.

It's usually a sign of how similar vehicles are the more folks who chose one over the other hate each each other in internet forums.

 

The element has 4WD option, which I'd get. If the box has 4wd, I'd probably get that instead for the better milage.

 

brambling -- i was in the market for a new car when my s10 died on me. so i went to the dealerships and test drove an xB then drove to the Honda dealer after they closed and compared sticker/mpg that night ... went back the next day and purchased the xB!