Honda
CR-V
Owner report available
Honda
Element
Owner report available
Honda CR-V vs Honda Element
The short answer
Based on available data, the Honda CR-V comes out ahead of the Honda Element on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
CR-V
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, particularly for the latest hybrid models (2023-2026). The vehicle is consistently praised for its exceptional practicality, spacious and high-quality interior, quiet and smooth ride quality, and refined hybrid powertrain. The hybrid system is noted for being seamless, powerful enough for daily driving, and more reliable in perception than the 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine due to its simpler eCVT design and lack of components like a serpentine belt.
Best version to buy
CR-V Hybrid Sport Touring. This top trim is repeatedly highlighted for its premium Bose sound system, additional sound dampening for a quieter cabin, comprehensive feature set, and the superior hybrid powertrain.
Known issues
- Narrow front seats with pronounced bolsters causing initial discomfort (breaks in over time). Frequency: recurrent.
- Hybrid powertrain noise and struggle on steep highway inclines, with significant engine revving and reduced fuel economy. Frequency: recurrent.
- 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine issues in older models (pre-2023), including oil dilution and head gasket failures. Frequency: recurrent (for specific model years).
Element
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment among long-term owners, characterized by deep affection for the vehicle's unique practicality, durability, and versatility. The Element is consistently praised for its cavernous, configurable interior with a flat, rubberized floor, exceptional cargo capacity (including the ability to hold bicycles upright), and easy-to-clean surfaces ideal for pets, outdoor gear, and work materials. Its boxy design is celebrated for providing excellent outward visibility and a distinctive appearance.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" model year or trim. Owner discussions reference vehicles from 2003 through 2011 without singling out a specific year as superior, though the 2011 model is noted as the final year produced.
Known issues
- Engine misfires (codes P0302, P0303): recurrent issue linked to ignition coils, spark plugs, or more serious internal problems like valve issues or head gasket failure. Frequency: recurrent.
- Oil consumption/burning: very high oil consumption (2-3 quarts in 500 miles) reported in some high-mileage examples, often accompanied by knocking. Frequency: recurrent.
- Overheating/cooling system problems: coolant overflow, suspected cracked block or head gasket failure, particularly in high-mileage vehicles. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Honda CR-V is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Honda Element, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Honda CR-V are a dealbreaker, the Honda Element is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Honda CR-V or the Honda Element?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Honda CR-V than the Honda Element. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Honda CR-V or the Honda Element?
The Honda CR-V seats more passengers than the Honda Element on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Honda CR-V is classed as a SUV, the Honda Element as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Honda CR-V or the Honda Element?
The EPA rates the 2027 Honda CR-V at 29–40 mpg combined and the 2011 Honda Element at 20–22 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Honda CR-V or the Honda Element?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.