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CAR REVIEWS AND RATINGS
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| Ratings |
( Maximum score is 100 ) |
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| Overall: |
 ( 100 )
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| Comfort: |
 ( 80 )
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| Performance: |
( 60 )
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| Quality: |
( 80 )
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| Appearance: |
( 100 )
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| Comments |
Favorite feature: |
overhang roof and plastic panels on sides |
Least favorite feature: |
lower than expected mpg |
Advice to buyer: |
shop around to different cities--this care was expensive in Austin, but cheap in Dallas |
Detailed review: |
I own an Element and have really enjoyed my decision to move from a sedan to a chasis-SUV. It drives like a car, not an SUV--more stable. One of the best features is the square roof that shades the enterior. Even on a 100 degree day, I can still touch the steering wheel and sit on a cool seat because it's been in the shade of the overhanging roof. Same goes for driving it--passengers primarily stay in the shade of the roof. I haven't gotten the 26 mpg hwy--best is 22 mpg. It really rocks in 20+ mph winds on highway. You can fit more cargo in it than any other SUV because of the square design. It holds what a cargo van would hold. Seats are a snap to raise or remover--really easy. The micro tek seat covers REALLY are stain resistent and dog scratch resistent. This care always looks clean. You will want to buy carpet mats to quiet the ride--even with the mats, it's not a quiet ride. The suspension is very firm. I have the man. trans. and it shifts like a dream--really shifts itself in a 'lazy boy' shift console. You'll want to add the arm rest even to the manual transmission (they say you can't because you have to reach under the arm rest to pull the break--no big deal, I do it everyday. My insurance is so cheap on this vehicle because of the low cost of replacing plastic panels on four corners. I hit a cement pole twice with the plastic fender, buffed it a little and it looks like new. The plastic panels also don't show dirt. Can't say enough good things about all the interior features. I just wish it got better mpg. |
Also considered: |
2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
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Vehicle purchased: |
2004 Honda Element
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| About This Reviewer... |
Location: |
Austin, Texas |
Other vehicles owned: |
None
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Review submitted: |
July 21, 2005 |
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