
Scion's xB is a capacious, convenient vehicle, but has recently grown bigger and heavier (some 600 pounds greater than before), diluting its nimbleness; with that extra weight, its more powerful 2.4-liter engine delivers lower fuel economy without much more impressive performance than the former 1.5-liter.
The Mazda5 is probably the Element's fiercest competitor in terms of value and convenience, though its minivan silhouette might make it a no-go for some.
Finally, Kia's upcoming Soul promises a strong dose of fresh style in the mini-crossover market, though initial driving impressions rate it as somewhat less refined than the 2009 Honda Element.
For those who love and need vans—especially small-business owners—the Ford Transit Connect arrives for the 2010 model year with a four-cylinder powertrain and a customizable rear cargo area.
Get FREE Dealer Quotes
![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
---|---|---|---|
Quick Specs | |||
The 2009 Honda Element is a relatively efficient, remarkably convenient small utility vehicle that's easy to drive and configurable for multiple tastes and uses. |
Fun, fun, fun: Kia tries a little Soul on for size, and it fits. |
The 2009 Scion xB has polarizing looks, a no-haggle dealer experience, and a long safety features list. It provides good value for those on a budget. |
Provided you don't expect too much of a zoom-zoom feel, the 2008 Mazda Mazda5 is one of the few good choices for buyers looking for minivan spaciousness in a vehicle that's especially fuel-efficient and maneuverable. |
MSRP From | |||
$20,275 | $13,300 | $15,750 | $17,995 |
Gas Mileage | |||
18 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy | 24 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | Coming Soon MPG City / Coming Soon MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||
Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | N/A |
EPA Class | |||
2WD Sport Utility | Small Station Wagon | Small Station Wagon | N/A |
Style Name | |||
2WD 5-Door Automatic LX | 5-Door Wagon Manual | 5-Door Wagon Manual (GS) | 4-Door Wagon Manual Sport |
Drivetrain | |||
Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | N/A |
Passenger Capacity | |||
4 | 5 | 5 | N/A |
Passenger Doors | |||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | |||
4 Door | 5dr Wgn | 4 Door Wagon | N/A |
Transmission | |||
Automatic w/OD | Manual | Manual w/OD | N/A |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||
2009 Honda Element vs. 2010 Kia Soul | 2009 Honda Element vs. 2009 Scion xB | 2009 Honda Element vs. 2008 Mazda MAZDA5 |