2003 Honda Element - An All-New Thought Process
Honda's Element isn't just all-new, but also requires those who buy it to undergo an all-new thought process. From its wacky two-box styling to its hose it out when it gets dirty urethane interior, the minivan cum SUV cum cargo van is a radical crossover.
Open up either side of its pillarless clamshell doors, which incidentally make accessing the rear in a crowded parking lot near impossible, and two sets of collapsible seats can be folded flat and then tied up to each side. When in their upright positions they form a bench that can fit up to three with incredible legroom.
But for mothers who like to reach to the rear it will be frustrating, just ask my wife Jennifer. The only way she could get a toy or snack to the back was by pulling over and getting out. On the positive the seats double as a bed when the front ones are folded flat with those in the rear. It's not particularly comfortable but would suffice in a pinch.
The flooring is urethane, looking industrial strength and style. The obvious benefit is ease of cleaning with the drawback being child's cups, toys and peripherals noisily tossing around on the hard, flat loading floor.