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Is there going to be a 2026 Honda Element?

No—there is no official confirmation of a 2026 Honda Element. As of August 2025, Honda has not announced, previewed, or tested a revived Element for the 2026 model year. The brand’s public product roadmap focuses on its new “0 Series” electric vehicles launching in 2026 and the already-on-sale Prologue EV, with no mention of an Element return. Below is what Honda has said, what’s plausible, and what to watch if you’re hoping for a comeback.

What Honda has said officially

Honda discontinued the Element after the 2011 model year and has never formally announced plans to bring it back. In 2024, Honda revealed its global 0 Series EV strategy—headlined by the Saloon and Space-Hub concepts—targets a North American launch beginning in 2026. The company has also rolled out the Prologue electric SUV and continues to prioritize the HR‑V, CR‑V (including Hybrid), Passport, and Pilot in its crossover lineup. None of Honda’s 2025–2026 forward-looking statements, dealer guidance, or public concept previews refer to an Element-branded model.

Why the Element keeps coming up

The Element’s boxy shape, wipe-clean interior, configurable cargo area, and pet-friendly features gave it a cult following. Those same traits map neatly onto today’s “adventure lifestyle” and EV packaging trends, which fuel periodic online rumors. But interest alone doesn’t equal a program in development—especially when there are no concept teasers, prototypes, regulatory filings, or supplier leaks pointing to a 2026 launch window.

Signals to watch for any revival

If Honda were preparing an Element comeback, several telltale signs would likely appear months before a reveal. Here are practical indicators that typically precede a new or returning model.

  • Official teasers or a concept vehicle (e.g., at a major auto show) explicitly tied to the Element name.
  • U.S. VIN decoder submissions or EPA/CARB certification filings referencing an Element or a clearly related boxy crossover.
  • Camouflaged prototypes spotted in testing with boxy proportions and Honda design cues.
  • Supplier or factory investment disclosures indicating body tooling for a new small utility vehicle.
  • Trademark activity paired with product messaging (renewals alone are routine and not proof of a program).
  • Dealer order guides, allocation notes, or training materials naming an Element or similar lifestyle model.

Absent this kind of paper trail, a 2026 Element remains highly unlikely. Automakers typically leave a clear breadcrumb path before a model-year launch, especially in the U.S.

Could an Element return as an EV?

It’s possible in the medium term, but not announced. Honda’s 0 Series EVs, due to begin U.S. sales in 2026, include the Space-Hub concept—an airy, van-like, boxy profile that evokes some of the Element’s utility-first spirit. Honda and LG Energy Solution’s joint battery plant in Ohio is ramping for U.S. EV production, and Honda is retooling U.S. facilities for next-gen EVs. Still, Honda has given no indication that any 0 Series model will carry the Element nameplate.

Timing realities

Modern vehicle programs typically require three to four years from greenlight to showroom. With the 2026 model year approaching, a genuine Element revival would likely have been previewed already. If Honda ever chooses to resurrect the badge, a more realistic target would be a later model year—after its initial 0 Series EVs launch and stabilize.

What to consider instead if you wanted an Element

If you’re after the Element’s blend of space, utility, and easy-going toughness, several current models cover similar ground, including electrified options.

  • Honda HR‑V: Compact, versatile interior; good value in the Honda ecosystem.
  • Honda CR‑V Hybrid: More power and efficiency with family-friendly cargo space.
  • Honda Prologue (EV): Spacious two-row electric SUV with modern tech.
  • Subaru Forester (including Wilderness): Boxy visibility, practical rooflines, and light off-road capability.
  • Ford Bronco Sport: Upright, adventure-oriented small SUV with useful cargo solutions.
  • Kia Soul: Budget-friendly, boxy footprint; great urban utility.
  • Hyundai Kona and Kona Electric: Small footprint with clever cargo and an EV variant.
  • Chevrolet Equinox EV and Volkswagen ID.4: Mainstream EVs with roomy cabins and flat load floors.

While none directly replicate the Element’s washable floors and clamshell doors, these vehicles deliver much of the practicality and flexibility that made the Element appealing.

Bottom line

There is no verified plan for a 2026 Honda Element. Honda’s near-term focus is on launching its 0 Series EVs in 2026 and expanding sales of the Prologue and hybrid crossovers. If a revival ever happens, expect clearer signals—concepts, filings, or prototypes—well before any showroom debut.

Summary

Honda has not announced a 2026 Element, and none of the usual pre-launch indicators suggest one is imminent. The company’s U.S. roadmap centers on the Prologue EV and the new 0 Series arriving in 2026, with no Element nameplate in the mix. Fans should watch for official teasers, regulatory filings, and prototypes; until then, consider current Honda models and other boxy, practical crossovers that cover similar needs.

Is Honda coming out with the Element again?

No, the Honda Element is not officially returning to production, though Honda has patented designs that evoke the Element’s boxy style. While there are many videos and articles discussing a hypothetical 2026 Honda Element, these are based on rumors and speculative renderings, not official announcements from Honda. The automaker has not confirmed any plans to bring back the vehicle. 
What to know

  • No official announcement: Honda has made no official announcement regarding the return of the Element. 
  • Patents vs. Production: Honda has filed patents for designs similar to the Element, but this doesn’t guarantee a comeback; patents can be for concept vehicles or future technologies. 
  • Speculative content: Many YouTube videos and articles discuss a “2026 Honda Element” or a similar model, but these are often AI-generated images and hypothetical designs, not confirmed news. 
  • Long-standing fan interest: The Element has a loyal following, and the idea of its return is popular among fans and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique design and practicality. 

Are they making a 2025 Honda Element?

Hey welcome to the 2025 Pacific Northwest Honda Element meets we just arrived not too long ago and we have a ton of elements here of course and we’re going to walk through and kind of just show you

What car replaced the Honda Element?

The most similar modern vehicle to the discontinued Honda Element is the Honda HR-V, offering a sleeker design and better fuel economy, though it can’t match the Element’s unique utility. Other alternatives include utility vans like the Ford Transit Connect or Ram ProMaster City, or SUVs like the larger Ford Flex, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, or Hyundai Tucson, which offer similar cargo flexibility. For those seeking superior fuel efficiency, the Toyota Prius V is a strong contender, while adventurous users might prefer a Jeep Renegade. 
Honda HR-V 

  • Pros: More fuel-efficient than the Element, sleeker design, stays within the Honda lineup.
  • Cons: Less powerful engine, lower fuel tank capacity.

Utility Vans (Ford Transit Connect, Ram ProMaster City) 

  • Pros: Best for utility and cargo, comparable to the Element’s practicality.
  • Cons: Can appear too commercial unless customized.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid & Prius V 

  • Pros: Good cargo space, high fuel efficiency, available AWD (RAV4 Hybrid).
  • Cons: Not as boxy as the Element.

Ford Flex 

  • Pros: Boxy, unibody design, available AWD, two-tone paint options.
  • Cons: Large size.

Jeep Renegade 

  • Pros: Unique boxy design, good for outdoorsy lifestyles.
  • Cons: Poor fuel economy and limited storage compared to the Element.

Ford Maverick Hybrid 

  • Pros: Significantly better fuel economy, versatile for bulky items.
  • Cons: Different form factor (pickup truck).

Other Considerations

  • Toyota Sienna/Highlander: More space and better fuel economy, though more conventional. 
  • Older Honda Element/Other Boxy Cars: If you want to stick with a similar vehicle, look for a used Element or other boxy car like the Kia Soul. 

Is there a 2026 Honda Element?

The 2026 Element is a perfect choice. The new element’s target market is individuals. And families seeking a versatile vehicle that can accommodate.

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