The 2005 Honda Element is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 i-VTEC engine, part of Honda’s K-series family. This is the standard engine found in North American 2005 Elements.
Engine type and configuration
The Element uses a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with Honda’s i-VTEC variable valve timing for improved torque and efficiency. It is available with front-wheel drive or Real-Time AWD, depending on the trim.
Key specifications of this engine are listed below.
- Displacement: 2.4 L (2354 cc)
- Configuration: Inline-4
- Valvetrain: DOHC with i-VTEC
- Horsepower: ~166 hp at 5,800 rpm
- Torque: ~160 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm
- Engine code: K24A1 (common in 2003–2006 Elements)
- Fuel system: Sequential multi-point fuel injection (PGM-FI)
- Drivetrain pairing: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission
These specifications reflect the typical configuration found in 2005 Elements sold in North America. Variants may exist by market or trim.
Engine code and variants
Notes on the K-series family
The 2.4-liter i-VTEC in the 2005 Element belongs to Honda's K-series family. The typical North American Element used the K24A1 variant; other models in the period used related K-series codes. If you are checking a specific vehicle, verify the engine code on the engine block or via the VIN/door sticker.
In practice, the engine has proven reliable and integrates well with the Element’s compact SUV design. It uses a timing chain rather than a timing belt, which is a common maintenance note for K-series engines.
Impact on ownership and performance
With around 166 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque, the engine provides adequate acceleration for daily driving and light cargo-hauling duties. The optional AWD improves traction in inclement weather, while the manual or automatic transmissions offer a balance of engagement and convenience. Regular maintenance helps keep this engine running smoothly for many miles.
Summary
The 2005 Honda Element is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 i-VTEC engine from Honda’s K-series, typically the K24A1 variant. It delivers about 166 horsepower and 160 pound-feet of torque, paired with either a manual or automatic transmission and available front-wheel drive or Real-Time AWD. This setup highlights Honda’s focus on reliability and practicality in the Element’s compact crossover design.


