The Honda Element is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine with Honda's i-VTEC variable-valve timing.
Produced from 2003 to 2011, the Element kept this engine across both generations, delivering about 166 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. It was offered with either a manual or an automatic transmission, depending on year and trim, and there is no V6 option in this model line.
Engine specifications
Key technical details that define the Element's motor are listed below.
- Displacement: 2.4 L (2354 cc)
- Configuration: Inline-4
- Valvetrain: i-VTEC variable valve timing
- Power: approximately 166 hp at around 5,800 rpm
- Torque: approximately 162 lb-ft at around 4,000 rpm
- Transmissions: 5-speed manual or automatic, with year- and trim-dependent variations
- Fuel economy: roughly 20–23 mpg city and 25–28 mpg highway, depending on year and transmission
These specifications capture the standard 2.4L i-VTEC engine that powered both generations of the Element, offering a balance of practicality and reliability for its compact, boxy design.
Generational notes
Before you read about differences across the two generations, here are the core engine commonalities and tweaks.
- First generation (2003–2006): 2.4 L i-VTEC in early Element models, typically paired with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual depending on trim.
- Second generation (2007–2011): Continued use of the 2.4 L i-VTEC, with refinements aimed at improved throttle response and efficiency, while keeping similar power output.
In short, while the Element’s body and interior saw updates between generations, Honda kept the 2.4-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder as its core propulsion, underscoring reliability and straightforward maintenance.
Summary
Answer: The Honda Element uses a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine with i-VTEC. Across its production run, both generations relied on this 2.4L K-series-based engine, paired with manual or automatic transmissions, with no V6 option offered.