Car shopping!
Ok, so I don't really need a new vehicle, but I'm thinking that I'd like something without a zillion foot bed and with a turning radius of 2 blocks. ![]()
Update: I knew I forgot something... Requirements: 4WD or AWD, 4 doors, automatic but I'd like the option to shift if I want to, shorter than my truck (2002 Chevy S10), better turning radius than my truck.
I like this car (photos) and it comes in 4WD. It's funky and seems very me to me. Brad suggests that it's better to have AWD so you always have 4WD (since you never know when you'll need it), but I've only ever owned 4WD vehicles so think I'll be ok with 4WD.
No decisions have been made but I'd love to go see one in person and do a test drive. ![]()
Update: apparently the 4WD is realtime 4WD. Something to learn about!
More car info.





I'll go car shopping with you. I wasn't a big fan of that car when it came out but now with scions out there, I'm into that one now. I hope you get it, Hondas are awesome.
My goodness! The Element is one of the most boring-looking cars I've ever seen! And don't those slab sides make it susceptible to gusty winds?
Consumer Reports says:
The Element's boxy, offbeat styling generates a lot of attention, but the vehicle is fraught with compromises. It has a cavernous interior, but it's only a four-seater and, with a skimpy 675-pound load capacity, it can be easily overloaded. The vehicle handles nimbly and has a smooth, refined powertrain, but it has a choppy ride, noisy cabin, an awkward driving position, and obstructed visibility.
THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE
The Element shakes its passengers with a stiff, choppy ride, which is worse for rear passengers. Marked wind and road noise enters the cabin. The Element corners nimbly, with good steering feel and well-suppressed body roll. It behaved predictably when pushed to its limits at our track, but the tail tended to slide out a bit in the left/right transitions of our avoidance maneuvers. The 160-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine revs smoothly, and the four-speed automatic makes quick, silky shifts. Acceleration is only adequate, though. Expect overall fuel economy of 20 mpg. A five-speed manual is available with front-wheel-drive versions. Braking performance was very good.
that's hideous.
Well, I think it's cool.