Honda Element Hybrid SUV Reportedly Set for Revival as 2030 Model in the US

Honda is reportedly preparing to bring back the Honda Element Hybrid SUV as a second-generation model designed for the growing U.S. sport utility vehicle market. According to people familiar with the company's plans, the revived model is expected to be manufactured in Ohio, which would serve as the global production center. The upcoming SUV is expected to slot between the HR-V and CR-V in Honda's lineup, strengthening the brand's hybrid portfolio while addressing increasing consumer demand for practical crossover vehicles.

Production of the new model is reportedly scheduled to begin during the second quarter of 2029, making it likely to debut as a 2030 model year vehicle. Honda is said to be targeting production of nearly 100,000 units during the first complete year of Manufacturing & Production, highlighting the company's confidence in the model's market potential and anticipated customer demand across the United States.

The revived Element is expected to utilize manufacturing capacity within Honda's Ohio operations that had previously been allocated for the company's EV Hub initiative. Space became available after Honda reportedly canceled two electric vehicle programs intended for the U.S. market, along with production plans related to the Sony Honda Mobility AFEELA 1. This adjustment would allow existing facilities to support the new hybrid SUV program.

The original Honda Element was manufactured at the East Liberty Assembly Plant from 2002 through 2011 before the model was discontinued. Despite its departure from the market, the vehicle maintained a loyal following because of its distinctive box-shaped styling, versatile interior, and practical design that appealed to outdoor enthusiasts and urban drivers alike.

Signs of Honda's continued interest in reviving the Element first emerged when the company filed a patent application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in December 2022. The patent, published on June 27, 2024, illustrated a camper attachment designed for an SUV featuring center-opening rear doors, a signature characteristic closely associated with the original Honda Element, further fueling speculation about the model's eventual return.

Honda Element Hybrid SUV Production Timeline

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Honda bringing back the Element as a hybrid SUV?
Reports indicate that Honda is planning to revive the Element as a hybrid SUV for the U.S. market, with production expected to begin in Ohio during 2029. The vehicle is reportedly planned as a second-generation model positioned between the HR-V and CR-V. Honda is targeting nearly 100,000 units in its first full production year, although the company has not officially confirmed the program.

Where will the new Honda Element Hybrid SUV be manufactured?
The reported production plan places the new Honda Element Hybrid SUV at Honda's Ohio manufacturing operations, which would serve as the global production hub for the model. The available capacity comes after changes to the company's EV Hub strategy, allowing the facilities to support hybrid SUV production. Manufacturing is expected to start in the second quarter of 2029 for the 2030 model year.