Overlanding is about experiences first and foremost, and to this end, the Honda Element EX is a great option. This bitesize platform offers fabled Japanese build quality, affordable running costs, and AWD. Further still, today’s low-mileage 2008 offering has been upfitted with an Ursa Minor ECamper, which transforms this all-season adventure mobile into a functional micro camper. It’s hard not to love this setup, which would make both a practical daily driver and a fantastic weekend adventure rig. In fact, I found myself descending quite the rabbit hole and discovered that the Element has something of a cult following within the vanlife and overlanding communities. With the assistance of the aftermarket, ambitious enthusiasts have transformed this compact city vehicle into a legitimate all-terrain explorer, as demonstrated by builds from New Jersey Outdoor Adventures, Stephen Aldaco, and Element 44 Workshop. If you’d like to learn more about this platform, check out this article by Nick of Fifth Element Camping.
From the Seller:
“Our love of the Element is due to a mix of nostalgia and practicality. We had a specific set of requirements when looking for a vehicle, and the Element checked all the boxes. We wanted an AWD vehicle that we could sleep in and fit friends, bikes, and gear, and also store inside our garage. With the pop-up ECamper, overall quirkiness, and small footprint of the Element, I was intrigued. My wife’s love stemmed farther back to high school, as an Element was her first car. We are sad to let it go, but life happens. At only 83,000 miles, this Honda has loads of miles left. If you’re of the opinion that bigger is not always better, the Element could be for you!”
2008 Honda Element EX
The Element is fitted with a 2.4-liter motor that produces 166 horsepower, 161 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 21 mpg. A dependable and relatively economical motor is matched with all-terrain performance thanks to AWD. Inside, the Honda is well equipped with driver comforts that include:
- Air-conditioning
- Power steering, windows, and locks
- Infotainment system with navigation
- Cruise control
- Heated seats
Distinguishing Features
- Ursa Minor pop-top with USB ports and reading lights
- Hitch (2-inch)
- Yakima rooftop bars with ski rack
- Neoprene seat covers
- All-season tires
This 2008 Honda Element EX E-Camper is listed for $24,000 and is currently located in Park City, Utah. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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