In this week’s Ask Nathan:
- Is this the next Honda Element?
- 2025 Toyota GR Corolla hype?
The first question comes from – me – and it’s about the recently spied images of a Honda Element of some sort… maybe.
Q: I saw these renderings on line and I was wondering if these belong to the next Honda Element?
This wasn’t a question directed at me, but I’ve seen it all over the place this past week. As such, I thought I would explore the recently uncovered patent information about (what might be) the next Honda Element.
A: Fans NEED a new Honda Element… and so do I.
Just like bringing back the Nissan Xterra: much of this is speculation, sprinkled in with a touch of evidence.
Recently, several outlets uncovered plans for what could be the next Honda Element. This isn’t exactly news to Honda fans, but the idea is tantalizing. Not only do these images look like a modern interpretation of the OG Element – it might be a LOT more.
In the first image (above), we see what appears to be an Element-like vehicle. The proportions are a bit different, but the shape and clam-shell doors are right there. Then, things get interesting with the unusual camping extension that clips onto (what I think is) a removable top.
Honda Elements with a camping conversion for a pop-top are awesome, but nothing new. This looks like a factory built accessory, one that can hold a few people.
Finally, there’s the one that gets Andre and I all worked up. It looks like the little crossover might convert into a pickup – of sorts. To my eye, it looks like the roof and side panels are removable, and the rear seats fold flat. This looks like a four or five food bed. That would be one hell of a response to the explosive success of the Ford Maverick. There’s been a rumor that Honda was considering a pickup that slotted under the midsize Ridgeline. Could this be it?!
Sure, this is mostly speculation. Thousands of patents are entered annually that never come to fruition. That’s especially true when it comes to the auto industry.
That still is enough to make Honda Element fans salivate. I mean, Rick Astley (“Never gonna give you up”) must be the theme song for Element fans. Why do so many people (including yours truly) focus on the Honda Element?
Personally, I adore the little van/wagon/SUV/runabout. It’s one of the most utilitarian non-pickup truck vehicles I’ve ever driven.
– N
The next question comes from a snarky response to the upcoming GR Corolla with an automatic transmission.
Q: (Via: YouTube) The way you worship the 8-speed Corolla makes me wonder if you still care about the Civic R.
Now you’re going on and on about the Corolla. Who cares that it’s a slow automatic now? Real drivers prefer a manual and you know it.
– EM Dave
A: So, according to you – “real drivers” are defined by slower transmissions?
Sorry, as much as I love (& prefer) a proper manual transmission, the ownership of one doesn’t entitle you to the moniker of “real driver.” Besides, I think you’re mistaken about the 8-speed automatic GR Corolla being slower. The numbers have yet to be posted, I’m betting the auto is quicker. At least in a straight line, and possibly in rally environments.
Look, just because some guy in the movies “shifts” a car fifty times in a quarter mile, doesn’t make him fast. Just slightly furious.
“Real drivers” know the car, how it behaves on the track/road, and how to hustle the thing around capably. Yes, I prefer a manual as it’s fun for me. I (usually) feel a real connection to a vehicle banging through the gears myself – but I’m a crappy driver. Especially compared to the pros. My spouse loves a manual transmission too – despite her desire to grind gears and stall daily. Is she a “real driver?”
Going back to the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla: Toyota WILL sell a lot more thanks to the new automatic. The take rate on manual transmission cars is under 2% right now – across the board.
Consumers are making it easy for Auto makers to pair everything down to one transmission. It’s cheaper for them to produce, and people seem to be forgetting about the joys of mixing your own coffee.
Be aware, Toyota may put this powertrain in a variety of other vehicles. Consider that powerful turbo 3-banger paired with an automatic transmission; think about the places that could go. Think about the vehicles it could underpin.
Yes, I still love the Civic R. I also love Subaru WRXs, and Trebants – lots of love to go around. Who cares if I love ’em all? Think about being less judgmental about other drivers.
– N
Here’s some “real drivers” for ‘ya. Or, maybe not.
