This has been great feedback - thanks everyone! I too currently have a Subaru (WRX) so it seems to appeal to a similar person. My husband's car is also a Subaru. I wouldn't be considering a move away from it but we have the need to haul things the Subarus can't, and that need will be increasing over time. Both our cars are also in their upper mileages, so it may make sense to do a trade in while my car still has some value. For camping and fun things we like to do, the Element sounds pretty similar to the Subie (although, not quite as cool looking for sure).

I would definitely want the AWD, after having it with my Subaru I don't think I could go back to a FWD car!

I am glad to hear so many of you are happy Element owners.