I love my Element. It is a 2005 AWD with a stick shift. I usually have the back seats out. I built a shelf for one side of the back for my wire dog crate to sit on and there is storage underneath it. There is room for 2 bikes to stand upright next to the dog crate. I like all of the tie down points to keep things from sliding around. Like LaBiker I have camped in mine at dog shows.

My husband and I drove it from Seattle to Ohio about a month after I got it last year. There was plenty of space for everything, even with the dog crate in the car. There is a lot of room in the front so you don't feel cramped and can move around some on long trips. Before the Element I drove a VW Vanagon for several years and then a Subaru Forester. The Element is much more stable and peppy than the VW and has a LOT more room than either the VW or the Subaru. The inside height is great and it is wide enough that my bike will fit across the car without taking the front wheel off.

When you drive the Element it feels like you are sitting up high like a van or a truck but it is very easy to get in and out of. Having to open the front door to open the back is a bit of a hassle but the accessability with both doors open is nice. I agree with twin that there are times when 3 seat belts in back would be good.

The Element is the most practical car that I have ever had. It works great for me.