Once viewed as boxy and unconventional, the utilitarian Honda Element now seems commonplace thanks to the arrival of other such breadbox designs as the Scion xB and Hummer H3. The Element may not win any beauty contests, but it sure is functional. The pillarless center section allows unrestricted access to the interior and makes the Element one of the easiest compact SUVs to enter and exit. Rubber mats in place of carpet, folding front and rear seats that form a semi-flat bed for two people and protective plastic exterior panels are but a few of the many novel ideas packed into this CR-V spin-off (the two share the same chassis, engine and transmission). Priced to appeal to college-age kids and offered with front-drive or Real Time four-wheel drive, the Element makes a great commuter during the week and a rolling hotel when weekend adventures beckon.