Right now we have a an Isuzu Trooper to cart around the kids. It's a tank! But funny you should mention the Honda Element! We've been thinking about getting one over the past year. 4 wheel drive, lots of room, neat featuares and those rubber seats and flooring are perfect for living by the ocean; you know, wet, sandy doggies! And I love how you can make so many configurations with the seating! Also, it's a bit lower than the trooper. I worry about Cody being able to continue to jump into the back of the Trooper down the road, as she has hip dysplasia and arthritis!