Utility
Drivers with frequent kid-duty might favor the Nissan Xterra over the Honda Element.
The Xterra is likely a better choice than the Honda in terms of hauling capacity, especially if you often need to carry a lot of cargo or sizeable pets.
Towing is considerably more the Xterra's forte than it is the Honda Element's.
Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Nissan packs quite a wallop and will knock the Honda Element down a few rungs. On the other hand, keep in mind that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.
Dimensions
The Nissan is significantly heavier than the Honda Element.
Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Nissan Xterra than the Element because of its larger tank.
The Honda Element and the Nissan Xterra compete for the same parking spaces.
Convenience
You'll most definitely take the Honda Element for a fill-up almost as often as the Nissan Xterra.
Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. The Honda Element is considerably cheaper to get to the dealership than the Nissan Xterra.
In terms of gas mileage, the Honda Element beats the Nissan.
The Nissan Xterra requires a lot of gas compared to the Honda Element.
The Nissan is significantly pricier than the Honda Element with respect to MSRP.
The Honda will save you a bundle at the pump every year compared to the Nissan Xterra.
The Xterra will cost you a bundle in gas every year compared to the Honda Element.
Handling
With their similar turning radiuses, the Honda Element and the Nissan Xterra likely handle about the same into and out of tight spots.
Drivetrain
The Xterra's engine is tremendously more sizeable than the Honda Element's. Remember that more sizeable engines may use more gasoline than smaller ones.
The Honda Element could learn a lesson or two from the Nissan Xterra regarding torque.
Comfort
Taller drivers will considerably enjoy the extra head room in the Honda Element's front cabin compared to the Nissan Xterra.
The ampler interior dimensions of the Honda Element make it substantially more spacious for your passengers than the Nissan Xterra.
Overview
The Xterra and the Element have the same basic warranty.