Honda will end production of its boxy Element small crossover at the end of the 2011 model year.

The quirky utility with the hose-it-out interior first appeared as a concept at the 2001 Detroit auto show and rolled out in December 2002 as a 2003 model. Element found a loyal niche, but sales peaked in the first year at about 80,000 and have declined each year since -- to about 15,000 last year and tracking about 5% less this year.

The huge step-through openings (thanks to the suicide rear doors), multi-function cargo fittings and hose-out vinyl floor were aimed to attract a young, hip buyer with an active lifestyle. But its buyers turned out to be middle-aged and beyond.

"This vehicle was positioned as a 'dorm room on wheels,' but it never quite got the hip reputation it sought. Instead of appealing to young people looking to haul surfboards and bikes, it turned out to be more popular with senior citizens who liked the Element's interior space, versatility and relatively low price tag," says Edmunds.com senior analyst Jessica Caldwell.

While compact SUVs have been hot in recent years, the Element fell behind the increasing competition, from funky boxes such as the Nissan Cube and Kia Soul to more conventional models, including Honda's CR-V.

But John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda, says Element was a pioneer: "It made boxy vehicle designs cool, and Element owners continue to enjoy its unique styling and unmatched versatility."

Pet owners were one group drawn by the Element's features and in 2009 Honda came up with the "dog friendly" package of accessories that even included a vent fan. The photo above is of a promotional dog friendly Element.

-- Fred Meier/Drive On