I don't think the Element will ever reach the heights of the VW Van for way
too many reasons to mention here. That being said I also don't think they
are as ugly as some here are professing - I mean I know this isn't a popular
idea here but look at our Vanagons they're ugly. I think they are beautiful
but Many people don't think so - and neither did I at first.

I had wanted a VW bus for years and years - my affection started with the
Bay Windows and then I bought a book and discovered the Splittie....and then
there was the Vanagon. Oh how I despised the way they looked. I didn't like
them and didn't want one. Years later luck so happened that I got my 85' for
free - well I wished it was a Bay but I didn't care that much because it was
on step closer - at least I had a VW Van. The rest is history - I am not
fanatical about my Vanagon (and the Splitties and Bays I hope to own someday
still).

I guess my point being that maybe the Element isn't as ugly as you may think
- they are unique for sure but I think in a cool/geeky sort of way - and yes
in case you hadn't noticed in the youngsters but the "geek" has now become
"cool".