l just cant seem to choose, im leaning more towards the element though...what do you think?

I'd recommend the Element. Check out my favorite Honda Element site. http://elementownersclub.com

l do not think they even fall in the same class. The SX4 is a hatch back and the element is more of a minivan.

Both are extremely reliable. The Honda comes out on top for ease of service. Maintenance costs are the same. So the deciding factor should be how much space you need followed by price.

Suzuki is a fine vehicle. Honda however is on top as far as reliability. Remember that the suzuki is awd which is a big plus.

l just bought a 2008 Honda Element EX last week, but I've owned Hondas for years (1979 Civic, 1989 Civic SI, 1998 CRV EX, 2002 Civic LX)

My wife used to have a Suzuki as did a co-worker. They now both own Hondas (one is the 2002 mentioned above).

For one, Hondas run & run & run. l traded in a 1998 CRV with 168k miles on it for the Element & the dealer did not bat an eye, knowing it is good for another 100k at least. My 2002 has never been in the shop for anything but oil changes, same with my 1998 CRV (okay, one trip for a timing belt at the recommended time). My mechanic hates my cars: they do not help him make his boat payments.

l traded in the 1989 Civic Si when l got the 2002. It had 174,000 miles on it. The salesman l bought the Civic from bought it from the dealership because it was solid & such fun to drive.

Go with the Element. It is fun, utilitarian, gets good mileage, but mainly because it is a Honda.