Because it's like 90% of the utility of an Astro van but it's not technically a van and it's from a manufacturer that certain demographics hold in high regard. It's a van for the people who are too proud to own a van.
Which is ridiculous--if people would actually test drive a minivan or use it for a few weeks they'd end up loving them. The side doors, back hatch and fold flat seats mean a mini van is a heck of a setup. My wife makes fun of me but if we fly into someplace and rent a car I'll almost always get a minivan.
The minivan is almost the perfect vehicle by many measures - and for those who have too much shame, they can drive a Kia Carnival which has lines that make it look like an SUV.
Element was available from 2003-2011--are you talking about "certain demographics" who wanted the reliable automobiles that Honda made during that time? So weird.
That is in addition to offering AWD, stick shift, stow-able rear seating, better MPG, vinyl interior instead of carpet, removable moon-roof, none of which the Astro had.
Edit: I sound like MCM and I don't like it.