Does anyone have thoughts / experience with the HONDA ELEMENT?

I'm considering looking at one for a daily driver/ work vehicle . My current work van ('97 chevy express - is tired and I'm tired of it)

The element , looks to offer some functionality and creature comforts.
We drive anywhere from 40 to 150miles a day depending on the job. I need to carry a tool bag or two and occasionally a few boxes of material.
A pickup( f-150) might be an option as well.

budget $8-12k

I'd like Ex version and manual transmission.