Holmes and Watson

Watson is a woman

Joan Watson is played by the criminally under appreciated Lucy Liu. By gender bending Watson and ensuring that there is no romantic feelings between her and Holmes, the show has led to a very nuanced and fruitful relationship. Watson isn't just there to prop up the superiority of Holmes. As an ex- surgeon, she is a very capable companion and one of the few people Holmes would consider a friend.

Moriarity

Moriarity in the Elementary universe is as nuanced as all its character. The relationship between Moriarty and Holmes has always been intriguing, the battle of the wits of the best. But Elementary brings more than just super smart criminal vs super smart detective. I am going to leave it at that.

Sherlock’s struggle with addiction

In Elementary, the fact that Sherlock is an ex-heroin addict is never a topic shied away from. In fact, the show constantly depicts the journey, the struggles to be sober, and it humanizes Sherlock. They stay true to the difficulty of the journey.

The entire cast

It's not just the Sherlock train, where you'd want him to win and screw whoever is there. Everyone in the cast has an important role. They are there as individuals, not just to prop up Holmes. It's his interaction with all the other characters that makes Sherlock the snarky, insufferable detective who still remains human.

Also, there is definitely more diversity than the BBC and other versions. It's NOT whitewashed nor does it have diverse characters to prop up the white lead.