The Honda Element sport-utility remains one of the most distinctive and useful shapes on the road. It's relatively short -- 7 inches shorter than Honda's smallest sedan -- and surprisingly tall. But behind that cubist philosophy is a level of versatility that sets the Honda Element apart from many other small wagons and compact SUVs.
The Dog Friendly dealer-installed accessory package on the Honda Element adds a rear car kennel, a pet bed, a stowable ramp, dog-patterned seat covers, all-season floor mats, a spill-resistant water bowl, an electric fan and a bag dispenser.
The Honda Element is available in two trim levels: Honda Element LX and Honda Element EX. The base Honda Element LX comes with 16-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, a tilt steering wheel, cruise control, keyless entry, a height-adjustable driver seat, folding and removable rear seats, a urethane utility floor and a four-speaker CD sound system. The uplevel Honda Element EX adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a center console with removable cooler/storage box, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a seven-speaker premium audio system with satellite radio and an auxiliary input jack.
Every Honda Element is motivated by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 166 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque transmitted through a standard five-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on the Honda Element while all-wheel drive is available on both the Honda Element LX and Honda Element EX trim levels.
The Honda Element comes standard with antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, traction control, active front head restraints, front side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.