The unique and popular Honda Element gets both exterior and interior changes for 2009, as well as some new electronic features.
New available options include a USB hookup for an MP3 player, a rearview backup camera, and GPS navigation with voice activation.
On the exterior, the 2009 Element gets a new grill and redesigned headlamps and taillamps, giving it a somewhat closer resemblance to the Pilot. It's characteristic center-opening swing-wide doors remain, but the rear sunroof is no longer available.
The Element is just under 170 inches, making it quite a bit shorter than competitors like the Rogue, Escape and Compass. Despite this, however, the flexible Element still beats its competitors with 103.6 cubic feet of passenger space and a maximum 74.6-cubic-foot cargo area.
A choice of 16 or 18 inch wheels is available, power mirrors are standard, chrome exhausts tips come on the EX and SC, and fog lamps are optional. The Element SC gets a different custom grille, painted bumpers, larger wheels and a lowered stance.
On the interior, the Element gets a redesigned center console and new color schemes, fabric and switchgear designs. And there's a new three-compartment overhead storage unit for the Element EX and SC.
Both front and rear seats can be folded or moved creating a large, versatile open cargo space. Actually, Honda claims 64 seating configurations are possible with the Element.
While the regular model gets its traditional wipe-clean plastic surface, the SC gets a carpeted cargo area. The SC's dashboard is also darker with black trim around the center control panel and vents, as well as on the steering wheel. There's also copper-colored highlights in the SC and seats with a uniquely patterned fabric design.
Standard interior features include power windows, power locks and air conditioning Water-resistant seats are standard on the LX and EX. A 270-watt audio system are standard on the EX and SC. And there's options for a GPS navigation system and a USB jack for MP3 players.
The center console in the Element SC has a built-in auxiliary audio input jack, while the new console of the EX has a built-in cooler.
The Element EX and SC also get a new overhead storage system, based on Honda's Railport Vehicle Personalization System. In tune with the Element's accommodating flexibility, this three-compartment storage area can be reconfigured individually based on customer needs.
The 2009 powertrain offerings remain the same. It's equipped with a 166 horsepower, inline-four-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission is available in front or all-wheel drive. The SC comes with a stiffer, sports-tuned suspension, a faster steering ratio and 18 inch wheels.
The base LX model comes with automatic transmission only. The EX and SC models can be equipped with either an automatic or manual transmission.
Gas mileage on the 2009 Element is an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway with the with the 16-inch wheel FWD with automatic transmission. The AWD models get 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway regardless of what transmission they're coupled with.
Although the Element will go 100,000 miles without any scheduled maintenance, Honda's Maintenance Minder system alerts the driver if maintenance is needed.
In terms of safety, the 2008 Element was awarded five-star front and side-impact ratings for all passengers (2009 test results are not yet available).
Available safety features include: Standard side-impact airbags, standard side curtain airbags, standard antilock braking system, standard electronic stability system with traction control and optional rearview camera.
How To Buy A New Element At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Element, here's an article about the best car buying strategy on the planet, which should save you quite a bit if you buy one.
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