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Honda has gone ahead and launched its 2009 Element, offering a slightly restyled package with more available content, and the same quirkiness that could be found in the original vehicle. Gone are Element’s love ‘em or hate ‘em plastic-clad fenders, with the new car at once much sleeker, and more subtle than the outgoing model. The ’09 car is still likely to polarize opinion somewhat with its overtly box-like design, but the shape seems to be mellowing to a certain extent—not quite so radical in the face of certain imitators that have cropped up in the meantime.


The new Element will start at $20,175 for the two-wheel drive LX model, moving up to a base of $25,185 for the four-wheel-drive EX with navigation. Honda’s 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine is offered with either a five-speed auto or five-speed manual transmission, though fuel economy numbers are considerably better with the autobox (20/25 auto vs. 18/23 for the manual).


Read on below for Honda’s full press release or peruse our gallery above for images of the 2009 Element.


Restyled 2009 Honda Element Offers New High-tech, Functional Features


Available features now include a navigation system, a removable storage cooler and an improved overhead storage console on select models


The restyled 2009 Honda Element entry-level SUV builds on its spacious and versatile character by adding a more chiseled exterior appearance and a refreshed interior design with an expanded selection of available high-tech and functional features. Manufacturer Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP1) starts at $20,175 for the 2009 Element 2WD LX, plus a destination and handling charge of $670.

For 2009, Honda has enhanced each of the three unique Element styles that range from the rugged and simple Element LX, to the more refined Element EX, to the sporty Element SC. Available new features on the Element EX and SC include the Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System2 with Voice Activation and a rearview camera (automatic transmission-equipped vehicles only); USB digital media connectivity; and improved overhead console storage areas with modular compartments.


Significant exterior styling changes include a new front grille and bumper design, restyled front fenders (now metal, previously composite material), a new hood design, squared wheel arches, and new headlight and taillight configurations.


"The Element's key strength is a spacious, versatile and rugged interior that adapts quickly and conveniently to people and cargo," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "For 2009, the enhancements strengthen the totally unique original concept with more refinement and functionality."


New interior changes include new, brighter color schemes with titanium-look side linings, new fabric patterns, and revised switchgear designs and meter graphics. A restyled low-profile center console is standard on the Element LX.


The Element EX adds a new convertible center console with a removable cooler/storage box while the Element SC retains its exclusive center console. For additional storage, the Element EX and SC are equipped with a modular three-compartment overhead console based on the Railport™ Vehicle Personalization System, expanding the vehicle's hidden storage versatility compared to the previous version. The new overhead console includes two large storage bins that can accommodate CD cases and similar items and a rear storage area for sunglasses.


The 2.4-liter i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine is available with either a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an available 5-speed automatic transmission. Real Time 4WD™, available on the Element LX and EX, enhances all-weather traction. The Element LX and EX continue to be available in two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, while the sport-tuned Element SC continues to be available exclusively in two-wheel-drive. EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings3 range from 20/25 for two-wheel-drive mo

Tags: Manufacturers, 2009, 2009 Honda Element, 2009 Honda Element, Element crossover, Honda, Honda, Design & Auto Shows, Automakers

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Preview: Honda Revises Element for 2009 was originally published by NextAutos.com and Winding Road - Honda. Read the full story by clicking here.