2004 Honda Element

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The Honda Element entered new territory when it debuted during the 2003 model year by providing a multi-functional cargo area, innovative and versatile seating, a durable and dirt-friendly interior, energetic performance, and outstanding value. For 2004, the tradition continues as Element receives new comfort and convenience equipment and a new color along with a new LX trim level.

Available Models
The 2004 Honda Element is available in three trim levels, the entry DX, a well-equipped LX and the fully loaded EX. Standard equipment for the DX includes 16-inch steel wheels and power windows. The LX models add an AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers and air conditioning with micron air filtration. The EX models add alloy wheels, ABS, cruise control, power mirrors, a 7-speaker 270-watt audio system with auxiliary audio input and more as standard equipment.

The rugged and worry-free interior features waterproof material on the front and rear bucket seats (front seat only on DX models). A urethane-coated utility floor resists water, dirt and scratches while providing easy clean up and easy cargo loading. A large rear skylight (on 4WD models) tilts or removes completely and stores inside the vehicle. The gear shifter for manual and automatic transmissions is located on the center of the instrument panel, within quick reach from the steering wheel. Element EX models come equipped with a 270-watt 7-speaker (with subwoofer) AM/FM/CD sound system and an auxiliary audio input built into the dash for digital media and MP3 players.

Interior Features
Very smart two-tone colour schemes reside inside the 2004 Honda Element, along with totally cool rubber-like textured utility floor covering. Some of the other standard features you will find inside the Element are waterproof seat fabric, silver-rimmed gauges, tilt wheel, stowable split folding or flip-up rear seat, power windows and door locks, and tachometer. You really have to see the driver cluster/console to grasp its next-generation feel with the shift knob situated conveniently at a 45-degree angle just below the climate control system.

On the EX, you will also find air conditioning with air filtration system, cruise control, power mirrors, and a 270-watt AM/FM/CD stereo system with sub-woofer and an auxiliary jack for MP3/digital media.

Exterior Features
Element body styling centers on a bold two-tone theme with integrated composite body panels that will stand up to more wear and tear than a typical paint job. The composite body panels provide a worry-free place to lean things like bikes or snowboards without jeopardizing the paint finish on body sides. The side cargo doors are free of a B-pillar to provide easy loading of equipment.

In its early concept stages, a lifeguard station formed the design inspiration for the Element's general shape with upright angles and the arched roof follows the curve of a surfboard. The design evolved into a rugged two-box SUV shape with traits developed to support a young, active lifestyle. With its wide opening side cargo doors, rear tailgate, large interior and durable body panels, Element provides the right features to operate as a base camp and a general hang-out spot. Open the doors and the place becomes monkey island. Lean stuff against the sides. Sit on the tailgate or "sidegate." Stand out of the rear skylight when stationary. The options are much greater than a typical SUV, truck or car -or anything currently on the market.

Performance
Honda's 2.4-liter, i-VTEC, 4-cylinder engine with 160-horsepower and 161 lb.-ft. of torque, coupled to either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission, provides good acceleration while maintaining fuel economy in the low- to mid-twenties. The i-VTEC system (the "i" stands for "intelligent") combines Honda's patented VTEC system with Variable Timing Control (VTC) to enhance low rpm torque while extending high rpm horsepower. Honda's Real Time 4WD(TM) system is available on DX, LX and EX models, and 16-inch wheels are standard.

Safety and Security
The 2004 Honda Element is expected to meet or exceed the highest rankings possible for government front and side impact safety tests (five stars) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety frontal offset crash tests (good performance). To accomplish this, a smart-linked unibody structure is used that is designed to progressively absorb energy and isolate the passenger cabin from forces. The lack of a B-pillar is compensated for by a network of cross members, door braces and the use of high-tensile steel, and a hook and catcher system to protect the cabin just as well as if it had a B-pillar.

Inside, the supplemental restraint system features standard dual-stage driver's and passenger's front airbags, available side airbags with Occupant Position Detection System, and the LATCH system for installing child seats. Front seat belts feature dual pre-tensioners that pull the lap and shoulder belts toward the occupant in the event of a collision.