This new youth-oriented compact SUV has novel interior features and unique wagon styling with center-opening side doors. Element is based on Honda's CR-V, but is a bit taller and wider, and up to 200 lb heavier. It shares CR-V's 4-cyl engine and manual and automatic transmissions, and offers the same front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive system without low-range gearing. Element has an upper liftgate and drop-down tailgate vs. CR-V's swing-out cargo door. Element has rear-hinged back side doors that are shorter than the fronts and don't open or close independently of them. Element seats four on front bucket seats and a split rear bench. The rear seat's 30-lb sections swing up to the side or remove to expand cargo space. AWD models include a tilt/removable glass "skylight" over the cargo bay. Base DX and upscale EX models are offered. DXs are equipped for personalization and come without factory audio. EXs include a 270-watt CD audio system, plus alloy wheels, 2-tone interior trim, cruise control, power mirrors, and air conditioning; the last is a dealer-installed option for DXs. All Elements have water-resistant cloth upholstery, rubberlike floor covering, 16-inch wheels, and 4-wheel disc brakes. Exclusive to EXs are standard ABS and optional front side airbags.