Hot on the heels of a model-year 2009 freshening, Honda is hoping some canine-friendly features for its compact Element SUV will make it the proverbial "pick of the litter" for dog owners.
2010 Honda Element Dog-Friendly Edition
The 2010 Element offers a restraint system, similar to Volvo's BarkBuckleUp system, which debuted on the V70 and XC70 wagons at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. Data from the American Kennel Club suggested that about half of dog owners take their pets' physical comfort into account when making a vehicle purchase.
Other features found on the dog-friendly Element include a cushioned cargo-area bed, a loading ramp for the dog to climb, 2nd-row seat covers with a dog-friendly design, specific rubber floor mats, and a water bowl.
Honda officials hope their pet restraint systems will appeal to those who want to keep their furry friends safe without having to step up to a pricey premium vehicle.
CG Says...
Element was (and still is) an "active-lifestyle" vehicle well before
that term became popular among automotive marketing types. That in
mind, Element makes the most sense as a launching pad for new
pet-friendly optional equipment. It won't be long before more
manufacturers follow Volvo's and Honda's leads in this area.
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