2004 Element : Model Overview

INTRODUCTION Rugged, basic, accommodating and fun: the Honda Element is designed to deliver maximum utility in an affordable package for Canadians with active lifestyles.

The Honda Element was produced to accommodate a new generation of vehicle buyers who seek room for bulky items such as large sports gear but don't want a , large SUV or . Wrapped in a compact and durable exterior, Element devours cargo while offering Honda's legendary levels of refinement, value, economy and performance. Element's packaging makes it "road trip capable," campground friendly and adaptable to people on the move - whether it's from apartment to the lake, downtown to the mountains, or somewhere in-between.

The Honda Element breaks new ground with its: Expansive Interior Cargo Area - It adapts, accommodating anything from mountain bikes and coolers to hockey sticks, skis and snowboards or anything else requiring more room than a car. The cargo area can transform to accept items up to 3 meters in length. Versatile Seating - The removable flip-up rear seats can fold down into a bed, or fold up and out of the way to the side, or can be removed altogether. There are more than 64 possible seating arrangements. Side Cargo Doors - Open the doors and gear easily loads from the vehicle's sides, plus they create a unique hangout zone when parked as a "base camp." Tough, Durable Interior - The hard, flat, scratch-resistant, urethane-coated utility floor quickly wipes down. An Element-specific seat fabric is waterproof. Functional Rear Tailgate - The lower tailgate door folds down to create a place to sit (up to 200 kg) and makes loading easy while the upper section provides shade and protection from the weather. Performance - Honda's 160-horsepower 2.4-litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine delivers generous acceleration. Available Real Time 4WD™ provides added traction, and large wheels and tires keep Element firmly planted in a wide variety of conditions.

The Element is available in two trims: Element: Available in 2WD configuration with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic . The base model features a limited list of features and is ideally suited for customizing. Element Y-Package: Fully loaded, the 2WD Y-package can be ordered with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Optional is Honda's Real Time™ 4WD mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission and featuring a removable rear skylight.

The Element meets the highest collision safety standards for front and side impacts. It uses the latest engine technology to achieve low emissions and good fuel economy. Unlike anything else on the market, the Honda Element defines its own spot in the entry-level corner of the light truck segment.

MARKETING POSITION Development began in 1998 by a group of young designers and engineers from Honda's U.S. research and design group. The team set out to create a vehicle that offers the utility that young, active people seek but can't quite get in a pickup truck, a large SUV or other vehicle.

Research consisted of formal and informal studies at college campuses, beaches, state parks, mountain bike meccas, campgrounds and extreme sports events. They found the target Element buyer wants SUV-size interior proportions, a flat pickup truck style floor, flexible seating, a rugged exterior, lots of power, and good fuel economy – all at an affordable price. The vehicles they drove always delivered in one or some of those areas, but none provided a well-rounded package with all of these features.

2004 Honda Element 1 The American-based Honda design team went to work and created the "Model X" concept vehicle that debuted at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit and was highlighted at a handful of North American auto shows, including the 2001 Salon International de l'Auto de Montréal. The popular concept vehicle became the platform for Element, with the final production version delivering closely on the Model X concept.

What's new for 2004 o 5-speed manual transmission on 4WD "Y" package o Increased rear seat legroom o Remote keyless entry on the "Y" package o Seatback bungee loops and cords on the "Y" package o Driver's and passenger's armrest on the "Y" package

KEY DEMOGRAPHICS Public interest for the Model X concept reached high levels on the auto show circuit. It earned a fast track into production for the 2003 model year, just in time to greet a rapidly emerging generation of new vehicle buyers between the ages of 22 and 32 – the upper spectrum of what is commonly known as Generation Y and the lower spectrum of Generation X.

Honda Canada anticipates the 20- to 34-year-old demographic is expected to account for one- quarter of the vehicle buying public by 2006. Although Element is designed with "Gen X" and "Gen Y" in mind and is based on the generation's unique vehicle wants, it's expected to appeal more to a frame-of-mind (active, youthful) rather than a specific age group.

2004 Honda Element : Body

INTRODUCTION Element body styling centers on a bold two-tone theme with integrated composite body panels. The side cargo doors are free of a B- 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 and large interior, Element provides the right features to operate as a base camp and a general hang-out spot. Open the doors and the Element becomes multi-functional. Lean stuff against the sides. Sit on the tailgate or “sidegate.” Stand out of the rear skylight when stationary. The options are greater than a typical SUV, truck or car – or anything currently on the market.

Key Body Design Features: o Hard-body styling o Side cargo doors o No B-pillar o Composite body panels o Removable rear skylight (Real Time 4WD models) o Rear ventilation windows o Roof-mounted antenna

SIDE CARGO DOORS The cargo doors are designed for maximum utility and easy load-in with a best-in-class opening size of 1410 mm. Because the Element does not have a B-pillar (the pillar mounted vertically between the top and the bottom of the vehicle in the middle) loading boxes and other bulky items is much easier than a traditional four- or two-door design. From a safety standpoint, the deletion of the B-pillar is compensated for with a reinforced vertical beam in the structure of the rear door, reinforced lower side sills, and floor and roof cross members. When shut, the base of the doors connects tightly to the body side sill with a hook and catcher system. The design has achieved a five-star front and side-impact rating, the highest possible from the U.S. Government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

2004 Honda Element 2 The side cargo doors feature an “interlock” safety lever to insure that the front doors always open first. Rear passengers can reach forward and open the front door to exit the vehicle if nobody is in the passenger seat. All seat belts have been specially constructed into the design of the vehicle to not interfere with door functionality. The front doors offer 3-position opening, and can reach an opening angle of up to 78 degrees. The rear doors use a forged steel gooseneck hinge and can open at an angle up to 90 degrees.

COMPOSITE BODY PANELS Composite body panels are to used create a two-tone look. Base Element models receive a standard gray surface while the Y-package features composite body panels to add a metallic- look. The fuel access door, located on the driver side rear fender, opens manually like a traditional truck instead of by a remote lever – a unique feature among all current Honda automotive products.

CLAMSHELL TAILGATE The rear tailgate drops down pickup truck style with the lower section forming a continuous surface with the interior cargo area when open. Perfect for tailgate parties, the tailgate can hold two 100-kg people. The glass upper part of the tailgate hinges from the top of the roof, opening up and out of the way. The long overhang provides shelter from rain, sun and snow – a useful feature for loading equipment during inclement weather.

REMOVABLE REAR SKYLIGHT WITH TILT Element Y-package models equipped with Real Time 4WD feature a rear skylight that tilts up and can be removed. Measuring approximately 508 x 762 mm, the skylight conveniently stores in a soft-shell case behind the rear seats on top of the floor. It accommodates ventilation, hauling tall objects and sleeping under the stars among other things.

NOISE INSULATION Element incorporates extensive noise absorption materials and vibration control technology to provide a quiet, refined driving experience. At 100 km/h, Element registers a 65-decibel reading, similar or better than other vehicles in this price range. Road noise due to rough pavement is also minimized.

XENOY REAR BUMPERS Element’s rear bumper uses a highly efficient and resilient internal material called Xenoy in place of standard foam. Capable of absorbing more energy per stroke, this material helps achieve a short rear overhang and reduce rear impact costs. Element is the first Honda product to incorporate a Xenoy rear bumper.

2004 Honda Element : Chassis

CHASSIS OVERVIEW Built on Honda’s versatile Global Compact Platform, Element utilizes a rugged chassis that supports a wide suspension and a low, flat floor. Element features a firm and well dampened ride that targets high stability and an overall fun-to-drive feel. The firm steering tuning ensures a connected feel to the road, while an ultra-tight turning radius provides incredible low speed manoeuvrability. A toe-control link independent strut front suspension and a compact double wishbone rear suspension deliver sure-footed handling. Element’s suspension design facilitates light-duty off-road use.

Structurally similar to the CR-V, Element is slightly bigger in every exterior dimension except for length. Main chassis differences include 16-inch wheels (vs. 15-inch wheels for the CR-V), a slightly wider track, a compact rear damper, a lower floor height and structural adjustments to allow for no B-pillar construction. While the design and shape of components appear similar, chassis dimensions have been adjusted to provide a wider track and lower floor.

2004 Honda Element 3 Key Chassis Features o 2576 mm wheelbase o Front track 1577 mm o Rear track 1582 mm o Front toe-control link independent strut suspension o Rear compact double wishbone suspension o 16-inch wheels o All-season tires o Four-wheel disc brakes standard o Anti-lock braking system (Y-package) o Electronic brake distribution (Y-package) o Power steering with internal dampening valves o Front and rear stabilizer bars

Handling Targets o Firm damper and spring tuning for low body roll o Sporty, quick ratio, low delay steering o Tight turning radius

BRAKING SYSTEM Four-wheel disc brakes are standard equipment on all models with 282 mm ventilated front discs and 282 mm solid rear discs. Element Y-package models add an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The EBD system enhances braking performance on dry and wet surfaces by adjusting the front and rear braking force to compensate for factors related to passenger load and cargo positioning.

SUSPENSION COMPONENTS The toe-control link independent strut front suspension delivers quick, responsive handling by maximizing each front tire’s contact patch with the road throughout the range of suspension travel. Since Element has a wide track compared to other products in the Global Compact Platform family, control arms and related components are larger. The rear compact double wishbone suspension provides a smooth ride with crisp and predictable handling by letting the tires move slightly rearward over bumps. A compact rear damper and spring assembly is used to facilitate the low, flat floor. Front and rear stabilizer bars are used to enhance cornering ability.

STEERING SYSTEM Element tracks straight using the latest steering box technology from Honda. Similar to systems used on larger vehicles, the Element’s power steering features internal dampening valves to reduce kickback over potholes, bumps or while off the beaten path. It also provides a smooth and natural “on-centre” feel when the vehicle is on slightly crowned highway stretches, adding to long distance driving comfort. Another benefit of this system is the high level of responsiveness, making for a sporty feel with a short delay time between driver steering input and response. Element has an ultra tight turning diameter of 10.4 m.

WHEELS AND TIRES The Element rides on 16 x 16.5-inch, five-bolt pattern wheels and P215/70R16 99S tires. Silver-painted steel wheels with a black centre cap are standard on base models. Silver alloy wheels are standard equipment on Y-package models. The tire package provides a great balance of all weather performance, fuel economy, comfort, noise and wear characteristics.

2004 Honda Element : Interior

INTERIOR OVERVIEW Much of the Honda Element’s functionality comes from an interior designed to support a dynamic and active lifestyle by combining the best traits of a pickup truck, SUV and cargo van. Its wide-open interior space, unique door openings and the overall shape fit a wide variety of sports equipment and large items. Meanwhile, durable seat and floor materials facilitate

2004 Honda Element 4 worry-free operation with no carpeting or delicate fabrics to protect from mud, water or sand, nor the loading of equipment.In addition, the interior is designed to clean up easily and quickly.

The interior of the Honda Element serves four distinct missions: o Everyday driving and people-hauling comfort o Cargo hauling that adapts quickly to large, bulky items o “Base camp” functionality/social atmosphere o Interior sleep capability

Key Design Features: o Hard, flat utility floor o Waterproof seating fabric o Versatile seating arrangements (64+) o Bold instrument panel styling o Multiple storage pockets and cargo hooks o Instrument panel-mounted gear shifter o Two-tone exterior matched instrument panel trim

TRIM LEVELS Element is available in two trim levels - the base model ‘Element’ designed for buyers who configure vehicles to suit their tastes; and the more fully featured ‘Element Y-package.’ The base model Element features an AM/FM CD stereo, air conditioning and power mirrors, windows and locks. The Y-package provides popular features, including a premium 270-watt audio unit with subwoofer and inputs for digital audio sources such as an external MP3 player, premium seat fabric and a metallic-accented floor covering.

The base model Element features the following standard interior equipment: o Power front windows with driver auto up and down o Power door locks o Power mirrors o AM/FM CD stereo with 4 speakers o Air conditioning o Tilt steering wheel o Manually adjustable front seats with driver’s height adjustment o “Memory” fold forward feature on passenger seat o Removable flip up rear seats o Waterproof FXC™ front seat fabric o Vinyl rear seat fabric o Utility floor o Colour-matched interior/exterior o Front 12V accessory outlets o Cargo hooks o LATCH system and flush mounted tether anchors for child seats

The Element Y-package adds: o Cruise control o 6-speaker 270-watt AM/FM/CD/AUX audio unit with subwoofer o Overhead storage bin o Driver’s and Passenger’s armrest o Rear 12V accessory outlets o Metallic trim o Seat back net loops on driver’s seat o Water repellent FXC™ rear seat fabric for extreme conditions

The Element Y-package with Real Time 4WD™ further adds: o 4-speed automatic transmission o Rear roof-mounted skylight o Remote Keyless Entry

2004 Honda Element 5 o Seatback Bungee Loops and Cords

MODERN INSTRUMENT PANEL WITH RETRO-STYLE GAUGES The instrument panel and gauges demonstrate a unique styling direction for Honda with both modern and retro cues integrated into a bold exterior colour-coordinated, two-tone instrument panel. Inspired by a 3-D bevelled wristwatch design, the speedometer, tachometer, engine temperature and fuel meters feature a classic design that’s easy to read. The 3-D lens design creates an anti-glare surface.

Heating and air conditioning controls feature large knobs and are glove friendly. The two-tone instrument panel uses blue, silver or green accents coordinated appropriately with the interior colour. The gearshift lever is mounted on the centre of the instrument panel on both automatic and manual transmission models, saving space and creating a sporty feel with quick reaches between the steering wheel and gear shifter.

SEATING VERSATILITY Element’s four seats fold into a variety of positions ranging from a standard upright configuration to completely flat to the rear seats removed. When the seats are upright, Element carries four occupants including the driver. The reclining front seats feature easy-to- clean waterproof material, and seats slide forward and back 279 cm to accommodate drivers of all sizes.

The Element Y-package trim adds a driver seat armrest, net pockets on passenger seat and waterproof rear seat fabric (instead of vinyl fabric). The removable flip-up rear seats feature a 50/50 split and recline independently. To facilitate cargo, the seats fold up and latch to the side with carabiner hooks or can be removed completely. All seats fold down to create a “lounge,” which is just right for snoozing. The space between the front seats allows for a “walk-through” between front and rear seats when the vehicle is stationary.

URETHANE-COATED UTILITY FLOOR Designed to be “worry-free,” the pick-up style floor is constructed of Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) Topcoat™, a highly scratch resistant yet grippy material and is coated with urethane for extra toughness. The material performs well against the sharp edges of snowboards, bikes and other gear. The utility floor can be swept with a broom or wiped out with a wet cloth. The floor is water resistant, making it easy to clean up spills. Great care has been taken to isolate all low mounted electronics from moisture. The spare tire is located underneath the floor behind the rear seats. The square cover for the spare tire (1057 x 747 x 660 mm, L x W x H) can be used as a table when removed by adding Honda Accessory table legs.

EQUIPMENT HAULING Designed to accommodate a wide variety of lifestyle modules and hold them firmly in place with a system of six cargo hooks, Element interior engineers bench-marked the following large sports gear and basic household items. Some items can fit underneath the seats and still carry a full passenger load, while others require reclining or re-configuring the seats. If more storage is needed, an accessory roof rack is available.

10-ft. Surfboard – 3048 x 610 x 69 mm Mountain Bike – 1778 x 610 x 998 mm Snowboard – 1499 mm Snow Skis – 1880 mm Extra Large Hockey Bag – 1021 x 521 x 439 mm 27” TV – 630 x 790 x 701 mm Bookcase – 300 x 920 x 1219 mm Computer Desk – 500 x 1021 x 1501 mm Extra Large Foot Locker – 1090 x 531 x 640 mm

AUDIO SYSTEM The high-output audio system in the Element with Y-package delivers dynamic, rich, loud sound and features: AM/FM tuner, CD player, auxiliary audio input for MP3 or digital devices,

2004 Honda Element 6 seven speakers including one Dynamic Linear Phase (DLP) 6.5-inch subwoofer located in the bottom centre of the instrument panel, all powered by a 270-watt amplifier. The DLP technology allows the 6.5-inch subwoofer to produce sound similar to a 10-inch subwoofer. Subwoofer response can be adjusted. By comparison, the bass is eight times louder than a Civic Si audio system (which does not have a subwoofer).

The base Element features a standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, 4 speakers and a roof- mounted antenna.

PLENTY OF STORAGE Numerous storage bins and cupholders provide places for cell phones, CDs, super-size drinks and wet clothing. Storage areas include: five cupholders; low-profile floor console tray between the front seats in the pass through; a large three-bin tray above the glove box (perfect for cell phones and PDAs); an overhead storage bin designed to hold a CD wallet (Y- package); seat back net storage on back of the driver’s seat; six hooks for strapping down bikes or other bulky gear; and door storage pockets on all four doors and behind the rear seats. The space occupied by the instrument panel-mounted subwoofer on Y-package models is utilized as a storage bin on base models.

AIR CONDITIONING Element’s heating and cooling system features high volume air output for quick cool down and large vents that minimize the loud “rushing air” noise that some systems create. The large vent design allows for high airflow with low wind noise and 360 degrees of flow direction control. The air conditioning unit has been optimized for fast interior cooling.

2004 Honda Element : Powertrain

POWERTRAIN OVERVIEW The Element powertrain uses Honda’s latest engine, transmission and emissions technology to achieve quick acceleration, good fuel economy and meet strict LEV II - LEV emission criteria. Two transmission choices are available: a standard 5-speed manual and an available 4-speed automatic. Honda’s Real Time 4WD™ system is available on Y-package models and also comes equipped with a standard 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic.

Powertrain Summary o Aluminum engine block and head o 4 cylinders o 2.4-litre displacement o Window port cylinder head o DOHC 16-valve i-VTEC valvetrain o 160 horsepower @ 5500 rpm o 159 lb.-ft torque @ 4500 rpm o Standard 5-speed manual transmission o Available 4-speed automatic transmission o Designed to meet U.S. LEV II - LEV emissions regulations o Programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI) o Internal balancer shaft (integrated with oil pump) o Serpentine drive belt system with auto tensioner o Liquid filled engine mounts (rear only) o Silent cam chain drive

2.4-LITRE I-VTEC 4-CYLINDER ENGINE The dual-overhead cam i-VTEC engine delivers 160 horsepower and 159 lb.-ft. of torque. The i-VTEC system (the “i” stands for “intelligent”) combines Honda’s patented VTEC system (Variable Valve Timing and lift Electronic Control) with Honda’s cam position-adjusting VTC system (Variable Timing Control) to enhance low RPM torque while extending high RPM horsepower. This potent system gives the engine a broad torque curve that starts early at low

2004 Honda Element 7 RPMs, similar to a larger displacement engine with more cylinders, while still delivering high revving horsepower.

I-VTEC = VTEC + VTC Most modern engine designs produce either high horsepower and low torque or low horsepower and high torque, or a bland variation of the two. Honda’s i-VTEC-equipped engines solve this dilemma, delivering both high horsepower and high torque. The combination of conventional VTEC technology with VTC provides the engine with strong low- and mid-range punch as well as a robust high end by adjusting the opening and closing of cylinder head valves while the engine is operating. To accomplish this, the i-VTEC “intelligent” valve timing system adjusts and optimizes camshaft duration (VTEC) and timing (VTC) as the engine transitions from low-speed to high-speed operation. Controlled via a computer and hydraulically activated, i-VTEC constantly evaluates engine load, rpm, throttle position and other factors to adjust the phase and duration of the camshaft. Element’s i-VTEC systems operate with a two-rocker configuration on the intake camshaft. The exhaust camshaft is not i- VTEC-controlled.

Another benefit of VTC is the internal exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) effect created by the valve overlap. Internal EGR reduces pumping losses and eliminates the need for a separate EGR valve. The i-VTEC cylinder head is made of pressure cast aluminum alloy. Its four-valve per cylinder design has double overhead camshafts activated by a silent chain drive to ensure extremely precise control of the cam phasing. The VTEC system is comprised of the following primary components: VTEC rocker arm, VTEC spool valve and computer controlled VTEC hydraulic actuator. Similarly, the VTC system is comprised of the following primary components: computer-controlled VTC hydraulic actuator, VTC spool valve and cam sensor. Depending on conditions, VTC can vary the phasing of the intake cam (change its position relative to the crankshaft) by +/- 25 degrees in infinite increments. VTC activation is accomplished hydraulically via a spool valve that sends high-pressure oil to passages in an actuator located in the cam’s drive sprocket.

Range of i-VTEC Operations: VTC Valve VTEC Valve Condition Timing Timing Benefit Idle Retarded Low-profile cam Smooth Idle Full Throttle (low rpm) Advanced Low-profile cam Increased Torque Full Throttle (high rpm) Retarded High-profile cam Increased Horsepower Mid Throttle (cruising) Advanced Low-profile cam Overlap for EGR effect, economy and smoothness

EXHAUST SYSTEM Element uses a rear-mounted high-flow exhaust system with one under-floor catalytic converter to minimize tailpipe emissions. By mounting the exhaust manifold on the rear side of the engine, the distance from the combustion chamber to the catalytic converter can be reduced. This minimizes the time before the catalytic converter reaches operating temperature. The catalytic converter applies two ceramic bricks of 900 cell and 600 cell construction. The muffler is aesthetically hidden from view, and the tailpipe exit has a clean, integrated look.

FIVE-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION The five-speed manual transmission features a lightweight and rigid aluminum die-cast housing. Multi-cone synchronizers used on first through fourth gears contribute to a smooth, fluid shift feel while reducing throw distances. Inside, the instrument panel-mounted shift lever facilitates quick, direct gear changes.

FOUR-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION The four-speed automatic transmission delivers exceptional smoothness, economy and intuitive shift points. Features include Honda’s lockup torque converter for efficiency and

2004 Honda Element 8 power and Grade Logic Control for less gear hunting. The automatic’s gearshift lever is a console-style unit mounted on the centre of the instrument panel within quick reach of the driver.

REAL TIME 4WD™ Available on the Element Y-package, the Real Time 4WD system delivers added traction in snow, rain, mud and sand – especially on steep slopes and rutted dirt roads. Real Time 4WD sends power to the rear wheels when the primary front-wheel-drive system experiences slippage. The system consists of a power take off (PTO) from the transmission that distributes torque to a propeller shaft that runs to the rear differential. The rear differential contains two internal hydraulic pumps – one driven by the propeller shaft and one driven by the rear wheels – that circulate fluid through an internal multi-plate clutch system. When wheel slippage occurs, the flow rate is greater from the propeller shaft pump and forces the clutches to progressively engage, sending up to 70 percent of the torque to the rear wheels in slick conditions and 30 percent in dry conditions. The system operates automatically and only when needed, requiring no intervention on behalf of the driver to activate. It offers significant fuel efficiency and packaging advantages over conventional four-wheel-drive systems that use bulky, heavy running gear and rarely see heavy-duty off-road use.

2004 Honda Element : Safety

SAFETY OVERVIEW (BACK TO TOP) Element has met the highest rankings possible for government front impact safety tests (five stars). 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 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.

THEFT DETERRENT MEASURES (BACK TO TOP) o Immobilizer System (if incorrect key is used) o Flush-mounted door lock knobs o Wave Key (difficult to copy) o Keyless Entry with “copy protection” o Internal covers that prevent “slim jim” lock deactivation

2004 Honda Element 9