Safety
Along with traction control and electronic stability control, other standard safety features on all 2009 Honda Elements include dual front air bags; torso-protecting front side air bags; head-protecting side curtain air bags; tire-pressure monitor; and anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution. A rearview camera is also available.

The Honda Element has earned an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) "Top Safety Pick" rating, thanks to "Good" ratings (IIHS' top mark) in front-, side-, and rear-impact tests and the availability of standard electronic stability control. The Element also fared well in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests, with perfect 5-star ratings for front and side impacts. However, the Element received a 3-star rollover rating from the agency.

Technology
All AWD 2009 Honda Elements use Honda's Real Time 4WD system, which is fully mechanical and does not rely on electronics. Should the front wheels slip, power is directed to the rear wheels until traction is recovered.

For more information:

• See 2009 Honda Element Pictures
• Browse other Honda models
• Read more Previews