2010 Honda Element goes Doggies with Pooch-Loving Equipment Package

The Honda Element enters the 2010 model year with a new range of factory-designed dog-friendly accessories that were first previewed at the New York Auto Show earlier this year. The new Dog Friendly package is priced at $995 and includes several components that are said to improve safety, comfort and convenience for dogs and their owners alike.

These include a soft-sided cargo area car kennel made from seat belt-grade netting, a 12V DC rear ventilation fan to keep your four-legged friend cool, a cushioned pet bed in the cargo area with an elevated platform, an extendable ramp that stores under the pet bed platform and even a spill-resistant water bowl.

And for those that like to show off their affection for dogs, Honda also throws in a set of Dog Friendly exterior emblems and all-season rubber floor mats with a toy bone pattern.

There are no other changes for the 2010MY Element that received a facelift in late 2008. All models feature a 166HP 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine linked to a 5-speed automatic transmission while buyers can choose between FWD and 4WD versions.

Prices for the 2010 model year Element (excluding tax, license, registration and a $710 destination charge), start at $20,535 for the 2WD LX and reach $25,585 for a fully loaded 4WD EX with a navigation system.