Honda 2007 Lineup in Person

Joe Wiesenfelder and I spent Thursday thoroughly inspecting Honda’s 2007 lineup in the flesh just outside of Detroit. While most of the 2007 models are little changed from 2006, there were three new vehicles of note: the 2007 Element SC, the Civic Si Sedan and the all-new CR-V. 

Now, we’re prevented from talking about the second two vehicles for another week (mark Sept. 1 on your calendar to come back and see tons of details about the Si Sedan and CR-V),  but a bit later today I’ll run a full report on the Element SC. For now, here’s what’s changed for the rest of the 2007 lineup. 

• 2007 Honda Accord: There’s a Special Edition V-6 model that offers popular add-ons like 17-inch wheels and a six-disc CD changer. The 2007s are also available in four new colors. 
• 2007 Honda Civic: The Civic sedan, Civic Hybrid, Civic coupe and Civic Si coupe see no changes from 2006. The new Civic Si sedan will go on sale Sept. 28; check back for more information Sept. 1.
• 2007 Honda CR-V: Completely redesigned for 2007, also on sale Sept. 28. Full information Sept. 1.
• 2007 Honda Element: Besides the all-new SC model that I’ll cover later, the regular Element gets standard stability control and side curtain airbags. Most noticeable will be a more powerful 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 10 additional horsepower, bringing the total to 166 hp. There’s also a five-speed automatic transmission to replace the previous four-speed, as well as a new Drive-by-Wire throttle system. The interior is also restyled a bit, making the Element a bit more contemporary and not quite as “funky.” A really nice improvement across the line is the integration of the seat belts right into the driver and front passenger seats. No longer will the belt be connected to the rear doors, causing tough entry and exit issues for rear passengers.
• 2007 Honda Fit: The all-new Fit hatchback was introduced earlier this year as a 2007 model and is on sale now. 
• 2007 Honda Odyssey: Slight changes include a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and tire pressure monitoring system throughout the lineup, as well as two new exterior colors.
• 2007 Honda Pilot: No changes for 2007.
• 2007 Honda Ridgeline: There’s a new RTX trim level that adds a trailer hitch, gray alloy wheels, a different grille and body-colored door handles to the RT trim. All Ridgelines add an illuminated vanity mirror on the driver’s side, available monotone — instead of two-tone —  leather and four new exterior colors. The RTL trim gets a moonroof standard for 2007. 
• 2007 Honda S2000: No changes for 2007.