Honda gets a clue and paints the Element

Why didn't Honda do this earlier? For 2006, Honda is offering a new trim level for their Element. The EX-P trim spec will include painted body panels and door handles. The EX-P is available in both 2WD and 4WD, either with a standard 5-speed manual or available 4-speed automatic transmission. Not much else has changed for 2006, but feature changes for EX (and EX-P) models include steering wheel mounted radio controls and new alloy wheels. I've seen dealers and enthusiasts go through the trouble of painting the textured gray plastic body panels before, and it's nice to see Honda make this kind of corrective action.