More power and more torque, when coupled with improved fuel economy, is always a winning combination, one that cannot be argued against. And so it is that the 2007 Honda Element's 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine wins the debate, because it's up 10 horsepower and displays improved mid-range torque over last year. A drive-by-wire throttle quickens response, high-flow intake and exhaust systems let the engine breathe more freely, and a new five-speed automatic manages power better while improving fuel economy. The result is an engine that makes 166 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 161 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm – not mind-bending figures, certainly, but the added verve is palpable.

Get a Honda Element 2WD with the automatic transmission, and your EPA fuel economy estimate is 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Choose an Element 4WD with a manual transmission, and the numbers drop to 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Yes, the automatic delivers more miles per gallon than the stick, so rowing your own gears is now a matter of saving the $800 premium for the automatic or because you like to be involved in the act of driving. But seriously, if you like to be involved in the act of driving, you're probably not shopping for a Honda Element.

The Element LX and EX continue with unchanged mechanicals, including an available Real Time 4WD system, a sophisticated MacPherson strut front and double wishbone rear suspension, variable-assist power rack-and-pinion steering, four-wheel-disc antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, and 16-inch wheels wearing 215/70 all-season tires. Stability control is a new standard feature for all Elements.

The Element SC gets all these same goodies, but with modifications that include a 1.5-inch suspension drop, stouter front and rear stabilizer bars, and a set of shocks and springs that are 30 percent stiffer than stock. The steering is a little faster, and guides 18-inch alloy wheels wearing 225/55 tires.