"We looked at opportunities to extend the Element's attributes and a panel-side version seemed like a natural," said Tom Elliott, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Studio E is pure concept, simply an example of what could be done with the ultimate panel-side Element."
Fortunately Honda didn't forget about engine power when they were putting together the ultimate infotainment system. Their engineers tuned the Elements 160-hp 2.4-L up to produce 190-hp in Studio E form, probably adequate compensation for the added weight all the audio-visual equipment adds. Also a 6-speed manual transmission replaces the Element's standard 5-speed unit.
The Element's 2576 mm (101.4 in) wheelbase is maintained but the ride height has been dropped via a low-profile control-link MacPherson strut front and low-profile compact double wishbone rear suspension system. As well the springs are aggressively tuned and performance shock absorbers are added. Its 19-inch 6-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in 245/50 R19 BFGoodrich Proto T/A tires aren't stock either. Framing the tires and the rest of the Studio E is a specially designed aerodynamic underbody kit, applied as much for style purposes as improving its coefficient of drag.