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AW survey: Honda Element won't be missed

Is Honda making a mistake by killing the Element SUV after the 2011 model year? AutoWeek readers think not. Our poll shows that 56 percent of voters indicated a readiness to wave good-bye to the “toaster on wheels.” On the other hand, 32 percent found the Element was supremely useful and cool, and 12 percent signaled they didn't know how to transport their dogs anymore in its absence (remember the “dog-friendly” Element?).

Chrysler races to upgrade its lineup

In a bid to improve its lineup before a fleet of new Fiat-based vehicles arrives in 2012, Chrysler Group is rushing new features and equipment into 15 reworked vehicles. The equipment, such as a Fiat dual-clutch, six-speed transmission and a new Chrysler V6, will boost fuel economy, improve driving dynamics and spiff up drab interiors, all areas in which Chrysler has fared poorly in consumer surveys. All the vehicles will be on sale by the first quarter of next year.

Ford follows Hyundai with payment protection plan

Ford Motor Co., taking a cue from Asian rival Hyundai Motor, is offering to make car payments for buyers who lose their jobs. The program, called the Ford Advantage Plan, will cover payments for up to 12 months. The move is aimed at boosting sales, which have fallen 45.9 percent this year through February at Ford Motor and 39.4 percent industrywide as the U.S.