It’s no secret that Honda has remained one of the best selling brands in the world.  This is due to a unique mixture of quality, reliability, durability and ingenuity on the part of the brand’s engineers and designers.  In short, Honda vehicles tend to perform at the top of their class, last far longer than the competition and provide their owners with tremendously reliable operation.

On top of that, you’ll find that Honda goes the extra mile when it comes to unique innovations implemented within their vehicles.  However, while the brand’s current lineup of cars, trucks and SUVs is pretty potent, there are some interesting things on the horizon for the company.  What’s coming down the pipe?

Accord Crosstour – Set to debut in 2010, the Accord Crosstour is based on the popular Honda Accord.  However, the name is pretty much the only similarity here (other than a bit of resemblance in the front grille).  The Crosstour is a crossover vehicle, combining the benefits of the Accord sedan, with the looks and functionality of a small SUV.  While the car looks a little bit like a station wagon, applying that moniker to the Crosstour is likely a mistake.

It offers a V6 engine, a spacious cargo area, 4-wheel drive and the handling abilities of the famed Accord which helped to cement Honda’s lead in the auto world.  What else is coming with the Crosstour?  You’ll find a removable utility box that lies hidden in the back.  You’ll also find reversible floor panels, with carpeting on one side and plastic on the other.  Of course, you’ll also find 60/40 fold-down rear seating operated with a lever from the rear of the vehicle and satellite navigation, too.

The Dog Friendly Element – Man’s best friend has never had it so good!  The Honda Element has always been popular with those who live slightly off the beaten path, combining elegant good looks with utilitarian qualities and tremendous cargo room.  However, this particular Element offers something quite a bit different.  While you’ll find very little different on the exterior, a quick glance inside shows where the differences truly lie.

You’ll find a pet restraint system (perfect for when Fido has to travel with you).  You’ll also find a pet bed, a water bowl, a pet ramp (that folds up into the vehicle), a fan (so they can have the feel of the wind without getting drool all over your door panels) and dog-patterned fabrics on the second row seating.  You’ll also find rubber floor mats emblazoned with dog bones, a tote bag, a leash and collar, and unique “Dog Friendly” badges on the outside of the Element.

Other interesting items on the horizon for Honda (at least in concept form) include the FC Sport and the CR-Z. The CR-Z is set to roll off the assembly line some time in 2010, though the unique FC Sport remains just a concept.  However, with Honda’s penchant for creating exciting new vehicles, it might just be a matter of time before these are riding on the road, too.

Tags: Honda, Honda Accord, Honda Element