To allow room for the side curtain air bags, the passenger assist handle was moved from the ceiling to the A-pillar. In addition, a matching handle was added to the drivers side. The handles are nicely contoured and fit perfectly into the interior without obscuring the view, unlike some other manufacturers who have added unsightly and cheaply designed handles.
Unfortunately, the 2002 trim piece with handles cannot be added to 2001 and prior models due to a redesign and shortening of the "A" pillar trim. The handles themselves may be able to somehow be installed, but it would require a bit of professional customization to make them fit nicely. |
Assist handle recessed mounting bolts, drivers side shown. The flat white cloth strip that's running down the pillar is a tether strap for the side airbags. |