The Honda Passport name has been used as a line of sport utility vehicles (SUV) from the Japanese automaker Honda. Originally, it was a rebadged version of the Isuzu Rodeo, a mid-size SUV sold between 1993 and 2002. It was introduced in 1993 for the 1994 model year as Honda's first entry into the growing SUV market of the 1990s in the United States. The first and second generation Passport was manufactured by Subaru Isuzu Automotive in Lafayette, Indiana. Like various other Honda models, it re-used a name from their motorcycle division, the Honda C75 Passport. The other two name candidates were Elsinore and Odyssey, the latter would be re-used a year later on a minivan.[4]
| Honda Passport | |
|---|---|
 Third generation Honda Passport | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Honda |
| Production | |
| Model years |
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| Body and chassis | |
| Class |
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| Body style | 5-door SUV |
| Layout |
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The Passport was a part of a partnership between Isuzu and Honda in the 1990s, which saw an exchange of passenger vehicles from Honda to Isuzu, such as the Isuzu Oasis, and trucks from Isuzu to Honda, such as the Passport and Acura SLX. This arrangement was convenient for both companies, as Isuzu discontinued passenger car production in 1993 after a corporate restructuring, and Honda was in desperate need of an SUV, a segment that was growing in popularity in North America as well as Japan during the 1990s. The partnership ended in 2002 with the discontinuation of the Passport in favor of the Honda-engineered Pilot.
In November 2018, Honda announced that the Passport nameplate would return as a two-row mid-size crossover SUV slotted between the CR-V and Pilot. The third-generation Passport was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 27, 2018. It is built at Honda's factory in Lincoln, Alabama, and available for the 2019 model year. [5]
First generation (C58; 1993)
edit| First generation | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | C58 |
| Production | 1993–1997 |
| Model years | 1994–1997 |
| Assembly | United States: Lafayette, Indiana (Subaru Isuzu Automotive) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Layout | |
| Related | Isuzu Rodeo |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Power output |
|
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 108.5 in (2,756 mm) |
| Length | 176.5 in (4,483 mm) |
| Width |
|
| Height |
|
The first generation Passport was offered in three trims, the base model DX, mid-range LX, and upscale EX.[6] DX models had a 5-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout and a 2.6 L four-cylinder engine producing 89.5 kW (120 hp; 122 PS).[6][7] LX models could be had with an optional 4-speed automatic transmission, optional four-wheel-drive (4WD) and a 3.2 L V6 engine producing 130.5 kW (175 hp; 177 PS) as standard.[6][7] The upscale EX offered the 3.2 L V6 engine and four-wheel-drive as standard.[6] Some first generation Passports were equipped with a rear axle built by General Motors. Others had a Dana built "Spicer 44" rear axle.
Model year changes
edit- For 1995 MY, the Passport received driver and front passenger airbags. EX trims gained extra equipment and features.[7]
- For 1996 MY, the 3.2 L V6 was upgraded from 130.5 kW (175 hp; 177 PS) to 142 kW (190 hp; 193 PS). A shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system became available.[7][8]
- For 1997 MY, the DX trim was dropped. The 2.6 L engine option was also dropped. All models now had the V6 engine.[7][8]
Second generation (CK58/CM58/DM58; 1997)
edit| Second generation | |
|---|---|
 Honda Passport V6 (pre-facelift) | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | CK58/CM58/DM58 |
| Production | 1997 – March 2002 |
| Model years | 1998–2002 |
| Assembly | United States: Lafayette, Indiana (Subaru Isuzu Automotive) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Layout | |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 3.2 L 6VD1 V6 |
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 106.4 in (2,703 mm) |
| Length |
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| Width |
|
| Height |
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For the second generation model, two trim levels were offered: LX and upscale EX. EX had the spare tire below the cargo area and LX mounted in a swing carrier at rear. Minor changes for the 2000 model year included the introduction of an even more upscale EX-L trim which added leather seats, 2-tone exterior colors, and a CD changer. The LX trim received an optional set of 16 in (406 mm) wheels.
In 2010, a recall was issued for affected 1998-2002 Rodeo and Passport for frames with severe rust issues.[9] On September 22, 2010, NHTSA campaign number 10V436000 was issued to recall 149,992 vehicles because of excessive corrosion near the forward bracket for the left or right rear suspension lower link.[10] If the rust damage was severe, Honda bought back the vehicles from their owners.[11]
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Rear view -
Honda Passport V6 (facelift)
Third generation (YF7/8; 2018)
edit| Third generation | |
|---|---|
 2019 Honda Passport EX-L AWD (pre-facelift) | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | YF7/8 |
| Production | December 2018[1][2] – present |
| Model years | 2019–2025 |
| Assembly | United States: Lincoln, Alabama (Honda Manufacturing of Alabama) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Layout | |
| Platform | Global Light Truck Platform 2 (GLTP2)[12] |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 3.5 L J35Y6 V6 |
| Transmission | 9-speed ZF 9HP automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 111.0 in (2,819 mm) |
| Length | 190.5 in (4,839 mm) |
| Width | 78.6 in (1,996 mm) |
| Height | 71.6 in (1,819 mm) |
The third generation Passport was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 27, 2018, with retail sales starting in February 2019. Unlike previous generations, it was designed in the United States and is manufactured in Lincoln, Alabama alongside the Honda Pilot. It is based on the third-generation Honda Pilot, although the Passport is shorter in length and loses the Pilot's third-row seating. The Passport slots between the smaller CR-V and longer Pilot, filling the gap left when the Honda Crosstour was discontinued after the 2015 model year.Reinvented Honda Passport is a sensible crossover The Passport competes against 2-row five-seater midsize crossovers like the Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, and Hyundai Santa Fe.[5][3][13]
Trim levels at launch included the base "Sport", mid-level "EX-L", "Touring", and the top-of-the-line "Elite”.[14] Unlike most other Honda nameplates like the CR-V and Pilot, the Passport does not have an LX trim. Consequently, the price of the Passport in Sport trim started above that of the contemporary Pilot in LX trim. All trim levels included front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard equipment, with all-wheel drive (AWD) optional, except for the "Elite", where it is standard equipment.
All Passport models are equipped with a 3.5L J35Y6 V6 producing 280 hp (209 kW; 284 PS) and 262 lb⋅ft (355 N⋅m); paired with a nine-speed, push button-controlled automatic transmission also found in the Ridgeline and Pilot. Front-wheel drive is standard; Honda's all-wheel drive system, dubbed i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management), is optional, and features drive settings for Normal, Sand, Snow, and Mud. A two-speed transfer case is not available. Ground clearance is 7.5 in (191 mm) for front-wheel drive models and 8.1 in (206 mm) for all-wheel drive models and the Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds (2,300 kg).
Two rows of seats provide room for five passengers. There is 41 cubic feet (1,200 L) of storage behind the rear seat, which increases to 78 cubic feet (2,200 L) with the rear seat folded.[15]
For the 2021 model year, all trims received the 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment.[16]
-
Rear view -
Interior
Marketing
editOn April 1, 2019, Honda released a YouTube advertisement for the all-new 2019 Passport. The advertisement featured a 2019 Passport, called the "Past-Port", with a first-generation Passport's interior, touting features that were popular in the mid-to-late-1990s, including automatic power windows, an audio system with cassette player and cassette adapter and pager holder. The advertisement features an actor wearing 1990s-era clothing, and holding a Motorola cellular phone. Viewers of the advertisement could also call a special toll free number, 1-833-PAST-PORT (1-833-727-8767), where they would be greeted by a voice message from Fred Savage, and could then leave a voicemail on Honda's microcassette answering machine explaining why they would like to own a 2019 Past-Port. The advertisement is no longer viewable on Honda's YouTube channel as of May 2019, and the toll free number is no longer in service.[17][18]
Facelift
editThe Passport was facelifted for the 2022 model year with a new front end design similar to the facelifted second-generation Honda Ridgeline as well as the addition of a new TrailSport trim level that offers a more aggressive off-road-oriented appearance package.[19] The TrailSport model receives model specific bumpers, cosmetic skid plate inserts, all-weather TrailSport-logoed floormats, as well as all-season tires with a more aggressive shoulder tread.[20]
The Sport and Touring trims were also dropped, leaving a simplified lineup of three trims: EX-L, TrailSport and Elite.[21]
For the 2023 model year, the front-wheel drive EX-L option was discontinued from the lineup, making all-wheel drive standard on all Passports onward.[22]
For the 2024 model year, changes include a larger center console and new armrest. The top Elite trim has been replaced with a new "Black Edition" trim.[23]
Passport TrailSport (2022)
editThe TrailSport trim was introduced for the 2022 model year, and is the first TrailSport model in the Honda lineup. The Passport TrailSport comes standard with an all-wheel drive (AWD) system that is tuned for off-road use. Also included are more aggressively-styled tires, rugged exterior styling, a synthetic leather (leatherette)-trimmed interior that is easier to clean, unique orange stitching on the interior, and all-weather front and rear floor mats. The TrailSport is based on the equipment of the EX-L trim.[24]
For the 2024 model year, the TrailSport receives trim-specific suspension retuning and all-terrain tires.[23]
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2022 Honda Passport TrailSport (facelift) -
2022 Honda Passport TrailSport (facelift) -
2022 Honda Passport Elite AWD (facelift) -
2022 Honda Passport Elite AWD (facelift)
Safety
editThe 2019 Passport received a "Top Safety Pick" award by the IIHS.[25]
| Small overlap front (driver) | Good | |
| Small overlap front (passenger) | Acceptable | |
| Moderate overlap front | Good | |
| Side (original test) | Good | |
| Side (updated test) | Marginal | |
| Roof strength | Good | |
| Head restraints and seats | Good | |
| Headlights (varies by trim/option) | Acceptable | Poor |
| Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-vehicle | Advanced | |
| Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use | Acceptable | |
Fourth generation (2025)
edit| Fourth generation | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Production | 2025 (to commence) |
| Model years | 2026 |
| Assembly | United States: Lincoln, Alabama (HMA) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Related | Honda Pilot |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 3.5 L J35Y8 V6 |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in (2,891 mm) |
| Length | 190.6 in (4,841 mm) |
| Width | 79.5 in (2,019 mm) |
| Height | 73.1 in (1,857 mm) |
On July 16, 2024, Honda posted teaser images of the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport and said it would be release in early 2025. While still based on the Pilot, the model appeared to be more off road oriented.[26] In October 2024, the prototype version was revealed.[27] The official model was unveiled on November 13, 2024, with sales set to commence in early 2025 for the 2026 model year. At launch, it is available in three trim levels: RTL, TrailSport and TrailSport Elite.[28]
For the exterior, the design is based on the Born Wild concept with bold backpack design theme. It features LED DRL signature includes distinctive amber lighting for TrailSport models, an increased dash-to-axle ratio with a shorter front overhang, increased ground clearance with improved approach angle, and PASSPORT stamped on the front fascia and steel tailgate. The TrailSport model features all-terrain tires, orange heavy-duty recovery hooks, steel skid plates for underbody protection and a unique suspension tuned for off-road driving. The rear roof section features a unique matte black finish and the car's antenna integrated into the passenger side rear glass replacing shark-fin style roof antenna.
Inside, there is a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system which features Google built-in and wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an available 12-speaker Bose premium audio system. In its model history, the Passport has the largest cargo space of 44 cu ft (1,200 L) expands to 83.5 cu ft (2,360 L) when the rear seats folded down, it features a redesigned underfloor storage area and a cargo shelf transform into a picnic can be ordered as an accessory.
For safety, the Honda Sensing comes standard with a number of advanced driving assistance features. The TrailSport models comes with a TrailWatch camera system, and readouts for Roll, Pitch and Elevation.
All models comes with a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with the Honda torque vectoring i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system, which features a stronger rear drive unit. Other features includes a drive mode selection with seven selectable modes includes new Tow and Trail modes.
Sales
edit| Calendar year | US[29] | Canada[30][31] |
|---|---|---|
| 1993 | 106 | |
| 1994 | 25,758 | |
| 1995 | 27,981 | |
| 1996 | 28,184 | |
| 1997 | 22,622 | |
| 1998 | 26,094 | |
| 1999 | 22,974 | |
| 2000 | 21,892 | |
| 2001 | 17,448 | |
| 2002 | 3,525 | |
| 2003 | 70 | |
| 2019 | 36,085 | 2,678 |
| 2020 | 39,567 | 2,734 |
| 2021 | 53,133 | 2,869 |
| 2022 | 41,306 | 2,923 |
| 2023 | 40,789 |
References
edit- ^ a b "Honda Begins Production Of 2019 Passport In Alabama". 7 December 2018. Retrieved 1 April 2019.
- ^ a b "2019 Honda Passport Enters Production - Motor Trend". Archived from the original on 2018-12-08. Retrieved 2018-12-08.
- ^ a b Capparella, Joey (15 November 2018). "Honda Is Bringing Back the Passport Name for Its New Mid-Size SUV". Car and Driver. Retrieved 1 April 2019.
- ^ Lynch, Steve (2014-10-16). "How The Honda Passport Got Its Name". The Truth About Cars. Retrieved 2021-07-03.
- ^ a b Lingeman, Jake. "2019 HONDA PASSPORT HEADING TO LA TO SLOT BETWEEN CR-V AND PILOT". Autoweek. Retrieved 2018-11-16.
- ^ a b c d Schuon, Marshall (14 August 1994). "BEHIND THE WHEEL: Honda Passport; An Isuzu, Alias Honda, Travels Incognito". The New York Times. Retrieved 2018-08-31.
- ^ a b c d e "1994-97 Honda Passport | Consumer Guide Auto". Consumer Guide Auto. 2014-07-15. Retrieved 2018-08-31.
- ^ a b "Vehicle Specifications | 1997 Honda Passport | Honda Owners Site". Owners.honda.com. Retrieved 2018-08-31.
- ^ "NHTSA Recall 10V436000". The Crittenden Automotive Library. Retrieved 22 February 2018.
- ^ "Honda Passport Recalls". RepairPal.com. Retrieved 22 February 2018.
- ^ "New and Used Honda Passport: Prices, Photos, Reviews, Specs". The Car Connection. Retrieved 22 February 2018.
- ^ "Honda and Everus future models and platforms". Just Auto. 2018-12-18. Retrieved 2022-03-30.
The Passport (pictured) is new for North America's 2019 model year and will be in dealerships from January. This SUV shares the GLTP2 architecture with the larger Pilot and is built in the same factory.
- ^ "Honda's revived Passport will slot between CR-V and Pilot". Automotive News. 15 November 2018. Retrieved 1 April 2019.
- ^ "2019 Honda Passport – All-New Rugged Midsize SUV - Honda". Honda Automobiles. Retrieved 1 April 2019.
- ^ Capparella, Joey; Stafford, Eric (July 23, 2020). "2021 Honda Passport Review, Pricing, and Specs". Car and Driver.
- ^ Takahashi, Mark (October 8, 2020). "Honda Passport Prices, Reviews, and Pictures | Edmunds". Edmunds.com.
- ^ Inc, American Honda Motor Co. "New Pastport Trim in 2019 Honda Passport Lineup Throws Back to Simpler Times and Nineties Nostalgia". www.prnewswire.com (Press release).
{{cite press release}}:|last=has generic name (help) - ^ "2019 Honda Passport Pastport Is Nostalgia-Fueled April Fool's Joke". Motor1.com. 1 April 2019. Retrieved 31 July 2021.
- ^ Nelson, Alfred (November 21, 2021). "Honda Passport: All-New Redesigned 2022 Passport | Carusrelease". Carusrelease.
- ^ Sutton, Mike (2021-12-20). "2022 Passport TrailSport Breaks Trail for Honda". Car and Driver. Retrieved 2021-12-24.
- ^ Mays, Kelsey (2021-12-06). "Updated Honda Passport Loses Base Trim, Now Starts at $39,095". Cars.com.
- ^ "What's New - 2023 Honda Passport". www.hondainfocenter.com. Retrieved 2024-11-24.
- ^ a b Ramsey, Jonathon (2023-10-25). "2024 Honda Passport starts at $43,275, up $830 over 2023". Autoblog: Car News, Reviews and Buying Guides. Retrieved 2024-11-24.
- ^ "Adventure Calls and 2022 Honda Passport Answers, with Rugged Redesign and All-New TrailSport". Honda Newsroom. 2021-09-22. Retrieved 2024-05-19.
- ^ "2019 Honda Passport 4-door SUV". IIHS-HLDI crash testing and highway safety. Retrieved 2024-06-07.
- ^ "2026 Honda Passport Brings Boxy Back and Toughens Up the TrailSport". Car and Driver. 2024-11-13. Retrieved 2024-11-21.
- ^ "2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Prototype Shows Its Stuff in Moab". Car and Driver. 2024-10-22. Retrieved 2024-11-21.
- ^ "All-New 2026 Honda Passport Sports True Rugged Design, Improved Off-Road Capability and V6 Power to Create the Ultimate Honda Adventure SUV". Honda Automobiles Newsroom. 2024-11-13. Retrieved 2024-11-24.
- ^ "Honda 2020 Digital FactBook". Honda Corporate Newsroom. August 31, 2020.
- ^ "Honda Passport Canada Sales Figures". CarFigures. Retrieved 2024-04-05.
- ^ "Honda Digital Factbook 2023".
