Honda’s SUV line-up is missing a mid-size model.
Say hello to the newest SUV from Honda With a not-so new name. The Honda Passport of the 1990s was actually an Isuzu Rodeo. It’s all Honda this time, and was designed by Honda’s North American Research and Development staff. It’s also built at Honda’s Lincoln, Alabama plant. The 2019 model will be available for purchase in the first quarter of 2019. However, you can view it online at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show.
It’s a spacious five-seater unibody SUV, which fits between the full-size, three row Honda Pilot and compact . The 3.5-liter V6 produces 280 horsepower (209 kW) and is connected to a nine speed automatic that drives only the front wheels in the standard trim. However, Passport buyers will likely opt for the i-VTM4 all wheel-drive system.
This electronic torque-vectoring arrangement can transmit up to 70% of the engine’s power to the rear wheels and can also move that power between the left and right rear wheels. The Passport can tow 5,000 pounds (2.268 kg) in four modes. The front-wheel-drive models have settings for snow and normal conditions, with a reduced tow rating at 3,500 lbs (1.588 kg).
The Passport interior looks spacious and comfortable. Honda claims that the Passport is a class leader in passenger volume with 115.9 cubic foot and best-in–class overall volume with 157.1 cubic feet. Its overall size is similar to the seven-passenger Pilot’s, with only two rows of seats. This allows for ample cargo space in the back. With the back seat folded, there’s 41.2 cubic yards of space. This expands to 77.9 cubes.
Technology options include Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, as well as a variety of infotainment, stereo, and audio options, depending on the trim level. The Sport model has a 215-watt system with five-inch monitor. Higher grades have an eight-inch display with up to 590 Watts. No matter what trim Honda includes the Passport’s suite of Honda Sensing safety system as standard equipment. This includes forward-collision warning and automatic emergency brake, lane departure alerts and lane keep assist, adaptive cruise and cross-traffic alert, as well as cameras galore.
Henio Arangeli, Jr., senior Vice President of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and general manager, Honda Division, stated that the all-new Honda Passport offers the on-road comfort and nimble driving experience buyers want.
The Honda Passport pricing will be revealed next year.