What year did the new Honda Passport come out?
The new Honda Passport came out as a 2019 model-year vehicle.
Honda introduced the revived Passport in 2018 with the production version revealed to the public; it then went on sale in 2019, positioning itself between the CR-V and Pilot as a two-row SUV built on the Pilot platform.
Context: Why Honda brought back the Passport
The Passport nameplate had previously run from 1993 to 1998. Honda rebooted it as a modern, two-row, mid-size SUV to fill a niche between its smaller and larger models, offering rugged styling, practical interior space, and capable towing without a third row.
Key debut milestones
These milestones outline when the Passport first appeared to the public and when customers could buy it.
- Production version revealed in 2018 as a 2019 model-year vehicle.
- Public showings at auto events in early-to-mid 2018, generating media coverage ahead of sales.
- Sales began in 2019 at Honda dealerships in the United States and select markets.
The milestones highlight how Honda positioned the Passport as a practical, wagon-like SUV with off-road styling for mainstream buyers.
What the 2019 Passport offered
The Passport is built on the Pilot’s unibody platform, focusing on interior space, cargo practicality, and everyday readiness with optional all-wheel drive and a strong V6 powertrain.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 producing about 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available.
- Towing capacity: Up to roughly 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Seating: Two-row, five-passenger configuration with ample cargo space for family use and weekend trips.
In essence, the 2019 Passport offered a balance of everyday comfort and weekend-ready capability, appealing to buyers who wanted Honda reliability without a third row.
Reception and ongoing updates
Since its launch, the Passport has remained in Honda’s lineup with periodic updates and trim variations to broaden its appeal, including off-road-oriented variants that appeal to adventure-minded buyers while preserving on-road comfort.
As of the latest model years, Honda has continued to position the Passport as a mid-size, two-row option in a crowded SUV segment, maintaining its role as a capable, no-nonsense family crossover with light-to-moderate off-road capability.
Summary
The new Honda Passport arrived as a 2019 model-year vehicle, with the production version unveiled in 2018 and sales beginning in 2019. Built on the Pilot platform, it offered a two-row layout, a capable V6 engine, and available all-wheel drive, filling a gap between the smaller CR-V and the larger Pilot in Honda’s SUV lineup. The model has since seen updates and trims that keep it relevant in the evolving market.
