When did Honda Passport start?
The Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV that has been part of Honda's lineup since the late 1990s. This versatile vehicle has evolved over the years, offering drivers a combination of utility, performance, and Honda's renowned reliability. But when did the Passport first hit the market?
The Origins of the Honda Passport
The Honda Passport was first introduced in 1994 as a rebadged version of the Isuzu Rodeo. The Passport was Honda's first foray into the growing SUV market, which was rapidly gaining popularity in the United States. The Passport was designed to compete with other mid-size SUVs like the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The original Passport was produced from 1994 to 2002, with Honda handling the sales and marketing while Isuzu was responsible for the vehicle's design and manufacturing. This partnership allowed Honda to quickly enter the SUV segment without having to invest in developing an entirely new vehicle from scratch.
The Passport's Redesign and Relaunch
In 2019, Honda revived the Passport name, introducing an all-new mid-size SUV to replace the discontinued Crosstour. The 2019 Passport was built on the same platform as the Honda Pilot, but with a more rugged, off-road-focused design. This new Passport was positioned as a more adventurous alternative to the family-oriented Pilot.
The reintroduction of the Passport name was part of Honda's strategy to expand its SUV lineup and capitalize on the growing demand for mid-size and large utility vehicles in the United States. The Passport has since become a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable, versatile SUV with Honda's renowned quality and reliability.
Key Takeaways
- The original Honda Passport was introduced in 1994 as a rebadged version of the Isuzu Rodeo.
- The Passport was Honda's first SUV, designed to compete with other popular mid-size SUVs.
- Honda revived the Passport name in 2019, introducing an all-new mid-size SUV built on the Pilot platform.
- The relaunch of the Passport was part of Honda's strategy to expand its SUV lineup and meet growing consumer demand.
The Honda Passport has a long and storied history, from its origins as a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo to its current iteration as a versatile and capable mid-size SUV. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly hauler or an adventure-ready off-roader, the Passport has evolved to meet the needs of a wide range of SUV buyers.
Why is a Passport more than a pilot?
The Honda Passport can be more expensive than the Pilot due to its higher starting price and more premium standard features, even though the Pilot is larger. While the Pilot is a longer, three-row SUV better suited for larger families, the Passport is positioned as a sportier, more rugged two-row SUV with more standard equipment and all-wheel drive on some trims.
Passport's premium features contribute to higher cost
- Standard equipment: The Passport often comes standard with features like leather upholstery and a larger infotainment screen, which are only available on higher-end trims of the Pilot.
- Off-road capabilities: Some Passport trims are specifically designed for off-roading, with standard all-wheel drive and a more robust suspension system, which adds to its cost.
- Sportier design: The Passport has a more rugged and adventurous design, which can be more appealing to some buyers and justify a higher price point.
Pilot's pricing can be lower due to different market positioning
- Broader trim range: The Pilot has more trim levels, which gives it a lower starting price and a wider range of options, including more affordable entry-level models.
- Focus on practicality: The Pilot's main appeal is its larger size and third-row seating to accommodate more passengers, making it more of a family-oriented vehicle.
- Optional features: Many of the premium features are optional on the Pilot, whereas they are included as standard on the Passport.
Summary of key differences
| Feature | Honda Passport | Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Two rows | Three rows |
| Price | Higher starting price due to standard features | Lower starting price due to a wider range of trims |
| Standard AWD | Standard on some trims, like the TrailSport | Optional on most trims |
| Target Audience | Sportier, off-road focused | Family-oriented, larger capacity |
| Design | Rugged, more adventurous | Larger, more spacious |
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What is the most common problem with a Honda Passport?
The most common problems with the Honda Passport include transmission issues, particularly with the 9-speed models, and a range of infotainment and electronic problems like blank screens, crackling speakers, and malfunctioning systems. Other frequent issues reported by owners include body hardware and paint problems like peeling, as well as concerns about steering and fuel leaks due to specific recalls on newer models.
Transmission problems
- 9-speed transmission issues: Many owners have reported problems with the 9-speed automatic transmission, including rough or delayed shifting and sudden acceleration or deceleration.
- Automatic transmission leaks: A specific issue involves failed O-rings causing the accumulator cover to leak on some automatic transmissions.
Infotainment and electronic issues
- Infotainment system glitches: Common complaints include the display screen going blank, malfunctioning systems, and speakers that crackle or pop.
- Dashboard and sensor problems: Some owners have reported squeaks from the dashboard and issues with various sensors.
- Check engine light: The check engine light has been reported to come on, sometimes accompanied by an erratic fuel gauge.
Body, paint, and hardware issues
- Paint problems: Some models have experienced premature paint fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking.
- Body hardware: This includes issues with loose interior and exterior trim, as well as problems with the tailgate, trunk, or hatch buttons not working.
- Vibration: Some owners have reported vibrations at highway speeds, though the cause can vary.
Engine and fuel system problems
- Fuel system leaks: Some 2023 models have been recalled for fuel filler pipes that may separate, leading to fuel leaks.
- Engine noise: Varnish buildup in the engine may cause a ticking noise in some cases.
- Spark plug oil: Oil in the spark plug tubes could lead to a misfire.
Other potential issues
- Steering problems: Some newer models have faced recalls for steering gearbox issues where the ball joint housing could loosen.
- Brake wear: There have been reports of premature brake wear in some models.
Is the Honda Passport being discontinued?
The Honda Passport was discontinued in 2002 but was brought back in 2019 after a hiatus, and a redesigned fourth generation is scheduled for the 2026 model year. The original discontinuation was due to the introduction of the Honda Pilot and a shift in Honda's SUV strategy, but the nameplate was revived to meet renewed consumer interest in rugged, mid-size SUVs.
First generation and discontinuation
- The first-generation Passport was sold from 1993 to 2002.
- It was a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo and was a key part of Honda's entry into the SUV market.
- In 2002, Honda discontinued the Passport to focus on the new Honda Pilot, a car-based crossover with a focus on comfort and fuel efficiency.
Hiatus and revival
- The Passport name was absent from Honda's lineup for nearly 17 years, during which the company focused on other models like the CR-V and HR-V.
- As interest in more rugged, mid-size SUVs grew, Honda revived the Passport nameplate.
- The third-generation Passport, which is still in production, was released for the 2019 model year.
Current and future models
- The current Passport is a two-row, mid-size SUV built on the same platform as the Pilot.
- A completely redesigned fourth generation is slated to debut for the 2026 model year.
- This new generation will feature a more rugged design, updated technology, and enhanced off-road capabilities, according to Honda Newsroom.
What year did Honda start making passports?
1994
First generation (C58; 1994)
| First generation | |
|---|---|
| Model years | 1994–1997 |
| Assembly | United States: Lafayette, Indiana (Subaru Isuzu Automotive) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Front-engine, four-wheel-drive |
