What the Honda Passport Is

The Honda Passport is a mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) that Honda has produced in two separate eras: from 1994 to 2002, and again from 2019 to the present. The original Passport was based on the Isuzu Rodeo platform and shared mechanical components with Isuzu, while the modern Passport is built on Honda's own platform and sits between the CR-V and Pilot in Honda's SUV lineup. Both generations are designed for buyers who want a rugged, capable vehicle with off-road potential rather than a purely urban crossover.

The name "Passport" reflects Honda's positioning of the vehicle as an adventure-ready option. The original model competed directly with the Jeep Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner, while today's Passport targets buyers who might otherwise consider the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. Understanding which generation you are researching matters because the two share almost nothing in common mechanically or in design philosophy.

Key Takeaways

  • The original Honda Passport (1994–2002) was based on the Isuzu Rodeo platform and shared engines and transmissions with Isuzu vehicles.
  • The modern Honda Passport (2019–present) is built on Honda's own platform and is unrelated mechanically to the original model.
  • The first-generation Passport offered body-on-frame construction and available four-wheel drive, making it capable for light off-road use.
  • The current Passport uses a unibody design with standard all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine, targeting a different buyer than the original.

The Original Passport (1994–2002)

Honda launched the Passport in 1994 as a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo, a strategy Honda used to expand its SUV lineup without developing an entirely new vehicle. The Passport shared the Rodeo's body-on-frame construction, which meant a separate steel frame underneath a removable body — the same architecture used in pickup trucks and traditional SUVs of that era. This design made the vehicle capable of towing and handling rough terrain, though it also meant a rougher ride on pavement compared to car-based SUVs.

The original Passport came with a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 215 horsepower, paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive was available and used a two-speed transfer case, allowing drivers to shift between two-wheel and four-wheel drive while moving. The vehicle was offered in two-door and four-door configurations, with the four-door becoming the more popular choice as the 1990s progressed.

Production ended in 2002 as Honda shifted focus to car-based crossovers like the CR-V, which offered better fuel economy and a smoother driving experience. The original Passport developed a modest following among off-road enthusiasts and remains sought after in the used market, particularly the four-door models and those equipped with four-wheel drive.

The Modern Passport (2019–Present)

Honda revived the Passport name in 2019 with an entirely different vehicle. Rather than a rebadged Isuzu, the new Passport is built on Honda's own platform — specifically, a modified version of the platform used in the Pilot three-row SUV. This means the Passport shares engines, transmissions, and many interior components with the Pilot, though with a shorter wheelbase and different styling.

The current Passport uses a unibody design (body and frame welded together as one unit) rather than body-on-frame construction. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, or a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 262 horsepower in certain model years. The vehicle is positioned as a lifestyle SUV with off-road styling cues rather than a true off-road vehicle, though it does offer all-terrain tires and underbody skid plates as standard on higher trim levels.

The modern Passport is longer and wider than the original, seating five passengers across two rows. It competes in a different market segment than the first-generation model — closer to the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Ford Edge in terms of size and capability, though with more aggressive styling. Production continues, with Honda updating the model periodically to add new features and technology.

Key Differences Between Generations

The two Passports are so different that comparing them directly is almost misleading. The original was a traditional SUV built on a truck platform, designed for buyers who wanted genuine off-road capability and did not mind a stiff ride or poor fuel economy. The modern Passport is a crossover SUV with truck-like styling, designed for buyers who want the appearance of ruggedness without sacrificing the comfort and efficiency of a car-based vehicle.

Mechanically, the original Passport shared almost all its components with Isuzu, while the modern Passport shares components with other Honda vehicles. The original offered a manual transmission option and true four-wheel-drive with a transfer case; the modern Passport uses an automatic transmission only and all-wheel drive that cannot be fully disengaged. The original seated up to five passengers in a more utilitarian cabin; the modern Passport offers more comfort and technology but less cargo flexibility.

In terms of off-road performance, the original Passport was genuinely capable on rough terrain due to its body-on-frame construction, solid axles, and high ground clearance. The modern Passport is capable on light trails and rough roads but is not designed for serious rock crawling or deep water crossings. Buyers looking for a true off-road vehicle typically choose the original Passport in the used market or look at competitors like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner.

Engine and Performance Specifications

The original Passport's 3.2-liter V6 produced 215 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque, figures that were competitive for the mid-1990s but modest by modern standards. Fuel economy was typically in the 16–19 miles per gallon range depending on drivetrain and driving conditions. The five-speed manual transmission was preferred by enthusiasts for its durability and simplicity, while the four-speed automatic was more convenient for daily driving.

The modern Passport's 3.5-liter V6 produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, a significant increase in power. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder option produces 262 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, making it competitive with the V6 in terms of power while offering slightly better fuel economy. Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Real-world fuel economy ranges from 19–23 miles per gallon depending on drivetrain, engine choice, and driving patterns.

Trim Levels and Availability

The original Passport was offered in relatively straightforward trim configurations: base, EX, and EX-L, with four-wheel drive available across all levels. Options were straightforward — leather seats, sunroof, and audio upgrades were the main choices. The vehicle was available only in the United States and Canada, with production concentrated in Japan.

The modern Passport is offered in Sport, EX-L, Touring, and TrailSport trim levels, with each adding features and capability. The TrailSport trim, introduced in 2022, adds all-terrain tires, skid plates, and all-terrain driving modes designed for rougher surfaces. All trims come standard with all-wheel drive. The modern Passport is also sold primarily in North America, though availability has expanded slightly in recent years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the modern Passport related to the original Passport?

No, they share only the name. The original Passport (1994–2002) was based on the Isuzu Rodeo platform, while the modern Passport (2019–present) is built on Honda's own platform. They have different engines, transmissions, chassis designs, and target markets. The revival was a marketing decision to bring back a recognizable nameplate rather than a continuation of the same vehicle line.

Can the original Passport handle serious off-roading?

Yes, the original Passport is capable on moderate trails and rough roads due to its body-on-frame construction, solid axles, and available four-wheel drive with a transfer case. However, it is not designed for extreme rock crawling or deep water crossings. Buyers seeking serious off-road capability typically choose the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner instead.

What is the difference between the Passport and the Pilot?

The Pilot is a three-row family SUV with a longer wheelbase, designed for passengers and cargo. The Passport is a two-row SUV with a shorter wheelbase and more aggressive styling, positioned as an adventure vehicle. Both use the same platform and share engines, but the Passport prioritizes style and capability while the Pilot prioritizes space and comfort.

How much does a Honda Passport cost?

Pricing varies by model year and trim level. Modern Passports typically start around $48,000 for a base Sport model and can exceed $60,000 for a fully equipped TrailSport. Used original Passports range from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on condition, mileage, and whether they have four-wheel drive. Check current dealer listings or used vehicle marketplaces for exact pricing in your area.

Is the modern Passport good for towing?

Yes, the modern Passport has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, which is adequate for small trailers, jet skis, or light recreational equipment. The original Passport could tow up to 5,000 pounds due to its body-on-frame construction, making it better suited for heavier loads. For serious towing, a full-size pickup truck or larger SUV is a better choice.