What Links Honda, Isuzu, and TLC? Revealing an Unexpected Automotive Connection

In a world increasingly dominated by sleek crossovers and urban-bound SUVs, the 2024 Honda Passport Trailsport dares to evoke a sense of nostalgia for the days when adventure meant more than just a paved road. It's a nod to the rugged, off-road capable SUVs of yesteryears, but with a modern twist.

The evolution of the Honda Passport is a testament to adaptability and innovation within the automotive industry. Originating as a badge-engineered version of the Isuzu Rodeo , a mid-size SUV popular during the 1990s, the Passport debuted in 1993, marking Honda's entry into the burgeoning SUV market in the United States. Notably, the Passport emerged during a collaborative era between Isuzu and Honda, with reciprocal exchanges of passenger vehicles and trucks between the two manufacturers. This partnership proved pivotal, particularly as Isuzu discontinued passenger car production in 1993, coinciding with Honda's quest for an SUV offering. Interestingly, during this period, I had the unique opportunity to sell two Isuzu Rodeos to T-Boz and Left Eye, members of the best-selling American female singing group of all time, TLC . Their preference for the rugged SUVs contrasted with Chilli's choice of the sporty Honda Prelude , showcasing the diverse appeal of Honda's lineup. As the 2000s approached, the partnership between Isuzu and Honda concluded, leading to the discontinuation of the Passport in 2002, replaced by the Honda-engineered Pilot. However, in a revival of the iconic nameplate, Honda reintroduced the Passport as a two-row mid-size crossover SUV in November 2018, catering to the evolving demands of modern drivers. This third-generation Passport, unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show and built at the Honda plant in Lincoln, Alabama , represents a new chapter in Honda's SUV legacy, embodying the brand's commitment to quality, performance, and versatility.

One of the things worth mentioning for busy families is the abundance of storage space, a welcome feature for families with children who always seem to bring along an impressive array of gear. The cargo area and under-floor storage provide ample room for stowing away all the necessities for a weekend getaway, whether camping gear or sports equipment.

The standard equipment roster for the Passport is not too shabby, encompassing an 8-inch touch screen, a partially digital instrument cluster, and a seven-speaker stereo system. Connectivity options abound with Bluetooth, Android Auto , and Apple CarPlay integration. At the same time, wireless device charging ensures your gadgets stay powered up on the go. Entertainment choices expand with satellite radio and HD Radio, and connectivity is further facilitated with four USB ports. Convenience features include proximity keyless entry, push-button start, remote start, and tri-zone automatic climate control.

Additionally, the Passport boasts a universal garage door opener and a moonroof for added comfort and convenience. Available options for those seeking further customization include ambient interior lighting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, and an upgraded 10-speaker stereo system. The power liftgate adds a touch of convenience, making it easier to access the cargo area even when your hands are full.

The introduction of all-terrain tires marks a significant advancement for the Passport, particularly in its TrailSport variant. Equipped with standard General Grabber™ A/T Sport tires (245/60R18), the TrailSport gains heightened traction across various terrains, including dirt, sand, mud, rocky surfaces, and snow. Despite their rugged capabilities, these tires maintain a tolerable and comfortable ride on paved roads. Adding to its distinctiveness are its machined 18-inch wheels with Pewter painted highlights, enhancing both its visual appeal and stability. These wheels contribute to a broader front and rear track width, improving the TrailSport's stance and overall stability on diverse surfaces. The new off-road tuned suspension makes it the most rugged Passport yet. Whether navigating muddy trails or tackling rocky terrain, this SUV is up to the challenge.

Every Passport, including the TrailSport variant, comes standard with the Honda Sensing® suite , a comprehensive array of safety and driver-assistive technologies. This suite equips the Passport with essential features such as Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Additionally, standards across the lineup are convenient reminders for rear seat occupants, including a rear seat reminder and rear seatbelt reminder, enhancing passenger safety and peace of mind.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Passport Trailsport is its versatility. It's equally at home tackling novice off-road trails while cruising down the highway. And with the expanded line of Genuine Honda Accessories , you can customize it to suit your needs even further.

At the core of the 2024 Honda Passport Trailsport lies a robust 3.5-liter VTEC V6 Engine paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a blend of power and efficiency tailored to both on-road cruising and off-road exploration. Tuned and rigorously tested in demanding environments such as the Imperial Dunes in California and the rugged terrains of Dubai, Honda's innovative i-VTM4™ torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system elevates the Passport's off-road prowess beyond that of its crossover counterparts. This advanced system intelligently distributes power, automatically directing up to 70% of the engine's torque to the rear wheels and dynamically adjusting torque distribution to each wheel based on real-time driving conditions. In challenging off-road scenarios, the i-VTM4™ system maintains traction and stability by redistributing torque to the wheels with the most grip, ensuring forward momentum. Complementing this capability is the Passport's standard four-mode Intelligent Traction Management, allowing drivers to tailor the i-VTM4™ system's response to diverse terrains such as sand, snow, mud, or paved roads. With 8.1 inches of ground clearance and a 5,000-pound towing capacity, the Passport can conquer modest trails and tow large loads, making it a versatile companion for any adventure.

Overall, the 2024 Honda Passport Trailsport is a welcome throwback to the days when SUVs were built for adventure. It's rugged, capable, and versatile, making it the perfect companion for those who refuse to be bound by the constraints of city life.