In 2008, Honda introduced the all-new Passport to its lineup, marking the return of a familiar nameplate. The Honda Passport was first introduced in 1993 as a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo, but the 2008 model was a completely different vehicle designed and built by Honda. This midsize SUV aimed to provide a balance of off-road capability, fuel efficiency, and daily practicality for consumers looking for a versatile vehicle.
The 2008 Honda Passport was available in three trim levels: LX, EX, and EX-L. All trims came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 244 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive performance. Front-wheel drive was standard on the LX and EX trims, while the EX-L trim came with Honda’s Real Time 4WD system for improved traction in challenging road conditions.
In terms of design, the 2008 Honda Passport featured a rugged and sporty exterior styling, with bold lines and a commanding stance. The front end was dominated by a large chrome grille and angular headlights, giving the Passport a distinctive look on the road. The rear end featured a rear liftgate with a split-folding tailgate, making it easy to access the cargo area.
Inside, the Passport offered seating for five passengers with ample room for both front and rear passengers. The cabin was well-appointed, with high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements. Standard features on the base LX trim included air conditioning, a six-speaker audio system, power windows and locks, and cruise control. The EX trim added features like a power moonroof, a power driver’s seat, and a premium audio system with a subwoofer. The top-of-the-line EX-L trim offered even more luxury with features like leather-trimmed seats, a navigation system, and a rearview camera.
In terms of safety, the 2008 Honda Passport received top marks in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features included antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags. The Passport also featured Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, designed to distribute crash energy more evenly in the event of a collision.
In terms of performance, the 2008 Honda Passport offered a comfortable and composed ride, with responsive steering and handling. The V6 engine provided ample power for passing and merging on the highway, while the five-speed automatic transmission shifted smoothly and efficiently. The Real Time 4WD system on the EX-L trim provided added confidence in slippery or challenging road conditions, making the Passport a capable off-road vehicle as well.
Overall, the 2008 Honda Passport proved to be a versatile and practical midsize SUV that appealed to a wide range of consumers. With its combination of performance, comfort, and safety features, the Passport offered a compelling option for buyers looking for a well-rounded and reliable vehicle. Despite its short-lived production run, the 2008 Honda Passport left a lasting impression on the SUV market and remains a sought-after used vehicle today.
