A few days ago, we published a story on what the new Honda Passport crossover could look like, focusing mainly on a somewhat mysterious TrailSport version.
Well, now it’s official, with the manufacturer revealing this new take on the Passport in all its glory. It is, however, more of a “refresh” than an “all-new” treatment, but there’s still plenty coming down the pipe.
The Passport will be getting new front rear fascias across the board as well as a new hood, front fenders and grille trim. The TrailSport takes things a step further with it own unique grille treatment, wider 18-inch wheels, unique bumpers and plastic cladding around the fenders and rocker panels. There are also blockier off-road tires and all Passports get an enlarged twin-exit exhaust. The goal, according to Honda, is a more rugged look than previously.
Inside, we find orange contrast stitching on the steering wheel, doors and seats and it also gets ambient lighting and a special gauge cluster and orange “TrailSport” badging. There are also heated windshield wipers and it should come as no surprise that AWD is standard on the TrailSport, as is intelligent traction management that can be configured for different terrains. That’s all well and good, but what’s odd is that Honda is saying there’s already plans to offer even more off road bits to the Passport “over the next few model years”. Which, of course, begs the question: why not now?
If you want your CUV to be more about on-road style than off-road grit, there’s also a Honda Performance Development (HPD) version that provides special graphics, grille, black fender flares and a unique wheel style.
All Passports come powered by a 3.5-litre V6 good for 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission. That powertrain plus the AWD system allows it to tow over 2,200 kg. Other trims include Touring (20” wheels, handsfree tailgate) and the base Sport model.
No pricing has yet been announced; expect that closer to the 2022 Passport’s on-sale date early next year.