Although the exterior design is weathering well, the Passport?s interior looks dated with its blocky angles. Nevertheless, the instrument and control layout is efficient because all major gauges are grouped for easy readability. The instrument cluster is surrounded by handy switches for lights and wipers, and the controls for the effective temperature control system are simple and easy to use.
Our only gripe with our test Passport?s secondary controls was the audio system. The tiny push-button controls were irritating to use even when the vehicle was sitting still, and nearly impossible for the driver to adjust when the Passport was rolling down the road.
All-around visibility is good thanks to lots of glass, which is, ironically, a trademark of Honda automobiles. Extensive glass area usually adds up to interior heat buildup, so windows from the second roof pillar to the back of the vehicle are heavily tinted to help keep the interior cool.
The Passport?s 4WD system is designed for part-time operation on low-traction surfaces only. A transfer case lever located in the center console allows the driver to choose between 2WD, high-range 4WD and low-range 4WD. The latter is for very slow driving over rugged terrain.
The Passport?s cargo space is more than adequate, with 35 cu. Ft. available when the rear seat is in use. Fold it forward and the space is more than twice as large. Passenger volume is another matter.
We found that comfort in a Passport is strongly related to the size of the beholder because the cabin is not quite as spacious as it looks. Our driver?s left knee came in contact with the door panel much too easily, which could have proved uncomfortable during extended trips. And the level of support offered by all the seats, which have short bottom cushions and low backs, also drew a few negative comments from some of our testers. Additionally, taller backseat passengers commented on limited headroom.
To be fair, though, others thought all the seats were just fine. So we would guess that Passport comfort could be in direct proportion with your size. If you?re shorter than 6-ft. tall, you may find Passport seating comfort to be somewhat of a nonissue.
Something that is an issue, however, is passive restraints. Airbags are conspicuous here only by their absence.
With its more powerful engine, our Passport LX performed generally well in all-around use. In town the V6 is smooth, quiet and equals the 4-cylinder?s EPA city mileage rating. It?s good on the highway, too, except when extra power is needed for passing situations. Maneuvers such as this require plenty of room because even with its relatively low weight and 175 hp, the Passport?s passing performance is no better than just OK.
In any case, even though the Passport?s V6 may not provide neck-snapping acceleration, its towing capabilities exceed some of its better-known rivals from Toyota and Nissan.
Aside from a shortage of passing power, the Passport can handle whatever it?s asked to do. On paved roads the ride quality is good; nothing less than breaks in the pavement or potholes will upset passengers.
The power-assisted steering is light and precise, and the brakes will take plenty of hard use without any fade or hot-brake smell. And where there?s no pavement at all, the Passport still performs well.