The next-generation Honda Passport Trailsport looks incredibly rugged. This new SUV is ready to run the upcoming Rebelle Rally before heading to market.
The Rebelle Rally is an amazing off-road long-distance race made for women who love to hit the trails and compete. The previous version of the Passport Trailsport also ran this race, as did the Pilot Trailsport. Now, the new generation model is heading to the race and comes in as the most rugged Honda SUV ever made. While that’s a pretty low bar to clear, this new Passport appears ready for some incredible adventures.
This new Passport keeps classic qualities
Don’t expect the new Passport to be a drastic departure from the model currently available. This next-gen model will retain the 3.5-liter V6 engine, but it should be tuned to higher power outputs. It will also continue to have the 10-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth shifts throughout the range. The SUV will also include the i-VTM4 torque-vectoring AWD system, which is one of the best. If you ask Honda execs, they think it’s the best in the class, but they might be a little biased in their opinions.
These powertrain components and qualities will come standard in the new Passport, which puts this two-row Honda midsize SUV ahead of many competitors. While Toyota is moving toward smaller, turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, Honda continues to deliver the venerable V6 engine that we’ve come to love and expect in midsize SUVs and pickup trucks from this brand.
The Rebelle Rally model is mostly stock
The powertrain and setup for the Honda Passport Trailsport competing in this year’s Rebelle Rally is mostly stock, but it has some added features, which is expected. This racing model rides on large Maxxis RAZR all-terrain tires.
Some of the items we expect to see on the new Passport Trailsport that show up on the racing model are:
- Bright orange tow hooks
- Functional hood scoop
- High rear bumper
What does the current Passport Trailsport include?
The most recent Rebelle Rally was completed on October 19, and the Passport Trailsport finished fourth in its class, which is pretty respectable. That said, What does the current version of the Honda Passport Trailsport offer for your driving pleasure?
The rugged build you admire
Among the Passport models, the Trailsport trim is the most rugged model, providing drivers with everything they need to tackle some tough trails. The rugged looks give this SUV the appearance you want, but this SUV brings more than an appearance package to the mix. This model comes with:
- 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires
- Off-road suspension
- LED fog lights
- Roof rails
- Orange interior stitching
- Navigation system
The Trailsport package has a unique front fascia and attractive black trim to give it the right look for some off-road fun on most roads.
The navigation system is useful
Some in-car navigation systems aren’t as useful as those we have built into our cell phones, but that’s not the case for the Passport. This system is useful and can help you get your SUV to your next off-road adventure without using your cell phone to get there. This means you can save your phone battery for other functions and head toward the next trailhead for a lot of fun in this midsize Honda SUV.
The AWD system is pretty impressive
Honda might be right. The AWD system included in the Honda Passport Trailsport might be the best system in the market. This system has settings for snow, sand, and mud, and it adjusts your traction control, throttle response, and gear change point for the conditions. The i-VTM4 system allows for torque vectoring, which sends power to the wheels that need it when one gets stuck in the mud.
Enjoy some important features
The Passport includes wireless device charging. This means you can leave your phone charging cords at home and let the SUV charge your phone while you drive. With this item onboard, you’ll always have a charged phone and won’t have to worry about your phone charge while in this SUV.
Another cool feature is the smart entry with walk-away auto lock. This system detects the key’s proximity and locks or unlocks the doors automatically, ensuring you always have a locked vehicle when you walk away from it.
The next-generation Honda Passport Trailsport is coming our way and should be the most rugged and off-road-ready SUV in the Honda lineup. Will you choose this Honda SUV as your off-road adventure machine?
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