Honda's new car plan for 2025 announced, Passport will be launched this year

【PCauto】Honda is set to unveil the new generation Passport this year, alongside a derivative variant—Passport TrailSport.

Positioned as a mid-size SUV, Passport occupies a market segment slightly above Honda CR-V, competing primarily against models such as Jeep Grand Cherokee, Subaru Outback, and Ford Edge.

Its exterior design emphasizes Honda's design ethos, characterized by concise but robust lines that define its silhouette. Some of the configurations incorporate roof rack, while the elevated ground clearance distinguishes it from urban-oriented SUVs, rendering it more adept for light off-road excursions and unpaved terrains.

Under the hood, Passport is powered by a 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 engine that generates 280 horsepower, coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission that facilitates smooth and efficient gear shifts. The i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system features multiple driving modes that optimize performance under diverse road conditions, boasting a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms.

In terms of safety and driver assistance, standard provisions include the Honda Sensing safety suite, which comprises adaptive cruise control (ACC), collision mitigation braking system (CMBS), lane keeping assist system (LKA), and road departure mitigation system. Additionally, select premium models are equipped with blind spot monitoring (BSM) and rear cross traffic alert (RCTA).

Moreover, Honda has introduced Passport TrailSport, tailored for more demanding off-road scenarios.

This variant showcases exclusive color options of Sunset Orange and Ash Green, complemented by black accents adorning the lower body cladding, door handles, bed frame, and roof rack. The design incorporates a vented hood, complemented by a rectangular air intake grille featuring black mesh, paired with C-shaped yellow LED daytime running lights. The front bumper is notably robust, integrating both black and silver skid plates alongside a red tow hook.

Passport TrailSport is outfitted with an advanced suspension system that enhances ground clearance as well as approach and departure angles. It incorporates steel skid plates, a tow hook, 18-inch off-road styled wheels, and 31-inch all-terrain tires, significantly augmenting its off-road prowess.

Interior features include a combination of a 10.2-inch instrument panel and a 12.3-inch central control display, equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The vehicle is also outfitted with a 12-speaker BOSE audio system, 8 airbags, and L2-level driver assistance functionalities, which encompass TrailWatch imaging, body angle/elevation data display, and 7 distinct driving modes.

The powertrain has received a modest enhancement, now featuring a 3.5L V6 engine with a peak output of 285 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed transmission. Honda's second-generation torque-vectoring i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system has been introduced, improving torque capacity by 40% and enhancing response time by 30%, while allowing for 100% independent locking of the rear axle, thereby further bolstering its off-road capabilities.