1998 Honda Passport Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　Like its Isuzu Rodeo counterpart, the Passport has been completely revised from top to bottom. The Passport gets modernized styling, a user-friendly interior, more powerful V6 and added room for passengers and cargo.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1998 Honda Passport LX 4dr SUV and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$219/mo  for Passport LX

　　Passport LX

　　LX 4dr SUV (Most Popular) - N/A MSRPLX 4dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPEX 4dr SUV - N/A MSRPEX 4dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

Vehicle overview

　　Choices in the sub-$30,000 sport-utility class are numerous. Figuring out which truck best meets your needs almost always requires a compromise of some sort or another. The closest thing to perfect has been the Ford Explorer, and spectacular sales of this popular SUV prove that buyers find its combination of room, style and power the best in the segment.

　　The Explorer is a fine sport-ute, but there's a new face in this neighborhood that deserves consideration. Meet the all-new Honda Passport, which has been completely re-designed. The new look is familiar yet contemporary and the 1998 Passport is one of the more ruggedly handsome SUVs available today.

　　Inside, a new interior provides cupholders, excellent ergonomics, the industry's most perfectly designed steering wheel, comfortable seats front and rear and plastic trim that looks anything but. Clamber aboard and head for the hills; it's easy with push-button 4WD and standard antilock brakes to thwart nature's attempts to impede your progress.

　　Buyers get a unique hatchgate, which employs flip-up glass and tailgate that swings from right to left. The full-size spare tire can be stored under the vehicle or on the hatchgate. LX and EX trim levels are available. The basic Passport has two-wheel drive and a powerful 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine, with 205 horsepower to whisk you along with verve. EX models are loaded with standard equipment.

　　Problems with the new design are minimal. The location of the push-button 4WD switch is absurd, located directly next to the cruise control button where it could be activated accidentally. Off-road, the new Passport feels somewhat undersprung, but takes bumps and dips easily if speeds are kept down. Finally, there are no rear cupholders for the kiddies.

　　The new Passport is an excellent blend of old-fashioned truck toughness and modern day car-like convenience. If you're looking for a new $30,000 SUV, this one should be near the top of your shopping list.

　　

1998 Passport Highlights

Trim: LXEXLX

　　

Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	17 MPG
Cost to Drive	$219/month
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	33.0 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive