When Did the Honda Passport Come Out?

The Honda Passport has a distinctive place in the SUV world, known for blending Honda’s reliability with rugged versatility. If you’ve ever wondered, When did the Honda Passport come out?, the answer reveals a fascinating journey through automotive history from its rebadged beginnings to its modern, adventure-ready design.

First Generation (1994–2002) — Honda’s SUV Debut

The Honda Passport made its debut in 1994, marking the brand’s first true SUV for the North American market. At the time, Honda was already respected for its sedans, coupes, and compact cars, but the SUV boom of the early ’90s was impossible to ignore.

Instead of developing an all-new SUV from scratch, Honda partnered with Isuzu to speed up its entry into the segment. The result was a rebadged version of the Isuzu Rodeo, built in Lafayette, Indiana, but sold exclusively under the Honda badge in certain markets.

Why Honda Launched the Passport

In the early 1990s, SUVs were rapidly growing in popularity, and Honda lacked a vehicle in this category. The partnership with Isuzu allowed Honda to:

• Enter the market quickly without the high costs of developing a new model.
• Offer a rugged, truck-based SUV to appeal to outdoor and family-oriented buyers.
• Compete directly with Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, and Jeep Cherokee.

Key Features of the First Generation Passport

• Body-on-frame construction for off-road durability
• Available V6 engine options for added power 
• Rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations
• Ample towing capability compared to Honda’s car-based models

The first-generation Passport served as a stepping stone, helping Honda establish credibility in the SUV market before transitioning to in-house designs.

The Hiatus (2002–2019) — Passport Name Disappears

In 2002, Honda discontinued the Passport. By then, the company had already introduced the Honda Pilot, a car-based crossover SUV designed for better ride comfort, improved fuel efficiency, and a more family-focused appeal.

For nearly 17 years, the Passport name was absent from Honda’s lineup. During this time, Honda focused on their other models like the Pilot, CR-V, and HR-V, which gained strong followings. But as consumer interest in adventure-ready, two-row SUVs began to grow again, Honda saw an opportunity to revive the Passport.

Third Generation Return (2019–Present) — Rugged Midsize Revival

The Honda Passport returned in 2019 as a midsize, two-row crossover SUV built on the same platform as the Honda Pilot. However, it wasn’t just a smaller Pilot. It was designed for drivers who wanted more off-road ability without sacrificing comfort and technology.

What Changed in the Modern Honda Passport?

Compared to its 1990s predecessor, the 2019 Passport brought major updates:

• 3.5L V6 engine delivering 280 horsepower and confident acceleration
• Honda Sensing® safety suite standard on all trims, including Collision Mitigation Braking System™, Lane Keeping Assist System, and Adaptive Cruise Control
• Available all-wheel drive with Intelligent Traction Management for mud, sand, and snow
• TrailSport trim for even more rugged styling and capability
• Spacious interior with best-in-class cargo space behind the second row
• Advanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™

Honda positioned the Passport as a versatile SUV for both daily commuting and weekend adventures, competing with models like the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Edge, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

How the Passport Fits in Honda’s SUV Lineup

The size of the Passport lies between the smaller CR-V and the three-row Pilot. It offers:

• More cargo room and power than the CR-V
• More maneuverability than the Pilot due to its shorter length
• A balance of on-road comfort and off-road confidence

This makes it a great option for drivers who don’t need three rows but still want a roomy, capable vehicle.

What Is the Honda Passport Like Today?

In its latest form, the Honda Passport is a modern, adventure-ready SUV with a strong V6 engine, advanced driver assistance features, and a comfortable interior. Whether you’re hauling gear for a camping trip, tackling snowy mountain roads, or simply commuting to work, the Passport delivers a well-rounded driving experience.

Why Drivers Choose the Passport Today

• Rugged yet refined styling
• Generous cargo capacity (around 50 cubic feet with seats up, over 100 with seats down)
• High safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS
• Strong resale value thanks to Honda’s reputation for durability

The Honda Passport’s Journey

So, when did the Honda Passport come out? The answer is 1994 for its first generation, with a revival in 2019 after a long hiatus. Over the decades, it’s evolved from a rebadged Isuzu SUV into a purpose-built Honda vehicle with a clear identity: a midsize SUV that blends everyday practicality with adventure-ready capability.

If you’re considering an SUV that offers plenty of space, modern safety features, and rugged performance, the Honda Passport deserves a test drive. 

Experience the Honda Passport in person at Corwin Honda Colorado Springs.