2019 Honda Passport

The all-new 2019 Honda Passport is designed for adventure-seekers who want the superior off-road capability of Honda's available i-VTM4™ torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, the power and towing capability of its 3.5-liter i-VTEC® V6, and the more personal and rugged character of a five-passenger SUV. Within the Honda SUV lineup, in size and price, it slots between the refined and compact-size CR-V and the larger, three-row family-focused Pilot.

The 2019 Passport is based on Honda's reinforced unibody midsize light-truck platform, featuring a fully-boxed floor structure, the latest generation of Honda's proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure along with a sophisticated fully independent suspension offering exceptional on- and off-road driving performance.

Passport's rugged yet modern exterior styling comprises standard 20-inch wheels, aggressive black grille, and increased ride height with more athletic proportion and stance compared to the three-row Pilot. Inside, Passport offers best-in-class passenger space and total interior volume and features a large "basement" cargo area ideal for storing dirty gear or keeping valuables out of sight.

Powering the new Passport is a 3.5-liter SOHC direct-injected V6 engine with i-VTEC® valvetrain connected exclusively to a second-generation 9-speed automatic transmission. Opt for all-wheel drive and Passport gains Honda's torque-vectoring Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4™) all-wheel drive system with Intelligent Traction Management – with Snow, Mud and Sand modes -- allowing the driver to optimize Passport's tractive and dynamic performance based on terrain and weather conditions. With 280 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. of torque, Passport offers top-class standard horsepower, brisk acceleration and up-to 5,000-pound towing capacity.

With Passport, drivers also benefit from the latest technology, including standard Honda Sensing® suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. Additionally, all Passports come with a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera system, while EX-L, Touring and Elite models come with Honda's blind spot information system. Additional premium technologies available on Passport include in-vehicle Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, an 8-inch Display Audio system, wireless phone charging and more.

The 2019 Honda Passport is offered in four trims: well-appointed Sport, upgraded EX-L, high-tech Touring, and the fully equipped Elite. Sport models come standard with 20-inch alloy wheels with 245/50R20 tires, Honda Sensing®, a 9-speed automatic transmission with auto stop-start, LED low-beam headlights, fog lights, taillights and DRLs, Push-button Start and Smart Entry, two USB ports, and three-zone automatic climate control.

Passport EX-L trims feature leather on the seats and steering wheel, a one-touch tilt/slide moonroof, remote-operated power liftgate, blind spot information system, and an 8-inch Display Audio system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Passport EX-L also features rear window sunshades, an 8-way power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support, heated outside mirrors, HomeLink®, and two additional USB charging points.

Passport Touring trims up the ante with inline low-and high-beam LED headlights, wider 265/45R20 tires, a foot-activated hands-free access power liftgate, LED ambient lighting, parking sensors, and embedded navigation. Touring trims also feature a premium audio system upgraded to 10 speakers (up from 7), while also gaining a handy AC power inverter (115v-150W). Additionally, Touring trims are distinguished by power-folding outside mirror turn signal indicators, acoustic glass on the front and rear doors, and unique 20-inch alloy wheels.

The top-of-the-line Passport Elite trim comes standard with i-VTM4™ torque-vectoring all-wheel drive that's optional on Sport, EX-L and Touring trims. In addition, Elite adds ventilated front seats, auto-dimming side mirrors, a heated steering wheel, rain sensing wipers, and a wireless phone charger. Passport Elite also features gloss black exterior trim and a gloss-black liftgate spoiler.

Exterior Design
The most rugged of Honda's light trucks yet, Passport's expressive design leaves no doubt to its adventure-seeking mission. The black grille, bumper and black wheels (Sport & Elite grades) convey off-road prowess, while LED headlight accents and chrome exhaust finishers hint at Passport's around-town sophistication. Trim-exclusive 20-inch wheel designs are available across the lineup, while Touring and Elite trims offer a wider stance by way of beefier 265/45R20 tires as standard equipment.

Beyond just good looks, Passport's design offers superior functionality as well. In addition to more aggressive approach and departure angles, Passport features an increased ride height of approximately one inch compared to Pilot. The wider track provides better handling around town and the wider wheels provide increased grip. The wide hatch opens to reveal exceptional cargo space behind the rear seats.

Passport shares much of its body and chassis engineering with the Pilot and Ridgeline, including the latest generation of Honda's proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. In addition to the raised ride height over Pilot, Passport is six inches shorter overall, while sharing the same 111.0 in wheelbase. Combined with the increased ride height, this results in an off-road ready approach angle of 21.4 degrees, and a departure angle of 27.6 degrees on AWD models.

Interior Design and Packaging
Passport's modern and sophisticated interior design offers ample space for five people and provides class-leading passenger volume. Packed with modern amenities like available Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration and a digital gauge cluster, Passport also features a cargo area generously sized for weekend camping trips, or excursions to the home improvement store.

From Sport to Elite trims, Passport features high-quality interior appointments –attractive and durable fabric on Sport or perforated leather on EX-L, Touring and Elite trims, and on all trims a blackout headliner and generous use of soft-touch surfaces on the dash and doors. The instrument panel features a 7-inch TFT screen with a customizable interface that allows drivers to view different vehicle or audio/connectivity functions. Placed in the center of the dash on EX-L trims and above is an easy-to-reach, high-resolution 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen.

Passport's interior also offers class-leading space, both passenger space and total interior volume. Behind the rear seats is a fully carpeted cargo area including the wheel wells and side walls. The spacious cargo area offers 41.2 cu.-ft. of flexible cargo space, not including the additional 2.5 cu.-ft. of hidden storage under the floor. Press a button in the cargo area and the rear seatbacks fold flat for a total of up to 77.9 cu.-ft. of space, more than enough to accommodate a bicycle or a week's worth of camping gear. Passport's underfloor storage is near the rear bumper and easily accessed by lifting the rearmost section of the floor. And, unlike many competitor vehicles that make you choose between underfloor storage or a spare tire, Passport's smart packaging incorporates both.  

There's also plenty of space for small stuff. Passport offers generous storage space for front seat occupants, headlined by a large center console bin between the front seats with a rolling cover that also serves as a tray when closed. Additional storage is found in the doors and ahead of the push-button gear selector, with Elite trims featuring a wireless charging pad that's both Qi and PMA compatible.

Technology
Passport Sport models come standard with a 5-inch display monitor linked to a 152-watt, 7-speaker audio system with a subwoofer. Passport EX-L, Touring and Elite trims come with an 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen audio system. The Display Audio system uses gestures common to smartphones and tablets, such as swipe, tap and pinch, to control the vehicle's audio system, display settings and other advanced features. Intuitive and easy to use, with a simplified menu structure, it also offers customizable shortcuts for commonly used features and customizable app locations. Additionally, the Display Audio system comes with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration.

Passport's instrument cluster uses a 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) screen with a wide range of information content. Not only does it display typical vehicle functions such as vehicle speed and RPM, the full-color digital meter includes a Multi-Information Display (MID) with customizable features, such as audio information, a detailed trip computer, phone information, and turn-by-turn route guidance on Passport models equipped with navigation. Drivers navigate the TFT using Passport's intuitive steering wheel controls.

Passport also offers an embedded Telematics Control Unit (TCU) in Touring and Elite trims that delivers an AT&T 4G LTE connection inside the vehicle. The system includes a free trial for 90-day/3GB (whichever comes first) and supports up to seven devices.

The next-generation HondaLink® system available on Passport seamlessly integrates with the car. HondaLink® provides access to a world of cloud-based information, connecting customers to online content, and the HondaLink® phone app offers convenient access for many services including location searches, local weather, messaging, Maintenance Minder™ alerts, service scheduling by phone, and access to the vehicle Owners Guide.

Powertrain
Every Honda Passport is powered by a 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, connected to a newly refined 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT). Among the highest standard horsepower in its class, Passport offers brisk acceleration and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity with the available towing package and all-wheel drive. The 9-speed transmission benefits from a number of refinements from its initial introduction, including second-gear starts under moderate loads, smoother shifts, upgraded hardware, and quicker response times.

Passport's Idle Stop system is also fully integrated with the new second-gear launch mode. The revised Idle Stop system also boasts quicker restarts when accelerating immediately after engine stop, making it less noticeable in heavy traffic and similar driving situations. The air conditioning has been reconfigured as well to reduce engine restarts. Additionally, when in Idle Stop, the engine remains off after shifting to Park for a more natural driving experience.

Passports with all-wheel drive benefit from Honda's exclusive i-VTM4™ torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system. By actively proportioning torque to the wheel that can best use it, i-VTM4™ expands Passport's off-road ability well beyond its crossover-based competition. In addition, the four-mode Intelligent Traction Management works in conjunction with i-VTM4™ on all-wheel drive models, allowing drivers to customize the system for different terrains, including sand, snow, mud, and paved roads.

Passport is also well equipped for towing. Able to tow up to 5,000 pounds with the optional towing package and all-wheel drive, Passport is ideal for hauling camping trailers, boats, or "toy" trailers, even over rugged terrain. The standard Multi-Angle Rearview Camera makes connecting to a trailer easier than ever with its "overhead" view giving a bird's eye view of hitch and trailer.

Safety and Driver Assistance Technology
Standard on all 2019 Passports is the Honda Sensing® suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. Honda Sensing® includes Forward Collison Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assistance System, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control. All models also come with a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, while Passport EX-L trims and higher come with blind spot information (BSI).  Every Passport trim also includes automatic high beams.

Passport was designed to provide a high level of active and passive safety protection and targets a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as well as a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). 

Accessories 
Passport offers a wide variety of accessories designed to help owners tailor their experience to their personal needs. Available through Honda dealerships are a variety of utility accessories to make it easier to enjoy the great outdoors, such as roof boxes of various sizes, a roof basket, and roof-mounted bike racks. Inside, Passport buyers can weatherproof their cargo area with hard plastic covers for the floor, sides, and seatbacks. The underfloor storage can be divided with separate, removable bins. For those seeking a more sophisticated, urban look, a variety of cosmetic exterior items are available, such as a colored graphics package, undercarriage welcome lights, and color matched front and rear underbody spoilers. Best of all, many of these features are bundled together in two distinct accessory packs: Urban Package and Adventure Package.

Passport's powertrain matches the vehicle's dual roles as a midsize SUV that's comfortable around town, but which also offers the kind of capability needed for off-road adventure. It includes a powerful and efficient direct-injected i-VTEC® V6 engine mated exclusively to an advanced, next-generation 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT). Passport is also available in two- or all-wheel drive using Honda's Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4™) AWD system with dynamic torque vectoring. Honda's Intelligent Traction Management (ITM) system combines with i-VTM4™ to make Passport unique among midsize 5-passenger SUVs, able to tackle rugged terrain, but not at the expense of on-road comfort and drivability.

The standard engine for the 2019 Passport is a 3.5-liter direct injected i-VTEC® 24-valve SOHC V6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) cylinder deactivation technology. The engine is mated exclusively to a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT) in all trims, and all Passports feature an enhanced Idle-Stop system to help further enhance fuel efficiency. Passport's engine is rated at 280 peak horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. peak torque (SAE net).

Passport's dynamic handling and all-weather versatility are significantly enhanced by its available Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4™) all-wheel-drive system that gives it robust off-road capabilities. i-VTM4™ uses an electronically controlled rear differential and dynamic torque vectoring capabilities that aids both handling and dynamic cornering performance. To further enhance all-weather performance, both the front-wheel drive (2WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) Passport models include Intelligent Traction Management with push-button control to allow the driver to choose between Normal, Snow, Mud and Sand modes with AWD, and Normal and Snow with 2WD for optimal performance in varying road and surface conditions.

Key Powertrain Features

Engine

Emissions/Fuel Economy Ratings

Transmission

Four-wheel-Drive System

Engine Architecture and Features

Cylinder Block and Crank
With its 60-degree V-angle, Passport's V6 engine is inherently smooth and has compact overall dimensions that allow efficient packaging within the vehicle. The 6 has a die-cast lightweight aluminum alloy block with cast-in-place iron cylinder liners. Made with a centrifugal spin-casting process, the thin-wall liners are high in strength and low in porosity. The block incorporates a deep-skirt design with four bolts per bearing cap for rigid crankshaft support and minimized noise and vibration. The 3.5-liter V6 uses a high-tensile strength steel crankshaft for minimum weight.

A cooling control spacer positioned in the water jacket surrounding the cylinders helps control warm-up and operating cylinder liner temperatures to reduce friction. Plateau honing of the cylinder lining further reduces friction between the piston skirts and the cylinder walls by creating an ultra-smooth surface. This two-stage machining process uses two grinding processes instead of the more conventional single-stage honing process. Plateau honing also enhances the long-term wear characteristics of the engine.

Pistons/Connecting Rods
Designed with "cavity-shaped" crowns, the engine pistons help maintain stable combustion and contribute to stratified-charge combustion. Ion-plated piston rings help reduce friction for greater operating efficiency. Heavy-duty steel connecting rods are forged in one piece and then "crack separated" to create a lighter and stronger rod with an optimally fitted bearing cap.

Cylinder Head and Valvetrain
Passport's 4-valve cylinder heads are a single-overhead-camshaft design, with the cams driven by the crankshaft via an automatically tensioned toothed belt. Made of low-pressure cast, low-porosity aluminum, each cylinder head incorporates a "tumble port" design that improves combustion efficiency by creating a more homogeneous fuel-air mixture. An integrated exhaust manifold cast into each cylinder head reduces parts count, saves weight, improves flow and optimizes the location of the close-coupled catalyst on each cylinder bank.

i-VTEC® with Two-stage Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®)
The V6 engine combines Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) with Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC®), which changes the lift profile, timing and lift duration of the intake valves. A switching mechanism allows each cylinder to operate with low-rpm valve lift and duration or high-rpm lift and duration. While operating in three-cylinder mode, the rear cylinder bank's valve gear closes all intake and exhaust valves to minimize pumping losses.

The "intelligent" portion of the system is its ability to vary valve operation based on the driving situation and engine rpm. At low rpm, i-VTEC® intake valve timing and lift are optimized (low lift, short duration) for increased torque, which allows a wide range of 3-cylinder operation. As engine rpm builds past 5,350 rpm, i-VTEC® transitions to a high-lift, long-duration intake cam profile for superior high-rpm engine power.

VCM Operation
Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) is used to aid fuel efficiency. The i-VTEC® system combines with Active Control engine Mounts (ACM) to allow the VCM system to operate with just three cylinders in a wide range of situations to maximize fuel efficiency and lower emissions. When greater power is needed, the system switches seamlessly to 6-cylinder operation.  

During startup, aggressive acceleration, or steep ascents – any time high power output is required – the engine operates on all six cylinders. During moderate-speed cruising and at low or moderate engine loads, the system operates just the front bank of three cylinders.

The VCM system can tailor the working displacement of the engine to match the driving requirements from moment to moment. Since the system automatically closes both the intake and exhaust valves of the cylinders that are not used, pumping losses associated with intake and exhaust are eliminated and fuel efficiency gets a further boost. The system combines maximum performance and maximum fuel efficiency – two characteristics that don't typically coexist in conventional engines.

VCM deactivates specific cylinders by using the i-VTEC® (intelligent Variable Valve-Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system to close the intake and exhaust valves while the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) simultaneously cuts fuel to those cylinders. The spark plugs continue to fire in inactive cylinders to minimize plug temperature loss and prevent fouling induced from incomplete combustion during cylinder re-activation.

The system is electronically controlled and uses special integrated spool valves in the cylinder heads. Based on commands from the system's Electronic Control Unit, the spool valves selectively direct oil pressure to the rocker arms for specific cylinders. This oil pressure in turn drives synchronizing pistons that connect and disconnect the rocker arms.

The VCM system monitors throttle position, vehicle speed, engine speed, automatic-transmission gear selection and other factors to determine the correct cylinder activation scheme for the operating conditions. In addition, the system determines whether engine oil pressure is suitable for VCM switching and whether catalytic-converter temperature will remain in the proper range. To further smooth the activating or deactivating cylinders, the system adjusts ignition timing and throttle position and turns the torque converter lock-up on and off. As a result, the transition between three- and six-cylinder modes is effectively unnoticeable to the driver.

Drive-by-Wire Accelerator System
Passport's Drive-by-Wire throttle system replaces a conventional throttle cable with smart electronics that "connect" the accelerator pedal to a throttle valve inside the throttle-body. The result is less under-hood clutter and lower weight, as well as quicker and more accurate throttle actuation. Plus, a specially programmed "gain" rate between the accelerator pedal and engine offers improved drivability and optimized engine response to suit specific driving conditions.

Honda's Drive-by-Wire throttle system establishes the current driving conditions by monitoring throttle pedal position, throttle valve position, engine speed (rpm) and road speed. This information is used to define the throttle control sensitivity that gives the Passport's accelerator pedal a predictable and responsive feel that meets driver expectations.

Direct Injection System
The direct-injection system enables increased torque across the engine's full operating range along with higher fuel efficiency. The system features a compact, high-pressure, direct-injection pump that allows both high fuel flow and pulsation suppression, while variable pressure control optimizes injector operation. A multi-hole injector delivers fuel directly into each cylinder (not to the intake port, as in conventional port fuel injection designs), allowing for more efficient combustion.

The multi-hole injectors can create the ideal stoichiometric fuel/air mixture in the cylinders for good emissions control. Theoretically, a stoichiometric mixture has just enough air to completely burn the available fuel. Based on the operating conditions, the direct-injection system alters its function for best performance.

Direct Ignition and Detonation/Knock Control
An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) monitors engine functions to determine the best ignition spark timing. Two engine block-mounted acoustic detonation/knock sensors "listen" to the engine, and based on this input, the ECU can retard the ignition timing to prevent potentially damaging detonation. The 3.5-liter V6 has an ignition coil unit for each cylinder that is positioned within each spark plug's access bore.

Idle-Stop System
To help improve fuel efficiency, all Passports are equipped with Idle-Stop capability. When the system is enabled by the driver and certain operating conditions are met, the Idle-Stop system will automatically shut off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop. The engine is automatically restarted when the driver releases the brake pedal after a stop.

The system has been engineered to operate smoothly and seamlessly. Fully integrated with the second-gear launch mode, its programming and brake pressure trigger ensure quick restarts when accelerating immediately after engine stop, making the system less noticeable in heavy traffic and similar driving situations. The air conditioning has been reconfigured as well to reduce engine restarts. Additionally, when in idle stop, the engine remains off after shifting to Park for a more intuitive driving experience. When stopped, a special cold storage evaporator in the air conditioning system helps maintain a comfortable cabin temperature even in warm weather. Passport's active engine mounts help smooth the restart. Idle-Stop operation is fully integrated into the operation of the Brake Hold system and available Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

Idle-Stop can be turned on/off via a button on the center console, located at the bottom of the electronic gear selector array. The system will automatically turn itself off in certain circumstances, including:

Close-Coupled Catalysts and High-Flow Exhaust System
The exhaust manifolds of the 3.5-liter V6 are cast directly into the aluminum cylinder heads to reduce weight, decrease parts count, and create more under-hood space. The result of this casting design is that the two primary catalytic converters are positioned much closer to the combustion chambers, enabling extremely rapid converter "light-off" after engine start. A significant weight savings is realized by eliminating traditional exhaust manifolds. Downstream of the close-coupled catalytic converters, a hydroformed 2-into-1 collector pipe carries exhaust gases to a secondary, underfloor catalytic converter.

Emissions Control
The 3.5-liter V6 engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 3/Bin 125 and CARB LEV3/ULEV125 emissions standards and is certified to this level of emissions performance for 150,000 miles. A number of advanced technologies are factors in the emissions performance. The unique cylinder head-mounted close-coupled catalytic converters light off more quickly after engine start up, and a 32-bit RISC microprocessor within the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) boosts computing power to improve the precision of spark and fuel delivery.

The engine features Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) that continually adjusts the fuel delivery to yield the best combination of power, low fuel consumption and low emissions. Multiple sensors constantly monitor critical engine operating parameters such as intake air temperature, ambient air pressure, throttle position, intake airflow volume, intake manifold pressure, coolant temperature, exhaust-to-air ratios, as well as the position of the crankshaft and the camshafts.

To further improve emissions compliance, the 3.5-liter V6 makes use of an after-catalytic-converter exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system that allows cleaner, cooler EGR gas to be fed back into the intake system. An EGR system, especially one that delivers a cleaner, cooler charge, reduces pumping loss for better fuel efficiency.

Noise and Vibration Control
With its 60-degree V-angle and compact, rigid and lightweight die-cast aluminum cylinder block assembly, the 3.5-liter V6 power plant is exceptionally smooth during operation. Other factors that help reduce engine noise and vibration are a rigid forged-steel crankshaft, die-cast accessory mounts, and a stiff cast-aluminum oil pan that reduces cylinder block flex.

Active Control Engine Mounts
A powerful 34-volt Active Control Engine Mount system (ACM) is used to minimize the effects of engine vibration as the VCM system switches cylinders on and off. The 34-volt ACM is a key factor in the VCM's broad range of operation in the new Passport. Sensors alert the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to direct ACM actuators positioned at the front and rear of the engine to cancel engine vibration using a reverse-phase motion. See the Interior section for more information.

100,000+/- Mile Tune-up Intervals
Passport's 3.5-liter V6 requires no scheduled maintenance for 100,000+/- miles or more, other than periodic inspections and normal fluid and filter replacements. The first tune-up includes water pump inspection, valve adjustment, replacement of the camshaft timing belt, and the installation of new spark plugs.

Battery Management System
The Battery Management System (BMS) is designed to increase the overall service life of the battery, reduce the chance of a dead battery and help improve fuel efficiency. Should the owner accidentally leave the headlights on or fail to fully close a door causing an interior light to remain on, the BMS will automatically terminate power delivery after a set period of time to prevent the battery from being drained of power. As a result of the discharge protection afforded by the BMS, the battery should always have enough reserve capacity left to start the engine.

The engine makes use of a powerful 130-amp alternator that charges in two different ranges— a low 12-volt range and a high 14-volt range. By controlling the alternator charge voltage range, BMS works to keep the battery in a specific charge range, which can extend the service life of the battery by more than 25 percent. With BMS keeping the battery in a specific charge range, the alternator can run more often in the low range, which generates less drag on the engine resulting in improved fuel efficiency. Application of numerous electrical power reducing items (such as the use of efficient LED lighting and a special humidity control system that has an automatic air conditioning "off" function) allows the BMS to operate the alternator even more frequently in the more efficient low charge mode

Maintenance Minder™ System
To eliminate unnecessary service stops while ensuring that the vehicle is properly maintained, Passport has a Maintenance Minder™ system that continually monitors the vehicle's operating condition. When maintenance is required, the driver is alerted via a message on the Multi-Information Display (MID).

The Maintenance Minder™ system monitors operating conditions such as oil and coolant temperature along with engine speed to determine the proper service intervals. Depending on operating conditions, oil change intervals can be extended to a maximum of 10,000 miles, potentially sparing the owner considerable expense and inconvenience over the life of the vehicle. The owner-resettable system monitors all normal service parts and systems, including oil and filter, tire rotation, air-cleaner, automatic transmission fluid, spark plugs, timing belt, coolant, brake pads and more. To reduce the potential for driver distraction, maintenance alerts are presented on the MID only when the ignition is first turned on, not while driving.

Advanced Transmission

All 2019 Passports are equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission featuring steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. When in Drive and under light-to-moderate accelerator pedal application, the 9AT starts in second gear for smoother launch and more gradual acceleration. The transmission also defaults to second-gear launches when the Intelligent Traction Management (ITM) switch is in Snow mode. At full acceleration, with steep grades, in S mode, or with the ITM in Sand or Mud, the 9AT will start in first gear.

Passport uses a fully electronic, shift-by-wire gear selector in place of a traditional gear selector lever. Park, Neutral, Drive and Sport are selected with the push of a button. Reverse is selected by pulling back a dedicated switch. Indicator lights near the buttons indicate the mode selected. As an added safety feature, if the vehicle is brought to a stop in Drive, the system will automatically select Park if the driver's seatbelt is unbuckled and the driver's door is opened. A steering wheel-mounted paddle shifter system lets the driver take manual control of transmission gear selection.

Automatic Modes
The 9-speed automatic transmission can be operated in two different fully automatic modes: the D (or "Drive") mode is ideal for most driving situations and combines fuel efficiency with smooth operation and responsive power when needed; the Sport mode is for more performance-oriented driving and features more aggressive shift mapping to keep engine rpm higher for greater acceleration and response.

When in the D mode (optimized for normal driving), the transmission incorporates an advanced Grade Logic Control System, Shift Hold Control and Cornering G Shift Control – all of which reduce unwanted shifting and gear hunting. The result is smart transmission operation that optimizes fuel efficiency and keeps the transmission in the appropriate gear for driving conditions, generating excellent performance and smooth operation.

While ascending or descending hills, Grade Logic Control alters the transmission's shift schedule to reduce shift frequency and improve speed control. The transmission ECU continually measures throttle position, vehicle speed and acceleration/deceleration to determine when the vehicle is on a hill. The shift schedule is then adjusted – during ascents to hold the transmission in lower gears to boost climbing power, and during descents to provide greater engine braking.

Shift Hold Control keeps the transmission in its current (lower) gear ratio during aggressive driving, as in the case of decelerating at a corner entry. Shift Hold Control leaves the chassis undisturbed by eliminating excess shifting and ensures that power will be immediately available (without a downshift) at the corner exit. Cornering G Shift Control monitors the speed of each rear wheel independently to determine when the vehicle is turning. When the system detects a sufficient speed differential between the rear wheels, it will suppress any unwanted upshifts. This prevents the transmission from upshifting during a corner, which could upset the chassis balance thus requiring downshifting again at the corner exit when the accelerator pedal is applied.

Temporary Manual Operation in Drive Mode
While in Drive mode, special transmission logic programming allows the use of the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. When the driver operates the paddle shifters, the transmission responds to the driver's shift command and then returns to its normal fully automatic mode if further paddle shift inputs are not made within a few seconds depending upon driving conditions. This special logic makes it easy for the driver to command a quick downshift without leaving the convenience of Drive mode.

Manual Mode
By selecting "S" mode on the 9-speed transmission, Sport mode is engaged. This mode offers automatic operation with more aggressive shift mapping. A pull on the racing-inspired paddle shifters (mounted on the steering wheel) places the transmission in fully manual mode until another mode of operation is selected (e.g., switched to Drive mode). A digital display in the instrument cluster indicates which gear the transmission is in.

A double-kick-down feature lets the driver command a sporty double downshift – such as from fifth to third gear. By pulling on the left downshift paddle twice in rapid succession, the transmission will drop directly to the chosen lower gear ratio. The Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system also creates a "blip" of the throttle to help match gear speeds while downshifting.

To prevent harm to the powertrain when the transmission is paddle shifted by the driver (including during double-kick-down shifts), the system will inhibit potentially damaging shifts. As an added safety measure, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) can also cut off fuel to the engine to prevent over-revving. If fuel cut-off is insufficient to prevent engine over-revving, as may be possible when the vehicle is on a steep downhill, the transmission will automatically upshift to prevent damage. On downshifts, the transmission will not execute a driver command that will over-rev the engine.

For improved stop-and-go performance and to help prevent "lugging" the engine, the Sequential SportShift transmission will automatically downshift to first gear even though the transmission has been left in a higher gear, (except in second gear) as the vehicle comes to a stop. In Manual Mode, when coming to a stop in second gear, the vehicle will restart in second gear as well.

Cooperative Control
Both shift performance and smoothness are improved by cooperative control between the Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system and the electronically controlled, Sequential SportShift automatic transmission. The engine is throttled by the engine management system during upshifts and downshifts; thus, the function of the engine and transmission can be closely choreographed for faster, smoother shifting. As a result, the peak g-forces (or "shift shock") are reduced significantly during upshifts and downshifts.

Drivetrain Architecture and Features

2-Wheel Drive
Passport offers standard 2-wheel drive. With its efficient and lightweight design, the Passport system drives the front wheels to make a significant contribution to overall fuel efficiency. Operation in Snow Mode, using the Intelligent Traction Management System, adjusts the drive-by wire map, transmission shift map and Vehicle Stability Assist™ for the best performance.

Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4™) AWD System
Passport's available Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4™) all-wheel-drive system includes an all-new electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated rear differential. The system progressively distributes optimum torque between the front and rear axles (up to 70% to the rear) and dynamically distributes engine torque between the left and right rear wheels. The benefits of the system are superior all-weather handling and neutral, accurate steering under power that is unmatched by front-drive, rear-drive or conventional all-wheel-drive systems.

By rotating the outside rear wheel faster than the front wheels while cornering, Passport's AWD system uses torque vectoring to create a yaw moment to help turn the vehicle through the corner — reducing understeer and improving controllability. With cornering forces more evenly distributed between front and rear tires, overall cornering power is increased in all road conditions.

Vehicles with high power ratings using conventional front or rear drive systems often employ a limited-slip differential to help maintain traction when under power. By linking inside and outside drive wheels, these systems tend to resist turning and can increase understeer. Conventional AWD and AWD systems similarly work to link the inboard and outboard wheels as well as the front and rear wheels, which can create resistance to turning. Most competing vehicles in the Passport segment utilize an open rear differential and individual rear-wheel braking to distribute rear-wheel torque from left to right. Using dynamic, hydraulically actuated left-to-right rear wheel torque vectoring to help turn the vehicle, Passport's AWD system delivers more responsive, neutral and predictable handling performance while providing outstanding all-weather handling and control.

Additionally, i-VTM4™ helps Passport maintain traction in off-road situations. The system works to send power to the wheels that have the most traction in off-road conditions, unlike open-differential AWD systems that can leave low-traction wheels spinning. Even in extreme situations where one wheel is off the ground, i-VTM4™ sends power to the wheel in contact with the ground to pull Passport through and ensure momentum.

Controls and Parameters
The i-VTM4™ system works in cooperation with the Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) system and Agile Handling Assist to optimize torque distribution for superior handling and traction utilization. The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) provides information on engine torque, airflow and transmission gear-ratio selection, while the VSA® ECU provides wheel-speed data. The AWD ECU also monitors steering angle, steering angle rate of change, lateral G-forces, vehicle yaw rate and hydraulic clutch pressure for the right and left rear axle shafts. Drive torque is calculated from ECU information, and then the acceleration situation, wheel spin, lateral G-force, steering angle and steering angle rate-of-change are used to determine the front-to-rear torque distribution and the torque split between right and left rear wheels. This adds up to a 46-percent faster system response time. i-VTM4™ operating parameters include:

System Layout
Passport's AWD system is a full-time system that requires no driver interaction or monitoring, thanks to a torque-transfer unit that is bolted directly to the front-mounted transaxle. The torque-transfer unit receives torque from a helical gear that is attached to the front differential's ring gear, and a short horizontal shaft and hypoid gear set within the torque-transfer unit's case send power to the rear propeller shaft, which in turn transfers power to the rear drive unit. The lightweight rear drive unit is constantly overdriven by 2.7 percent. The resulting overdrive effect is regulated by left- and right-side clutch packs (located in the rear differential) that independently control the power delivered to each rear wheel. The significant overdrive percentage in Passport means that the torque vectoring effect is pronounced and effective even in corners with a radius of as little as 49.2 feet (15 meters). This means that torque vectoring can be felt when accelerating aggressively through a typical corner.

Hydraulically operated clutch systems mounted on either side of the hypoid gear that drives the rear axles control the amount of torque sent to each rear wheel and provide a limited-slip differential function when needed. The clutches can be controlled as a pair to alter front/rear torque split or they can be controlled independently to allow 100 percent of available rear axle torque to go to just one rear wheel. A single electric motor powers a pair of hydraulic pumps – one for each clutch pack. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controlled linear solenoid valve selectively sends pressure to the clutch packs, which in turn control the amount of power sent to each rear wheel. The clutch packs and their friction material are carefully designed to withstand the small amount of continuous slip between front and rear axles created by the 2.7-percent speed differential – all while delivering the durability expected of a Honda product.

Intelligent Traction Management System

The 2019 Passport features an available push-button-operated Intelligent Traction Management System that offers four different AWD operating modes: Normal, Snow, Mud and Sand; and two 2WD modes: Normal and Snow. Developed, tuned and tested at various locations in the U.S. and around the world – including Imperial Dunes "Glamis," California; Moscow, Russia; and Dubai, United Arab Emirates – the Intelligent Traction Management system allows the driver to select the operating mode that best suits the driving conditions by simply pushing a button on the vehicle's center console. System information and an animated selected mode icon is shown on the color Multi-Information Display. Based on the setting selected, the system adjusts the Drive-by-Wire™ map, transmission shift map, i-VTM4™ power distribution and Vehicle Stability Assist™ for optimal performance in varying road or surface conditions.
The 2019 Passport offers distinctive, rugged styling that captures the essence of its role as an adventure vehicle. The blackout grille and headlights, and black wheel arches are durable and rugged looking, yet the available multi-element LED headlights and floating roof treatment give Passport an air of urban sophistication. Passport is also constructed of a wide array of advanced materials such as ultra-high-strength hot-stamped steel, aluminum and magnesium to minimize weight while adding strength and enhancing rigidity and collision safety performance. The body features a small frontal area and low coefficient of drag for better fuel efficiency and interior quietness, and the high torsional rigidity helps improve ride and handling. Interior quietness and overall noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) is further improved by the use of acoustic windshield glass on EX-L trims with the addition of acoustic front and rear door windows on the Touring and Elite trims.

Key Body Features

Exterior Dimensions 
Passport's 111.0-inch wheelbase provides excellent ride comfort, both around town and on the trail. The long wheelbase also contributes to Passport's excellent rear seat roominess. Shorter than Pilot by six inches, Passport nonetheless offers buyers top-of-class cargo space behind the rear seatbacks, with an additional 2.5 cu. ft. of hidden storage beneath the reversible cargo floor. Passport's additional ground clearance compared to Pilot gives it better approach, breakover, and departure angles for superior off-road capability.

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure
The 2019 Passport's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure is the second generation of Honda's proprietary ACE structural design. ACE is an exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal crashes. It uses a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle, helping to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger compartment. It can help to more evenly disperse the forces transferred to other vehicles in a crash as well. ACE also helps reduce the chances that one vehicle will override or underride another, improving crash compatibility of vehicles that differ in size. ACE goes further by offering additional strength and protection in small overlap frontal collisions, which are among the most severe. Multiple material grades, including ultra-high-strength steel, are used in the Passport's body construction to help optimize safety performance.

Body Construction
Utilizing Honda's Global Light Truck Platform structure, Passport offers excellent torsional rigidity, resulting in class-leading dynamic performance along with a high level of cabin quietness. The platform imparts safety benefits as well, leading Passport to target a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). See the Safety and Driver Assistance section for further information.

"3-Bone" Structure
Located under the front floor is a new "3-Bone" structure that improves impact load management, directing energy around the passenger cabin in the event of a frontal collision. The structure creates three different load pathways, or "backbones," that channel collision energy. One channels collision forces from the front of the vehicle directly underneath the passenger cabin; the other two channel collision forces under the vehicle's left and right-side frames. The result is an improved capability to safely channel energy during a frontal crash. 

Optimized Material Grades
Multiple material grades are used in the body construction to achieve excellent overall vehicle dynamics, optimize safety performance, and lower NVH. Materials range from seven different grades of steel, including premium high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel used in the unit-body; an aluminum hood and front bumper-reinforcement beam; and a cast-magnesium steering hanger beam. All were chosen to achieve the best combination of strength, rigidity, dynamic performance and light weight. Fully 61.5 percent of the body structure is composed of advanced materials, including the application of ultra-high-strength steel to 21.3 percent of the body.

Key Engineering Features
Passport features advanced body design and material characteristics that significantly improve overall rigidity, while reducing weight. This directly helps improve overall vehicle dynamics, crash safety performance, interior quietness, and long-term durability.

Visibility
Overall visibility benefits from narrow A- and B-pillars, increasing total outward visibility for the driver from 285.5 degrees. The driver's situational awareness is further enhanced by features such as the standard Expanded View Driver's Mirror and Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, and available blind spot information (BSI) and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor. See Safety and Driver Assistance section for more details.

Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) Treatments
Passport incorporates a multitude of design features to mitigate noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). All Passports feature strategically placed body sealants and rear door acoustic foam barriers for additional sound attenuation. Additional front door barriers added on Touring and Elite grades.  Additional NVH enhancements on all models include acoustic separators applied to the lower front portion of the doorframe, upper inside and upper outside portions of the A-pillar, the lower portion of the B-pillar, the rear portion of the rear doorframe, the outboard locations of the rear cross member, and the upper portion of the C-pillar. Further treatment for all models includes sound absorbers in the rear side linings, acoustic treatment on the rear wheelhouse liners and sound insulation in the liftgate. Wheel resonators are incorporated on Touring and Elite grades. Thicker, sound-insulating acoustic glass (see below) further aids overall cabin quietness that is now among the best in class.

Acoustic Glass
Special acoustic laminated windshield glass is used on the EX-L and above trims to help reduce noise entering the cabin. Tuned specifically to attenuate wind-noise frequencies, the windshield glass uses an outer layer of 2.0mm safety glass, a 0.7mm thick middle layer of acoustic polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and a 1.8mm inner layer for a total thickness of 4.5mm. The windshield also incorporates UV light-absorbing technology. In addition, all trims have 5.0mm tempered front and rear door glass.

Touring and Elite trims are further advanced with acoustic 4.8mm laminated front door glass. All Passport models have 3.1mm thick liftgate glass. The EX-L, Touring and Elite's front power moonroof uses 3.5mm glass. See the Interior section for more information.

Fuel System
The 19.5-gallon fuel tank is molded of high-density polyethylene for low weight, freedom from corrosion and for impact resistance. It is positioned ahead of the rear wheels (and over the propeller shaft in AWD models) to help guard against collision damage. The shape of the tank is designed to diminish the likelihood of sloshing-fuel noise. The polyethylene filler pipe and fuel lines are lightweight, and resistant to corrosion and fuel vapor losses. A high-efficiency fuel pump is housed inside the fuel tank, and the fuel filter is a lifetime design that never needs replacement.