2000 Honda Passport in Somerset, KY - $4,950

The Honda Passport is the first vehicle sold by Honda developed and built in West Lafeyette, Ind., by a joint venture of Subaru and Isuzu. The Passport receives an aggressive new look for this model year which includes new front and rear facias, modified grill and redesigned front combination lamps.

Available in two- and four-wheel-drive configurations, the Passport is offered in LX, EX and the upscale EX-L (Luxury Package) model. New for 2000, the EX-L is distinguished by special two-tone paint, color-keyed body-side moldings, fender flares, wood-grain interior trim, interior map lighting and leather trimmed seats, steering wheel and interior door panels. An AM/ FM stereo with an in-dash 6-CD changer is also standard on the EX-L.

Also new this year, EX and EX-L models stow the spare tire underneath the vehicle. All models have been upgraded to 16-inch wheels and tires.

Off road, this truck is no wimp. Metal skid plates protect the fuel tank, radiator and the transfer case from any nasties drivers may encounter. Reinforced body-on-frame construction, triple-sealed doors with integrated steel beams that resist intrusion means the Passport has the "right stuff" if something ugly is encountered.

The standard 3.2L V-6 delivers adequate power, while the optional four-speed automatic shifts smooth and sure. The part-time "shift-on-the-fly" four-wheel-drive system is seamless in its engagement when underway. The solid underpinnings of the SUV results in a solid, controlled ride. Goodyear Wrangler AP P245/70R16 tires keep the Passport in close contact with the road, while the standard front and rear splash guards keep the mess off of the body.

Inside the cabin, "in your face" displays and controls greet the driver. Outward visibility is good. The cloth seats provide a firm, supportive place to rest for long periods. Two dashboard power points round out the well-equipped list of standard equipment.

Rear seating is comfortable for two adults, with the 60/40 split rear seat folding flat with the cargo floor when the headrest are removed to optimize the available carrying abilities of this SUV.



By the numbers

Engine performance numbers for the 3.2L V-6 DOHC 24-valve engine are: 205 hp at 5,400 rpm and 214 lb/ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. EPA fuel economy ranges from 16 city/21 highway for the five-speed manual and 16 city/20 highway for the four-speed automatic using regular unleaded gasoline. Underhood fluids are easily accessible but not clearly marked.

Properly equipped, a Passport can tow a trailer with a maximum weight of 4,500 pounds.

Standard safety/security equipment includes dual front airbags, rear anti-lock brakes (two-wheel-drive), four-wheel anti-lock brakes (four-wheel-drive), and side impact door beams. EX models add a limited slip differential on four-wheel-drive models, fog lights and remote keyless entry with security system.

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts at $22,800 for the two-wheel-drive LX to $30,150 for the four-wheel-drive EX-L model. Destination charge adds $415. To say that these models are scarce would be an understatement. You will need to work with your local dealer to locate the Passport of your choice. There are no rebates.



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