The rally version will be a lightly modified road going model
It will compete in events held by the American Rally Association
Honda wants people to think of its trucks and SUVs as tough and rugged machines that can go anywhere. This is why the company is entering the Passport in rally racing events.
After adding a new Trailsport edition for some of its 2022 models, Honda continues to push a more off-road capable image for its Passport.
A modified version of the regular SUV was built at the company’s Auto Development Center in Ohio. Changes to the road-going version are fairly limited, since they revolve around safety. The interior was gutted in order to install a roll cage and racing seats, as well as a fire suppression system.
Apart from the addition of skid plates and protection panels to protect the mechanical elements, more aggressive brake pads were fitted, as well as a hydraulic hand brake (used to sharpen turns in tight corners) and a less restrictive exhaust system.
Despite these changes, the engine, transmission and suspension are the same that are used in any Passport available to the public, which means this rally model is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that sends its power to all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission.
This SUV is driven by two Honda engineers in events held by the American Rally Association and the first on has already been completed. The Passport reportedly finished regularly in the top 10, but an issue with one of the tires cost a lot of time and made the Honda finish in 22nd out of 42, or 4th in its class.
2022 Honda Passport Rally | Photo: Honda
