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Their names say it all. Passport: worldly, refined, and elegant. Rodeo: rugged, rough, and tough. Though they're identical sport-utility vehicles, Honda Passport and and Isuzu Rodeo are aimed at different sensibilities, perhaps even different people. I drove the Passport which, like the Rodeo, is an appealing blend of highway manners and off-road macho. With its flared fenders and exterior-mounted spare, the styling seems to encourage four-wheeling. But few Passports will experience terrain any more challenging than potholes. Unlike previous models, the current Passport can be shifted into four-wheel drive (4WD) with the vehicle in motion. The 4WD system still suffers the same shortcoming as that of its big brother, the Isuzu Trooper/Acura SLX. Specifically, it is "part-time," not for use on dry pavement. If your cross between dry and slick surfaces, you'll do a lot of shifting--or experience a lot of binding and grinding. The interior is dash is simple, functional, and modern. All seats offer excellent leg and headroom. Speed-sensitive power steering gives a superior road feel. Drawbacks include tiny horn buttons, and only one cupholder. The tailgate-mounted spare necessitates a lot of steps to access the rear cargo quarters. A 120-horsepower four-cylinder is available, which makes for an OK drive if you choose a stick for added control, and enjoy shifting. If you prefer an automatic, the 190-horse V6 is a necessity, in my view. The three-mode automatic includes winter and power settings. At $25,500, the Passport LX with 4WD is $1,810 higher than a comparably equipped Rodeo. Shop both brands if possible. Closer together than the MSRPs are their dealer costs ($22,619 and $21,588, respectively). Most people can locate a Honda dealer more easily than an Isuzu establishment. But maybe they'd rather tell Dad they rounded up a Rodeo. Or Mom they've acquired a Passport. 1996 Honda Passport
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