Honda Takes 2022 Passport Stage Rallying To Prove Off-Road Bona Fides

Although crossovers and SUVs often sell themselves as rugged and off-roady, we often wonder how much more capable they really are than the cars they’re based on. Honda, though, decided to take a Passport rallying, and to prove the model’s mettle, they did it without improving the drivetrain or suspension.

Driven by Chris Sladek, a suspension test engineered who works at Honda’s Ohio North American Auto Development Center, and Gabriel Nieves, a chassis design engineer, they took the Passport into competition at the Lake Superior Performance Rally last weekend.

Although the Passport featured a few choice modifications, the SUV’s suspension remained stock while the engine and transmission received no performance modifications.

For the race, the Passport’s production 3.5-liter V6, its 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and its all-wheel-drive system were all stock. The naturally aspirated engine makes 280 hp (283 PS/209 kW) and 262 lb-ft (355 Nm) of torque.

“The fact that we didn’t have to make any modifications to the 2022 Honda Passport’s drivetrain or suspension for such punishing terrain and competition speaks volumes to the capability and performance that comes standard in the Passport,” said Sladek.

That said, there were some improvements made with a view to longevity. The transmission got extra cooling help, while a custom-made 1/8-inch aluminum oil pan and differential skid plates helped protect them from the abuse of a rally stage. The brakes, meanwhile, were modified to feature Carbotech XP12 performance brake pads.

The interior was also stripped for competition and a roll cage, fire suppression system, a rally computer, and in-car communication system were added. The driver and co-driver, meanwhile, were kept in place with the help of OMP racing seats with six-point harnesses.

Traction was helped by 7.5×17-inch BRAID Winrace T rally wheels wrapped in Maxxis RAZR M/T or RAZR A/T tires (265/70-R17), depending on event conditions.

In the end, the Passport finished in 22nd out of 42, with a de-beaded tire on the first day holding them back. The team hopes for more in the coming season, though.

“We’re ready to go racing with the rugged 2022 Honda Passport,” said Honda engineer and co-driver Gabriel Nieves. “It’s going to be a great season.”