1998 Honda Passport: Specs, Trim Levels, and What Buyers Should Know

The 1998 Honda Passport occupies an interesting corner of automotive history. It wasn't built by Honda — it was a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo, produced as part of a partnership between Honda and Isuzu during the 1990s SUV boom. Understanding that origin is the starting point for anyone researching this vehicle today, whether you're considering buying one, already own one, or just trying to track down parts.

What Is the 1998 Honda Passport?

The Passport was sold alongside the Honda CR-V and positioned as Honda's mid-size truck-based SUV option. While the CR-V used a car-based unibody platform, the Passport used a body-on-frame construction shared with the Isuzu Rodeo — a significant mechanical difference that affects how it drives, how it's repaired, and what it's suited for.

Because it's mechanically identical to the Isuzu Rodeo of the same era, parts, service manuals, and repair information for both vehicles are often interchangeable. That's worth knowing if you're sourcing components, since "Isuzu Rodeo" searches may turn up more results than "Honda Passport."

Engine and Drivetrain

The 1998 Passport came with two engine options:

The 3.2L V6 was the more common choice and came standard on higher trims. It paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission depending on configuration.

Drivetrain options included two-wheel drive (2WD) and a part-time four-wheel drive (4WD) system. The 4WD setup was a traditional shift-on-the-fly arrangement — not an all-wheel drive system. That means it was designed for low-traction surfaces, not intended for continuous on-pavement use in 4WD mode.

Trim Levels

The 1998 Passport was offered in two main trim configurations:

• LX — base trim, typically paired with the 4-cylinder or base V6 setup
• EX — upper trim with additional comfort and convenience features, leather seating available, and more standard equipment

Features across trims varied, and the differences between a base LX and a loaded EX could be meaningful when evaluating a used example today.

Reliability and Common Issues 🔧

Because the Passport shares its platform with the Isuzu Rodeo, its reliability profile mirrors that vehicle closely. Owners and mechanics familiar with one are generally familiar with the other.

Known areas to inspect on a used 1998 Passport include:

• Timing belt — the 3.2L V6 uses a timing belt, not a chain. Replacement intervals typically fall around 60,000–90,000 miles, though actual intervals depend on the manufacturer's specification and service history. On a vehicle this age, belt history matters.
• Automatic transmission — the 4-speed automatic in this generation had a documented reputation for issues, particularly in higher-mileage examples. Service history and fluid condition are worth examining.
• Rust — body-on-frame SUVs from this era are susceptible to frame and undercarriage corrosion, especially in regions where road salt is used. A thorough undercarriage inspection is important on any example this age.
• 4WD components — transfer case seals, front axle engagement, and vacuum-operated 4WD systems can develop problems with age, particularly if the system hasn't been exercised regularly.

The 3.2L engine itself is generally regarded as durable when properly maintained, but interference engine design means a snapped timing belt can cause significant internal damage. Verification of belt service history is a priority on any high-mileage example.

Fuel Economy

The EPA estimates from the original model year placed the 1998 Passport V6 in the range of 15–17 mpg combined, depending on drivetrain and driving conditions. Real-world figures varied, and vehicles this age may perform differently based on tune, maintenance state, and mechanical condition. Fuel economy figures from original EPA ratings don't always reflect current real-world performance on aged vehicles.

What to Know Before Buying a Used 1998 Passport 🔍

At this age — over 25 years old — any 1998 Passport purchase is essentially a used vehicle transaction with significant age-related variables:

• Mileage alone isn't the full picture. Maintenance history, storage conditions, climate exposure, and how the vehicle was used (towing, off-road, highway) all affect condition more than odometer readings at this age.
• Parts availability is reasonable because the Isuzu Rodeo platform remains fairly well-supported in the aftermarket, but some Honda-specific trim pieces can be harder to source.
• Inspection by a mechanic familiar with late-1990s truck-based SUVs is worth the cost before any purchase. Specific systems to evaluate include the timing belt, transmission condition, 4WD function, frame integrity, and cooling system.
• Emissions and registration requirements vary by state. Some states exempt vehicles of this age from emissions testing; others don't. What's required in one state may differ significantly from another.

Title and Ownership Considerations

A 1998 Passport is old enough that it may carry a clean title, salvage title, or even qualify as a classic or antique vehicle in some states — each with different registration implications. Antique or historic vehicle classifications vary by state, including what license plates are required and whether the vehicle can be used for daily transportation. Checking with your state's DMV is the accurate path for jurisdiction-specific rules.

The Variables That Shape What This Vehicle Means for You

What a 1998 Honda Passport actually represents depends heavily on factors no general article can resolve: the specific example's service history, the state where it will be registered, local emissions rules, how you intend to use it, your access to qualified mechanics, and the asking price relative to condition. Two 1998 Passports with different histories can sit at entirely opposite ends of the ownership experience — and the gap between them is only visible up close.