TORRANCE, Calif. - One of the most capable four-wheel drive vehicles on the market today, the 1999 Honda Passport combines muscular good-looks with a spacious interior, luxury amenities and one of the most powerful V-6 engines in the class.

The Passport, which is designed with a wide stance, aggressively flared wheelwells, clean lines and soft edges, is available in 2WD and 4WD versions in both LX and EX trim levels. Both LX models feature 15-inch tires and wheels, with a 16-inch tire package available in the 4WD LX and standard on 2WD and 4WD EX.

All Passport models are powered by a 3.2-liter, 205-horsepower, 24-valve, DOHC aluminum-alloy V-6 engine that delivers 214 foot-pounds of torque at 3000 rpm. A direct-port sequential fuel injection system provides strong power output and efficiency. These features translate to quick acceleration for ease in passing and merging and also provide the power to tackle steep uphill grades. EPA fuel economy in the automatic is 16 city/20 highway and the manual is 18 city/20 highway.

The Passport's 4WD system provides maximum use of torque and power, and is engaged quickly and easily via a dash-mounted button to deliver worry-free performance in off-road situations. Its shift-on-the-fly feature allows drivers to freely go from normal 2WD to 4H without stopping the vehicle.

The Passport's 4WD system offers two ranges: 4H (High) for driving on wet, sandy or snow-covered roads; and 4L (Low) for climbing or descending steep hills or for hard pulling in sand, mud or deep snow. The 4H gear can be used at speeds up to 60 mph, and 4L at speeds under 45 mph. In addition, a limited-slip differential distributes engine power equally to both rear wheels and is standard on the 4WD EX model and available on the 4WD LX model when equipped with the 16-inch wheel package.

The Passport's well-engineered design helps to prevent damage to the undercarriage when the vehicle traverses between level surfaces and steep grades. The Passport offers up to 8.2 inches of ground clearance with a 32.5-degree angle of approach and 26.3-degree angle of departure (EX 4WD and LX 4WD with 16-inch wheel package models). Skid plates are standard under the radiator and fuel tank on all Passport models. Passport 4WD models also have a skid plate under the transfer case.

Variable-power-assist rack-and-pinion steering gives the driver optimum control and delivers sedan-like response. Passport's reinforced chassis and double wishbone front suspension configuration, augmented with front and rear stabilizer bars provide stability and handling, inspiring driver confidence during both on and off-road travel.

Driver and passenger comfort and convenience were top-of-mind in the Passport's interior design. All models include power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, cruise control, heated dual power exterior mirrors, body-colored bumpers, roof rack, cargo area net and cover, tinted glass, extender-mounted spare tire, aluminum alloy wheels, AM/FM stereo cassette with six speakers and adjustable steering column.

Leather-trimmed seats and door panel inserts are available in EX models. Standard finishing touches include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood-grain interior trim and map lighting.

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