These factors aside, the Passport makes a good first impression. It is a stylish vehicle, one that has enough visual interest and bright trim (especially on more expensive models) to make it blend right in at the country club.The exterior design has some mileage on it now, about five years? worth, and it looks a little angular parked next to some of the newer, rounder sport/utility shapes - the new Chevrolet Blazer/GMC Jimmy, for example, or Ford?s redesigned Explorer. But it has the advantage of being distinctive. The only external feature we found annoying was the retaining latch for the spare tire carrier. The knob that releases the latch is awkwardly placed and hard to use when the carrier is swung to the side. Model selection plays a major role in getting a Passport that serves your needs. The basic DX version has a 4-cylinder engine and 5-speed manual transmission and is only available in 2-wheel drive form. Although 4-wheel drive may be something you can do without, the 4-cylinder?s limited power makes acceleration a pretty leisurely business. We consider the LX and EX models, which are powered by a 175-hp V6, to be better choices. Your options expand with these models: The manual transmission can be replaced with a 4-speed automatic, 4WD is available, and the DX?s rear drum brakes are replaced by discs, better because of their superior resistance to heat buildup and consequent fade. All three Passport models include rear-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS). A 4-wheel ABS system isn?t available.
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