Conventional wisdom says to be apprehensive about a vehicle in its first year out of the design box. But the Passport EX is reassuring in its introductory year. It gives Honda a strong entry into the sport utility market by combining truck-like durability and off-road performance with a firm suspension, more than adequate levels of commuter comfort, and a smooth and quiet highway ride.On the strength of those considerations alone, we'd say the Passport EX is one of the top three vehicles in its class.