Honda doesn't have a luxury three-row barge with hardcore off-road ability. The best it currently has is the Passport and the Pilot, both of which are available in Trailsport trim, but without low-range gearing, or a permanent four-wheel drive system.

The Detroit Three are facing an auto industry increasingly affected by the rise of China as demonstrated by the planned merger of Honda and Nissan.

Lacklustre consumer spending and stiff competition in several markets is making life hard for many automakers.