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.

Honda's CEO said it was "difficult" to explain why Nissan would make a good business partner. Analysts believe that Honda's ideal partner for a merger would be a more "healthy and financially sound company.