Honda has spent decades refining its SUV lineup, but the two-row mid-size segment proved elusive. Early attempts – like the Isuzu-based Passport of the 1990s and the short-lived Crosstour – missed the mark. The 2019 third-generation model moved in the right direction, but lacked the distinct appeal to stand out.
The current, fourth-generation Passport, however, represents a breakthrough for Honda. The striking, squared-off design signals a serious commitment to this competitive class. This isn’t just another face-lift; it’s a refined, capable SUV that bridges the gap between rugged aesthetics and everyday usability. Many buyers don’t need a heavy-duty body-on-frame vehicle like the Toyota 4Runner, and the Passport offers an ideal balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability.
Under the Hood: Familiar Yet Improved
Honda didn’t reinvent the wheel, but refined what works. The naturally aspirated V-6 engine, shared with the Pilot, is now a double-overhead-cam 3.5-liter unit, offering smooth, linear power delivery. The chassis is also noticeably stiffer, improving both on- and off-road performance. While it’s not the quickest in its class, the engine is responsive, sounds good, and delivers solid fuel economy. Even the TrailSport trim – equipped with chunky all-terrain tires – achieved 25 mpg on the highway during testing, exceeding EPA estimates.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Passport feels substantial thanks to firm suspension and heavily weighted steering. It avoids the head toss and shake common in more truck-like rivals, providing a stable, confident driving experience. The chassis remains composed even on rough terrain, and the all-terrain tires are surprisingly quiet on the highway.
Space and Comfort
The interior is surprisingly spacious, rivaling even larger SUVs like the Chevy Tahoe. The rear seat comfortably accommodates adults, and the cargo area is exceptional: 16 carry-on-sized boxes behind the rear seats, or 38 with the second row folded. This beats the cargo capacity of a Jeep Grand Cherokee. The cabin is tastefully designed with tactile buttons and knobs for intuitive controls over audio, infotainment, and climate. Honda excels at maximizing space, sound ergonomics, and restrained design.
Why This Matters
The Passport’s success highlights a broader trend: the growing demand for SUVs that balance capability with daily usability. Consumers want vehicles that look rugged but don’t sacrifice comfort or fuel efficiency. Honda’s willingness to refine existing platforms rather than chase radical innovation has paid off.
“The Passport effortlessly does exactly what we want a mid-size SUV to do. It may have taken a while, but Honda has finally cracked the code.”
The Honda Passport earns a 10Best award not through flashy features or extreme performance, but through its well-rounded character and ability to meet the needs of a wide range of buyers. After years of experimentation, Honda has finally delivered a mid-size SUV that gets it right.
