2024 Honda Passport
The 2024 Honda Passport continues its legacy as a capable and well-rounded mid-size SUV, offering a compelling blend of rugged capability, refined comfort, and practical utility. Designed for adventurers and families alike, it strikes a balance between off-road prowess and everyday drivability, making it a versatile choice in its segment.
Highlights
- Powerful Standard Engine: Every 2024 Passport is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a robust 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This potent powerplant is mated to a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, providing confident acceleration and ample power for towing and passing.
- Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD): A significant advantage for the Passport is that Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) AWD system is standard on all trims. This advanced AWD system not only enhances traction in slippery conditions but also actively distributes torque between the rear wheels, improving cornering stability and off-road capability.
- Advanced Safety Features (Honda Sensing): The Passport comes equipped with the comprehensive Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistive technologies as standard. This includes:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Helps to apply brake pressure when a potential frontal collision is detected.
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Can provide steering assistance to keep the vehicle in its lane if it drifts off the road.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps center the vehicle in its lane with gentle steering input.
- Traffic Sign Recognition: Displays recognized traffic signs on the instrument panel.
- Rugged and Spacious Design: The Passport boasts a distinctive, more upright design compared to its car-based SUV cousins, hinting at its off-road intentions. Its spacious interior offers generous passenger room for five adults, and the large cargo area makes it ideal for hauling gear, groceries, or luggage.
- TrailSport Trim: New for 2024, the TrailSport trim is designed for the more adventurous buyer. It builds upon the Passport's inherent capabilities with off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, unique styling cues, and improved approach and departure angles, making it more adept at tackling rough terrain.
- EX-L Trim: The EX-L trim offers a more premium and comfortable experience, featuring leather-trimmed seats, a power tailgate, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and a premium audio system, catering to those who prioritize comfort and technology.
- Excellent Visibility: The Passport's upright stance and large windows contribute to excellent outward visibility, a key benefit for both city driving and off-roading.
- Capable Towing: With its V6 engine and standard AWD, the Passport offers a respectable maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for towing small boats, ATVs, or utility trailers.
What to Expect
Owning a 2024 Honda Passport is generally a stress-free and reliable experience, characteristic of the Honda brand. The V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission are well-regarded for their smooth operation and longevity, requiring relatively routine maintenance that includes oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks. Honda's reputation for durability means you can anticipate fewer unexpected repairs compared to many competitors.
Insurance costs for the Honda Passport are typically competitive within its segment, though specific rates will vary based on your individual driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels. The standard suite of safety features may even contribute to slightly lower premiums with some insurance providers.
The interior is designed for practicality and comfort, with durable materials that hold up well to daily use and family adventures. The infotainment system is generally intuitive and user-friendly, providing seamless integration with smartphones.
Potential Considerations
While the 2024 Honda Passport excels in many areas, there are a few aspects buyers might want to consider. Despite its more rugged styling, it's important to remember that the Passport is still built on a car platform, meaning its off-road prowess, while good for its class, isn't quite on par with body-on-frame SUVs designed for extreme terrain.
The third row of seating is absent, as the Passport is designed as a two-row SUV. This means if you regularly need to transport more than five passengers, you'll need to look at other options.
Fuel economy, while not exceptionally poor for a V6 AWD SUV of its size, is also not a strong suit. Owners can expect moderate fuel consumption, particularly in city driving, which is a common trade-off for the power and capability offered by the V6 engine.
Overall Summary
The 2024 Honda Passport stands out as a highly competent and user-friendly mid-size SUV. It successfully blends everyday comfort and practicality with genuine off-road capability, thanks to its standard V6 engine and advanced AWD system. The addition of the TrailSport trim further enhances its appeal to those seeking a more adventurous vehicle. With its robust safety features, spacious interior, and Honda's renowned reliability, the Passport is a solid choice for families and individuals who desire a versatile and dependable vehicle for both daily commutes and weekend escapes.