For a long time, I’ve been drawn to the allure of sports cars. Small, nimble, and engaging – vehicles like the classic Mini, Porsche Cayman, and Mazda Miata have always topped my list of automotive desires. Practicality, however, often takes a backseat to passion, especially when you’re navigating family life. As a father, the need for space and utility has become increasingly apparent, pushing the dream of a tiny sports car further down the road. So, when the 2022 Honda Passport Trailsport arrived for a test drive, it felt like a crucial moment: could this rugged family SUV win over a sports car enthusiast?
Family vehicles aren’t typically associated with excitement. They aren’t the cars that grace bedroom posters or ignite childhood dreams. Minivans and mid-size SUVs prioritize practicality over passion. Yet, for many, including myself, they become an essential part of life. The question then becomes, can a family SUV still offer some degree of enjoyment and capability? I aimed to find out if the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport could bridge the gap between necessity and desire.
Sonic Gray Pearl 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport parked outdoors, showcasing its front profile and rugged tires.
Over three days and 350 miles, I rigorously tested the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport as a daily family vehicle. From navigating the urban jungle of Manhattan to cruising down to Cape May, New Jersey, and even tackling a local off-road trail, I wanted to see if the TrailSport badge truly lived up to its name. I’m pleased to report that the Honda Passport TrailSport is genuinely impressive – a capable and practical SUV that caters to both family needs and a hint of adventurous spirit. While not without its flaws, this SUV offers a compelling package that even a sports car devotee like myself found surprisingly appealing.
2022 Honda Passport TrailSport: Key Specifications
Before diving into the driving experience, let’s look at the essential specifications of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport:
- Base Price (TrailSport trim as tested): $39,665 ($43,365 as tested)
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD)
- Power: 280 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm
- Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
- Cargo Space: 41 cubic feet
- Curb Weight: 4,229 pounds
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimated): 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
- Verdict: A well-rounded family SUV with ample space, a strong V6 engine, and respectable off-road capability. However, it lacks some of the cutting-edge technology found in newer competitors.
- Rating: 7/10
The 2022 Passport TrailSport: Core Features and Design
Honda refreshed the Passport for the 2022 model year, giving it a more assertive front grille and slightly redesigned bumpers that hint at a more rugged aesthetic. This update aims to keep the Passport competitive against newer SUVs from brands like Hyundai and Kia. The TrailSport trim enhances this rugged appeal with exclusive 18-inch wheels, Firestone Destination all-terrain tires, and distinctive orange TrailSport badging. Beyond these touches, the exterior remains largely consistent with previous models.
The 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport presents a clean and attractive SUV design. It looked equally at home amidst the skyscrapers of Manhattan and on the sandy trails of the New Jersey Pine Barrens. The Sonic Gray Pearl paint of my test vehicle particularly complemented the orange accents, creating a visually appealing contrast. Combined with the all-terrain tires and sporty wheel design, the TrailSport genuinely looked like it could handle venturing beyond paved roads – a crucial aspect for a trim level emphasizing “Trail” in its name.
Side profile of a 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport in Sonic Gray Pearl, highlighting its ground clearance and TrailSport badging.
Inside, the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport prioritizes spaciousness and comfort. The seats are generously sized and comfortable, creating a living room-like ambiance, although the driving position might be a bit high for some drivers. Practicality is evident throughout the cabin, with numerous cupholders, including rear door cupholders that proved incredibly useful for families. Headroom is abundant, and the cargo area is impressively large, making it an ideal vehicle for hauling family gear.
However, the interior of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport isn’t without its drawbacks. The cabin technology feels dated, and the sound system is underwhelming. Furthermore, some of the plastic materials used, especially considering the SUV’s price point exceeding $40,000, feel surprisingly cheap. This sense of being slightly behind the times extends beyond the cabin. The 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, while reliable, lacks the immediate punch of turbocharged engines found in many modern competitors, sometimes resulting in a feeling of sluggishness. The V6 is paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard on the TrailSport and Elite trims, while the base EX-L offers both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. The TrailSport model includes selectable off-road modes (Mud, Sand, and Snow) to optimize performance in various terrains by adjusting gearing, throttle response, and traction control. It’s important to note, however, that the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport is not designed to compete with dedicated off-road vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee in extreme conditions.
Interior view of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport, showing the spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and dashboard layout.
Driving Dynamics of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport
One of the most notable aspects of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport is its engine. Honda’s naturally aspirated V6 is surprisingly refined and produces a pleasing engine note that is uncommon in the family SUV segment. Despite its enjoyable engine, it’s crucial to remember that the Passport TrailSport is not a sports car. Its primary purpose is to be a dependable daily driver, capable of transporting families and their belongings – kids, strollers, groceries, luggage, and sports equipment. In this role, the Passport TrailSport excels.
Honda has prioritized fundamental driving dynamics in the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport, even in this larger SUV format. The steering is well-weighted, offering light effort at low speeds but providing good feedback and a reassuring on-center feel. This inspires confidence, especially when maneuvering a vehicle of this size in challenging driving situations, such as navigating busy city traffic. The ride quality is also commendable – characteristically Honda, it strikes a balance between firmness for composed handling and softness for comfortable cruising. While it won’t be mistaken for a sport-tuned SUV, the Passport TrailSport delivers a calm, collected, and confidence-inspiring driving experience.
Front three-quarters view of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport driving on a paved road, demonstrating its on-road presence.
To truly assess the “TrailSport” designation, I took the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport to a local off-road trail. For a relatively mild SUV, it performed better than anticipated. Engaging the sand mode, the Passport TrailSport navigated the sandy terrain of the New Jersey Pine Barrens with surprising ease. While ground clearance limitations meant I had to be mindful of potential underbody scrapes, the SUV emerged unscathed and proved reasonably capable off-road.
While not in the same league as dedicated off-roaders like the Toyota Land Cruiser or Land Rover Defender, the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport‘s 8.1-inch ride height, well-tuned off-road modes, and all-terrain tires combine to provide respectable capability for light off-road adventures. For those who frequently visit campgrounds, access remote fishing spots, or live in regions with snowy conditions, the Passport TrailSport offers more than sufficient capability. However, the addition of skid plates for underbody protection would further enhance its trail-worthiness.
Honda Passport TrailSport navigating a sandy trail, showcasing its off-road tires and ground clearance.
Pros and Cons of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport
The 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport has numerous positive attributes, but also areas for improvement. Its on-road driving manners are superior to many SUVs in its class, with responsive steering and a well-balanced ride and handling. The V6 engine is a refreshing alternative to the prevalent turbocharged engines in the segment.
However, the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport lags behind competitors in terms of in-cabin technology. Larger infotainment screens, digital instrument clusters, and wireless Apple CarPlay, common in many comparable Hyundai models, are absent. Speaking of Apple CarPlay, the wired connection in the test vehicle exhibited an occasional glitch, disconnecting when the phone was unlocked – a problem not encountered in other vehicles. It remains unclear whether this is an isolated issue or a broader Passport problem.
Close-up of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport's dashboard, highlighting the infotainment screen and interior materials.
The standout feature of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport is its practicality. It effortlessly accommodated two car seats, a stroller, backpacks, a diaper bag, numerous children’s toys, and four passengers with room to spare. Thoughtful interior storage compartments and ample cupholders further enhance its family-friendly functionality. However, the interior also presents the biggest disappointment. The extensive use of hard, cheap-feeling plastics in frequently touched areas, such as the center console, and flimsy switchgear detract from the overall cabin experience. While the exceptional practicality somewhat mitigates the low-rent materials, the perceived cheapness is surprising given Honda’s reputation for build quality.
Features, Trims, and Competition for the Honda Passport
The 2022 Honda Passport offers a surprisingly generous list of standard features even at its base price of $39,665. This includes the robust V6 engine, nine-speed automatic transmission, 20-inch wheels, power tailgate, heated front seats, LED headlights and fog lights, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TrailSport trim, priced at $44,265, primarily adds cosmetic enhancements but also includes Firestone all-terrain tires, AWD, a power sunroof, and tri-zone climate control. The top-tier Elite trim, at $47,225, further adds features like rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming mirrors, hands-free tailgate, acoustic glass, second-row climate controls, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and a premium 10-speaker audio system.
Rear view of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport, showing its tailgate, taillights, and TrailSport badging.
The primary competitor for the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport is arguably the two-row Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee starts at a similar price point but offers superior off-road capabilities, more modern cabin technology, and a fresher design. Vehicles like the Toyota Highlander and Hyundai Santa Fe, while also family-oriented, lack the rugged styling and off-road pretensions of the TrailSport, focusing more on traditional family hauling duties. However, the Grand Cherokee represents a significant challenge to the Passport TrailSport in the $40,000 family SUV segment, particularly for buyers seeking a balance of on-road refinement and off-road capability.
Front angle view of the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport parked on a trail, emphasizing its rugged appearance and off-road tires.
Sustainability and Fuel Economy
While the Honda Passport’s V6 engine is commendable for its sound and responsiveness, fuel economy is a trade-off. The industry trend towards downsizing and turbocharging engines for improved efficiency highlights the Passport’s relative disadvantage at the pump. The EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined fuel economy is lower than key competitors. While the difference may seem marginal, the highway fuel economy suffers even more in comparison.
EPA fuel economy sticker for the Honda Passport.
During my week with the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport, I averaged just over 17 mpg, falling short of the EPA combined figure. While driving style impacts fuel consumption, this real-world mileage suggests that fuel costs could be a consideration for potential buyers.
Value Proposition and Final Verdict on the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport
In isolation, the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport presents itself as a compelling option for those seeking a versatile family SUV that can handle light off-road duties. It’s comfortable, drives well, possesses a pleasing engine, is remarkably practical, and demonstrates genuine trail capability. However, when compared to rivals, particularly the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the value proposition of the Passport TrailSport becomes less clear-cut.
Honda Passport TrailSport parked in a scenic outdoor setting, emphasizing its appeal for outdoor adventures.
Ultimately, I find myself appreciating the Honda Passport TrailSport. I value its straightforward driving approach and Honda’s emphasis on steering feel and ride balance over prioritizing trendy cabin technology. However, it remains uncertain how many buyers share this preference. For those who prioritize cutting-edge tech and premium interiors, competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Hyundai Santa Fe may be more appealing. For those who value a balanced driving experience, rugged capability, and exceptional practicality, the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport is a capable SUV that delivers on its promises and perhaps a bit more.
