By a Car Expert at cardiagnosticnearme.com
The 2019 Honda Passport made a triumphant return to the market after being discontinued in 2002, and it’s making waves as a top contender in the mid-size SUV category. For families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle that blends everyday practicality with a dash of adventure, the 2019 Honda Passport Elite emerges as a compelling option. Having spent considerable time evaluating this vehicle, I believe it stands out as a truly excellent, if not the Best Mid-size Suv for those who prioritize space, comfort, and a suite of advanced features without needing a third row. While it shares DNA with its larger sibling, the Honda Pilot, the Passport carves its own niche by offering a slightly more compact and agile package that doesn’t compromise on essential SUV attributes. From navigating city streets to exploring light off-road trails, the Passport proves to be a capable and enjoyable companion.
Unrivaled Cargo Capacity: A Key Feature for the Best Mid-Size SUV
One of the most immediately impressive aspects of the 2019 Honda Passport is its generous cargo capacity. If you’re searching for a best mid-size SUV that can handle family gear, luggage, or weekend project supplies, the Passport delivers in spades. Boasting 41.2 cubic feet of space behind the second row, it readily accommodates grocery hauls, sports equipment, and more. For larger items, the Passport’s rear seats fold down effortlessly, expanding the cargo area to a cavernous 78 cubic feet. This rivals many larger SUVs and firmly positions the Passport as a leader in cargo volume within its class.
Adding to the practicality is a thoughtfully designed under-floor storage bin in the trunk. Divided into two sections, this hidden compartment is perfect for stowing away muddy shoes, wet gear, or valuables you want to keep out of sight. This feature is particularly beneficial for families dealing with the inevitable mess that comes with kids and outdoor activities, reinforcing why the Passport is considered by many to be the best mid-size SUV for family-oriented lifestyles.
Beyond cargo, passenger space is equally commendable. The 2019 Passport comfortably seats five adults with ample legroom in both rows. Families with young children will appreciate the ability to fit multiple car seats across the rear bench. Even taller passengers will find the rear seats accommodating, making long journeys comfortable for everyone onboard. This balance of passenger and cargo space is a hallmark of a truly great mid-size SUV, and the Passport executes it exceptionally well.
Ready for Adventure: Off-Road Capabilities in a Top Mid-Size SUV
While many owners will primarily use their mid-size SUV for daily commuting and errands, the 2019 Honda Passport offers surprising off-road prowess, adding another dimension to its appeal as a best mid-size SUV contender. Equipped with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system and selectable drive modes, the Passport is ready to tackle more than just paved roads. Drivers can easily switch between Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand modes, allowing the vehicle to optimize its performance for various terrains. These modes adjust engine output, transmission mapping, traction control, and torque distribution to ensure confident handling in challenging conditions.
For those living in regions with harsh winters or frequently encountering unpaved roads, the Passport’s off-road capabilities provide valuable peace of mind. While it’s not designed for extreme rock crawling, it confidently handles gravel roads, snowy inclines, and muddy trails, expanding its versatility beyond typical urban SUV duties. The elevated driving position and robust build further contribute to a feeling of confidence when venturing off the beaten path.
Adding to the comfort and convenience, the 2019 Passport Elite trim boasts heated and ventilated front seats, a welcome feature for varying climates. Power-adjustable driver and passenger seats also ensure optimal comfort for those behind the wheel and riding shotgun. These features enhance the overall driving experience, whether you’re on a long highway trip or exploring backroads.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Defining the Best Mid-Size SUV Experience
In today’s market, technology is a crucial factor for car buyers, and the 2019 Honda Passport doesn’t disappoint. Packed with a range of advanced tech features, particularly in the Elite trim, it solidifies its position as a best mid-size SUV that caters to modern needs.
The 2019 Honda Passport Elite Features a User-Friendly Touchscreen and Wireless Charging Pad.
Key tech highlights include:
- Wireless Charging Pad: Conveniently charge compatible smartphones without the hassle of cables.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, calls, and more through the vehicle’s infotainment system.
- Push Button Start: Modern convenience for easy vehicle operation.
- Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Keeps all passengers comfortable with individual temperature settings and includes humidity control and air filtration.
- Available 4G LTE WiFi Hotspot: Stay connected on the go (subscription required).
- 8-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System: Intuitive and responsive, allowing for swipe, tap, and pinch gestures similar to a smartphone.
- SiriusXM 2.0: Satellite radio with advanced features like pausing, rewinding, and fast-forwarding live radio.
- Multiple USB Charging Ports and 12-Volt Outlets: Keep all devices powered up for everyone in the vehicle.
- Garmin-Based Navigation System: Provides reliable navigation with enhanced graphics and speed limit displays, although smartphone navigation remains a popular alternative.
These technology features enhance both convenience and entertainment, making every drive in the Passport more enjoyable and connected. For tech-savvy buyers, the Passport’s offerings contribute significantly to its appeal as a best mid-size SUV.
Standard Safety Features: A Priority in the Best Mid-Size SUV Category
Safety is paramount for any vehicle, especially for families. The 2019 Honda Passport excels in this area by offering a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, further cementing its status as a best mid-size SUV focused on passenger protection. These features are often optional extras in other vehicles, making their inclusion in the Passport a significant value proposition.
The standard Honda Sensing suite includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Detects potential frontal collisions and automatically applies the brakes if the driver doesn’t react in time.
- Forward Collision Warning: Alerts the driver to a potential collision ahead, providing crucial extra seconds to react.
- Lane Keeping Assist System and Lane Departure Warning: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane and warns the driver if the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane unintentionally.
- Road Departure Mitigation System: Uses a camera to detect if the vehicle is about to leave the road and provides steering and braking assistance to prevent road departure.
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Provides a clear view behind the vehicle with multiple angles to aid in parking and maneuvering, enhancing safety and visibility, especially around children or obstacles.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically maintains a set following distance from the vehicle ahead while cruise control is engaged, enhancing safety and reducing driver fatigue on highway drives.
The 2019 Honda Passport Offers Excellent Cargo Space and Standard Safety Features.
These advanced safety systems act as a second pair of eyes on the road, providing valuable assistance in preventing accidents and mitigating potential collisions. For families prioritizing safety, the 2019 Honda Passport’s standard safety features are a major draw and contribute significantly to its recognition as a best mid-size SUV.
Honda Passport vs. Honda Pilot: Choosing the Best Mid-Size SUV for Your Needs
When considering Honda’s SUV lineup, potential buyers often compare the Passport and the Pilot. While both are excellent SUVs, they cater to slightly different needs. The Honda Pilot, with its three rows and seating for up to eight passengers, is geared towards larger families needing maximum passenger capacity. However, for smaller families or those who prioritize cargo space and a slightly more agile driving experience, the 2019 Honda Passport emerges as a compelling alternative, and arguably the best mid-size SUV in the Honda range for this demographic.
Interestingly, at the base level, the larger Honda Pilot LX can sometimes be less expensive than the Passport Sport. However, the Passport offers more standard safety features and enhanced off-road capabilities. When comparing higher trim levels, the Passport Elite often comes in at a lower price point than the Pilot Elite.
Ultimately, the “better value” between the two depends on individual needs. For larger families requiring three rows of seating, the Pilot is the obvious choice. But for those who don’t need the extra row and value cargo space, off-road capability, and potentially a slightly lower price in higher trims, the 2019 Honda Passport presents a strong case as the best mid-size SUV for their lifestyle.
Conclusion
The 2019 Honda Passport Elite is a well-rounded and highly capable mid-size SUV that deserves serious consideration for anyone in the market for a vehicle in this segment. Its combination of generous cargo space, comfortable passenger accommodations, surprising off-road ability, advanced technology, and comprehensive standard safety features make it a standout choice. For small families and individuals seeking a versatile and practical SUV that doesn’t compromise on features or driving enjoyment, the 2019 Honda Passport Elite confidently earns its place as a top contender and potentially the best mid-size SUV in its class.
By Maria Smith (Content adapted and expanded by a Car Expert at cardiagnosticnearme.com)
