The midsize SUV category is booming, and for good reason. Drivers are seeking vehicles that perfectly balance everyday practicality with a sense of adventure, offering ample space, comfort, and capability. Among the contenders, the 2019 Honda Passport stands out, marking a triumphant return after being discontinued in 2002. Honda reimagined the Passport for the modern driver, creating what many consider to be among the Best Midsize Suvs available, especially for those with small families or active lifestyles. It’s a vehicle that’s as comfortable navigating city streets as it is tackling weekend getaways, proving that sometimes, the best things truly do come in well-designed packages.
Spaciousness and Cargo: King in the Midsize SUV Class
When considering the best midsize SUVs, space and cargo capacity are often top priorities. The 2019 Honda Passport excels in this domain, offering a cavernous interior designed to accommodate both passengers and gear with ease. Boasting an impressive 41.2 cubic feet of trunk space behind the rear seats, the Passport provides ample room for groceries, sports equipment, and luggage. For larger hauls, folding down the second-row seats expands the cargo area to a generous 78 cubic feet.
Adding to its practicality is a clever under-floor storage bin in the trunk, divided into two sections. This hidden compartment is ideal for keeping items organized, concealing valuables, or separating wet or dirty gear from the main cargo area – perfect for stowing muddy sports equipment after a game or keeping groceries from sliding around.
Beyond cargo, passenger comfort is paramount in the best midsize SUVs, and the Passport comfortably seats five adults. The rear seats offer generous legroom, ensuring even taller passengers can relax on longer journeys. Families with young children will appreciate the Passport’s ability to accommodate multiple car seats across the rear bench, a crucial factor for growing families. This thoughtful design prioritizes both passenger and cargo space, making the 2019 Honda Passport a standout in its class.
Off-Road Capability Meets Everyday Comfort
The best midsize SUVs are versatile, capable of handling daily commutes and weekend adventures alike. The 2019 Honda Passport delivers on this promise, blending robust off-road capabilities with a refined on-road driving experience. While many drivers may not frequently venture off the paved path, the Passport is equipped to handle a variety of terrains thanks to its available all-wheel-drive system and selectable drive modes.
Drivers can easily switch between Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand modes, allowing the Passport to optimize its performance for different driving conditions. These modes intelligently adjust the SUV’s traction control, throttle response, and transmission settings to provide optimal grip and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces. This capability instills confidence in challenging weather or when navigating unpaved roads.
Honda Passport dashboard showcasing the 9-inch touchscreen and user-friendly controls.
However, off-road prowess doesn’t come at the expense of everyday comfort. The Honda Passport provides a smooth and composed ride on highways and city streets, offering a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience for daily commutes. Both driver and front passenger benefit from power-adjustable seats, and the Elite trim level adds heated and ventilated front seats, enhancing comfort in varying weather conditions. This balance of rugged capability and refined comfort is a hallmark of the best midsize SUVs, and the Passport exemplifies this perfectly.
Tech Features That Elevate the Driving Experience
Modern drivers expect advanced technology in their vehicles, and the best midsize SUVs are packed with features designed to enhance convenience, connectivity, and entertainment. The 2019 Honda Passport doesn’t disappoint, offering a suite of tech features that elevate the driving experience for both driver and passengers.
Notable technology features in the Passport include:
- Wireless Charging Pad: Conveniently charge compatible smartphones without the hassle of cords.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Seamlessly integrate smartphone functionality for navigation, music, and communication.
- Push Button Start: Keyless ignition for added convenience.
- Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Ensures personalized comfort for all occupants.
- Available 4G LTE WiFi Hotspot: Keeps passengers connected on the go.
- 8-inch Touchscreen Display: User-friendly interface with smartphone-like functionality, including swipe, tap, and pinch gestures.
- SiriusXM 2.0: Satellite radio with advanced features like pause, rewind, and fast-forward.
- Multiple USB Ports and 12-Volt Outlets: Ample charging options for devices throughout the cabin.
- Garmin-Based Navigation System: Provides reliable turn-by-turn directions with enhanced graphics and speed limit display.
These tech features contribute to a more connected, comfortable, and enjoyable driving experience, solidifying the 2019 Honda Passport’s position among the best midsize SUVs in terms of technology offerings.
Safety First: Standard Safety Features for Peace of Mind
Safety is a paramount concern for families and individuals alike when choosing a vehicle. The best midsize SUVs prioritize safety, and the 2019 Honda Passport stands out by including a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance features as standard equipment. Honda Sensing, a suite of safety technologies, is standard on all Passport trims, providing an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.
Standard safety features include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Helps to avoid or mitigate frontal collisions by automatically applying the brakes if a potential collision is detected and the driver doesn’t react in time.
- Forward Collision Warning: Alerts the driver to a potential frontal collision, giving them time to react.
- Lane Keeping Assist System: Provides gentle steering adjustments to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling.
- Road Departure Mitigation System: Detects when the vehicle is about to leave the road and provides steering and braking assistance to help prevent a departure.
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when reversing, enhancing safety and visibility.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically maintains a set following distance from the vehicle ahead, enhancing safety and convenience during highway driving.
Honda Passport exterior showcasing its modern design and ample ground clearance.
These standard safety features demonstrate Honda’s commitment to safety and contribute significantly to the 2019 Honda Passport’s appeal as one of the best midsize SUVs for safety-conscious buyers.
Honda Passport vs. Honda Pilot: Choosing the Right Midsize SUV for You
When considering Honda’s midsize SUV lineup, buyers may find themselves comparing the Passport and the Pilot. Both are excellent SUVs, but cater to slightly different needs. Understanding the key differences can help you choose the best midsize SUV for your specific requirements.
The Honda Pilot, with its three-row configuration, offers seating for up to eight passengers, making it ideal for larger families. The Passport, on the other hand, is a two-row SUV seating five, prioritizing passenger space and cargo capacity in a slightly smaller, more maneuverable package.
Interestingly, at the base trim level, the larger Honda Pilot LX can sometimes be less expensive than the Passport Sport. However, the Passport comes standard with more off-road capability and a more robust suite of safety features. At higher trim levels, such as the Elite trim, the Passport can be more affordable than the Pilot Elite.
The choice between the Passport and Pilot ultimately depends on your needs. For larger families requiring three rows of seating, the Pilot is the clear choice. However, for smaller families or individuals who prioritize spaciousness, off-road capability, and a slightly more compact size, the 2019 Honda Passport presents a compelling option and truly stands out as one of the best midsize SUVs in its class.
In conclusion, the 2019 Honda Passport successfully blends practicality, capability, technology, and safety into a stylish and versatile midsize SUV. Its spacious interior, off-road readiness, advanced tech features, and comprehensive safety suite make it a top contender and a strong choice for those seeking the best midsize SUV to meet their diverse needs.
