The Honda Passport, a mid-size SUV positioned between the compact CR-V and the larger Pilot, occupies a unique space in Honda’s lineup. While it boasts a spacious interior and capable V6 engine, questions arise about its relevance in a rapidly evolving automotive market. Our 2024 Honda Passport Review delves into whether this SUV, even in itsBlack Edition trim, remains a competitive option against more modern rivals.
Alt text: 2024 Honda Passport Black Edition front exterior review, showcasing its updated styling.
The current generation Honda Passport, despite a recent facelift, is starting to show its age. While Honda has recently revamped both the CR-V and Pilot, the Passport feels somewhat left behind. Despite its mid-size classification, on the road, it can feel as large as a full-size SUV. To maintain its sales momentum and competitiveness, the Passport is undeniably due for a more comprehensive overhaul.
One of the Passport’s strengths, and perhaps its most charismatic feature, is its 3.5-liter V6 engine. In a market increasingly dominated by turbocharged four-cylinder engines, the V6 offers a distinct and pleasing sound. It delivers 290 horsepower, enabling a brisk 0-60 mph acceleration in around six seconds. This performance positions it favorably against many mainstream competitors. However, this V6 isn’t without its drawbacks. Its low-end torque is somewhat lacking, requiring frequent downshifts to access its power. Furthermore, fuel economy is not a strong suit, averaging around 20 MPG. In comparison, newer turbocharged engines, like Toyota’s 2.4L turbo-four in the Highlander, offer better low-end responsiveness and superior fuel efficiency, even in a larger vehicle. While a V6 is often preferred for its smoothness and sound, this particular engine could benefit from more accessible torque. Despite its engine’s characteristics, the Passport maintains a respectable 5,000-pound towing capacity, adding to its versatility.
Alt text: Side view of the 2024 Honda Passport during a road test, highlighting its proportions.
Adding to the powertrain concerns is the nine-speed automatic transmission. It’s characterized by leisurely upshifts and even more problematic downshifts. Using the paddle shifters for manual control, especially for engine braking on downhill slopes, reveals a significant flaw. When requesting downshifts, the transmission exhibits a noticeable delay, often accompanied by a momentary surge forward as the vehicle freewheels before completing the gear change. This behavior, also observed in other Honda and Acura SUVs, is not only unsettling but also raises concerns, particularly when towing. A more responsive and refined transmission would significantly improve the driving experience.
Where the Passport redeems itself somewhat is in its steering and handling dynamics. The steering wheel, wrapped in thin leather, feels excellent in hand and provides a tactile and connected feel to the road. The steering itself is surprisingly communicative, instilling confidence and control rarely found in this vehicle class. Unlike some SUVs that feel detached and toy-like, the Passport offers a more car-like driving experience with a sense of substance. The ride quality remains composed across various speeds, and while not designed for aggressive cornering, the Passport handles curves with competence and poise. It’s a testament to Honda’s chassis engineering that the driving dynamics are a highlight, contrasting with the shortcomings of the engine and transmission.
Alt text: Interior view of the 2024 Honda Passport Black Edition, showing the dashboard and infotainment screen.
Interior space and cargo capacity are clearly priorities for the Passport. It offers generous room for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice. However, its large footprint raises questions about the absence of a third-row option. While 10 inches shorter than the three-row Pilot, the Passport shares similar width and height, resulting in a comparable road presence. Compared to the CR-V, the Passport is only marginally longer but significantly wider and taller. Given that the Pilot doesn’t feel considerably larger to drive, opting for the Pilot might be more logical for those who anticipate needing occasional third-row seating. The Pilot also benefits from a more modern 10-speed automatic transmission and doesn’t appear to sacrifice fuel economy for its added size.
Inside, the Passport’s cabin exhibits Honda’s renowned build quality and precise assembly. However, even in the top-tier Black Edition, the interior lacks a truly luxurious feel. A small, eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, oddly angled upwards, further contributes to an outdated ambiance. The upward tilt is perplexing and shared with other Honda models, making the already small screen appear even less user-friendly. The screen’s size and cluttered interface fall short of competitor offerings with larger, more intuitive displays. The overall button design and layout, including those on the steering wheel, also feel dated. While the Pilot also features a somewhat small nine-inch screen, the Passport’s interior design feels particularly behind the times for a 2024 model.
Alt text: Spacious rear seats in the 2024 Honda Passport, emphasizing passenger comfort.
Despite its aging design, the Passport excels in passenger comfort and practicality. The second-row seats offer ample space, and the vehicle is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and technology features expected in its price range. Comfort and spaciousness remain strong suits for the Passport, aligning with Honda’s reputation in these areas.
Conclusion
The 2024 Honda Passport presents a mixed bag. Its engaging steering and well-tuned chassis highlight its potential as a driver-focused SUV. However, the outdated transmission, aging interior, and lack of low-end engine torque detract from the overall package. With a price point approaching $50,000, it competes with larger SUVs, some offering the added versatility of a third row. While not inherently a bad vehicle, the Passport is undeniably overdue for a significant refresh to bring it in line with current market expectations and to truly contend in the competitive mid-size SUV segment.
Pros:
- Engaging driving dynamics and steering
- Spacious cabin and cargo area
- Comfortable ride
Cons:
- Thirsty V6 engine with weak low-end torque
- Dated interior design and small infotainment screen
- Inconsistent nine-speed automatic transmission
2024 Honda Passport Black Edition exterior
Alt text: Front three-quarter view of the 2024 Honda Passport Black Edition, showcasing its blacked-out trim and styling.
