In-Depth Automotive Reviews
2023 Honda Passport Trailsport
Starting from CAD $49,223
Overview
The Passport sits nicely between the smaller CR-V and the larger Pilot in Honda’s lineup of cars. While the Honda Passport may not be at the top of its segment, it still offers a lot of value with standard AWD, a generous amount of standard features, a comfortable and quiet ride, and ample cargo space.
The Trailsport trim, which is what we tested, is not a fully off-road SUV, but it’s perfect for dirt or forest trails thanks to its all-terrain tires.
Who is the Passport for, exactly? Well… that is a tough question to answer. But if you are seeking a spacious, fuel-efficient, and somewhat off-road capable SUV, the Passport is the right choice for you.
Performance & Handling
All Passports come with a 3.5 L V6 that produces 280 horsepower and is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The V6 has plenty of power and provides impressive acceleration, it took us 7.1 seconds to reach 100km/h from a standstill in our test. The 9-speed automatic transmission in the Passport does a great job at providing smooth shifts and always feels like it’s in the right gear.
The Passport also has above-average handling especially when compared with some other rivals in this class. The steering feels just right, making the SUV responsive and easy to manoeuvre when taking turns.
Interior & Comfort
Inside the Passport, you will find ample space with a lot of head and legroom all around. Even though it sits higher than some other competitors, the wide-opening doors make it easy to get in and out of the SUV. The front seats are wide and comfortable which are perfect for long road trips. Even the rear passengers will appreciate the reclining rear seats thanks to how spacious and comfortable they are.
The tri-zone climate control system in the Passport works well at keeping a comfortable temperature inside the cabin. The Trailsport trim, which is what we tested, only comes with heated seats. However, if you want ventilated seats as well, you will need to opt for the touring trim. We also appreciated the memory seats in our tester which remember your previous settings and automatically adjust your seat when you start the vehicle.
The Passport has a stiff ride but the suspension does a great job at providing comfort. The cabin is really quiet at highway speeds and there is minimal wind and road noise. Overall, the Passport offers a quiet and comfortable ride with a mix of somewhat decent driving dynamics.
Technology & Connectivity
The Passport is starting to show its age when compared with its siblings, such as the new Pilot and CR-V. However, it still offers a good amount of tech. All trims come with an 8-inch infotainment screen that looks sharp and is responsive. Furthermore, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration comes standard and there is a good amount of USB ports in each row.
Honda offers a lot of advanced safety systems as standard across their lineup, this is something we really appreciate. The Passport is no different, with most advanced safety systems offered even on the base trim. Some of these systems are starting to show their age such as the adaptive cruise control system which only works at high speeds and doesn’t work in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
The Passport comes with the following driver-assist technologies:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind Spot Information
- Rear Cross Traffic Monitor
- Collision Mitigation Braking
- Forward Collision Warning
- Lane Departure Warning
- Road Departure Mitigation
Cargo Space & Storage
The Passport has a generous 1,430 L of cargo volume behind the 2nd row. If cargo space is what you are after, the Passport should be at the top of your shopping list. If you fold down the 2nd-row, you get 2,854 L of total cargo volume which should be enough to carry even the longest of items.
The cabin has a decent amount of storage space for smaller items such as a designated slot for phones or wallets, a wireless charging pad in front of the cup holders, and large door pockets. Finally, it’s fairly easy to install child seats thanks to the spacious cabin and easily accessible car seat anchors.
Fuel Economy
The Passport is rated at 11.3L/100km combined (12.5 City/ 9.8 Highway). We averaged 11.8 in our testing which included both city and highway driving.
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