Aaron Turpen: 2024 Honda Passport Is A Ticket To 2-Row SUV Goodness

The Passport is a smaller midsize crossover that fits between the CR-V and the Pilot in the Honda lineup. I

It’s size-equivalent and capability-matched to vehicles like the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Venza. The Passport, like those, is a two-row option for those who don’t need the bulk or parking hassles of a larger SUV, but who aren’t interested in tiny options.

The current-generation Honda Passport arrived in 2019 and has been a popular option since. It shares most of the good things found in the larger Pilot, but has the handling characteristics of the smaller CR-V. The Passport is full of useful storage, and its spacious interior shows why it’s a popular choice. The Passport is also one of the few left in the segment that still has a V-6 engine.

I drove the new 2024 TrailSport model of the Passport. This version adds some off-road suspension tuning, all-terrain tires and some trim changes to add more ruggedness to its appearance. I personally would recommend the EX-L model instead, which is basically the same outfit, but without all of the off-road quasi-gear and resultant lower fuel economy returns.

The last time I drove the Honda Passport, it was with the EX-L package with some options added on, and it was 2 mpg better on the highway compared to this TrailSport model.

Whatever Passport you try, though, the same 3.5-liter V-6 will output 280 horsepower to all four wheels through a nine-speed automatic transmission. This is a great setup with smooth power delivery on the long curve a six-cylinder engine provides. The transmission has enough gear choices to keep things low-key while providing quick downshifts for more power when you ask for it. I prefer this over the long “are you sure about this?” downshift lags of the more efficiency-minded competitors of the Passport.

When I wrote about the Toyota Venza here, I made sure to talk up its hybrid platform (which is good) and its station wagon looks. The Passport has neither of those things, but it does have a more weather-ready AWD system and good value at its $44,000 price point.

The 2024 Passport does have some issues, though — namely with technology.

The infotainment is a bit clunky, especially when trying to do things beyond just changing radio stations or streaming via Bluetooth. The Android Auto system crashes regularly and I’ve received similar feedback regarding its Apple CarPlay app as well. I had no issues when just using the built-in user interface, though, so those who aren’t insistent on using a third-party app will be fine. Just know that it takes a little effort to get past the most common tasks.

The other issue I had was with the lane-keeping assist in the Passport. It’s extremely aggressive and loves setting off beeps to let you know it’s not happy. I eventually just turned it off — which you have to do every time you start the car as it defaults to on. All of the other driver safety and convenience techs were fine.

Like many vehicles now, the 2024 Honda Passport comes with a long list of long-winded names that denote various driver-assist and safety systems. They boil down to blind-spot warnings, forward collision stuff, adaptive cruise control and radar beeps and whines to let you know when you’re gonna hit something.

The base model Passport also comes with things like tri-zone climate, leather(ish) upholstery, a wireless smartphone charger, heated front seats and keyless entry with remote start. All are great things to have in a place like Wyoming.

And Honda knows how to make a heated seat. On its highest setting, you could probably cook an egg on those leatherette seats. Bun warming at its finest!

I’m mostly positive about the 2024 Passport. I think Honda hit a mark with this one and it doesn’t get the attention it should. It’s a strong contender in a competitive market.