I cross-shopped the Passport and the Outback extensively earlier this year and ended up with the Outback, so maybe I can offer an experience report for anyone else who is cross shopping vehicles in this segment. I actually really liked the Passport and will definitely look at one again in the future, but there were a few things that kept it in 2nd place for me. The Outback felt more nimble to drive in an urban area. It felt like it turned tighter and the body size felt smaller and easier to park. The Passport had a "boat" feeling to it that surprised me. It made me have the thought that if I was going to drive a "larger-feeling" vehicle, I might as well go all the way to something like a Lexus GX. The Passport I test drove (I think it was an EX-L) also had a noticeably stiffer/bouncier ride on broken pavement than the Outback. You can also get the Outback with ~1.5" more ground clearance than the Passport, which I did, because I live in a very cold, snowy climate and my garage backs out into an alley that regularly goes days or weeks without snow removal, and I need something that can get out no matter what. Are most people going to need that? Probably not, but not getting stuck in snow up to the frame is a pretty high priority for me, personally. For snow, when it comes to getting stuck vs. not getting stuck and maintaining onroad safety, tires, minimum ground clearance, and electronic stability control systems tend to matter more in practice than the physical hardware implementations of the AWD systems. That said the Passport's AWD system is truly excellent. I just wish you could get it with 9.5"+ of ground clearance from the factory. Fuel economy also mattered to me. The Passport is rated for 24 mpg highway, and I regularly beat the EPA and get 30 mpg highway in my Outback. Gas is a bit cheaper now so this is less of an issue today than it was last year, but if you do any amount road tripping, there is a pretty big difference between the Outback and basically everything else in the segment that isn't a hybrid. I absolutely loved the interior of the Passport. Honda is truly the leader when it comes to packaging efficiency and ergonomics. Everything is where it should be (with the exception of the parking brake pedal - why Honda?) and all the buttons and switches just feel "right" in Hondas. This is something I wish Subaru would improve. The Passport cargo area is also truly cavernous. If you're regularly transporting lots of luggage or larger cargo, it's amazing. It's almost truck-like in that way. The Outback can also be had with a turbo (which I recommend), while the Passport cannot. Because of this, the Outback makes its peak torque much lower (2,000rpm vs 4,700rpm), so it feels way, way faster in normal city driving where you tend to rarely get above 4,000rpm going from one stop light to another. I had no problem with the Passport's 9 speed transmission, and I have no problem with the Outback's CVT, either, surprisingly. At least for me, it was something that I thought I was going to hate, until I test drove it and it turned out to be fine. It's not great, but it's not a problem either. This is an Outback, not a WRX. Anyway, these were just some of the things that mattered to me and my family's circumstances. The Passport is a great vehicle and if my circumstances were slightly different I'd have no hesitation about buying one. Honda is an excellent company that tends to make great, reliable products. It's nice to have so many good choices these days.
Thanks for the synopsis. To me, the CVT of the Outback was a downer, but seems like Subaru will be on a CVT-only strategy going forward. This, longevity issue of the CVT, is a pity for a vehicle that I intend to keep for the long term. Same with the Turbo engine, since I definitely don’t need a turbo if I can help it, since that’s another high intensity component that will fail and need an expensive replacement. Tha naturally aspirated engine of the Honda Passport is a HUGE plus for me. And lastly, the dealbreaker when it comes to the Subaru vehicles, whether it be the Outback or the Forester or the Ascent or the Impreza variants……the rear hatch height area tops off at 30” (Outback, Forester and Ascent and significantly lower in the Impreza variants), while the massive, squared-off hatch area height of the Passport is around 34”. This is pertinent, since a bunch of full-size dog crates (height in the 30.25”-33”) that would fit into a Honda Passport or Pilot or Honda Fit or Honda CRV, simply WILL NOT fit into any of the current day Subarus. This is truly a deal-breaker for me and believe me I did take a tape measure to the dealership to actually measure the rear hatch height……close but no cigar !
Thanks for the write up. Another thing I noticed when test driving an Outback and a Passport is that the Passport has an archaic adaptive cruise control system that brakes and accelerates very harshly. The Subaru system is smooth, and also does great in stop-and-go traffic.
@Rocket9944 if you treat a Subaru like shit it'll treat you like shit right back. If you follow the recommended service intervals, a Subaru will easily last over 200k miles.
you buy this because it is NOT flashy or a tech show. Just old school automatic transmission and naturally aspirated V6 AWD vehicle. Bonus it is large and spacious inside.
I bought the Honda Passport and love it! The seats were comfortable and very roomy. I am still driving a 2007 Honda pilot 3.5 which attracted me over the Outback's boxer engine and cvt transmission. If it holds up as well as my old Pilot, this will be great vehicle.
Purchased a 2024 Black Edition with HPD package Cool car. I’d rather have a real tranny and a normally aspirated engine then the turbo 2.0. I guess if you plan on keeping this vehicle for 10 years you’ll understand Cargo space huge bonus
I'm sure they have their reasons, (which I suspect have something to do with manufacturing and supply chain issues) but I was disappointed that they didn't give all three vehicles on this platform the same drivetrain and interior improvements. I wanted either a Ridgeline or a Passport, but will not buy one now, as I would be seriously upset if the 2025 model turned out to be vastly improved after I had spent upwards of $45,000 on the 2024. I'm not in a position where I can trade my vehicle in every two or three years, and the next one I buy will probably be in my garage for at least ten years.
The exact same for me. I was set on a full redesign of the Ridgeline. This is with new 4th Generation Pilot works. I would have got top trim like RTL-E. But they did not Redesign Ridgeline. So I reevaluated my needs ND decided to get 2024 Pilot Elite trim . This will be soon. We have 2007 Ridgeline in family. It wasn't getting replaced as I'm not the owner. Female sibling in family owner but I picked out Ridgeline and drive over the years. The new vehicle will be replacement for my 2000 Acura 3.2TL.
I just traded my 2021 Passport EXL for 2024 Black Edition and didn’t regret a second! Almost the same great car, but time-tested as reliable and comfortable. By the way it’s a buyer’s market right now, in a month or two everything may change. I negotiated $5k and got Black Edition in Sonic grey for $45k!
@@fredmoss4540 I'd expect the Ridgeline refresh to come with a hybrid option. CRV this year... we'll see if Pilot/Ridge offer hybrid options next year?
We bought a 2023 Elite model. I added crossbars to the roof rack and updated the front and rear signals to led bulbs. It gave it a more rugged and updated look.
@@davidpancerz5820 I visited a audio and tint shop in my town and told them what I wanted to do and they were able to source the right bulbs for me. Seems like it was $65 for all four bulbs and the shipping.
I was looking at the Passport but I get much better gas milage on my 2016 Pilot. 27-30 mpg on the highway, yea I said 27-30. And on the city not so good, about 15 mpg. I love the AWD system it was, going up one snowy day to my daughter's house their driveway is 150 ft long with a 25% incline upward I crawled all the way up when the system kicked in, full of about three inches of snow. My sons-in-law Pathfinder could not do it. This is in CT.
Thank you, Alex, for your outstanding review of the Passport! Your candid, clear, and concise delivery, touching on all key elements that impact the majority of drivers, is truly appreciated
Hey question for you: does the 2023 have the raised center console that essentially doubles as the armrest like the 2024? I have a 2021 Elite and it has the lower center console with a horizontal sliding cover to get into the console, and flip-down armrests on the seats. I dislike it more and more as I drive it. Also, does the 2023 have a front passenger seat that offers height adjustment? I didn't see it mentioned in this review for the 2024. Thx
Alex, Honda continues to lead the way in interior ergonomics and adaptability. For example, the committee who approved the sliding second row in a two row CUV ought to get an extra week off for Christmas. 🥳🥳 For all the good news , there is a major question mark hanging over the Passport , when will it catch up with major competitors like the Highlander Hybrid in terms of fuel efficiency?🤔
@@AAutoBuyersGuide Good, give all the committees an extra week off for Christmas!!! 🎄🎄🎄 On the other hand, there will be coal in the Christmas stockings for those who failed to deliver a Hybrid again this year.🤨
Apparently there’s some rumors saying that the Honda PILOT will get a Hybrid, and some Honda dealer GM said that it should be revealed around January-March 2024 for the 2025 model year. I hope that ends up being true.
@AAutoBuyersGuide When I told my grandma I bought a Samsung phone, she asked me why I didn't buy a Sony. Because Sony makes the best electronics. Likewise, some car buyers are also stuck in the 90s.
Bought one in 2020. 33K for a Sport, out the door. Same car now ten grand more. 77K later on the odometer the car has been flawless. Good car. Continually get 26 MPG.
Good and thorough overview and comparison with the other vehicles in its class... I am very interested in this model in the TrailSport edition, but I will wait for the 2025 and see if they give it all the offroad chops of the Pilot TrailSport with the 10-speed auto.
I got to drive a 2023 Passport as a loaner recently. I really enjoyed the seating position for my urban commute. Honda has to redesign the Passport not only for looks but technology infotainment as well. The new Toyota Land Cruiser is going to be stiff competition even though it may be a bit more pricey.
I think you're absolutely right. Even though the vehicle architectures and drivetrains are substantially different, I think there are going to be *a ton* of folks (myself included) looking at 2-row vehicles who immediately add the Land Cruiser to the top of their list as a competitor in this segment. I believe that the rumor at this point is that you'll be able to get into a Land Cruiser somewhere in the $50k's, which I think is within the budget of a lot of people who are looking at higher end Passports, Grand Cherokees, etc. And for that, you're going to get full-time automatic 4WD with a low range, center and rear locking diffs, a hybrid drivetrain that promises 326 horsepower and 465 lb ft of torque, and a much more modern infotainment. We'll see where the fuel economy ends up, but I wouldn't be surprised if it beat the Passport's city mpg.
@@uncalm I read a MPG of 27 combined for the new Land Cruiser. That’s insanely good if true. Way better than the Lexus GX with twin turbo V6 at 17 MPG combined (on premium gas).
@@scottlane2766 If that's true that would be incredible. I have no idea. The new Tacoma uses the same powertrain and I don't know that it's MPG improved much, but who knows! We will see.
Land Cruiser a stiff competition, for what car, the Passport??!! Lmao! Please, Passport can’t touch the Land Cruiser….blasphemy. Passport abd 4Runner compete, period.
I recently trade our "21 P:ilot for a "24 Passport EX-L. I wanted a more nimble body w/ similar load volume (Pilot 3rd seat stowed, 2nd seats up), definitely loved the torque of 3.6 V6 that both models share (easy passing ability & good MPGs of 22 in town, 28-30 hwy) and I like the easy to use entertainment system & in-dash placement; hate the "tablet on top of a table" like the new Pilots & Civics. Red w/ brown leather, looks sharp!
for the downhill - you lower your gear, and torque vectoring does its magic :). The idea is just to push the brakes a bit before turning, and push the gas during cornering, softly, with lower gear engaged.
I was strongly considering this car, but I am very disappointed they did not update it in 2024. When you look at the new Pilot, it's pretty obvious what next year's model will look like. I can't justify buying this year's model when it will be very outdated in a year.
Drive the new Pilot and then the Passport. I did and would take the Pilot hands down. When they upgrade the Passport next year to Pilot specs it should be a different story. Maybe they will do it mid 24.
I have the 2021 Passport and I'm disappointed how they didn't do anything new for dash. I have one more year on my lease and I was hoping they would have caught up with the Civic and CRV with the all digital dash and nicer infotainment. I love my Passport and I have no beef with the rest of it.
Tommy on TFL just tested this out at Tumbleweed Ranch and the AWD system overheated. That was not “hours, hours and hours of off-roading”. I don’t like that. Great job as always Alex!
GREAT vehicle and you did a great job with your complete review. The Passort is a great buy and I love the look and feel of the Trailsport Trim package!
Top trim get expensive. I feel like the base EX-L has plenty of goodies and is a bit more reasonably priced. Trailsport is cool, but isn't going to be that great of an off-roader. I'd save the money. The interior is a bit "dated," but the conservative styling is pretty unoffensive and actually I think will age better because it isn't some trendy over-styled design (looking at you Hyundai/Kia). I had a 2022 Passport as a loaner while my Ridgeline was having some PDR work done and I liked the smaller wheelbase. I fo need a pickup bed a couple times a month, but I'd probably prefer something like the Passport were it not for that. Honda isn't the best looking option on paper, but it's actual driving feel and performance is so good.
Waiting for 2025 to see if they change a few things. That infotainment system needs an upgrade for sure as does the interior. I don’t need a third row and prefer a V6 engine, so this is on my list.
I used to have a 2021 pre-nosejob version of the Passport, which I replaced with a 2022 Mercedes E450 All-Terrain wagon, but since I missed the big, boxy, square rear hatch area of the passport, I went and purchased a 2024 Trailsport version, recently. The Merc is a 48V mild-hybrid with a Turbo Inline-6, and has a 9-speed that's of course smoother, but I have no problem at all with the 9 speed of the Passport. Overall, I love the practicality of the passport.
I love my 2020 Passport, heading out on a long road trip today and the Passport is the best. My only complaint, I absolutely hate the push button shift. The day they reintroduce a shift lever, I'll trade up.
I traded in my 2021 Passport for a 2024 CR-V Hybrid, one of my main requirements was whatever I chose would NOT have a Push-Button shifter, the CR-V has a nice Lever Shifter. The limited storage area in the CR-V made a recent 2000 mile trip with 4 adults kind of tight for our luggage, compared to the Passport. Seating comfort was about the same. CR-V performance is decent with immediate throttle response and 40mpg.
Nice family hauler! Regarding the overheating AWD system, it doesn't take hours of real offroading to do so! 10 mins is more than enough to overheat it, which was always the issue with all of Honda AWD systems, they are simply made for wet/snow traction, not for any real or even mild offroading, regardless of what the car design might hint to!
Thanks for that detailed explanation about the ZF9 speed. A bunch of channels say they don’t like it, but no one articulated it like you did. Another reason I always come back to this channel. You ever think about doing separate info videos for things like this to get the information out there? Not sure if it would work but just wanted to say how much I really appreciate your detail.
After reading your comment, I replayed that part of the video. Good point on the ZF9. I have never heard anyone explain this so well. Many people mention not liking the ZF9 but no one ever says why. I Have a 2019 Passport Elite purchased new and has 61K on it now. I really like the vehicle a lot. I can say that I do notice the shift sometimes in city driving, bumper to bumper in rush hour traffic. When the transmission is close to shifting into a higher gear around 37 MPH but the traffic slows and then goes again. So, when you let off then reaccelerate you can feel the shift as you go past 37 MPH. Normally you don't feel it at any other times. Not during regular acceleration just when letting up and going again quickly in that situation. I changed the fluid with Honda fluid at 50K. I don't think it is a problem, just normal for the ZF9.
As with the Ridgeline, the folks at Honda seem reluctant to upgrade the dash in these to match the Pilot. That is a shame. Honda will hopefully do this in 2025 or they may lose out on customers looking for upgrades instead of the same old thing. Piano black MUST go away. LOL. And I'm surprised Honda did not put a pano roof on this. I have a feeling we may have a new design coming in the next 2-4 years.
Needs a new dash. Get rid of the gloss black plastic and button shifting. Replace the 9 speed trans. Basically, make it a two-row Pilot. Improve interior colors, trim, infotainment, and seating comfort. Add a hybrid variant.
Another great review Alex. One question though, Is the passenger seat powered? In particularly up. And if not is the Passport low waisted enough that shorter passengers don't claustrophobic.
My 2021 Passport Elite has everything this model has. The one thing I don’t like about mine is the arm rest. Glad they changed that. In sport mode I get 0 to 60 in 5.7 sec. which is consistent with some of the testing I have seen. Basically the same engine as the 2024 with a couple slight changes. I paid $47,500 and was lucky enough to get 0% financing. Absolutely love my Passport but the mpg is definitely less than my 2016 Pilot Elite. Not sure why that is since the whole drive train, wheel base and 20” tires are basically the same.
I really want to get the Passport but there’s still a few issues. First, Honda really needs to get the next generation here. It just feels and looks dated. Second, the AWD system is amazing. The only issue is the gas mileage. I wish Honda would offer a hybrid version. They’ve used similar tech on older generation MDX, and I’d imagine they could still use that technology. Lastly, I really wish they’d add a little more style to the interior. It’s just a sea of black. I know they have Acura but it’d be nice if they offered some different trim colors to break it up. *Update - the Elite AND Touring are gone. What the heck??
We own a 2020 Honda Passport Elite and were considering an upgrade to the 2024 before the details of the vehicle were known given the 2023 Honda Pilot redesign. Now an upgrade is no longer on the table.
Great review. However, interesting to omit reliability in your comparisons. Reliability is the absolute elephant in the room for Grand Cherokee. Material/fitment quality too.
I'm familiar with the 9 speed transmission, as I own a 2021 Pilot. Have you heard if Honda might be considering the 10 speed from the newer Pilot into the Passport?? I really do not like the delay of the 9 speed. I consider it a safety feature. Great review, thank you.
I am looking into either Passport or Highlander 2024; not sure which one is better, there are pros and cons on the both sides. But what worries me is number of recalls on Passport; not sure
With the prices of some models overlapping, I don’t see why you would want this over the new Pilot with its new engine, transmission, infotainment system, and chassis tuning. I guess if you really just want a smaller SUV and a Honda.
Honda would sell a lot more of these (and Ridgelines) if they didn't always lag in engines/transmissions/electronics to everything else in the Honda lineup. They should consider putting their latest and greatest in these to stir up more interest.
Thanks for the awesome vid, waiting for the 2025, might as well get the new tranny and motor the new pilot gets and i think the first thing i would do is install a s-vcm and shut of the vcm.
NO the previous Pilot did not have Brake Hold feature. It also has mechanical foot Parking Brake . The Ridgeline current Ridgeline is the same. The new 2023-2024 Pilot has new platform. It has Brake Hold feature and Electronic Parking Brake and Hill Desent Control Button.
The Pilot and Passport are just so similar... The Pilot is $500-$1000 more for the EX-L and Trailsport trims. Same engine, 10 speed vs. 9 speed, 20 MPG vs. 21 MPG. I guess the new pilot is about 10 inches longer than Passport (and it's available in FWD), but that's about it in my mind.
People also love the 4-Runner because it's one of the most bulletproof vehicles ever made. If your review focused more on reliability, the 4-Runner will outlast ALL the other vehicles by far. Even though it's old school & 'dated'. People want what will last with little to no headaches. Many reviewers are wowed by tech, but they're not the ones that will fix your vehicle when the tech goes awry
@@russelljones2468 It's out and I'm out. I've got a 2011 Runner that I was holding out to trade in on the 2025 hoping it would blow my socks off but unfortunately the new engine barely is getting more than maybe 2 mph more. Lover my 4Runner but can't do it again. I'm sad.
Just want to know SH-AWD vs iVTM4. Alex likes to call iVTM4 SH-AWD, and did so on several reviews. Yes, they are similar, but is it really the same? Similar is not always same. Someone correct me if these two statements are not correct. 1. iVTM4 does not overdrive the rear wheels like SH-AWD. 2. In normal driving, both systems start from the standing start in AWD then cuts power to the rear when above 15 MPH. True on both?
iVTM4 in the Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline overdrives the rear axle just like the current implementations of SH-AWD. Software is the biggest difference between the large car AWD systems used in Honda and Acura products. The 10-speed automatic and the internals of the rear differential and clutch units are identical across the same generation of the system with the same overdrive ratio (typically 0.8% for the latest versions of the system) which can allow a single rear wheel to be overdriven by 2.7% relative to the input of the front differential when the front wheels are at the max turn left or right. Internally many Honda engineers refer to both systems as SH-AWD because it rolls off the tongue more easily.
Honda is not a luxury vehicle. So even today they are going to cut cost somewhere. Now if you go to Acura it will have LED bulbs. Good Comparison is 2023 Acura MDX Advance Package vs Honda 2023-2024 Honda Pilot Elite The bulbs in MDX are LED some on the Pilot taillights are not LED. So bean counters at Honda. We were told years ago at a Honda vehicle owners meet that Honda is very tight with there spending. This was by one of their Chief Engineers.
I wish that I would’ve liked Honda to come out with the 2025 Honda passport with the new Honda infotainment system new instrument cluster, the transmission, the new 3.5 V6 that would be paired with the 10 speed automatic transmission instead of a 9 speed automatic transmission.
@@magnoliap5824 if you've ever been stranded because of a timing belt you'll know why I mentioned this. I prefer the engine is not have a timing belt as I don't want to be digging into the engine at 60 to 80,000 me to replace.
The fact that a ‘moderately’ refreshed vehicle in its 6th model year of the generation had an embargo is incredible
This is one of the BEST , organized, articulate and informative car review vids. Very well executed
I cross-shopped the Passport and the Outback extensively earlier this year and ended up with the Outback, so maybe I can offer an experience report for anyone else who is cross shopping vehicles in this segment. I actually really liked the Passport and will definitely look at one again in the future, but there were a few things that kept it in 2nd place for me.
The Outback felt more nimble to drive in an urban area. It felt like it turned tighter and the body size felt smaller and easier to park. The Passport had a "boat" feeling to it that surprised me. It made me have the thought that if I was going to drive a "larger-feeling" vehicle, I might as well go all the way to something like a Lexus GX.
The Passport I test drove (I think it was an EX-L) also had a noticeably stiffer/bouncier ride on broken pavement than the Outback.
You can also get the Outback with ~1.5" more ground clearance than the Passport, which I did, because I live in a very cold, snowy climate and my garage backs out into an alley that regularly goes days or weeks without snow removal, and I need something that can get out no matter what. Are most people going to need that? Probably not, but not getting stuck in snow up to the frame is a pretty high priority for me, personally. For snow, when it comes to getting stuck vs. not getting stuck and maintaining onroad safety, tires, minimum ground clearance, and electronic stability control systems tend to matter more in practice than the physical hardware implementations of the AWD systems. That said the Passport's AWD system is truly excellent. I just wish you could get it with 9.5"+ of ground clearance from the factory.
Fuel economy also mattered to me. The Passport is rated for 24 mpg highway, and I regularly beat the EPA and get 30 mpg highway in my Outback. Gas is a bit cheaper now so this is less of an issue today than it was last year, but if you do any amount road tripping, there is a pretty big difference between the Outback and basically everything else in the segment that isn't a hybrid.
I absolutely loved the interior of the Passport. Honda is truly the leader when it comes to packaging efficiency and ergonomics. Everything is where it should be (with the exception of the parking brake pedal - why Honda?) and all the buttons and switches just feel "right" in Hondas. This is something I wish Subaru would improve. The Passport cargo area is also truly cavernous. If you're regularly transporting lots of luggage or larger cargo, it's amazing. It's almost truck-like in that way.
The Outback can also be had with a turbo (which I recommend), while the Passport cannot. Because of this, the Outback makes its peak torque much lower (2,000rpm vs 4,700rpm), so it feels way, way faster in normal city driving where you tend to rarely get above 4,000rpm going from one stop light to another. I had no problem with the Passport's 9 speed transmission, and I have no problem with the Outback's CVT, either, surprisingly. At least for me, it was something that I thought I was going to hate, until I test drove it and it turned out to be fine. It's not great, but it's not a problem either. This is an Outback, not a WRX.
Anyway, these were just some of the things that mattered to me and my family's circumstances. The Passport is a great vehicle and if my circumstances were slightly different I'd have no hesitation about buying one. Honda is an excellent company that tends to make great, reliable products. It's nice to have so many good choices these days.
Thanks for the synopsis. To me, the CVT of the Outback was a downer, but seems like Subaru will be on a CVT-only strategy going forward. This, longevity issue of the CVT, is a pity for a vehicle that I intend to keep for the long term. Same with the Turbo engine, since I definitely don’t need a turbo if I can help it, since that’s another high intensity component that will fail and need an expensive replacement. Tha naturally aspirated engine of the Honda Passport is a HUGE plus for me.
And lastly, the dealbreaker when it comes to the Subaru vehicles, whether it be the Outback or the Forester or the Ascent or the Impreza variants……the rear hatch height area tops off at 30” (Outback, Forester and Ascent and significantly lower in the Impreza variants), while the massive, squared-off hatch area height of the Passport is around 34”. This is pertinent, since a bunch of full-size dog crates (height in the 30.25”-33”) that would fit into a Honda Passport or Pilot or Honda Fit or Honda CRV, simply WILL NOT fit into any of the current day Subarus. This is truly a deal-breaker for me and believe me I did take a tape measure to the dealership to actually measure the rear hatch height……close but no cigar !
@@OBrandt-i5cAll true and fair points!
Thanks for the write up. Another thing I noticed when test driving an Outback and a Passport is that the Passport has an archaic adaptive cruise control system that brakes and accelerates very harshly. The Subaru system is smooth, and also does great in stop-and-go traffic.
Many of us would never buy a Subaru the Honda is more reliable
@Rocket9944 if you treat a Subaru like shit it'll treat you like shit right back.
If you follow the recommended service intervals, a Subaru will easily last over 200k miles.
Alex, you do the absolute best reviews. Appreciate your hard work. Wish you could do one everyday.
you buy this because it is NOT flashy or a tech show. Just old school automatic transmission and naturally aspirated V6 AWD vehicle. Bonus it is large and spacious inside.
And likely very reliable with high re-sale value.
You just summed up exactly why I bought one!
I bought the Honda Passport and love it! The seats were comfortable and very roomy. I am still driving a 2007 Honda pilot 3.5 which attracted me over the Outback's boxer engine and cvt transmission. If it holds up as well as my old Pilot, this will be great vehicle.
Purchased a 2024 Black Edition with HPD package
Cool car. I’d rather have a real tranny and a normally aspirated engine then the turbo 2.0.
I guess if you plan on keeping this vehicle for 10 years you’ll understand
Cargo space huge bonus
Agree 200 per cent
I'm sure they have their reasons, (which I suspect have something to do with manufacturing and supply chain issues) but I was disappointed that they didn't give all three vehicles on this platform the same drivetrain and interior improvements. I wanted either a Ridgeline or a Passport, but will not buy one now, as I would be seriously upset if the 2025 model turned out to be vastly improved after I had spent upwards of $45,000 on the 2024. I'm not in a position where I can trade my vehicle in every two or three years, and the next one I buy will probably be in my garage for at least ten years.
The exact same for me.
I was set on a full redesign of the Ridgeline. This is with new 4th Generation Pilot works.
I would have got top trim like RTL-E. But they did not Redesign Ridgeline.
So I reevaluated my needs ND decided to get 2024 Pilot Elite trim . This will be soon.
We have 2007 Ridgeline in family.
It wasn't getting replaced as I'm not the owner. Female sibling in family owner but I picked out Ridgeline and drive over the years.
The new vehicle will be replacement for my 2000 Acura 3.2TL.
I just traded my 2021 Passport EXL for 2024 Black Edition and didn’t regret a second! Almost the same great car, but time-tested as reliable and comfortable. By the way it’s a buyer’s market right now, in a month or two everything may change. I negotiated $5k and got Black Edition in Sonic grey for $45k!
@@vitalye1940 Nice deal!
@@fredmoss4540 I'd expect the Ridgeline refresh to come with a hybrid option. CRV this year... we'll see if Pilot/Ridge offer hybrid options next year?
We bought a 2023 Elite model. I added crossbars to the roof rack and updated the front and rear signals to led bulbs. It gave it a more rugged and updated look.
If possible, do you mind sharing where you bought the LED bulbs for the turn signals? Thank you.
@@davidpancerz5820 I visited a audio and tint shop in my town and told them what I wanted to do and they were able to source the right bulbs for me. Seems like it was $65 for all four bulbs and the shipping.
I was looking at the Passport but I get much better gas milage on my 2016 Pilot. 27-30 mpg on the highway, yea I said 27-30. And on the city not so good, about 15 mpg. I love the AWD system it was, going up one snowy day to my daughter's house their driveway is 150 ft long with a 25% incline upward I crawled all the way up when the system kicked in, full of about three inches of snow. My sons-in-law Pathfinder could not do it. This is in CT.
Thank you, Alex, for your outstanding review of the Passport! Your candid, clear, and concise delivery, touching on all key elements that impact the majority of drivers, is truly appreciated
Bought a 2023 Passport Elite and loving it 🙏🏽
Hey question for you: does the 2023 have the raised center console that essentially doubles as the armrest like the 2024? I have a 2021 Elite and it has the lower center console with a horizontal sliding cover to get into the console, and flip-down armrests on the seats. I dislike it more and more as I drive it. Also, does the 2023 have a front passenger seat that offers height adjustment? I didn't see it mentioned in this review for the 2024. Thx
Alex, Honda continues to lead the way in interior ergonomics and adaptability. For example, the committee who approved the sliding second row in a two row CUV ought to get an extra week off for Christmas. 🥳🥳 For all the good news , there is a major question mark hanging over the Passport , when will it catch up with major competitors like the Highlander Hybrid in terms of fuel efficiency?🤔
It's not the only 2-row with a sliding second row actually :-) On the efficiency front, not until Honda reinvents their hybrid systems.
@@AAutoBuyersGuide Good, give all the committees an extra week off for Christmas!!! 🎄🎄🎄 On the other hand, there will be coal in the Christmas stockings for those who failed to deliver a Hybrid again this year.🤨
Apparently there’s some rumors saying that the Honda PILOT will get a Hybrid, and some Honda dealer GM said that it should be revealed around January-March 2024 for the 2025 model year.
I hope that ends up being true.
@AAutoBuyersGuide When I told my grandma I bought a Samsung phone, she asked me why I didn't buy a Sony. Because Sony makes the best electronics. Likewise, some car buyers are also stuck in the 90s.
The Nissan rogue has been doing that for years.. sliding second row..
Same old passport, add another $3000 for the same model year after year, what a good way to make a profit
Shh common sense and logic have no place on youtube.
Bought one in 2020. 33K for a Sport, out the door. Same car now ten grand more. 77K later on the odometer the car has been flawless. Good car. Continually get 26 MPG.
I’m sure inflation has nothing to with it either
Paying more for the black
Sounds like they followed Toyota 4 runner.... no changes for waaayyy more years and money.
Good and thorough overview and comparison with the other vehicles in its class... I am very interested in this model in the TrailSport edition, but I will wait for the 2025 and see if they give it all the offroad chops of the Pilot TrailSport with the 10-speed auto.
I got to drive a 2023 Passport as a loaner recently. I really enjoyed the seating position for my urban commute. Honda has to redesign the Passport not only for looks but technology infotainment as well. The new Toyota Land Cruiser is going to be stiff competition even though it may be a bit more pricey.
I think you're absolutely right. Even though the vehicle architectures and drivetrains are substantially different, I think there are going to be *a ton* of folks (myself included) looking at 2-row vehicles who immediately add the Land Cruiser to the top of their list as a competitor in this segment. I believe that the rumor at this point is that you'll be able to get into a Land Cruiser somewhere in the $50k's, which I think is within the budget of a lot of people who are looking at higher end Passports, Grand Cherokees, etc. And for that, you're going to get full-time automatic 4WD with a low range, center and rear locking diffs, a hybrid drivetrain that promises 326 horsepower and 465 lb ft of torque, and a much more modern infotainment. We'll see where the fuel economy ends up, but I wouldn't be surprised if it beat the Passport's city mpg.
Problem with Land Cruisers for first couple years are the huge mark ups. Min. 10k.
@@uncalm I read a MPG of 27 combined for the new Land Cruiser. That’s insanely good if true. Way better than the Lexus GX with twin turbo V6 at 17 MPG combined (on premium gas).
@@scottlane2766 If that's true that would be incredible. I have no idea. The new Tacoma uses the same powertrain and I don't know that it's MPG improved much, but who knows! We will see.
Land Cruiser a stiff competition, for what car, the Passport??!! Lmao! Please, Passport can’t touch the Land Cruiser….blasphemy. Passport abd 4Runner compete, period.
I recently trade our "21 P:ilot for a "24 Passport EX-L. I wanted a more nimble body w/ similar load volume (Pilot 3rd seat stowed, 2nd seats up), definitely loved the torque of 3.6 V6 that both models share (easy passing ability & good MPGs of 22 in town, 28-30 hwy) and I like the easy to use entertainment system & in-dash placement; hate the "tablet on top of a table" like the new Pilots & Civics. Red w/ brown leather, looks sharp!
Love your reviews, Alex. Keep up the good work! Hope to see you at an auto show one day.
for the downhill - you lower your gear, and torque vectoring does its magic :). The idea is just to push the brakes a bit before turning, and push the gas during cornering, softly, with lower gear engaged.
I was strongly considering this car, but I am very disappointed they did not update it in 2024. When you look at the new Pilot, it's pretty obvious what next year's model will look like. I can't justify buying this year's model when it will be very outdated in a year.
Drive the new Pilot and then the Passport. I did and would take the Pilot hands down. When they upgrade the Passport next year to Pilot specs it should be a different story. Maybe they will do it mid 24.
Basic, dependable, less busy = safer, focused driving + long term dependability. There’s just less to go wrong. Too much crap in most new vehicles.
@@longballistfacts
I have the 2021 Passport and I'm disappointed how they didn't do anything new for dash. I have one more year on my lease and I was hoping they would have caught up with the Civic and CRV with the all digital dash and nicer infotainment. I love my Passport and I have no beef with the rest of it.
Tommy on TFL just tested this out at Tumbleweed Ranch and the AWD system overheated. That was not “hours, hours and hours of off-roading”. I don’t like that. Great job as always Alex!
That was a pre production vehicle. I’ve seen other people take theirs off road for miles with no issues countless times.
Yeah, I have to say that seems very off that he had that issue. Something hopefully TFL and Honda will have an update on.
Always thorough reviews! Thank you! I miss home when I see your drives and property. I’m From Santa Cruz in Arizona many years now.
GREAT vehicle and you did a great job with your complete review. The Passort is a great buy and I love the look and feel of the Trailsport Trim package!
You know this suv gonna last for long time because Honda didnt go with turbo engine and stick with V6. 0-60 in 6.5 sec is pretty damn good for suv.
Top trim get expensive. I feel like the base EX-L has plenty of goodies and is a bit more reasonably priced. Trailsport is cool, but isn't going to be that great of an off-roader. I'd save the money.
The interior is a bit "dated," but the conservative styling is pretty unoffensive and actually I think will age better because it isn't some trendy over-styled design (looking at you Hyundai/Kia).
I had a 2022 Passport as a loaner while my Ridgeline was having some PDR work done and I liked the smaller wheelbase. I fo need a pickup bed a couple times a month, but I'd probably prefer something like the Passport were it not for that. Honda isn't the best looking option on paper, but it's actual driving feel and performance is so good.
Waiting for 2025 to see if they change a few things. That infotainment system needs an upgrade for sure as does the interior. I don’t need a third row and prefer a V6 engine, so this is on my list.
I used to have a 2021 pre-nosejob version of the Passport, which I replaced with a 2022 Mercedes E450 All-Terrain wagon, but since I missed the big, boxy, square rear hatch area of the passport, I went and purchased a 2024 Trailsport version, recently. The Merc is a 48V mild-hybrid with a Turbo Inline-6, and has a 9-speed that's of course smoother, but I have no problem at all with the 9 speed of the Passport. Overall, I love the practicality of the passport.
TBH, I prefer this style of infotainment system display. The new one that looks "grafted" on is obstructive IMO.
This is such a comprehensive review. Super impressed!
So good review and analysis. I have a 2019 and I still love it.
I wish they sold these in Australia - it would sell so well here. Such a pragmatic and practical car for your typical Aussie open road trips.
I love my 2020 Passport, heading out on a long road trip today and the Passport is the best. My only complaint, I absolutely hate the push button shift. The day they reintroduce a shift lever, I'll trade up.
I traded in my 2021 Passport for a 2024 CR-V Hybrid, one of my main requirements was whatever I chose would NOT have a Push-Button shifter, the CR-V has a nice Lever Shifter. The limited storage area in the CR-V made a recent 2000 mile trip with 4 adults kind of tight for our luggage, compared to the Passport. Seating comfort was about the same. CR-V performance is decent with immediate throttle response and 40mpg.
Saw the chart comparisons and subscribed.
Slow clap. Fantastic video setup.
The biggest selling point of the Passport was that the Pilot looked like a minivan. This is hard to justify over the new pilot.
First time watching your review. Excellent job, love it.
Nice family hauler! Regarding the overheating AWD system, it doesn't take hours of real offroading to do so! 10 mins is more than enough to overheat it, which was always the issue with all of Honda AWD systems, they are simply made for wet/snow traction, not for any real or even mild offroading, regardless of what the car design might hint to!
It depends a on what you’re doing. The kinds of trails a Honda owner will likely tackle will be perfectly fine. Don’t go to Moab however
Thank you Alex for the detailed review.
Thanks for that detailed explanation about the ZF9 speed. A bunch of channels say they don’t like it, but no one articulated it like you did. Another reason I always come back to this channel. You ever think about doing separate info videos for things like this to get the information out there? Not sure if it would work but just wanted to say how much I really appreciate your detail.
After reading your comment, I replayed that part of the video. Good point on the ZF9. I have never heard anyone explain this so well. Many people mention not liking the ZF9 but no one ever says why. I Have a 2019 Passport Elite purchased new and has 61K on it now. I really like the vehicle a lot. I can say that I do notice the shift sometimes in city driving, bumper to bumper in rush hour traffic. When the transmission is close to shifting into a higher gear around 37 MPH but the traffic slows and then goes again. So, when you let off then reaccelerate you can feel the shift as you go past 37 MPH. Normally you don't feel it at any other times. Not during regular acceleration just when letting up and going again quickly in that situation. I changed the fluid with Honda fluid at 50K. I don't think it is a problem, just normal for the ZF9.
Give us the updated trans, seats and infotainment from the pilot and a light brown leather option for next year and I think I'd be set.
As with the Ridgeline, the folks at Honda seem reluctant to upgrade the dash in these to match the Pilot. That is a shame. Honda will hopefully do this in 2025 or they may lose out on customers looking for upgrades instead of the same old thing. Piano black MUST go away. LOL. And I'm surprised Honda did not put a pano roof on this. I have a feeling we may have a new design coming in the next 2-4 years.
Needs a new dash. Get rid of the gloss black plastic and button shifting. Replace the 9 speed trans. Basically, make it a two-row Pilot. Improve interior colors, trim, infotainment, and seating comfort. Add a hybrid variant.
Great video, love the detail.
Another great review Alex. One question though, Is the passenger seat powered? In particularly up. And if not is the Passport low waisted enough that shorter passengers don't claustrophobic.
I bought a 2020 grand Cherokee over this, and I’m so happy with my purchase!! Glad I chose the jeep over this. Honda wants nearly 50k for this
I have a 2019 grand Cherokee. Now the head gasket blew. Just bought a crv. No more Chrysler products for me.
My 2021 Passport Elite has everything this model has. The one thing I don’t like about mine is the arm rest. Glad they changed that. In sport mode I get 0 to 60 in 5.7 sec. which is consistent with some of the testing I have seen. Basically the same engine as the 2024 with a couple slight changes. I paid $47,500 and was lucky enough to get 0% financing. Absolutely love my Passport but the mpg is definitely less than my 2016 Pilot Elite. Not sure why that is since the whole drive train, wheel base and 20” tires are basically the same.
I really like this red color. Nice.
excellen review Alex!!!!!
Oustanding review. Good job.
Is that 9 speed any good? I can't see buying one of these new (43K) when you know the revised version is coming.
drivability wise, it is good. my honda mechanic says just change the fluid at every 30k and they will last.
what he said about low speed broken pavement is very true. this thing sucks in a parking lot or with speed bumps. at 30 mph or higher it is good
I really want to get the Passport but there’s still a few issues. First, Honda really needs to get the next generation here. It just feels and looks dated. Second, the AWD system is amazing. The only issue is the gas mileage. I wish Honda would offer a hybrid version. They’ve used similar tech on older generation MDX, and I’d imagine they could still use that technology. Lastly, I really wish they’d add a little more style to the interior. It’s just a sea of black. I know they have Acura but it’d be nice if they offered some different trim colors to break it up.
*Update - the Elite AND Touring are gone. What the heck??
We own a 2020 Honda Passport Elite and were considering an upgrade to the 2024 before the details of the vehicle were known given the 2023 Honda Pilot redesign. Now an upgrade is no longer on the table.
Great review. However, interesting to omit reliability in your comparisons. Reliability is the absolute elephant in the room for Grand Cherokee. Material/fitment quality too.
I'm familiar with the 9 speed transmission, as I own a 2021 Pilot. Have you heard if Honda might be considering the 10 speed from the newer Pilot into the Passport?? I really do not like the delay of the 9 speed. I consider it a safety feature. Great review, thank you.
Think my major complaint about the 9spd is that lag time from park to drive to reverse.
Also, the VCM gives a false impression of transmission issues.
I am looking into either Passport or Highlander 2024; not sure which one is better, there are pros and cons on the both sides. But what worries me is number of recalls on Passport; not sure
Recalls for minor stuff. No big deal
I like this, but it’s materially basically the same thing as my 2019 model. Hopefully they redesign soon
With the prices of some models overlapping, I don’t see why you would want this over the new Pilot with its new engine, transmission, infotainment system, and chassis tuning. I guess if you really just want a smaller SUV and a Honda.
They should just combine the trailsport and black edition festures together.
But you have to add intangibles that the 4Runner vs Passport, I see styling/tech/comfort/etc.
But you have to add RIZZ.
Looking forward to the updated one!
Can't believe Honda is still using that same infotainment system from like 2016.
Honda would sell a lot more of these (and Ridgelines) if they didn't always lag in engines/transmissions/electronics to everything else in the Honda lineup. They should consider putting their latest and greatest in these to stir up more interest.
Infotainment on my ridgeline really sucks.
Thanks for the awesome vid, waiting for the 2025, might as well get the new tranny and motor the new pilot gets and i think the first thing i would do is install a s-vcm and shut of the vcm.
How is Honda's autosteering compared to the competition?
Hmm, I didn't see a Brake Hold button. The new Pilot has it - did the old Pilot not have it? More importantly, does this have it or not?
NO the previous Pilot did not have Brake Hold feature. It also has mechanical foot Parking Brake . The Ridgeline current Ridgeline is the same.
The new 2023-2024 Pilot has new platform. It has Brake Hold feature and Electronic Parking Brake and Hill Desent Control Button.
The Pilot and Passport are just so similar... The Pilot is $500-$1000 more for the EX-L and Trailsport trims. Same engine, 10 speed vs. 9 speed, 20 MPG vs. 21 MPG. I guess the new pilot is about 10 inches longer than Passport (and it's available in FWD), but that's about it in my mind.
Good luck finding one in FWD.
How easy is it to change the oil in? My hubby hates my 4Runner when he has to change the oil.
People also love the 4-Runner because it's one of the most bulletproof vehicles ever made. If your review focused more on reliability, the 4-Runner will outlast ALL the other vehicles by far. Even though it's old school & 'dated'. People want what will last with little to no headaches. Many reviewers are wowed by tech, but they're not the ones that will fix your vehicle when the tech goes awry
Looking forward to the 2025 4Runner refresh. 12mpg just ain't doing it for me.
@@russelljones2468 It's out and I'm out. I've got a 2011 Runner that I was holding out to trade in on the 2025 hoping it would blow my socks off but unfortunately the new engine barely is getting more than maybe 2 mph more. Lover my 4Runner but can't do it again. I'm sad.
Insane vehicle Alex.
I just bought a 2024, 4-Runner, for its reliability, plan to keep it for 20 yrs/300k miles, easily...
Sold my 4 Runner for a Passport. Much more modern.
Idk about putting the turn signalswhere the fog lights usually go to low in the front facia
I would really be interested in a thorough review of the new Accord EX-L if you could squeeze it in.
Does that adaptive cruise control have a stop-and-go range? Or does it turn off under 25mph automatically?
I know that cruise control won't work at 20 mph. I want to use it in my school zones but it won't engage, so no adaptive cc doesnt work at 20.
Grand Cherokees start at 58,000 this year…. I haven’t found a cheaper one yet
21 MPG is kinda low isn’t it? I feel like I’ve seen similar number on similarly sized SUV 10 years ago. Kinda expecting ~25 MPG at least
Just want to know SH-AWD vs iVTM4. Alex likes to call iVTM4 SH-AWD, and did so on several reviews. Yes, they are similar, but is it really the same? Similar is not always same. Someone correct me if these two statements are not correct. 1. iVTM4 does not overdrive the rear wheels like SH-AWD. 2. In normal driving, both systems start from the standing start in AWD then cuts power to the rear when above 15 MPH. True on both?
iVTM4 in the Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline overdrives the rear axle just like the current implementations of SH-AWD. Software is the biggest difference between the large car AWD systems used in Honda and Acura products. The 10-speed automatic and the internals of the rear differential and clutch units are identical across the same generation of the system with the same overdrive ratio (typically 0.8% for the latest versions of the system) which can allow a single rear wheel to be overdriven by 2.7% relative to the input of the front differential when the front wheels are at the max turn left or right. Internally many Honda engineers refer to both systems as SH-AWD because it rolls off the tongue more easily.
Are they ever going to upgrade the passport to the new pilot chassis?
Thank god they fixed the horrendous arm rests. One of my biggest complaints with my 2019 Passport.
Note: the rear hatch opens to almost 6 foot - almost! 😮 Me at 6ft plus shoes, i bump my head all the time! And there is no adjustment for the height.😢
Instead of the Trailblazer edition, it should be called the Thomas Edison with all those lightbulbs.
What about vs The grand highlander or standard model
Grand Highlander destroys this
I just wish they would change those Gauges.
I’ve enjoyed Honda’s new interiors and exteriors except for one glaring issue - their infotainment systems are so old.
Interesting that 70 dB gets a B. This result is quieter than the MDX, which got an A-.
Why is Passport and Pilot only available in North America?
Both vehicles would sell well in Australia, Japan and Europe.
I want to see a Honda Passport Black edition in white to really confuse people.
We had one as a loaner when our Pilot was in for service. I'm not really into the black treatment though.
😂
Love my Passport. Exterior styling could be better.
Is there any data that suggests someone cross shopping a 4-Runner is giving the Passport a glance?
stereo is still messed up. update your info system needs to be done at Honda thats why im not rebuying a passport
Non other l others have a Honda V6 under the hood.
It’ll be the only one still being used daily in 10 years.
Very informative and most helpful. Thanks!
I’m driving a 2011 Mercedes ML and the only non LED bulbs are the vanity lights in the sun shields. Why hasn’t Honda not upgraded
Honda is not a luxury vehicle.
So even today they are going to cut cost somewhere.
Now if you go to Acura it will have LED bulbs.
Good Comparison is 2023 Acura MDX Advance Package vs Honda 2023-2024 Honda Pilot Elite
The bulbs in MDX are LED some on the Pilot taillights are not LED.
So bean counters at Honda.
We were told years ago at a Honda vehicle owners meet that Honda is very tight with there spending.
This was by one of their Chief Engineers.
I wish that I would’ve liked Honda to come out with the 2025 Honda passport with the new Honda infotainment system new instrument cluster, the transmission, the new 3.5 V6 that would be paired with the 10 speed automatic transmission instead of a 9 speed automatic transmission.
Second roll need more flexibility. I will mine 2022 2nd roll and till 2 inches more for long ride comfort
Wow 2024 passport no turbo no CVT that's already a large plus maybe these car company's are finely hearing what people really want in a car😊
I hope that the brakes are better on this passport than my Rigdeline. I like everything on this truck but the brakes.
Timing Belt?? No chain drive? Factor that in for the long term.
Right. My highlander has a chain, basically will last forever. Honda continues to use belts.
@@magnoliap5824 if you've ever been stranded because of a timing belt you'll know why I mentioned this.
I prefer the engine is not have a timing belt as I don't want to be digging into the engine at 60 to 80,000 me to replace.
glad i watched every last second
Even the end? LOL
@@AAutoBuyersGuide even the end
You might want to add towing to your list.