What is a Honda Passport comparable to?
The Honda Passport is most closely comparable to other midsize, two-row SUVs with a rugged edge, such as the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Bronco, and Chevrolet Blazer.
What this means in practice: the Passport sits in the same broad market as other mid-size SUVs that emphasize cargo space and capable four-wheel drive without committing to a third row of seats. It uses Honda’s trusted V6 engine, offers decent towing capability, and features a more utilitarian, adventure-ready character than some softer crossovers. Buyers weighing the Passport against rivals should consider how much emphasis they place on off-road ability, interior refinement, and on-road comfort.
Overview: Where the Passport fits in Honda’s lineup
The Honda Passport reintroduced in 2019 as a two-row, midsize SUV that shares DNA with the Honda Pilot. It is designed to provide ample cargo space and solid towing with a more rugged vibe and less emphasis on a third-row seat. The current lineup typically includes Sport, EX-L, and TrailSport trims, with the TrailSport adding some off-road-oriented features and styling tweaks. Power comes from a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is available across trims, making it suitable for light off-road use and all-weather driving. In terms of interior space, it offers substantial cargo capacity behind the second row and a comfortable second-row area for adults on longer trips.
Comparable models in the midsize SUV class
The following models are commonly considered rivals to the Honda Passport for buyers seeking a two-row, midsize SUV with a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. This list helps place the Passport within its competitive set.
- Toyota 4Runner — A rugged, body-on-frame SUV known for serious off-road capability and a straightforward interior. It prioritizes durability and trail performance, sometimes at the expense of ride refinement and interior quietness.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee — A more upscale, versatile option with multiple engine choices, strong on-road manners, and solid off-road capability in several trims. It blends comfort with capability and tends to appeal to buyers looking for a more premium feel.
- Ford Bronco — An off-road‑focused, family-friendly SUV available in several configurations (two-door and four-door) with strong off-road chops and modern tech. It competes with the Passport for buyers who want extreme trail readiness.
- Chevrolet Blazer — A stylish, sportier alternative in the same size class, offering a comfortable ride and a range of engines. It leans more toward on-road performance and everyday usability, with less off-road emphasis than some rivals.
Across these rivals, the Passport tends to sit at the crossroads of practical utility and modest refinement, appealing to shoppers who want a capable daily driver with weekend excursion potential rather than a luxury-oriented or fully off-road exclusive machine.
Practical considerations when comparing
When evaluating the Passport against the above rivals, buyers should weigh several practical factors that often drive the decision. The following list highlights key considerations to inform a comparison.
- Power and performance — The Passport’s 3.5-liter V6 provides robust acceleration for its class, with the nine-speed automatic delivering smooth shifts. Some rivals offer additional engine options or more sporty tuning, which can affect towing and throttle response.
- Interior space and cargo — With two rows of seating, the Passport prioritizes cargo and passenger space in the second row. Compare cargo behind the second row and overall cabin comfort to ensure it fits your everyday needs and weekend gear.
- Off-road capability vs on-road comfort — TrailSport trim and similar variants emphasize off-road ability, but some rivals may deliver a smoother highway ride or more luxury features. Decide how important trail capability is relative to daily comfort.
- Technology and safety — Evaluate user-friendly infotainment, driver-assistance features, and available active safety tech. Honda Sensing suite comes standard on many trims, but competing models may offer different feature sets or higher-end tech in upper trims.
- Pricing and trims — Passport pricing generally sits in the mid-$30k to mid-$40k range depending on trim and options, with rivals ranging in similar territory but often with different standard features or option packages. Consider total cost of ownership, including warranty, fuel economy, and resale values.
Ultimately, the choice among these models comes down to whether you prioritize rugged off-road capability, interior refinement, or a balanced, all-around everyday vehicle. The Passport occupies a space where practicality meets adventure readiness, making it a strong contender for buyers who want more capability than a typical small SUV but without committing to a true third-row family hauler.
Summary
The Honda Passport sits in the midsize, two-row SUV segment as a rugged yet comfortable option aimed at buyers who value cargo space and capable all-season performance. Its closest competitors include the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Bronco, and Chevrolet Blazer, each offering different blends of off-road prowess, luxury, and daily usability. When comparing, consider powertrains, interior space, off-road capability, tech features, and pricing to determine which model best fits your needs. In short, the Passport is the practical, adventure-ready alternative in a crowded field of midsize SUVs.
