Why does a pilot get better mpg than a Passport?

Pilots are able to achieve significantly better fuel efficiency compared to drivers of vehicles like the Honda Passport SUV. This is due to a combination of factors, including the aerodynamic design of aircraft, the efficient engines used in aviation, and the specialized training and techniques employed by pilots.

Aerodynamic Design of Aircraft

Aircraft are designed with a focus on maximizing aerodynamic efficiency, which allows them to achieve much better fuel economy than ground-based vehicles. The sleek, streamlined shape of an airplane's fuselage and wings reduces air resistance, or drag, allowing the aircraft to fly more efficiently and use less fuel. In contrast, the boxy, blunt shape of an SUV like the Passport creates more drag, resulting in poorer fuel efficiency.

Efficient Aircraft Engines

Jet engines used in commercial and private aircraft are highly optimized for fuel efficiency. These engines are designed to operate at high altitudes where the air is thinner, allowing them to achieve better fuel economy compared to the internal combustion engines found in most ground vehicles. Pilots are able to take advantage of the efficient engine design to maximize their fuel savings.

Pilot Training and Techniques

• Pilots undergo extensive training to learn techniques for operating their aircraft in the most fuel-efficient manner possible. This includes optimizing the aircraft's speed, altitude, and other parameters to minimize fuel consumption.


• Pilots also closely monitor their fuel usage and make adjustments as needed to maintain optimal efficiency throughout the flight.


• In contrast, most drivers of ground-based vehicles do not receive specialized training on fuel-efficient driving techniques, and may not actively monitor their fuel usage to the same degree as pilots.

By combining the aerodynamic design of aircraft, the efficiency of jet engines, and the specialized training and techniques of pilots, it's clear why pilots are able to achieve significantly better fuel economy compared to drivers of SUVs and other ground-based vehicles.

Why does the Honda Passport get bad gas mileage?

Tire and Drive Train Configuration: Differences in tire size and drivetrain configurations (such as all-wheel drive vs. front-wheel drive) can impact fuel efficiency. If the Passport has larger tires or a more complex drivetrain, it may consume more fuel.

Which has better gas mileage, Passport or Pilot?

The Honda Passport vs. Pilot gas mileage comparison shows that the Pilot has slightly better efficiency with 2WD, achieving up to an EPA-estimated 19/27/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined). The Passport, which comes standard with AWD, earns an EPA-estimated 19/24/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).

What are the downfalls of a Honda Pilot?

Common cons for the Honda Pilot include transmission issues like jerking or hesitation, a potentially cramped third row for adults, and subpar acceleration and braking performance. Some model years have been associated with specific problems, such as electrical malfunctions, airbag defects, and premature brake/suspension issues. Other drawbacks can include a small standard infotainment screen and a lack of luxury features compared to some competitors.
 
Performance and driving

• Acceleration: Acceleration can be lackluster, with some reviewers noting it feels slow to respond, especially when accelerating from a stop or during passing maneuvers. 
• Braking: While stopping is generally smooth, the Pilot's emergency stopping distances are longer than those of some rivals. 
• Transmission: Some model years have reported transmission problems, including rough shifts, hesitation, and jerking. 
• Handling: Some have described the steering as vague and cornering as cumbersome. 

Interior and technology

• Third row: While the third row can fit adults, it is often cramped and better suited for children or short trips. 
• Infotainment: The standard touchscreen is considered small on lower trims compared to competitors. Some wireless features like the charger or phone pairing can be inconsistent. 
• Luxury features: The Pilot can lack certain luxury features found in competitors, such as cooled second-row seats or standard head-up displays on more trims. 

Reliability and build 

• Specific model years: Certain model years, such as 2003, 2004, 2005, 2011, 2016, and 2017, have been cited as having recurring issues with transmissions, airbags, or electrical systems. 
• Brake issues: Some owners have reported brake vibration, which may be due to warped rotors. 
• Windshield cracks: Some users have noted issues with windshields cracking easily, possibly due to thinner glass or a larger surface area. 

Other drawbacks

• Fuel economy: The Pilot may not be as fuel-efficient as some competitors. 
• Visibility: While generally good, some find the available surround-view camera system difficult to use due to a small screen and poor resolution. 
• Customization: There can be a lack of consistency in features across different trims, which may limit customization options for some buyers. 

Why choose a Passport over a Pilot?

The Honda Passport offers standard AWD across all trims, making it a strong choice for snowy commutes and rugged backroads. The Honda Pilot also offers AWD, but only on select trims. For families who want maximum seating and winter confidence, the Pilot's Elite and TrailSport trims deliver both.