The 2019 Honda Passport marked a significant comeback for Honda in the midsize SUV segment after being discontinued in 2002. Honda reintroduced the Passport, positioning it as a versatile and practical option, particularly for small families. This review explores why the 2019 Honda Passport Elite stands out as a strong contender in the competitive Good Midsize Suv market, blending everyday usability with adventurous capabilities.
Spaciousness and Practicality: Key Traits of a Good Midsize SUV
One of the most compelling aspects of the 2019 Honda Passport is its impressive cargo capacity. For families, cargo space is paramount, and the Passport excels in this area. Offering 41.2 cubic feet of space in the trunk alone, it easily accommodates groceries, sports equipment, and luggage. For larger hauls, folding down the second-row seats expands the cargo area to a generous 78 cubic feet. Furthermore, the inclusion of an under-floor storage bin in the trunk adds an extra layer of practicality. This hidden compartment, divided into sections, is ideal for stowing away items you want to keep out of sight or preventing smaller items from sliding around the main cargo area. This thoughtful design element significantly enhances the usability of the Passport as a good midsize SUV for daily family needs.
Beyond cargo, passenger space is equally important. The 2019 Honda Passport comfortably seats five adults. Families with young children will appreciate the rear seat’s capacity to accommodate multiple car seats. The spaciousness extends to legroom, ensuring comfortable journeys even for taller passengers. This balance of passenger and cargo space solidifies the Passport’s position as a truly functional good midsize SUV.
Off-Road Capability Meets On-Road Comfort in a Midsize SUV
While many midsize SUVs prioritize on-road comfort, the 2019 Honda Passport offers a notable degree of off-road capability. Equipped with an available all-wheel-drive system and selectable drive modes, the Passport can confidently handle various terrains. Drivers can switch between Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand modes, allowing the vehicle to optimize performance for different driving conditions. These modes adjust parameters such as throttle response, traction control, and transmission behavior to maximize grip and stability on challenging surfaces.
This versatility doesn’t come at the expense of on-road refinement. The Passport delivers a smooth and composed ride on highways and city streets. Its maneuverability is also commendable, making it easy to navigate tight parking spaces and urban environments. This blend of off-road prowess and everyday comfort is a key differentiator for the Passport in the good midsize SUV category.
Tech and Features: Enhancing the Midsize SUV Experience
The 2019 Honda Passport Elite trim is packed with technology features designed to enhance both convenience and enjoyment. Notable tech highlights include:
- Wireless charging pad for compatible devices.
- Seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for smartphone connectivity.
- Push-button start for ease of use.
- Tri-zone automatic climate control with humidity control and air filtration for optimal passenger comfort.
- Available embedded 4G LTE WiFi hotspot to keep occupants connected.
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with intuitive swipe, tap, and pinch controls.
- SiriusXM 2.0 with advanced features like pause, rewind, and fast forward.
- Multiple USB charging ports and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin.
- Garmin-based navigation system with improved graphics and speed limit display.
These tech features contribute significantly to the overall appeal of the 2019 Honda Passport, making it a well-equipped and modern good midsize SUV choice for tech-savvy consumers.
Safety First: Standard Safety Features in a Top Midsize SUV
Safety is a paramount consideration for families, and the 2019 Honda Passport prioritizes occupant protection with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features. These include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Helps prevent or mitigate frontal collisions by automatically applying the brakes if a potential collision is detected and the driver does not react in time.
- Forward Collision Warning: Alerts the driver to a potential frontal collision, providing early warning to take evasive action.
- Lane Keeping Assist System and Lane Departure Warning: Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane, while Lane Keeping Assist actively helps steer the vehicle back into the center of the lane.
- Road Departure Mitigation System: Uses a windshield-mounted camera to detect if the vehicle is about to leave the road and provides steering and braking assistance to help prevent road departures.
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when reversing, enhancing safety and visibility.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead while cruise control is engaged, enhancing driving convenience and safety on highways.
The inclusion of these advanced safety technologies as standard equipment underscores Honda’s commitment to safety and further solidifies the 2019 Passport’s position as a good midsize SUV for families seeking peace of mind.
Honda Passport vs. Honda Pilot: Choosing the Right Midsize SUV
When considering a good midsize SUV from Honda, buyers often compare the Passport and the Pilot. While both share similarities, they cater to slightly different needs. The Honda Pilot, with its three rows and seating for up to eight passengers, is geared towards larger families requiring maximum passenger capacity. The Passport, on the other hand, with its two rows and focus on cargo space and off-road capability, is often a better fit for smaller families or those prioritizing adventure and practicality over maximum seating.
Interestingly, at the base level, the larger Pilot can be slightly less expensive than the Passport. However, when comparing higher trim levels like the Elite, the Passport often presents a more affordable option. Ultimately, the best choice between the Passport and Pilot depends on individual needs and priorities. For those seeking a good midsize SUV that balances passenger comfort, cargo versatility, off-road capability, and advanced features in a slightly smaller package, the 2019 Honda Passport Elite is a compelling choice.
In conclusion, the 2019 Honda Passport Elite successfully blends practicality, capability, and technology into a well-rounded package. Its spacious interior, ample cargo room, off-road readiness, and comprehensive feature set make it a strong contender for anyone in the market for a good midsize SUV, particularly small families seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle.
