The Honda Passport once stood as a compelling mid-size SUV, perfectly positioned between the compact CR-V and the larger Pilot. However, in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, the 2024 Honda Passport, even in itsBlack Edition trim, is beginning to feel a step behind the curve. While still offering some attractive qualities, it’s facing increasing pressure from more modern and efficient rivals. Honda’s recent updates to the CR-V and Pilot highlight the Passport’s need for a significant refresh to maintain its relevance and sales momentum.
Alt text: The 2024 Honda Passport Black Edition is put to the test in a comprehensive review.
Despite a recent facelift a couple of years prior, the 2024 Passport struggles to hide its age in key areas. One of its touted strengths, the 3.5-liter V6 engine, exemplifies this duality. While it undeniably offers a pleasing engine note and a smooth power delivery, especially at higher RPMs, it’s less impressive in everyday driving scenarios. The V6 produces a respectable 290 horsepower, enabling a brisk 0-60 mph sprint in around six seconds – a competitive figure in its class. However, the engine’s low-end torque is lacking, often necessitating frequent downshifts to access adequate power for passing or merging. Furthermore, fuel economy is a significant drawback, with the Passport averaging around 20 MPG, making it less efficient than many of its competitors. In contrast, rivals like the Toyota Highlander with its new 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offer better real-world torque and superior fuel efficiency, even in a larger vehicle. While a charismatic V6 is often preferred, the Passport’s engine lacks the low-end punch expected from a motor of this size. On a positive note, the Passport retains a solid 5,000-pound towing capacity, a useful feature for those needing to haul trailers or boats.
Alt text: Side profile of the 2024 Honda Passport during a road test, highlighting its design and proportions.
Adding to the powertrain concerns is the Passport’s nine-speed automatic transmission. While generally smooth in upshifts, it exhibits a sluggishness that detracts from the driving experience. The most notable issue arises during downshifts, particularly when using the paddle shifters for manual control. When attempting to downshift for engine braking on downhill stretches, the transmission often hesitates, creating a disconcerting “neutral pause.” This delay can lead to a momentary surge in speed before the gear change is completed, sometimes even resulting in a slight increase in speed when engine braking is desired. This behavior, also observed in other Honda and Acura SUVs with this transmission, is not only unsettling but also raises concerns, especially when towing. The lack of responsiveness in the transmission further contributes to the feeling that the Passport is not as refined as newer competitors.
Where the Honda Passport still shines is in its driving dynamics. The steering and handling are genuinely commendable, offering a more engaging experience than many SUVs in its class. The thin-rimmed leather steering wheel provides excellent tactile feedback, and the steering itself is surprisingly communicative, instilling confidence and control. Unlike some SUVs that feel disconnected and toy-like, the Passport delivers a more car-like driving feel with a sense of substance. The ride quality is well-composed across various speeds, and while not overtly sporty, the Passport handles corners with competence and composure. It’s unfortunate that the powertrain doesn’t quite match the chassis’ capabilities, as the Passport’s driving characteristics are otherwise a strong point.
Alt text: Interior view of the 2024 Honda Passport Black Edition, showcasing the dashboard and infotainment system.
Interior space is clearly a priority in the Passport’s design. It offers generous cabin and cargo room, making it a practical choice for families or those needing to haul gear. However, its size raises a question: why not opt for the larger Honda Pilot? The Passport, while 10 inches shorter than the Pilot, shares a similar width and height, resulting in a comparable footprint on the road. The CR-V, although only four inches shorter than the Passport, is noticeably smaller and narrower, yet still provides ample space for five passengers. Given that the Pilot doesn’t feel significantly larger to drive and offers the added versatility of a third row, it arguably presents a more compelling package for many buyers. Furthermore, the Pilot benefits from a more refined 10-speed automatic transmission and doesn’t suffer from a fuel economy penalty despite its increased size.
Inside, the Passport’s interior, even in the top-trim Black Edition, prioritizes functionality over outright luxury. While build quality and material precision are evident, the overall ambiance isn’t as premium as some competitors. The eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system appears small by today’s standards and is oddly angled upwards, making it seem even smaller and potentially harder to view. The screen’s cluttered interface and the abundance of information displayed can feel overwhelming, and many consumers now expect larger, more user-friendly displays. The dated design of the infotainment system and the button shapes throughout the cabin contribute to the feeling that the Passport’s interior is behind the times. Even the newer Honda Pilot, while also featuring a smaller-than-ideal nine-inch screen, presents a slightly more modern appearance.
Despite these shortcomings, the 2024 Honda Passport remains a comfortable and spacious SUV, particularly for passengers. The second-row seating offers ample legroom and headroom, and the Passport is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and technology features expected in a vehicle in the $50,000 price range. Comfort and practicality remain hallmarks of the Passport and the Honda brand in general.
Alt text: A detailed shot of the spacious rear seats in the 2024 Honda Passport, emphasizing passenger comfort.
In conclusion, the 2024 Honda Passport possesses a fundamentally sound chassis and engaging driving dynamics, hinting at its potential as a driver-focused SUV. However, it’s held back by a lackluster transmission, an aging interior design, and an engine that lacks low-end responsiveness. With a price tag approaching $50,000, it enters a competitive segment where larger SUVs with added features like third-row seating are also available. The Honda Passport is not a bad SUV, but it’s undeniably in need of a significant update to bring it in line with the advancements in the mid-size SUV class and to truly compete in the mid-2020s market.
2024 Honda Passport Black Edition – Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Engaging steering and handling
- Spacious cabin and cargo area
- Comfortable ride quality
Cons:
- Thirsty V6 engine with weak low-end torque
- Dated interior design and small infotainment screen
- Sluggish nine-speed automatic transmission
Alt text: Leather seats of the 2024 Honda Passport Black Edition, showcasing the interior materials and seat design.
