Passport vs Highlander: A Battle of SUV Titans
In the ever-growing world of SUVs, two models stand out as fan favorites – the Honda Passport and the Toyota Highlander. Both offering spacious interiors, powerful engines, and a host of advanced features, these two vehicles are often pitted against each other in the battle for dominance in the midsize SUV segment. But which one comes out on top? Let’s take a closer look at the Passport and Highlander to find out.
First up, the Honda Passport. Launched in 2019, the Passport is a two-row SUV that slots in between the smaller Honda CR-V and the larger Honda Pilot. With rugged styling and impressive off-road capabilities, the Passport is perfect for adventure-seekers who want a vehicle that can handle rough terrain with ease. Under the hood, the Passport comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, giving it plenty of power for highway cruising or off-road excursions.
On the other hand, we have the Toyota Highlander. The Highlander has been a mainstay in the midsize SUV segment for years, consistently delivering a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and excellent reliability. The latest iteration of the Highlander features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque – slightly more power than the Passport. The Highlander also offers a hybrid powertrain option for those looking for better fuel efficiency.
When it comes to interior space, both the Passport and Highlander offer plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The Passport has a slightly larger cargo area, with up to 50.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row and 100.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Highlander, on the other hand, offers 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 84.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Both SUVs feature upscale materials and a user-friendly infotainment system, but some may find the Highlander’s interior to be more luxurious and refined.
In terms of technology, both the Passport and Highlander come equipped with a host of advanced features to enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. The Passport offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, along with available features like a wireless charging pad, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Highlander also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with available features like a panoramic sunroof, a premium JBL audio system, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
When it comes to safety, both the Passport and Highlander excel. The Passport comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Highlander, meanwhile, offers the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ package, which adds features like pedestrian detection, lane tracing assist, and road sign recognition. Both SUVs have performed well in crash tests conducted by the IIHS and NHTSA, earning top marks for their safety performance.
On the road, the Passport and Highlander offer a comfortable and composed ride, with responsive handling and smooth acceleration. The Passport’s suspension is tuned for off-road driving, so it may feel a bit firmer over rough roads compared to the Highlander. The Highlander, on the other hand, prioritizes comfort and refinement, with a smooth and quiet ride that is perfect for long highway trips.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Highlander has the edge thanks to its available hybrid powertrain. The Highlander Hybrid delivers an impressive 36 mpg combined, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. The Passport, on the other hand, returns an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, which is respectable for a V6-powered SUV but falls short of the Highlander Hybrid’s impressive numbers.
When it comes to pricing, the Passport and Highlander are similarly priced, with both starting around $32,000 for the base model. However, the Highlander offers a wider range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their SUV to suit their needs and budget. The Passport, on the other hand, comes in four trim levels, with the top-tier Elite trim starting at around $45,000.
So, which SUV comes out on top in the battle of the Passport vs Highlander? It ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you value off-road capability and rugged styling, the Passport is the clear choice. However, if you prioritize comfort, interior luxury, and fuel efficiency, the Highlander may be the better option. Both SUVs offer a compelling mix of features, performance, and value, making them strong contenders in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
