In the world of midsize SUVs, the Honda Passport and Subaru Outback have become two popular choices for consumers seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle for their everyday needs. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, capable performance, and a range of advanced technology features, making them appealing options for those in the market for a new SUV. But which one is the better choice? Let’s take a closer look at the Honda Passport vs Subaru Outback to see how they stack up against each other.
Design and Size
The Honda Passport is a slightly larger vehicle compared to the Subaru Outback, measuring in at 190.5 inches long and 78.6 inches wide. It boasts a rugged and athletic design, with a commanding presence on the road. The Passport features a bold front grille, sleek LED headlights, and 20-inch alloy wheels that give it a more aggressive and modern look.
On the other hand, the Subaru Outback has a more traditional wagon-like design, measuring in at 191.3 inches long and 73.0 inches wide. It has a more understated and practical aesthetic, with a roof rack and lower ground clearance that give it a more laid-back and adventurous vibe.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Honda Passport and Subaru Outback offer different options for consumers to choose from. The Passport comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides plenty of power for daily driving and some light off-road adventures.
Meanwhile, the Subaru Outback offers a choice between two powertrains. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). For those seeking more power, there is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine available, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive as standard, giving drivers added confidence and stability in various road conditions. The Honda Passport features an Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) AWD system, while the Subaru Outback comes with Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside the Honda Passport, drivers and passengers will find a spacious and comfortable cabin with ample legroom and headroom for all occupants. The Passport can seat up to five adults comfortably, with supportive and well-cushioned seats that provide a pleasant ride experience. The cargo area offers 41.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, which expands to 77.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
In terms of technology, the Honda Passport comes equipped with a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Other available features include a wireless charging pad, a 10-speaker premium audio system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot for connectivity on the go.
The Subaru Outback also offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with seating for up to five passengers and a cargo area that provides 32.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Outback comes standard with a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a built-in navigation system and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
Safety Features
Both the Honda Passport and Subaru Outback come equipped with a range of advanced safety features to help protect occupants on the road. The Passport includes the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist technologies as standard, which offers features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, the Passport has earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The Subaru Outback also comes with a comprehensive set of safety features, including Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. The Outback has received high safety scores from both the NHTSA and IIHS, making it a top choice for those prioritizing safety in their vehicle selection.
Conclusion
In the battle of the Honda Passport vs Subaru Outback, both vehicles offer compelling options for consumers seeking a versatile and capable SUV. The Honda Passport stands out for its powerful V6 engine, spacious interior, and modern technology features, while the Subaru Outback impresses with its practical design, advanced safety technologies, and legendary all-wheel drive system.
Ultimately, the choice between the Honda Passport and Subaru Outback comes down to personal preference and priorities. Those looking for a more powerful and rugged SUV may prefer the Honda Passport, while drivers prioritizing safety, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability may lean towards the Subaru Outback. Whichever vehicle you choose, both the Honda Passport and Subaru Outback offer solid choices for those in the market for a midsize SUV.
