In the highly competitive world of midsize SUVs, two Japanese automotive giants stand out among the rest – the Honda Passport and the Toyota Highlander. Both vehicles offer a combination of style, comfort, and performance that make them appealing choices for families and adventure seekers alike.
The Honda Passport made its triumphant return to the market in 2019 after a nearly two-decade hiatus. The model has quickly gained popularity among consumers thanks to its rugged design, spacious interior, and impressive off-road capabilities. On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander has long been a favorite among midsize SUV buyers, offering a comfortable ride, reliable performance, and a reputation for durability.
When it comes to design, the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander both have their own unique aesthetic appeal. The Passport boasts a bold, rugged exterior with sharp lines and distinctive styling cues that give it a tough and sporty look. It sits higher off the ground, making it ideal for off-road adventures and rough terrain. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, has a sleek and sophisticated design that exudes elegance and refinement. Its aerodynamic profile and smooth lines give it a more polished and upscale appearance.
In terms of interior space and comfort, both vehicles offer plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The Honda Passport features a spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for all occupants. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long journeys a breeze. The Toyota Highlander also offers a roomy interior with plenty of space for passengers to stretch out and relax. The seats are well-cushioned and provide a smooth and comfortable ride even on rough roads.
When it comes to performance, the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander both deliver impressive power and handling. The Passport is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, providing excellent traction and control in all driving conditions. The Highlander, on the other hand, offers a choice of two powertrains – a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, or a hybrid powertrain with a combined output of 243 horsepower. Both options provide smooth and responsive acceleration, and the Highlander’s handling is precise and composed.
In terms of technology and features, both the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander come well-equipped with a range of standard and available amenities. The Passport offers a user-friendly infotainment system with a responsive touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and available navigation. It also comes with a host of advanced safety features, including a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Highlander similarly offers a robust suite of technology features, including a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a range of driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander has a slight edge over the Honda Passport, thanks to its available hybrid powertrain. The Highlander Hybrid boasts an impressive EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined, making it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class. The standard gasoline engine in the Highlander still offers a respectable 24 mpg combined. The Honda Passport, while not as fuel-efficient as the Highlander Hybrid, is still competitive with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined.
In terms of pricing, the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander are similarly priced, with the Passport starting at around $32,000 and the Highlander starting at around $34,000. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and optional features that can increase the price significantly. Overall, the Passport tends to be slightly more affordable than the Highlander, making it a more budget-friendly option for consumers.
Ultimately, choosing between the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander comes down to personal preference and priorities. The Passport appeals to those seeking a rugged and adventurous SUV with excellent off-road capabilities, while the Highlander caters to those looking for a comfortable and family-friendly vehicle with a reputation for reliability. Whichever vehicle you choose, both the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander are solid options that offer a winning combination of style, performance, and features.
