Huge. That is how we would describe the Passport driving expertise. By basing it on a three-row SUV platform, Honda has created a mid-sizer that feels massive from behind the wheel. This shall be nice for drivers who really feel extra snug when they’re on the helm of an enormous cargo ship. Drivers preferring a extra nimble, car-like expertise could also be disenchanted, particularly when it comes time to park this massive brute with out an choice for a fowl’s-eye digicam system. On the street, the Passport displays a snug journey with minimal street noise, so it’s nice for lengthy street journeys. Honda additionally touts the Passport’s off-road functionality with a number of terrain modes however we did not have the prospect to get it soiled throughout our week of testing.
We nonetheless love Honda’s VTEC V6, which delivers easy but brisk acceleration and a pleasant engine observe. The nine-speed transmission it is mated to just isn’t excellent nevertheless it feels smarter than the final Acura MDX we examined. Honda has tuned the transmission to kick down extra readily when the throttle is utilized, although it may well nonetheless get buried in too many gears when a fast burst of acceleration is required. Inserting the transmission into sport mode will power the transmission to carry gears longer, making it simpler to carry out fast passing maneuvers.
Honda has executed an ideal job making Honda Sensing commonplace on all Passport trim ranges however among the expertise does not really feel like the corporate’s greatest. The adaptive cruise management shuts off at low speeds (once we like to make use of it essentially the most) and the lane maintain help doesn’t present as a lot steering intervention as another Honda fashions we have examined.
