2024 Honda Passport Sport: Honest Review & Expert Insights
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2024 Honda Passport Sport. If you're considering this SUV, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its pros and cons. No fluff, just the real deal to help you make an informed decision. So, buckle up and let's get started!
Overview of the 2024 Honda Passport Sport
The 2024 Honda Passport Sport is the base trim of Honda's mid-size SUV, offering a blend of rugged capability and everyday practicality. It's designed for those who need a reliable vehicle for both city commutes and weekend adventures. Think of it as the gateway to the Passport lineup, providing a solid foundation of features and performance without breaking the bank. Now, you might be wondering, what exactly does the "Sport" trim bring to the table? Well, it includes essential features like an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and Honda Sensing safety suite. But it's more than just a list of features; it's about the overall experience. The Passport Sport aims to deliver a comfortable ride, ample space for passengers and cargo, and the dependability that Honda is known for. It's a compelling option in the competitive mid-size SUV market, especially for buyers who prioritize value and reliability. Compared to other trims like the EX-L or TrailSport, the Sport trim focuses on providing core functionalities at a more accessible price point. This makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers who don't want to compromise on essential features and safety. Plus, with its V6 engine and available all-wheel drive, the Passport Sport is ready to tackle various road conditions, whether you're navigating city streets or exploring unpaved trails. So, if you're in the market for a versatile and dependable SUV, the 2024 Honda Passport Sport is definitely worth considering.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance, the 2024 Honda Passport Sport doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out a respectable 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provides plenty of grunt for both city driving and highway cruising. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, which helps to optimize fuel efficiency and deliver responsive acceleration. Whether you're merging onto the highway or climbing a steep hill, the Passport Sport has enough power to get the job done. One of the standout features of the Passport Sport is its available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Honda's Intelligent Traction Management system allows you to select different driving modes, such as Snow, Mud, and Sand, to optimize traction in various conditions. This makes the Passport Sport a capable companion for weekend adventures, whether you're hitting the trails or navigating snowy roads. Even in its standard front-wheel-drive configuration, the Passport Sport offers confident handling and stability. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you a good feel for the road and making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the Passport Sport strikes a good balance between performance and comfort, making it a versatile choice for daily driving and occasional off-road excursions. Compared to some of its competitors, the Passport Sport's V6 engine offers more power and refinement. It's a tried-and-true powertrain that has proven to be reliable and durable over the years. So, if you're looking for an SUV that can handle a variety of driving conditions with confidence, the 2024 Honda Passport Sport is definitely worth a look.
Interior and Technology
Stepping inside the 2024 Honda Passport Sport, you'll find a spacious and functional interior designed with practicality in mind. The cabin is well-built with durable materials, and the layout is straightforward and easy to use. While it may not be the most luxurious interior in its class, it offers a comfortable and practical environment for both driver and passengers. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing good comfort on long drives. There's plenty of headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats, making it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to transport passengers regularly. One of the highlights of the Passport Sport's interior is its ample cargo space. With the rear seats up, you get a generous 41.2 cubic feet of cargo volume, which is plenty for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Fold the rear seats down, and the cargo area expands to an impressive 77.7 cubic feet, providing even more room for larger items. When it comes to technology, the Passport Sport comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display that's easy to see and use. The infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and other apps. The system is responsive and intuitive, making it easy to control your media and access important vehicle information. Other standard tech features include a seven-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports for charging your devices. While the Passport Sport doesn't offer some of the more advanced features found in higher trims, such as a premium audio system or a larger touchscreen, it provides all the essentials for a connected and convenient driving experience. The focus is on simplicity and functionality, making it easy for anyone to use the technology without feeling overwhelmed.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for Honda, and the 2024 Honda Passport Sport comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. The Honda Sensing suite is standard on all Passport models, including the Sport trim, and includes a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that can help prevent accidents and mitigate their severity. One of the key features of Honda Sensing is the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which can detect potential frontal collisions and automatically apply the brakes to reduce the severity of the impact. The system can also provide audible and visual warnings to alert the driver to take action. Another important feature is the Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), which can detect when the vehicle is drifting out of its lane and provide steering assistance to help keep it on course. The system also includes Lane Departure Warning (LDW), which alerts the driver when the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane. The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system is another valuable safety feature, maintaining a set following distance from the vehicle ahead and automatically adjusting the speed to maintain that distance. This can help reduce driver fatigue on long highway drives and make the driving experience more relaxed. Other standard safety features on the Passport Sport include a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The Passport has also earned good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. Overall, the 2024 Honda Passport Sport provides a high level of safety and peace of mind, thanks to its comprehensive suite of safety features and its strong safety ratings. Whether you're driving in the city or on the highway, you can feel confident that the Passport is working to protect you and your passengers.
Fuel Economy
Let's talk fuel economy for the 2024 Honda Passport Sport. With its V6 engine, it's not the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class, but it's respectable for its size and performance. The EPA estimates for the front-wheel-drive model are around 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. If you opt for the all-wheel-drive version, those numbers drop slightly to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Now, keep in mind that these are just estimates, and your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. Factors like aggressive acceleration, heavy braking, and carrying extra weight can all impact your fuel consumption. However, in real-world driving, many owners report that they are able to achieve fuel economy numbers that are close to the EPA estimates. To maximize your fuel efficiency, try to maintain a steady speed, avoid unnecessary idling, and keep your tires properly inflated. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, can also help to improve your fuel economy. Compared to some of its competitors, the Passport Sport's fuel economy is about average. Some smaller SUVs may offer better fuel efficiency, but they may not have the same level of power and cargo space. Ultimately, the Passport Sport strikes a good balance between performance and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily driving and long road trips. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, it offers enough efficiency to keep your fuel costs reasonable, especially if you're mindful of your driving habits. So, if you're looking for an SUV that can handle a variety of driving conditions without breaking the bank at the gas pump, the 2024 Honda Passport Sport is worth considering.
Pricing and Value
When it comes to pricing, the 2024 Honda Passport Sport is positioned as an accessible option in the mid-size SUV segment. The base MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) typically starts around $33,000, but this can vary depending on your location and any optional features or packages you choose. Keep in mind that the MSRP doesn't include taxes, fees, or destination charges, so the final price you pay will likely be higher. One of the key selling points of the Passport Sport is its strong value proposition. It offers a lot of features and capabilities for the price, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. Standard features like the V6 engine, Honda Sensing safety suite, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility provide a solid foundation of value. Compared to other trims in the Passport lineup, the Sport trim is the most affordable, making it a great entry point for those who want to experience the Passport's versatility and reliability without breaking the bank. Of course, you can always add optional features or packages to customize your Passport Sport to your liking. However, even in its base configuration, it offers a compelling package of features and performance. When comparing the Passport Sport to its competitors, it's important to consider the overall value proposition. Some SUVs may offer more features or a more luxurious interior, but they may also come with a higher price tag. The Passport Sport strikes a good balance between price, features, and performance, making it a smart choice for buyers who prioritize value. To get the best deal on a 2024 Honda Passport Sport, it's always a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different dealerships. You can also try negotiating the price with the dealer, especially if you're willing to finance or lease the vehicle through them. With a little bit of research and negotiation, you can often save a significant amount of money on your purchase.
Pros and Cons
Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2024 Honda Passport Sport so you have a clear picture.
Pros:
- Spacious Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it great for families or road trips.
- Standard V6 Engine: The 280-horsepower V6 provides ample power for both city and highway driving.
- Available All-Wheel Drive: Honda's Intelligent Traction Management system offers enhanced traction in various conditions.
- Honda Sensing Suite: A comprehensive suite of safety features that can help prevent accidents.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and more.
- Strong Value Proposition: Offers a lot of features and capabilities for the price.
Cons:
- Fuel Economy: Not the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class.
- Basic Interior: The interior is functional but lacks the luxury of some competitors.
- Limited Trim Options: The Sport trim is the base model and doesn't offer as many customization options as higher trims.
Final Verdict
So, what's the final verdict on the 2024 Honda Passport Sport? Overall, it's a solid choice for buyers who need a versatile and reliable mid-size SUV. It offers a spacious interior, a powerful V6 engine, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, all at an accessible price point. While it may not be the most luxurious or fuel-efficient SUV on the market, it provides a compelling balance of features, performance, and value. If you're looking for a dependable SUV that can handle daily commutes and weekend adventures with ease, the Passport Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a practical and well-rounded vehicle that's sure to provide years of reliable service. However, if you prioritize luxury or need the latest and greatest tech features, you may want to consider other options. But for those who value simplicity, functionality, and reliability, the 2024 Honda Passport Sport is a great choice.