Honda reintroduced the Passport in 2019 after a hiatus since 2002, and it’s back with a bang, proving itself as a top contender in the midsize crossover SUV category. For small families seeking a blend of practicality and fun, the 2019 Honda Passport emerges as a compelling option. Positioned as the slightly smaller sibling to the Honda Pilot, the Passport cleverly demonstrates that sometimes, less is indeed more. While adept at handling everyday tasks like school runs and errands, this crossover SUV is also equipped to venture off the beaten path, confidently tackling various terrains from mud to snow and gravel. Its on-road performance is equally commendable, offering a smooth ride and efficient fuel economy for highway driving. The Passport’s maneuverability in city environments, especially in tight parking situations, is another significant advantage. Its sporty aesthetic and elevated driving position further enhance its appeal, making it a standout choice for those seeking the Best Midsize Crossover.
Unmatched Cargo and Passenger Space: A Family-Friendly Crossover
One of the standout features that positions the 2019 Honda Passport as the best midsize crossover for small families is its exceptionally generous cargo space. Boasting a trunk capacity of 41.2 cubic feet, it readily accommodates luggage, groceries, and sports equipment. For larger loads, the Passport’s second-row seats fold down effortlessly, expanding the cargo area to an impressive 78 cubic feet. A particularly useful design element is the under-floor storage bin in the trunk, cleverly divided into two compartments. This hidden space is ideal for keeping items organized, concealed, or preventing them from sliding around. Whether it’s muddy sports gear or sensitive packages, this feature adds a layer of practicality that families will appreciate.
Beyond cargo, the 2019 Honda Passport ensures passenger comfort is not compromised. It comfortably seats five adults with ample legroom, making it suitable for families with growing children. The rear seat is spacious enough to accommodate up to three car seats, a significant consideration for families with younger children. Even taller passengers will find the legroom in the second row to be more than adequate, ensuring comfortable journeys for everyone.
Off-Road Capability Meets Everyday Practicality in the Passport
While many drivers may primarily use their crossover for daily commuting, the 2019 Honda Passport offers the versatility to handle more adventurous excursions. Equipped with multiple off-road drive modes and an available all-wheel-drive system, the Passport is ready to tackle diverse driving conditions. Drivers can easily switch between Normal mode and specialized modes like Snow, Mud, and Sand. These modes intelligently adjust the vehicle’s performance by modifying the starting gear, traction control, shifting patterns, and torque distribution to optimize handling on different surfaces. This adaptability is particularly beneficial for those living in regions with varied weather conditions or who enjoy outdoor activities that involve driving on unpaved roads.
Complementing its rugged capabilities, the Passport also prioritizes comfort. Both the driver and front passenger seats feature power adjustments, allowing for personalized seating positions. The Elite trim elevates comfort further with heated and ventilated front seats, a welcome feature in both cold and hot climates. These comfort-focused elements ensure that whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, the Passport provides a pleasant driving experience.
Tech-Savvy Features Elevate the Honda Passport to Crossover Excellence
The 2019 Honda Passport integrates a suite of technology features that enhance convenience, entertainment, and connectivity, reinforcing its position as a leading midsize crossover. Notable tech features include:
- Wireless Charging Pad: Provides convenient charging for compatible smartphones, reducing cable clutter.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Offers seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and communication apps.
- Push Button Start: Adds a touch of modern convenience and streamlines vehicle operation.
- Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Ensures personalized comfort for all occupants with individual temperature settings for different zones.
- Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot: Keeps passengers connected on the go, ideal for families on road trips.
- 8-inch Touchscreen: Features smartphone-like usability with swipe, tap, and pinch gestures for intuitive control of infotainment functions.
- SiriusXM 2.0: Offers advanced satellite radio features, including pause, rewind, and fast forward capabilities.
- Multiple USB Ports and 12-Volt Outlets: Provides ample charging options for devices throughout the vehicle.
- Garmin-Based Navigation System: Delivers reliable navigation with enhanced graphics and speed limit displays, although smartphone navigation remains a popular alternative.
These technology features collectively contribute to a user-friendly and enjoyable driving experience, making the Passport a tech-forward choice in the midsize crossover segment.
Safety First: Standard Safety Features Making the Passport a Top Midsize Crossover
Safety is a paramount concern for families, and the 2019 Honda Passport excels by offering a comprehensive suite of standard safety features that are often optional extras in other midsize crossovers. These standard systems provide an extra layer of security and driver assistance:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: Detects potential frontal collisions and automatically applies the brakes to mitigate or prevent impact.
- Forward Collision Warning: Alerts the driver to potential collision situations, providing crucial extra seconds to react.
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Departure Warning: Warns the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane and can gently guide the vehicle back into the lane.
- Road Departure Mitigation: Detects when the vehicle is about to leave the road and provides steering and braking assistance to prevent road departure.
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Offers a clear view behind the vehicle with adjustable angles, aiding in parking and reversing safely.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, enhancing safety and convenience on highways.
The inclusion of these advanced safety technologies as standard equipment underscores Honda’s commitment to safety and makes the Passport a particularly appealing choice for families prioritizing security in their vehicle.
Honda Passport vs. Honda Pilot: Choosing the Right Midsize Crossover for Your Needs
The Honda Passport and Honda Pilot share many similarities, often leading buyers to consider both models. While both are excellent SUVs, they cater to slightly different needs. The Pilot, with its three rows and seating for up to eight passengers, is designed for larger families or those needing maximum passenger capacity. The Passport, a two-row, five-passenger crossover, is tailored for smaller families who prioritize space and capability without needing a third row.
Interestingly, at the base trim level, the larger Honda Pilot LX can be slightly less expensive than the Passport Sport. However, the Passport comes standard with more advanced safety features and enhanced off-road capabilities. When comparing higher trim levels, the Passport Elite is notably more affordable than the Pilot Elite. The better value proposition ultimately depends on individual needs. For larger families requiring more seating, the Pilot is the logical choice. However, for smaller families who value robust standard safety features, off-road readiness, and a slightly more compact and sporty midsize crossover, the 2019 Honda Passport stands out as the best option.
In Conclusion
The 2019 Honda Passport successfully blends versatility, spaciousness, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features into a compelling midsize crossover package. Its ability to seamlessly transition from daily family duties to off-road adventures, combined with its comfortable and tech-rich interior, solidifies its position as a top pick. For small families in the market for the best midsize crossover, the Honda Passport warrants serious consideration and a test drive to fully appreciate its well-rounded capabilities.
