Honda Passport Trail Sport Review: Honest Simplicity Tested
What the Honda Passport Trail Sport Really Delivers
Car buyers face endless ads touting "luxury craftsmanship," but the Honda Passport Trail Sport takes a different path. After analyzing expert reviews and technical specs, this midsize SUV prioritizes function over flash. Its boxy design maximizes interior space, while the standard V6 engine provides robust power. However, its steering feels outdated and the Trail Sport trim lacks genuine off-road hardware. For shoppers wanting straightforward utility without pretense, here’s what you gain—and sacrifice.
Trail Sport Off-Road Claims vs Reality
Honda markets the Trail Sport as off-road ready, but the hardware tells another story. The 2022 model features:
- 18-inch Firestone Destination LE2 tires with sidewall tread (narrower than standard 20s)
- Wider track width (10mm front/rear for stability)
- Orange stitching and rubber floor mats
Critically, the skid plates are purely cosmetic plastic. Unlike Subaru's Outback Wilderness with lifted suspension and reinforced components, the Passport has:
- No lift kit
- No limited-slip differential
- No mechanical upgrades beyond tires
As one test driver noted, "Honda's torque-vectoring AWD system—which mechanically shifts power side-to-side—is impressive on pavement but lacks the rugged support for serious trails."
Interior Functionality Over Finesse
Step inside, and the Passport’s age becomes apparent. The cabin design dates to 2016, with hard plastics and basic materials dominating. Yet its space utilization excels:
- 41 cubic feet cargo space behind seats (expands to 78 cubic feet folded)
- Sliding/reclining rear seats with separate climate control
- Six cup holders, door bottle pockets, and massive front cubby
Practical perks include:
Physical buttons for safety systems and climate controls, avoiding frustrating touchscreen menus. Standard leather heated seats and wireless charging add comfort. However, rivals like the Kia Sorento or Ford Edge offer more sophisticated interiors with soft-touch materials and modern designs at similar prices.
V6 Performance: Power vs Efficiency Tradeoffs
The Passport’s 3.5L V6 remains its standout asset, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque via a 9-speed automatic. In testing:
- Acceleration feels strong without turbo lag
- Towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds
- Engine noise becomes gritty under hard throttle
Fuel economy lags behind turbo-four competitors:
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Passport | 19 | 24 | 21 |
| Kia Sorento | 24 | 29 | 26 |
No hybrid option exists, making efficiency the price for V6 power. The steering drew consistent criticism for feeling vague and "wobbly"—unusual for Honda’s typically precise handling.
How It Stacks Up Against Key Rivals
The 2022 Passport starts at $37,870 (FWD EX-L), with the Trail Sport tested here priced at $44,090. Compared to segment leaders:
Advantages:
- Class-leading cargo space
- Proven reliable V6 powertrain
- User-friendly physical controls
Disadvantages:
- Outdated cabin materials
- No genuine off-road hardware
- Subpar steering feel
The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers superior off-road capability, while the Kia Telluride provides a more premium interior. Even the Subaru Outback Wilderness delivers authentic trail-ready features at a lower price.
Essential Test Drive Checklist
- Verify cargo needs: Measure strollers/gear against the 78 cu ft maximum.
- Test AWD responsiveness: Find a gravel lot to feel torque vectoring during tight turns.
- Assess steering precision: Note low-speed maneuverability in parking lots.
- Inspect "skid plates": Confirm they’re cosmetic plastic, not metal.
- Compare infotainment: Plug in your phone—wireless CarPlay isn’t available.
The Verdict: Who Should Consider It?
The Honda Passport Trail Sport suits buyers prioritizing:
- Maximum cargo/passenger space
- Proven mechanical simplicity
- Hassle-free ownership
However, those wanting modern tech, refined interiors, or true off-road ability should cross-shop the Subaru Outback Wilderness or Kia Sorento. Honda’s reliance on an aging platform shows, despite the capable powertrain. For the next generation, a ground-up redesign with genuine Trail Sport hardware could make this a standout choice.
Will the Passport’s straightforward design meet your daily needs, or does its dated interior outweigh the practicality? Share your dealbreaker feature below.
