Mid-size crossover now even more trail ready
Launched in 2020, the Honda Passport was intended to provide a Pilot-like experience in a smaller form factor. In 2024, the crossover is going full off-road ready with an updated TrailSport model packing special suspension, tires and more.
"The 2024 Passport lineup solidifies our decades-long commitment to building capable, comfortable and rugged SUVs for Canadians and their families," says Steve Hui, Honda Canada assistant vice president, in a press release. "The Passport TrailSport comes with its best off-road capable performance ever."
Still featuring the same styling enhancements introduced two years ago when the Trailsport variant initially launched, the chunky black mesh grille, silver skid plate-adorned bumpers and 10-millimetre greater track width over the regular version help the vehicle look the part.
Specialty orange badges are affixed to both ends, and the 18-inch Pewter-coated wheels are for the first time wrapped in all-terrain tires (245/60/18 General Grabber A/T) to improve grip on dirt, sand, mud, snow and/or rock-covered surfaces. A Diffused Sky Blue exterior paint colour is newly available.
A revised cabin brings a fresh centre console that has a roomy integrated armrest and expanded storage, boasting enough capacity to fit a full-size tablet. The tray in front of the shifter is larger as well able to accommodate two large smartphones side-by-side. The orange contrast stitching found on the steering wheel, door panels and seats really pop. The eight-inch infotainment display can now connect to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto sans cables, and Qi-compatible wireless charging and four USB ports are also standard.
Raising the tailgate reveals a massive 1,116 litres of space, which opens up even further after stowing the one-touch folding back bench. Unfortunately, a third-row option, like seen on some mid-size competitors, does not exist.
Honda’s 3.5-litre V6 engine, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, continues to spin all four wheels. The 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque is adequate, though I did notice a touch of lag when shifting from D to R and vice versa. Averaging 16.3 L/100 km over a week of mostly in-city testing with the Econ mode turned on (that dials back throttle response and other vehicle settings), fuel consumption was quite high.
The TrailSport suspension is retuned to increase articulation and ride comfort on uneven ground, complemented by the Intelligent Traction Management system possessing four modes (Sand, Snow, Mud and Paved Roads) to allow tailoring to different types of driving environments. Ground clearance is rated at 205 millimetres, and while we didn’t do any hauling the SUV can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
All Passports include the Honda Sensing electronic driver assistance aids such as blind spot monitor, emergency braking, collision warning, lane keep assist, dynamic cruise control, and rear seat and seatbelt reminder.
In addition to TrailSport, a Black Edition is being debuted bundling dark 20-inch wheels and trim pieces, ventilated front seats, red-accented perforated leather upholstery, exclusive stitched logos and other goodies. Prices start at MSRP $52,480 and $55,940, respectively.
Highlights:
MSRP: $52,480
Motor: 3.5-litre V6
Horsepower: 280 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): 262 @ 4,700 rpm
Gearbox: nine-speed automatic
Layout: front motor/all-wheel drive
Fuel economy: 16.3 L/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)