Looking for the perfect midsize SUV? Our comparison review breaks down the Honda Passport vs Toyota Highlander, covering engine performance, interior space, exterior design, safety features, and pricing to help you choose the best fit for your needs.
Engine and Performance
The heart of any vehicle is its engine, and when it comes to the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander, you’ll find two capable powerplants that cater to different driving needs and preferences. Whether you’re a city dweller or an adventure-seeker, understanding the engine and performance aspects of these SUVs is crucial in making an informed purchase decision.
Horsepower and Torque Comparison
Both the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander offer a range of engine options, but let’s focus on their most popular configurations. The Passport’s 3.5-liter V6 engine churns out 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, while the Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. On paper, the Highlander’s engine seems more potent, but does it translate to real-world driving scenarios?
Imagine merging onto a busy highway or tackling steep inclines; the Passport’s slightly lower horsepower might not feel as noticeable, thanks to its more efficient torque distribution. However, if you prioritize raw power and acceleration, the Highlander’s engine might be the better fit.
Transmission and Drivetrain Options
When it comes to transmission and drivetrain options, both SUVs offer a range of choices to suit different driving styles. The Honda Passport features a 9-speed automatic transmission with a two-wheel-drive (2WD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, offers an 8-speed automatic transmission with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) or AWD setup.
If you’re looking for a more engaging driving experience, the Passport’s 9-speed transmission provides more precise gear shifts and better fuel economy. However, if you prioritize traction and control, the Highlander’s AWD system is more advanced, with a dynamic torque vectoring system that can send up to 50% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels.
Fuel Economy and MPG Ratings
Fuel efficiency is a critical aspect of any vehicle, and the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander deliver differing results. The 2WD Passport achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined. The AWD Passport reduces these figures to 19 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined.
In contrast, the FWD Highlander receives an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined. The AWD Highlander reduces these figures to 20 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined. While the Highlander boasts slightly better fuel economy, the Passport’s more efficient transmission and engine tuning help it stay competitive in this regard.
Interior Space and Comfort
When considering a mid-size SUV like the Honda Passport or Toyota Highlander, one of the top priorities is often interior space and comfort. After all, these vehicles are designed to accommodate families, road trips, and all the gear that comes with them. So, how do these two models stack up when it comes to providing a comfortable and spacious ride?
Seating Capacity and Legroom
Both the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander offer seating for up to five passengers, with plenty of legroom to go around. In the Passport, you’ll find 41.2 inches of legroom in the front row, 39.6 inches in the second row, and a generous 50.5 inches of hip room in the front. The Highlander offers similar dimensions, with 44.2 inches of front legroom, 38.4 inches in the second row, and 45.1 inches of front hip room. While both vehicles provide ample space for passengers, the Highlander’s slightly longer wheelbase gives it a slight edge when it comes to rear-seat legroom.
Cargo Space and Storage Options
When it comes to cargo space, the Honda Passport offers 41.2 cubic feet behind the second row, 50.5 cubic feet with the second row folded, and a maximum cargo capacity of 77.9 cubic feet. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, provides 13.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet. While both vehicles offer plenty of cargo space, the Highlander’s extra row of seating means it can accommodate more gear overall. However, the Passport’s more generous cargo area behind the second row makes it a better choice for families who prioritize cargo space over third-row seating.
Infotainment and Entertainment Features
When it comes to keeping passengers entertained on long road trips, both the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander offer a range of impressive features. The Passport features a 5-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a 160-watt audio system with six speakers. The Highlander, on the other hand, boasts an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium JBL audio system with 12 speakers. While both vehicles offer plenty of entertainment options, the Highlander’s larger display and more premium audio system give it a slight edge in this department.
Exterior Design and Features
When it comes to exterior design and features, both the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander have their own unique charms. But which one comes out on top?
Dimensional Comparison and Size
Let’s talk size. The Honda Passport measures 190.5 inches in length, 78.6 inches in width, and 72.2 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 111 inches. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, measures 194.9 inches in length, 76 inches in width, and 68.1 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 112.2 inches. While the Highlander is slightly longer and wider, the Passport is taller and has a slightly shorter wheelbase. But what does this mean for you, the driver?
Well, the Passport’s slightly more compact size makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces, perfect for city dwellers or those who frequently park in crowded lots. On the other hand, the Highlander’s longer length and wider width provide more interior space, ideal for families or road trippers who need room to stretch out.
Exterior Color Options and Trim Levels
When it comes to exterior color options, both vehicles offer a range of choices. The Honda Passport comes in eight colors, including modern options like Steel Sapphire Metallic and White Diamond Pearl. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, offers nine colors, including bold options like Ruby Flare Pearl and Midnight Black Metallic. But here’s the thing: while both vehicles offer similar exterior color options, the Highlander takes the cake when it comes to trim levels.
The Highlander offers a whopping five trim levels, including the base L, mid-level LE and XLE, sporty SE, and top-of-the-line Limited and Platinum. The Passport, on the other hand, offers only four trim levels: the base Sport, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. While both vehicles offer a range of trim levels to suit different budgets and preferences, the Highlander’s additional options give it a slight edge in terms of customization and flexibility.
Wheels and Tire Sizes
Finally, let’s talk wheels and tire sizes. The Honda Passport comes with 20-inch alloy wheels on the higher trim levels, while the Toyota Highlander offers 18-inch alloy wheels on the lower trim levels and 20-inch wheels on the higher trim levels. But here’s the thing: while both vehicles offer similar wheel sizes, the Highlander’s tires are slightly wider, providing better traction and handling on the road.
Both vehicles also offer all-season tires as standard, but the Highlander takes it a step further with its optional 20-inch chrome-finish alloy wheels, complete with a sophisticated and stylish design. So, which one comes out on top in terms of exterior design and features? It all depends on your priorities – do you want a more compact size and sleeker design, or a range of trim levels and customization options?
Safety and Driver Assistance
When it comes to safety, both the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander are designed to protect you and your loved ones on the road. But which one takes the lead in terms of crash test ratings, safety features, and advanced driver assistance systems?
Crash Test Ratings and Safety Features
Both SUVs have impressive safety credentials. The 2022 Honda Passport has a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2022 Toyota Highlander also boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and is a IIHS Top Safety Pick+. These ratings are a testament to the robust construction and advanced safety features of both vehicles.
However, when we delve deeper into the features of each SUV, some differences emerge. The Honda Passport comes standard with a range of features, including a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist. Both vehicles also offer blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as optional features.
Advanced Safety Features and Tech
In terms of advanced safety features, the Toyota Highlander takes the lead with its Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) suite, which includes features like a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, full-speed dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure alert with steering assist. The Honda Passport, on the other hand, offers a more limited range of advanced safety features, including a collision mitigation braking system and lane keeping assist system.
Driver Assistance and Alert Systems
When it comes to driver assistance and alert systems, both SUVs offer a range of features designed to make your drive safer and more convenient. The Honda Passport comes with features like a driver attention monitor, which alerts the driver if it detects signs of drowsiness or distraction. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, offers a 360-degree camera system, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.
Ultimately, while both vehicles are highly safe and well-equipped, the Toyota Highlander’s more comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and tech gives it a slight edge in this area. However, the Honda Passport’s robust construction and range of standard safety features make it a strong contender in the safety stakes.
Price and Value
When it comes to making a purchase decision, one of the most critical factors to consider is the price and value of the vehicle. After all, you want to ensure that you’re getting the best bang for your buck. So, how do the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander stack up in terms of price and value?
Base Model Pricing and Trim Levels
The Honda Passport has a starting price of around $32,000 for the base model Sport trim. From there, the price increases to around $36,000 for the EX-L trim and tops out at around $44,000 for the Elite trim. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, has a starting price of around $32,000 for the base model L trim. The price then increases to around $36,000 for the LE trim, $40,000 for the XLE trim, and tops out at around $45,000 for the Limited trim.
Feature-by-Feature Cost Comparison
When comparing the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander feature by feature, it’s essential to consider what you’re getting for your money. The Passport tends to offer more standard features, such as a moonroof and heated seats, even on the base model. The Highlander, on the other hand, requires you to upgrade to higher trims to get these features. However, the Highlander offers more advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, on its lower trims. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what features are most important to you and how much you’re willing to pay for them.
Overall Value and Cost of Ownership
So, which vehicle offers the better value? The answer depends on several factors, including your budget, driving habits, and personal preferences. The Honda Passport tends to hold its value better than the Toyota Highlander, with a higher projected resale value after five years. Additionally, the Passport has lower maintenance costs, with an estimated $3,500 in maintenance costs over the first five years of ownership, compared to $4,500 for the Highlander. However, the Highlander tends to have better fuel economy, which can save you money on gas over time. Ultimately, the key to determining the overall value of each vehicle is to weigh your individual needs and priorities against the costs and benefits of each model.