You should also mention that the Passport is designed and built here in the USA. Its more American than Chevy, GMC and many Fords. Over 75% of the parts are made in N. America. So if you want to buy an American made high quality mid size SUV then buy the Honda Passport.
this is a good thing. Not everyone needs 3 rows and wants to lug around 12" extra length for space they dont need. The ridgeline is will handle 99% of homeowner needs. The pilot can take on big families.
I’ve watched over 2 dozen videos on the new Passport and I think I can say with some confidence that this trumps them all. You seem incredibly knowledgeable of the Passport and its competition and I like that you’re not in a rush to spit it all out. You confidently offer complete details for the entire vehicle, leaving little to no questions asked. Thank you for the high quality content and I look forward to future videos of the Passport.
It's very interesting to me that several manufacturers have brought back the mid-sized 2 row SUV. Basically there weren't many left, and now they are back. I think that's a very good move.
This is the best review of the 2019/2020 Passport on TH-cam. Thank you. Having just purchased a low-mileage 2020 model, this video helped fill in a lot of information, including technical information, that other reviews completely missed. Really appreciate your efforts and I've subscribed accordingly.
@@Agent77X I just got a new Passport. First thing I did was to order 17 inch wheels with Winter tires for the snow.. The 20inch curb magnets are OK for gravel roads. This is not a real off road vehicle, just has "Some" off road capability.
I really like this emerging category of Goldilocks or Tweener SUV's with a length of 190" give or take an inch. Its size was one of major factors in our choice of a Kia Sorento (189") over the larger so-called "midsize" crossovers. By the same token this class is more versatile than compact suv's that average around 180" in length. The Passport looks like a strong entry in the category for those who don't want the option of an even occasional use third row of seats. (The third row in the Sorento was a major factor in our choice versus the Ford Edge.) Trying to thread the needle between a comfortable on-road vehicle suitable as a daily driver and freeway cruiser and a vehicle with off-road chops is a challenge. Honda's compromises will satisfy many buyers, I think. Others will be disappointed that Honda paid so little attention to making a more distinctive interior to differentiate it from the Pilot. The interiors of the KIA Telluride versus Hyundai's Palisade might be a better example of sending a message of "adventure" in one vehicle versus "near-luxury" in otherwise near identical vehicles. Of course, serious off-road enthusiasts will dismiss the Passport. But that's unlikely to bother Honda. The pool of buyers who want the image of a rugged SUV while facing the "challenge" of an unpaved road or a muddy trail is much, much larger than that of those who want to take their vehicle rock climbing.
Good observations. For some reason the number of 3-row CUVs in the midsize or larger-compact size is dwindling. The Sorento is just about the ideal size IMO. Apart from that, there is only the VW Tiguan, Dodge Journey, and Mitsubishi Outlander in terms of 3-row non-fullsize vehicles, with the Sorento being the roomiest and best-equipped. OK, I *do* know the reason why that category is disappearing, and it's because the automakers want you to spend more money and get their bigger vehicles. But even if I had the money, those vehicles wouldn't fit in my tiny urban garage, so...oh well! Ultimately a Sorento with all of the features I wanted was more than I could afford, so I got an Outlander GT, which actually fits in my garage a little better anyway. But I do like the Sorento and new Santa Fe, they are quite nice.
Your review is always excellent! Always right on target on highlighting the important points. It feels like you read my mind of what I want to know about the vehicle. Also like this fast pace review. It can pack lots of information and yet feels concise. Thank you!
Love it. I want this to be my next vehicle purchase. I love the roominess (passenger and cargo room), AWD, reliability, storage, etc. Thank you for the great review.
I'm not an engineer but I question Honda saying a 45 profile tire strikes a balance. 45's have no place offroad. I would say 55 is the lowest profile for offroad situations. Not too mention all terrain tires are not available in such a low profile. Hopefully the 18" wheels from the Ridgeline will fit.
Same here I’d say third of the vehicles I see are Grand Cherokees(honesty gotta be at least 20% I’m in NJ) but I do like the passport besides hideous front it seems nice..
This sounds like a great alternative to a Nissan Murano or even a Pathfinder... good towing capability without the CVT worries. I like the idea of a V-6 in a 2-row vehicle.
"...The Blazer is the family vehicle that actually appeals to the whole family, and for that reason it upsets the Honda on its home court." I think the Motor Trend staff was weeping when they wrote that!
@@kenwingo4862 Toyota doesn't have anything new that competes with the Blazer or Passport. Honda is having it's own problems with infotainment issues and by tranmissions.
I have been thinking very seriously about this model. Its off-road capability well demonstrated by JonDZ Adventuring with his '19 Passport lifted 2" and 32.1" 255x70R18 Falken Wildpeak AT3W, Nolo Designs skid plate, sway bar disconnect, while still using it as a daily. Yes, it's not a Jeep, Land Cruiser/4Runner or Range Rover. Great review!
This looks like a great choice for people who are in construction services. Not needing a big truck like most construction workers, but you need space for equipment and gear, moderate off-road ability, and would like to balance that against reasonable commute comfort and economy. All they need now is an EV version...I know so many younger guys in the trades who want to go electric!!!
It amazes me that the new Passport is longer than the original Pilot. I have a 2008 which is two inches shorter and still has 3 rows. Also I would have expected Honda to give the Passport an adaptive suspension at least available in the Elite trim as well as the 10 speed in all trims. On road performance and off road ability
I have a 2008 Mdx that I like a lot. I think this might be the best replacement. Same width, length but lighter and better gas mileage. Better weight to hp. Taller. Similar awd. I have used 3rd row three times in 9 years. The passenger room better in passport.
Alex- I know you mentioned the zf9 transmission. Could you tell a difference driving the Passport between the first gen and second gen zf9? I love the passport, but there are some people who are adamant against it. Wonder why honda didn't use their in house 10 speed transmission.
Alex on Autos, YOUR REVIEWS ARE BY FAR THE BEST! But I always wonder why you don't get as much views as the other guys, maybe you should engaged more with your viewers on the comments? 🤔
Alex is pretty on-the-ball with engagement with his viewers, especially if you follow him on Facebook. He really is one of a kind in the car review world because of how in depth he goes and that probably turns some people off.
Yeah, I like my Honda vehicles without Oil Dilution. That's reason enough to move up to the Passport from the CR-V. Really wish Honda would do a full recall on the 1.5 Turbos, not just a TSB...
I really think that the U.S. Government should hire people to do tasks like this: "Vehicle Purchasing Analytics" is the title name, this will help people buy cars without getting jerked around.
Excellent vehicle coverage as usual Alex. Just drove the 2020 Acura MDX back-to-back with the 2020 Passport Elite. Materials in the Passport are definitely lower than the MDX and the MDX ride is somewhat more refined. However, the 2020 MDX entertainment system is absolute JUNK. It's exactly the same system as my 2007 MDX, but they put the climate controls and audio controls on a separate screen. Navigation is just as slow. Pretty tough sell in my book to go with the MDX unless you don't mind tossing $10-15K into it purely for the name. At least with the Grand Cherokee you're actually getting more functionality for the $. The new Passport seems to me to be solid value assuming you get the normal Honda 200K+ miles reliability.
I have one of these. But it's a 2021 and i have that exact color and trim down to the 20 inch rims. Mine is a Sport though and it's very fast. Faster then i expected
I have watched a lot of reviews today of the passport including yours. Well rounded vehicle that does everything competently, it seems like. Just wish it had the 10 speed from the Odyssey instead of the 9 speed. Also I feel the 20 inch wheels are a bit much, wish they had 18 and 19 inch available.
ChaoticCorruptor Agreed but I recently drove the “fixed” 9 speed and it was very good. Whatever early issues that existed with shift programming are now gone.
I would not be messing around with a 9 speed transmission from any manufacturer. The 9 speed design inherently is prone to issues. I remember seeing technical explanation video on TH-cam a while back. I would rather take 6 speed over 9 speed.
The new 9spd has been upgraded from clutches to programming and it starts on 2nd gear Honestly I don’t think you have to worry about it You can swap the wheels if you don’t like them I really don’t know why so many excuses, either you buy it or not
I would like to understand two things: what kind of pansy needs a heated steering wheel and what is the appeal of rock crawling? Looks about as much fun as taking out the garbage to me.
I don't understand this vehicle. I was hoping for something unique, but instead we get a slightly shorter Pilot. Same width, same wheelbase (so presumably the same turning circle), same rear seat room...I don't often need 3-rows, but I'd get the Pilot over this due to the added capability (cargo space, 3rd row). The off-road capability of Passport is not drastically improved enough (especially let down by the 4" of sidewall on those ridiculous tires/wheels) to offset the loss of practicality. They could have put the ride height increase and front airdam on the Pilot and called it the Pilot Adventure and been better off.
For me the Pilot is more of a converted minivan. It's nice but I hate the 3rd row seat. When you lower it you can see it takes up a lot of space that could otherwise be used for storage (it basically raises the floor a few inches). Also the turning radius on the Pilot is shallow. The Passport is a bit sportier, has great acceleration (especially in Sport mode) and tons of storage under the hatch. Unless you're hauling a lot of kids or for those of us who don't need a 3rd row, the Passport is the way to go. You really need to see it in person and test drive it.
Consumers desperately need guidance on adaptive cruise /stop and go functionality in urban traffic. I am car shopping and have found minimal guidance from online forums. In discussions with multiple new car shoppers, this is more important to us than 99% of what I see in reviews because this affects 90% of our time behind the wheel - more so than seat cushion softness or ride firmness and definitely more than cargo capacity for the one time a year we take a road trip..
I test drove a Honda Passport, it drove well my immediate complaint was the lack of a armrest in the center column, instead it has the armrests that flip down that feel flimsy. The other concern was the lane changing visual safety alert that another car is on your side is not in the mirror that you are behaviorally trained to look at ! Instead it is on the inside area near the mirror. I found it difficult to see and actually asked the salesmen if the car had that safety feature. The other issue was a stalling sensation when I came to a stop. The salesman thought the stalling growl was from the car just arriving and still being in a shipping or transport mode ? Otherwise I liked the way the car sat up higher than the Honda Pilot I own and the inside instrumentation were modern looking but easy to use and understand !
The AWD sounds like a pricey bit to maintain, my leased Ridgeline sure was. Maybe I'm the middle class being left behind but I just can't accept these new vehicle prices.
They make these only for profit and not to serve customer base. If they would create a base model with needed equipment - delete 20" wheels, 3zone climate, power seat, nannies; suddenly you have $28K car. Only add phone integration or navigation. But they wouldn't do it. Because if they don't install these things - 1. It would fall into CRV sweet range, 2 - they couldn't charge for these, 3 - if they install phone integration on base, people will bypass more loaded models. I would. Only thing they achieved is that now I will bypass this car altogether. And you too, I see.
Nice review Alex. Best I’ve seen so far. I wanted to get your opinion on comparing the Passport, Santa Fe Ultimate 2.0T, CX-5 GT Reserve Turbo and the CX-9. I know they are in different classes but these are the vehicles I’ve narrowed my choices to. I’ve driven the Hyundai and the CX-9 plus a few others that I’ve crossed off my list. I hope you find the time to answer this and look forward to your insight. Thank you and keep up the great work.
I agree, I just wish it had more rear-seat room....I mean new vehicle, Honda could've stretched it in the middle. I shouldn't have to petition for an IVTM-4 Odyssey, just to have rear seat space.
Should've been on this car 1. body on frame 2. 10 speed 3. locking differential 4. go-pro dashboard/windshield mount 5. optional roof tent 6. stuff like crawl control from Toyota or xmode from Subaru
jason wu 1. Owners of these cars would rather the advantages of a unibody for on road driving 2/3 would be nice 4/5 that’s stupid 6 they have different terrain modes for the AWD, similar to x-mode
I wish the Sport Trim was $28k, but $32k for the base trim is pricey. The Elite trim though sounds reasonable (in comparison to the 1994 Honda Passport EX-V6 price which I remember was $27k back then...which equates to $47k). I'd love to get one, but I will wait at the end of the year or allow Honda do a better revision differentiating itself from the Pilot. Still sticking with the 3rd Gen (2008) Nissan Pathfinder (and thinking of finding a used V8 Pathfinder).
Attention Honda: Please upgrade to the Accord Infotainment Interface, include a panoramic sunroof, and do away with all of that piano-black trim for the 2020 version.
You produce some of the best automotive reviews on TH-cam. I just wish they were more 12-15 minutes max instead of 24+ minutes. Viewability of a video is a lot easier in today's century of speed if it's less than 15 minutes. When I see 25 minutes before I watch a video, despite it's quality of content, I move to the next one that is 15 or less.
Well, my 2016 Pilot EX-L AWD has 18" wheels (245/60-18)...but it's longer than the Passport so its departure angle is not as good (not really a problem out here in the West Texas desert sand though). I keep the 3rd row seats folded down most of the time as I prefer to use that area as a cargo bay, and since the Pilot's longer it gives me more room to sleep on long road-trips. Still, it has Honda's outstanding iVTM4 (aka: Acura's SH-AWD) AWD system (of course), and with Continental TerrainContact AT tires on it, it gets the most out of that AWD capability. I guess I'll keep it for a while... ;-) -- BR
Does the Honda passport go against the new Chevy Blazer which is also has a V6 and two rows? Hope you review the Chevy Blazer soon and which one looks better?
Ok Alex, is this essentially a retrofitted 2008 acura mdx with two rows? Because that's appealing to me. I have a 2008 mdx. I hate the ones after 2009 until the 2022 model, which I can't buy because there's no justifying a 70k car and I don't believe in buying new model year vehicles. Can you please compare this to the older, 2nd generation mdx?
I was hoping this would be priced closer to the middle between the CRV and Pilot, so I am disappointed in the pricing. The Passport EX-L is only $1000 less than a Pilot EX-L. With current Pilot discounting and likely no Passport discounting for at least awhile, the Pilot is actually cheaper than the Passport. So will probably settle for a CR-V EX-L, which is currently discounted to $29000 plus TTL, no way the Passport is worth $8000 more. Or may go back to considering a Hyundai Santa Fe or NIssan Murano.
Do all Honda passports with all wheel drive have Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ (i-VTM4®) All-Wheel-Drive System or is that only on certain trims? Thanks In advance for answering.
You damn right. Add the Kia Sorrento SXL. $45k to buy, $40k with incentives. You get everything included a 3rd row, Magna awd system with a locking differential while retaining smaller size. Same goes for the Hyundai Santa Fe. Replace the V6 with a turbo 4, add a standard N/A 4 cylinder engine to lower vehicle price, removed 3rd row, and sell it at $39k fully loaded incentives.
@@jasonprice9823 If you haven't looked at a Sorento lately, you'll be surprised. It's smaller but drives great and has very nice equipment. The Honda will retain value better though.
I agree with you! Non-luxury choices (i.e. not Audi Allroad, Volvo Cross Country, etc.) for AWD hatchback or wagon are limited. Outback with lousy acceleration and CVT, quirky Buick TourX, and VW Alltrak. I read the VW will be discontinued after 2020. Of these, only the Outback could handle some of those rougher roads shown in this review. There just aren't enough people who want AND buy hatches or wagons. The RAV4 hybrid is tempting with its great mileage and decent power but people are saying it's pretty noisy.
@@PaoloFrancesco99 Yeah. They might had made a mistake with the lack of noise isolation on RAV4. Especially that, apparently, CX-5 is quieter. Obviously no hybrid and less trunk but then I noisy vehicles make me tired on longer trips so it might be a deal breaker even though the RAV4 hybrid is good option for me. Good that there is Harrier in Japan, I will see it before making the decision ;)
@@roadwarrior280 I don`t mind the engine noise when you floor it. I rarely floor it like that anyway. If this is what you are talking about. But I absolutely hate the road and wind noise while driving on the motorway. I understand SUV are rarely quiet and I would prefer Golf Allroad but in Japan they are just expensive to buy and maintain.
It's got good internals, but the face and body styling looks too much like a sedan. I don't mind that it handles like a car, but does it have to look like one?
Alot of bad feedback out there on that 9 speed transmission.Why did Honda use it?Why does the Ridgeline get the 6 speed? Any feedback is greatly appreciated.Thanks!
I almost spit my soda when I saw the prices! Base sport model and doesn't come with Apple CarPlay???? Shame.... I was hoping it would start maybe low 29k and slot that in.
I don't hate it. I think Honda is being awfully generous with the adventure marketing and I don't quite understand the purpose of a 2 row crossover given that the length and width of this thing are still bigger (by more than a little) compared to a 4runner or grand cherokee (you don't HAVE to use the 3rd row you know). Still, it would be fun to see what it could do with 17 inch wheels and decent tires.
Great review. Still dont know if Honda needs this vehicle in their line up. The Back is very uninspired IMPO. Also quite expensive, not fuel efficient...etc. To me thats the first vehicle that Honda kind of rushed it out from design to production, at least thats how I see it.
I'm subbed to both Alex and Redline and although I usually watch Sofyan's video first since he's usually upload the earliest, it's always Alex's videos that are the most informative and offer the most insights. Alex is the type of no-nonsense auto reviewer who just gets straight to the point without rambling on and on about irrelevant stuff. I still can't comprehend how Alex isn't the most subscribed auto reviewer on TH-cam, seeing as he's clearly a cut above the rest if not the best!
CONS - Not that great looking.The Murano and Sorento are much nicer looking with better proportions. Not sure that I am a fan of the push button shifter. Not a fan of the piano black trim on the dash and around the steering wheel buttons. Not sure if I like the digital speedometer. PROS - But this is a lot of content for the money in the Sport and EX-L AWD. (6 cylinder, regular shifting automatic, 20 inch rims, sunroof, great cargo room behind the 2nd row). Apples to apples, I prefer a 6 cylinder naturally aspirated engine. These Honda 6 cylinders will run forever. I currently drive a 6 cylinder Odyssey with 204,000 miles on it. Also did anyone notice how strong the folding floor boards looks in the back? Looks like its made of very solid plastic material that can easiler support heavy items. The cubby storage areas underneath the rear floor are a nice touch. The fold down buttons in the cargo area are nice and the 2nd row seats appear to fold down quickly and completely flat. Overall, it seems like a pretty decent choice at the EX-L AWD trim level for $38K range if you don't mind the looks and push button shifter. It will most likely hold it's value better than a Murano or Sorento. More cargo capacity than a Grand Cherokee. I think this will also take some buyers away from the Subaru Ascent especially those that don't like the CVT. This wasn't mentioned.
To me it looks and sounds like it has alot going for it.Probably my main issue is I would prefer a lever shifter on the column over all of them buttons on the floor.As for what I'd like to see covered,I'm wondering about the Pros and cons of it being FWD bias.For example could we still have that in the floor storage bins if it was rear wheel drive bias? Is their any real advantages to FWD bias for the buyer?
Certainly seems like a better choice, over the Toyota Sequoia trd or the Land Cruiser...a convincing and cheaper alternative to average users, many of whom, probably never go out to dirts roads....
@@yutosi2109 You're way off the mark pal. You need to see it in person. Its not cheap. As far as whether its "plain", that's a subjective opinion. Sometimes "plain" is good - easier to understand and configure. Go take it for a test drive before forming a incorrect opinion based on a video (btw one that clearly liked the Passport).
You should also mention that the Passport is designed and built here in the USA. Its more American than Chevy, GMC and many Fords. Over 75% of the parts are made in N. America. So if you want to buy an American made high quality mid size SUV then buy the Honda Passport.
American vehicles suck
jdubdoubleu
😂
I normally don't like crossovers. However after watching this I would consider this Passport. Well done Alex!!
Honda has successfully made the same vehicle 3 times over. Pilot, pilot pickup(ridgeline), pilot sport (passport).
this is a good thing. Not everyone needs 3 rows and wants to lug around 12" extra length for space they dont need. The ridgeline is will handle 99% of homeowner needs. The pilot can take on big families.
Well Subaru has the Impreza sedan, hatchback, WRX, Crosstrek & Forester. Yep, all 5 on the same platform.
Agreed. I hoped Passport would be something new. Instead, Honda phoned it in.
@@thatf_inguy8220 Passport is only 6" shorter than Pilot with same wheelbase. It's not something you'd ever notice in day-to-day driving...
no distinction between all 3. and the ridgeline rides like a rock :/
I’ve watched over 2 dozen videos on the new Passport and I think I can say with some confidence that this trumps them all. You seem incredibly knowledgeable of the Passport and its competition and I like that you’re not in a rush to spit it all out. You confidently offer complete details for the entire vehicle, leaving little to no questions asked. Thank you for the high quality content and I look forward to future videos of the Passport.
It's very interesting to me that several manufacturers have brought back the mid-sized 2 row SUV. Basically there weren't many left, and now they are back. I think that's a very good move.
Agree!
This is the best review of the 2019/2020 Passport on TH-cam. Thank you. Having just purchased a low-mileage 2020 model, this video helped fill in a lot of information, including technical information, that other reviews completely missed. Really appreciate your efforts and I've subscribed accordingly.
But heres the real question can it handle the potholes on the way to walmart and Starbucks drive thru???
I hate the low profile tire trend on these types of cars.
It'll definitely handle going over a curb or two in the parking lot.
@@scott8919 ...once. Before you have to take a trip to your Honda Dealer to buy new idiotic wheels.
Off road vehicles have 22”+ knobby tires on them.
@@Agent77X I just got a new Passport. First thing I did was to order 17 inch wheels with Winter tires for the snow.. The 20inch curb magnets are OK for gravel roads. This is not a real off road vehicle, just has "Some" off road capability.
Drove one today, very nice vehicle, I'm seriously considering one, once they start giving MSRP discounts that are comparable to the Pilot!
I really like this emerging category of Goldilocks or Tweener SUV's with a length of 190" give or take an inch. Its size was one of major factors in our choice of a Kia Sorento (189") over the larger so-called "midsize" crossovers. By the same token this class is more versatile than compact suv's that average around 180" in length. The Passport looks like a strong entry in the category for those who don't want the option of an even occasional use third row of seats. (The third row in the Sorento was a major factor in our choice versus the Ford Edge.)
Trying to thread the needle between a comfortable on-road vehicle suitable as a daily driver and freeway cruiser and a vehicle with off-road chops is a challenge. Honda's compromises will satisfy many buyers, I think. Others will be disappointed that Honda paid so little attention to making a more distinctive interior to differentiate it from the Pilot. The interiors of the KIA Telluride versus Hyundai's Palisade might be a better example of sending a message of "adventure" in one vehicle versus "near-luxury" in otherwise near identical vehicles.
Of course, serious off-road enthusiasts will dismiss the Passport. But that's unlikely to bother Honda. The pool of buyers who want the image of a rugged SUV while facing the "challenge" of an unpaved road or a muddy trail is much, much larger than that of those who want to take their vehicle rock climbing.
Good observations. For some reason the number of 3-row CUVs in the midsize or larger-compact size is dwindling. The Sorento is just about the ideal size IMO. Apart from that, there is only the VW Tiguan, Dodge Journey, and Mitsubishi Outlander in terms of 3-row non-fullsize vehicles, with the Sorento being the roomiest and best-equipped.
OK, I *do* know the reason why that category is disappearing, and it's because the automakers want you to spend more money and get their bigger vehicles. But even if I had the money, those vehicles wouldn't fit in my tiny urban garage, so...oh well!
Ultimately a Sorento with all of the features I wanted was more than I could afford, so I got an Outlander GT, which actually fits in my garage a little better anyway. But I do like the Sorento and new Santa Fe, they are quite nice.
So essentially the same torque vectoring system we see on the Ridgeline, and boy, is it good on the snow and fast turns!
I like how Honda strategically sprayed some specks of dirt on the front bumper to give it that offroad effect. The dirt covering looks so artistic.
Yet another dopey comment. WTF are you talking about? ....smh....
Honda/Acura just rocks and getting better.
Your review is always excellent! Always right on target on highlighting the important points. It feels like you read my mind of what I want to know about the vehicle. Also like this fast pace review. It can pack lots of information and yet feels concise. Thank you!
Love it. I want this to be my next vehicle purchase. I love the roominess (passenger and cargo room), AWD, reliability, storage, etc. Thank you for the great review.
I'm not an engineer but I question Honda saying a 45 profile tire strikes a balance. 45's have no place offroad. I would say 55 is the lowest profile for offroad situations. Not too mention all terrain tires are not available in such a low profile. Hopefully the 18" wheels from the Ridgeline will fit.
I really appreciate the details you go into in your reviews. Excellent.
Is this car just not selling? I have seen exactly 2 on the road since it came back in '19
Same here I’d say third of the vehicles I see are Grand Cherokees(honesty gotta be at least 20% I’m in NJ) but I do like the passport besides hideous front it seems nice..
This sounds like a great alternative to a Nissan Murano or even a Pathfinder... good towing capability without the CVT worries. I like the idea of a V-6 in a 2-row vehicle.
Your song selection aways has me chuckling and intrigued at the same time
"...The Blazer is the family vehicle that actually appeals to the whole family, and for that reason it upsets the Honda on its home court."
I think the Motor Trend staff was weeping when they wrote that!
Except the Honda will be far more reliable.
@@kenwingo4862 Toyota doesn't have anything new that competes with the Blazer or Passport. Honda is having it's own problems with infotainment issues and by tranmissions.
I have been thinking very seriously about this model. Its off-road capability well demonstrated by JonDZ Adventuring with his '19 Passport lifted 2" and 32.1" 255x70R18 Falken Wildpeak AT3W, Nolo Designs skid plate, sway bar disconnect, while still using it as a daily. Yes, it's not a Jeep, Land Cruiser/4Runner or Range Rover. Great review!
This looks like a great choice for people who are in construction services. Not needing a big truck like most construction workers, but you need space for equipment and gear, moderate off-road ability, and would like to balance that against reasonable commute comfort and economy. All they need now is an EV version...I know so many younger guys in the trades who want to go electric!!!
Alex, I was alway wondering - how do you keep all that script in your head?
Do you have an updated review of the Passport?
Seen this one on auto expo. Looks really good.
Would not recommend ZF9 transmission. Source: Former Acura TLX owner.
It amazes me that the new Passport is longer than the original Pilot. I have a 2008 which is two inches shorter and still has 3 rows. Also I would have expected Honda to give the Passport an adaptive suspension at least available in the Elite trim as well as the 10 speed in all trims. On road performance and off road ability
I have a 2008 Mdx that I like a lot. I think this might be the best replacement. Same width, length but lighter and better gas mileage. Better weight to hp. Taller. Similar awd. I have used 3rd row three times in 9 years. The passenger room better in passport.
Alex-
I know you mentioned the zf9 transmission. Could you tell a difference driving the Passport between the first gen and second gen zf9? I love the passport, but there are some people who are adamant against it. Wonder why honda didn't use their in house 10 speed transmission.
Alex on Autos, YOUR REVIEWS ARE BY FAR THE BEST! But I always wonder why you don't get as much views as the other guys, maybe you should engaged more with your viewers on the comments? 🤔
Alex is pretty on-the-ball with engagement with his viewers, especially if you follow him on Facebook. He really is one of a kind in the car review world because of how in depth he goes and that probably turns some people off.
@@scott8919 Roger taht! I personally think it wouldn't hurt if he engages with youtube viewers as well. Thanks for the feedback 👊🏼
Good, thorough review, Alex!
Yeah, I like my Honda vehicles without Oil Dilution. That's reason enough to move up to the Passport from the CR-V.
Really wish Honda would do a full recall on the 1.5 Turbos, not just a TSB...
I really think that the U.S. Government should hire people to do tasks like this: "Vehicle Purchasing Analytics" is the title name, this will help people buy cars without getting jerked around.
Excellent vehicle coverage as usual Alex. Just drove the 2020 Acura MDX back-to-back with the 2020 Passport Elite. Materials in the Passport are definitely lower than the MDX and the MDX ride is somewhat more refined. However, the 2020 MDX entertainment system is absolute JUNK. It's exactly the same system as my 2007 MDX, but they put the climate controls and audio controls on a separate screen. Navigation is just as slow. Pretty tough sell in my book to go with the MDX unless you don't mind tossing $10-15K into it purely for the name. At least with the Grand Cherokee you're actually getting more functionality for the $. The new Passport seems to me to be solid value assuming you get the normal Honda 200K+ miles reliability.
I have one of these. But it's a 2021 and i have that exact color and trim down to the 20 inch rims. Mine is a Sport though and it's very fast. Faster then i expected
Thanks Alex, always enjoy your videos
I have watched a lot of reviews today of the passport including yours. Well rounded vehicle that does everything competently, it seems like. Just wish it had the 10 speed from the Odyssey instead of the 9 speed. Also I feel the 20 inch wheels are a bit much, wish they had 18 and 19 inch available.
ChaoticCorruptor Agreed but I recently drove the “fixed” 9 speed and it was very good. Whatever early issues that existed with shift programming are now gone.
I would not be messing around with a 9 speed transmission from any manufacturer. The 9 speed design inherently is prone to issues. I remember seeing technical explanation video on TH-cam a while back. I would rather take 6 speed over 9 speed.
10 speed would cost more and it reserve for the upcoming redesigned MDX model!
fender it’s frustrating to see. We all know this won’t do any good off-roading but all these people are acting like this is the next gen defender.
The new 9spd has been upgraded from clutches to programming and it starts on 2nd gear
Honestly I don’t think you have to worry about it
You can swap the wheels if you don’t like them
I really don’t know why so many excuses, either you buy it or not
Great review and love the 4wd tech detail. How does it compare to new RWD based Explorer?
Very good review! Full of details, specs, trims, pricing, pluses and minuses, etc! Great job!
I would like to understand two things: what kind of pansy needs a heated steering wheel and what is the appeal of rock crawling? Looks about as much fun as taking out the garbage to me.
Hey Alex, as long as you were in Moab, Utah, did Honda suggest trying to take a Passport through Hell's Gate? After all, a KIa Sorento managed it. :)
I don't understand this vehicle. I was hoping for something unique, but instead we get a slightly shorter Pilot. Same width, same wheelbase (so presumably the same turning circle), same rear seat room...I don't often need 3-rows, but I'd get the Pilot over this due to the added capability (cargo space, 3rd row). The off-road capability of Passport is not drastically improved enough (especially let down by the 4" of sidewall on those ridiculous tires/wheels) to offset the loss of practicality. They could have put the ride height increase and front airdam on the Pilot and called it the Pilot Adventure and been better off.
265/45 tires so sidewall is about quarter of an inch shy of 5". But yea I'd prefer 17" wheels with taller tires.
For me the Pilot is more of a converted minivan. It's nice but I hate the 3rd row seat. When you lower it you can see it takes up a lot of space that could otherwise be used for storage (it basically raises the floor a few inches). Also the turning radius on the Pilot is shallow. The Passport is a bit sportier, has great acceleration (especially in Sport mode) and tons of storage under the hatch. Unless you're hauling a lot of kids or for those of us who don't need a 3rd row, the Passport is the way to go. You really need to see it in person and test drive it.
Consumers desperately need guidance on adaptive cruise /stop and go functionality in urban traffic. I am car shopping and have found minimal guidance from online forums. In discussions with multiple new car shoppers, this is more important to us than 99% of what I see in reviews because this affects 90% of our time behind the wheel - more so than seat cushion softness or ride firmness and definitely more than cargo capacity for the one time a year we take a road trip..
I test drove a Honda Passport, it drove well my immediate complaint was the lack of a armrest in the center column, instead it has the armrests that flip down that feel flimsy. The other concern was the lane changing visual safety alert that another car is on your side is not in the mirror that you are behaviorally trained to look at ! Instead it is on the inside area near the mirror. I found it difficult to see and actually asked the salesmen if the car had that safety feature. The other issue was a stalling sensation when I came to a stop. The salesman thought the stalling growl was from the car just arriving and still being in a shipping or transport mode ?
Otherwise I liked the way the car sat up higher than the Honda Pilot I own and the inside instrumentation were modern looking but easy to use and understand !
The AWD sounds like a pricey bit to maintain, my leased Ridgeline sure was. Maybe I'm the middle class being left behind but I just can't accept these new vehicle prices.
They make these only for profit and not to serve customer base. If they would create a base model with needed equipment - delete 20" wheels, 3zone climate, power seat, nannies; suddenly you have $28K car. Only add phone integration or navigation. But they wouldn't do it. Because if they don't install these things - 1. It would fall into CRV sweet range, 2 - they couldn't charge for these, 3 - if they install phone integration on base, people will bypass more loaded models. I would.
Only thing they achieved is that now I will bypass this car altogether. And you too, I see.
KIller review as usual Alex, nice jacket by the way!
How many other vehicles can be bought with a 4x4 or AWD on a Base Model?
Passport is one
2-?
Nice review Alex. Best I’ve seen so far. I wanted to get your opinion on comparing the Passport, Santa Fe Ultimate 2.0T, CX-5 GT Reserve Turbo and the CX-9. I know they are in different classes but these are the vehicles I’ve narrowed my choices to. I’ve driven the Hyundai and the CX-9 plus a few others that I’ve crossed off my list. I hope you find the time to answer this and look forward to your insight. Thank you and keep up the great work.
Absolutely, thank for keeping the V6, but IDK about the transmission. Honda transmissions aren’t the best lately.
They brought the Honda passport name back. remember back when the Honda passport used to be a Isuzu rodeo
Tyree Mcgrone And they should’ve left the name there!
Theu could have just made anew modle, called it a different name and make it better looking. This looks plain and cheap.
@@yutosi2109 Stop talking about your wife! Lol
Passport is a cheap decent scotch whiskey.
This car will be perfect to tow. Don’t need the third row and powerful engine. And most probably more reliable than any Jeep
I agree, I just wish it had more rear-seat room....I mean new vehicle, Honda could've stretched it in the middle. I shouldn't have to petition for an IVTM-4 Odyssey, just to have rear seat space.
Should've been on this car
1. body on frame
2. 10 speed
3. locking differential
4. go-pro dashboard/windshield mount
5. optional roof tent
6. stuff like crawl control from Toyota or xmode from Subaru
jason wu 1. Owners of these cars would rather the advantages of a unibody for on road driving
2/3 would be nice
4/5 that’s stupid
6 they have different terrain modes for the AWD, similar to x-mode
@@johnfrantz5885 Agree completely. Unibody, locker, good trans, done. (Oh, and lose the 20" rims.)
N Pooch yeah the wheels are stupid, especially on the lower trims
I can definitely see the resemblance (performance wise) to my 1995 Passport, when the Passport was still rebadged from Isuzu.
When will be the official episode about this car?
I wish the Sport Trim was $28k, but $32k for the base trim is pricey. The Elite trim though sounds reasonable (in comparison to the 1994 Honda Passport EX-V6 price which I remember was $27k back then...which equates to $47k). I'd love to get one, but I will wait at the end of the year or allow Honda do a better revision differentiating itself from the Pilot. Still sticking with the 3rd Gen (2008) Nissan Pathfinder (and thinking of finding a used V8 Pathfinder).
Love it. Thank you for the detailed review.
This and the RDX are the only Honda SUVs that I would buy. Just a shame it still has that crapomatic 9-Speed. But, long live the J35.
Attention Honda: Please upgrade to the Accord Infotainment Interface, include a panoramic sunroof, and do away with all of that piano-black trim for the 2020 version.
And add a birdseye parking camera
You produce some of the best automotive reviews on TH-cam. I just wish they were more 12-15 minutes max instead of 24+ minutes. Viewability of a video is a lot easier in today's century of speed if it's less than 15 minutes. When I see 25 minutes before I watch a video, despite it's quality of content, I move to the next one that is 15 or less.
You look like Golgo 13, with that sunglasses, Alex
A true anime fan gotta say u right and also Golgo 13 is very underrated anime
The back look like 10 years ago
Yes and I would prefer to see similar in CR-V. The rear visibility and looks are just not for me in CR-V and I do like Honda as a brand in general.
napha sayachack Looks like an Edge
ford explorer
Wheels are way too big. Much rather have the ridgelines 18in wheels, so theres a little more room for some taller rubber.
Well, my 2016 Pilot EX-L AWD has 18" wheels (245/60-18)...but it's longer than the Passport so its departure angle is not as good (not really a problem out here in the West Texas desert sand though). I keep the 3rd row seats folded down most of the time as I prefer to use that area as a cargo bay, and since the Pilot's longer it gives me more room to sleep on long road-trips.
Still, it has Honda's outstanding iVTM4 (aka: Acura's SH-AWD) AWD system (of course), and with Continental TerrainContact AT tires on it, it gets the most out of that AWD capability.
I guess I'll keep it for a while... ;-)
-- BR
Not high enough. Needs at least 9.7inch ground clearance. Wheels wells are not large enough to allow bigger tires.
Does the Honda passport go against the new Chevy Blazer which is also has a V6 and two rows? Hope you review the Chevy Blazer soon and which one looks better?
Very good review. Thank you. Price almost same as Pilot. What a point to buy this car ?
@Virginia Spartan Trains??
Shows how crazy Chevy is for asking over $50,000 for a blazer
Better keep Insurance UP, windshield for Passport EX-L is $1800. installed.
Ok Alex, is this essentially a retrofitted 2008 acura mdx with two rows? Because that's appealing to me. I have a 2008 mdx. I hate the ones after 2009 until the 2022 model, which I can't buy because there's no justifying a 70k car and I don't believe in buying new model year vehicles. Can you please compare this to the older, 2nd generation mdx?
I was hoping this would be priced closer to the middle between the CRV and Pilot, so I am disappointed in the pricing. The Passport EX-L is only $1000 less than a Pilot EX-L. With current Pilot discounting and likely no Passport discounting for at least awhile, the Pilot is actually cheaper than the Passport.
So will probably settle for a CR-V EX-L, which is currently discounted to $29000 plus TTL, no way the Passport is worth $8000 more. Or may go back to considering a Hyundai Santa Fe or NIssan Murano.
Should I sell my 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring for Honda Passport?
Macky Mode Yes they are beautiful, my favourite is the deep wine Red colour
Would love to see you review the new Sprinter passenger models as some of us are wanting to go bigger and AWD from a minivan.
Do all Honda passports with all wheel drive have Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ (i-VTM4®) All-Wheel-Drive System or is that only on certain trims?
Thanks In advance for answering.
Well, disappointed overall actually. For $44K I can get Acura RDX SH-AWD Advance package with HUD and panoramic roof
You damn right. Add the Kia Sorrento SXL. $45k to buy, $40k with incentives. You get everything included a 3rd row, Magna awd system with a locking differential while retaining smaller size. Same goes for the Hyundai Santa Fe. Replace the V6 with a turbo 4, add a standard N/A 4 cylinder engine to lower vehicle price, removed 3rd row, and sell it at $39k fully loaded incentives.
@@JT-fq2bl Sorento's straight trash.
Kartik K and you’ll have a vehicle the size of the Ford Escape.. this is an SUV.
J T Kia vs Honda isn’t even a conversation worth having lol
@@jasonprice9823 If you haven't looked at a Sorento lately, you'll be surprised. It's smaller but drives great and has very nice equipment. The Honda will retain value better though.
These big SUV have bad MPG....
Please give us more AWD hatchback..
I want WRX hatchback come back!
I agree with you! Non-luxury choices (i.e. not Audi Allroad, Volvo Cross Country, etc.) for AWD hatchback or wagon are limited. Outback with lousy acceleration and CVT, quirky Buick TourX, and VW Alltrak. I read the VW will be discontinued after 2020. Of these, only the Outback could handle some of those rougher roads shown in this review. There just aren't enough people who want AND buy hatches or wagons. The RAV4 hybrid is tempting with its great mileage and decent power but people are saying it's pretty noisy.
@@PaoloFrancesco99 Yeah. They might had made a mistake with the lack of noise isolation on RAV4. Especially that, apparently, CX-5 is quieter. Obviously no hybrid and less trunk but then I noisy vehicles make me tired on longer trips so it might be a deal breaker even though the RAV4 hybrid is good option for me. Good that there is Harrier in Japan, I will see it before making the decision ;)
@@valdius85 waited 1 year for the RAV to come out.Horrendous noise when you hard accelerate.WTF
@@roadwarrior280 I don`t mind the engine noise when you floor it. I rarely floor it like that anyway. If this is what you are talking about.
But I absolutely hate the road and wind noise while driving on the motorway. I understand SUV are rarely quiet and I would prefer Golf Allroad but in Japan they are just expensive to buy and maintain.
9 speed keeps good company with Jeep and RR. That’s bothersome?! Wouldn’t 6 speed be better and more reliable?
Really reliable
It's got good internals, but the face and body styling looks too much like a sedan. I don't mind that it handles like a car, but does it have to look like one?
Alot of bad feedback out there on that 9 speed transmission.Why did Honda use it?Why does the Ridgeline get the 6 speed? Any feedback is greatly appreciated.Thanks!
I almost spit my soda when I saw the prices! Base sport model and doesn't come with Apple CarPlay???? Shame.... I was hoping it would start maybe low 29k and slot that in.
lol there's plenty of good cars you can afford with $29k... maybe not in the segment or as reliable.
Oh yeah because $3k is SO much more expensive considering what's included in the base package and the fact its a mid size SUV! LMAO!!
Thank god Honda kept the amazing J35 V6 engine, instead of giving it a crappy 4cyl turbo
I don't hate it. I think Honda is being awfully generous with the adventure marketing and I don't quite understand the purpose of a 2 row crossover given that the length and width of this thing are still bigger (by more than a little) compared to a 4runner or grand cherokee (you don't HAVE to use the 3rd row you know). Still, it would be fun to see what it could do with 17 inch wheels and decent tires.
I don't hate it. I hate electronic dashes. And I hate Honda packaging. So, I don't hate it, I hate Honda - this is what I hate
Alex compare to Nissan Murano and Acura RDX which one would you pick
None of those. CVT and 9mspeed awfulness
@@swanblake The RDX is the 10-Speed
Why would Honda use the same transmission in a Jeep. This is a mess.
To reduce manufacturing costs. Car companies sharing parts is nothing new but!, in this case I think they should have considered another transmission.
Because its NOT a Jeep! Good grief!!
When is this thing coming to South Africa ?
The 20" wheels say "I'm for show, not go".
The million dollar question, will the Passport engine drink oil like my 2014 Accord that Honda wouldn’t fix.
How quiet is this car compared to the Subaru Outback? I am actually trying to decide right now between both.
Great review. Still dont know if Honda needs this vehicle in their line up. The Back is very uninspired IMPO. Also quite expensive, not fuel efficient...etc. To me thats the first vehicle that Honda kind of rushed it out from design to production, at least thats how I see it.
I'm subbed to both Alex and Redline and although I usually watch Sofyan's video first since he's usually upload the earliest, it's always Alex's videos that are the most informative and offer the most insights. Alex is the type of no-nonsense auto reviewer who just gets straight to the point without rambling on and on about irrelevant stuff. I still can't comprehend how Alex isn't the most subscribed auto reviewer on TH-cam, seeing as he's clearly a cut above the rest if not the best!
CONS - Not that great looking.The Murano and Sorento are much nicer looking with better proportions. Not sure that I am a fan of the push button shifter. Not a fan of the piano black trim on the dash and around the steering wheel buttons. Not sure if I like the digital speedometer. PROS - But this is a lot of content for the money in the Sport and EX-L AWD. (6 cylinder, regular shifting automatic, 20 inch rims, sunroof, great cargo room behind the 2nd row). Apples to apples, I prefer a 6 cylinder naturally aspirated engine. These Honda 6 cylinders will run forever. I currently drive a 6 cylinder Odyssey with 204,000 miles on it. Also did anyone notice how strong the folding floor boards looks in the back? Looks like its made of very solid plastic material that can easiler support heavy items. The cubby storage areas underneath the rear floor are a nice touch. The fold down buttons in the cargo area are nice and the 2nd row seats appear to fold down quickly and completely flat. Overall, it seems like a pretty decent choice at the EX-L AWD trim level for $38K range if you don't mind the looks and push button shifter. It will most likely hold it's value better than a Murano or Sorento. More cargo capacity than a Grand Cherokee. I think this will also take some buyers away from the Subaru Ascent especially those that don't like the CVT. This wasn't mentioned.
Take a shot every time Alex says “pity”.
Love your reviews Alex.That rear end could not be a more boring design.
To me it looks and sounds like it has alot going for it.Probably my main issue is I would prefer a lever shifter on the column over all of them buttons on the floor.As for what I'd like to see covered,I'm wondering about the Pros and cons of it being FWD bias.For example could we still have that in the floor storage bins if it was rear wheel drive bias? Is their any real advantages to FWD bias for the buyer?
Still waiting for the true Jeep Cherokee competitor not made by FCA
Certainly seems like a better choice, over the Toyota Sequoia trd or the Land Cruiser...a convincing and cheaper alternative to average users, many of whom, probably never go out to dirts roads....
V 6 enough said. 👊
Awesome review💯
Go anywhere vehicle?Not with unibody construction it won’t.
Yea, take those 20" wheels offroad
Looks like it needs an interior and exterior updates already 😒
i agree this looks like a 2013 model not a 2019.
But you've never seen it in person, right? Its very nicely appointed and very much up to 2019 tech standards. What do you drive, a 1998 Wrangler?
Yes it looks cheap and plain
@@yutosi2109 You're way off the mark pal. You need to see it in person. Its not cheap. As far as whether its "plain", that's a subjective opinion. Sometimes "plain" is good - easier to understand and configure. Go take it for a test drive before forming a incorrect opinion based on a video (btw one that clearly liked the Passport).