Fans expected a big redesign of the upcoming Passport SUV, based on the recent changes on the larger Pilot. Well, the two-row SUV had a facelift in 2022, but it won’t stop the Japanese company from revisiting it again and making it more competitive. Another big thing about this lineup is the debut of the new 2024 Honda Passport Trailsport. The refreshed package is coming with nice off-road equipment. We don’t expect it to be at the same level as Wrangler and 4Runner, but it is still a great move by Honda.
The Trailsport model debuted on the Passport with the latest facelift. Now, the question is if the package needs further improvements being only two years in the market. But, to complete the overall image of the new vehicle, Honda might do so. Anyway, the focus will be on the entire body and the interior. The SUV was practically a smaller, 2-row Pilot. Minor differences were in bodies. Now, with both SUVs being redesigned, they will get a more distinctive looks.
2024 Honda Passport Trailsport Highlights
The Trailsport was one of just three trim levels available for the mid-size SUV. The entry-level model is EX-L and the Elite is the premium option. The equipment you get with the 2024 Honda Passport Trailsport is more distinctive than for the entry-level, although it picks up the best options. Designers added roof rails and replaced wheels with 18-inch rims. Inside, you can find ambient lighting and a navigation system The Trailsport also features a power outlet and rear windows sunshades. A few more options will be there for the 2024 YM, including fresh colors. Crystal Black Pearl and Lunar Silver Metallic are standard paints, while the premium section offers Platinum White Pearl, Radiant Red Metallic II or Sonic Grey Pearl for $455.
Under the Hood
It will be interesting to see if the upcoming changes include a new powertrain. A 3.5-liter V6 is potent and durable, but not so efficient compared to the competition. It creates 280 hp and 262 lb-ft. A nine-speed automatic gearbox sends power to all wheels for the 2024 Honda Passport Trailsport. The gas mileage is not for bragging, so engineers are seriously considering an alternative. It should be a turbo-four. Nowadays, such systems can provide the same amount of power, while keeping way better gas mileage numbers. But, there is no word from Honda about this configuration for its mid-size SUVs.
On the other hand, a hybrid is something we can listen to for a quite while. Well, people don’t discuss about the Passport, as much as they did with Pilot. Even some test mules appeared in the past, but no official statement was made, nor did the vehicle hit production. So, it is safe to say that the hybrid system will debut first on the flagship SUV, and then on its smaller sibling as well.
Other Packages
The base version of the SUV is the Passport EX-L. Entry-level equipment is LED headlights, a power liftgate, a sunroof, 3-zone climate control, leather upholstery, and power-adjustable front seats. So, there are no wonders why the Passport is more expensive than the Pilot. Highlights of the infotainment system are an 8-inch screen, wireless charger for smartphones, 7-speaker audio, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay capability.
The Passport Elite is there to upgrade the Trailsport with special wheels, a hands-free liftgate, ventilated front buckets, premium audio with 10 speakers and HondaLink services. The safety is offering advanced features even in the base EX-L form.
2024 Honda Passport Trailsport Competition
The off-road performance of the 2024 Honda Passport Trailsport is enhanced, but it is not a true 4×4 vehicle. A 4-wheel drive is standard, but it still lacks some features that will find the way out of difficult terrains, such as hill descent control, rear-locking differentials, or high-end shocks. So, if you want the best off-road experience, better options are Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner. Also, there are a few other models if you want a true 4×4 SUV. But, the 2024 Honda Passport Trailsport is going to meet the demands of on and off-road driving.
2024 Honda Passport Trailsport Price
This package is the mid-range trim, placed between EX-L and Elite. It will cost $44,000 in the base form before you continue upgrading it. It is $2,000 more expensive than the EX-L and costs $3,000 less than the Elite. The Black Package is one of the optional upgrades. We like it more over the Bronze Edition. Both bundles bring unique colors and details. A utility package can be useful if you plan to go off-road more often.
Also, the price is going to depend on the upcoming redesign, particularly engine choices. If Honda switches from a V6, a turbo-four could cost the same, but the hybrid will push the Trailsport closer to the $50,000 mark. Interesting, the base Pilot, a three-row SUV, costs $5k less than a Passport. Still, that is the base version, while the bigger vehicle with the same packages is more expensive.
