2024 Honda Passport TrailSport Review and Off-Road Test

[@anthonyb755]

Honda would have hit the ball outta the park with a 1 inch lift, another skid plate and a tow hook. Please Honda consider this 🙏

[@mikefoehr235]

Toyota has no hook on the Tundra....insanity

[@travisp11]

While I don't disagree with you on this the lift and the skid plate can always be added (granted for a bit more $$$).

[@anthonyb755]

@@travisp11 oh for sure, I’ve seen plenty of people do that aftermarket. With Honda naming it the Trailsport though, would like to see more trail related things added from the factory to differentiate this particular trim.

[@anthonyb755]

@@mikefoehr235 wow, I didn’t realize that, will have to look into that. Such a miss if that’s the case.

[@srsg-wy8tr]

Honda said no.

[@serbou007]

I wanted to change my Subaru for a 2025 passport; but thanks to your test I will finally abandon the Honda unfortunately. thank you for these tests.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Someone mentioned this video to me and as someone that owns a 2019 Honda Passport with 139K on the odometer, and has driven with many other ZF9 equipped Passport/Pilot/Ridgeline drivers, it appears you have a defective Honda. We’ve never seen this issue on the trail, and prior to this review, you haven’t seen it either. Remember your first review, you took the Passport on the crosscut hill and you pushed the passport hard to get up it. Prior to, no other AWD was able to get up that obstacle, and in your G-wagon review it had to be triple locked to crawl up (although I’m sure if you used more momentum, it would have made it in standard 4WD with traction control). So, I do have a friend that had his Passport give a “transmission problem” warning while he was driving cross country. He took it into a Honda dealership and he was told that his ZF9 transmission was “OVERFILLED”. There’s a bleed valve on the ZF9, and after removing the excess fluid, the vehicle was operational again. From all the testing you’ve done on this platform, you know it was capable of getting through this. It appears that you didn’t get the “AWD system HOT” warning, which is just a rotational sensor and not an actual heat sensor. That points to a defective transmission. Really unfortunate Honda would provide you with a vehicle in that condition.

[@drivingsports]

I KNEW you'd show up. Should have thrown it into the video. "And... here's... JonDZ..." lol. I was wondering if Honda has made their sensor threshold lower on this newer model. Activating protections well before it's needed. I say that since TFL had the same exact issue with their press sample (different cars, same equipment). Also, like you say, I've pushed them harder in the past and never had this issue. (But without being side-to-side it's hard to know for certain just how "hard" the internals are getting pushed in any scenario.) In the end its just disappointing that Honda hasn't yet given the Passport the same amount of re-engineering they gave Pilot. Not to mention the lack of tranny cooler and hitch that are both standard on TrailSport Pilot.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

@@drivingsports A passport with a “transmission problem” warning ⚠️ needs to be taken to the dealership ASAP. This isn’t a warning that’s going to pop up because because the vehicle ran into adversity. This isn’t the same as an “AWD system Hot” warning. This doesn’t have anything to do with threshold adjustments. Again, this is a completely different warning, and it points to a manufacturer defective transmission, or maybe an overfilled transmission. If it’s the later, there needs to be better quality control. The 2024 Passport Trailsport is mechanical identical or at the very least similar. Even before installing the OEM transcooler on my Passport, I never had a transmission overheated warning. Honestly, I don’t think it does much on the trails, and is more suited for highway towing where air is constantly getting rammed into the cooler. Unfortunately, the 2023 Pilot Trailsport doesn’t have a transmission cooler either, and driving up trails in Colorado, a much lighter pilot with much less overland gear was showing higher transmission temperatures than my ZF9 equipped Honda. We observed that the fans don’t turn on until temps get into the 200F+ range. Actually, I did an April fools joke 2 years back where I faked a transmission problem by pulling the shifter harness. So, maybe there’s an issue with the harness wiring.

[@youngk.1838]

Jon still remember me? Why being a motormouth? I bet Honda didn't give you a fan cap.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

@@youngk.1838 sorry, I can’t make sense of your comment, and with that said if you left similar quality comments I wouldn’t remember. If you can redo your comment, I will answer your question.

[@travisp11]

Awesome review as usual and I was pretty pumped to see this video as I just took delivery of a 2024 Passport Trailsport 2 weeks ago! A few things to add is that that front skid plate only covers the oil pan and is an extra accessory (some dealerships add that on) and the tow hitch and wiring ran me $900 installed at the dealership. What I was not told is that the extra transmission cooler which runs an additional $1000 installed was also necessary to ensure I can safely tow 5K pounds. I’m gonna get that installed at some point but what I can say is that my Passport is easily handling our latest Nebraska Blizzard and snow mode works well! Thanks again Ryan for making this video!

[@ryanb8736]

@@RRr-yl8zrGo buy yourself a 4Runner if you go offroading everyday.

[@travisp11]

@@RRr-yl8zrit depends on the terrain you plan to take it on. On gravel, snow, ice, wet prairie on the way to where I go hunt it is perfect. Just have to know your ground clearance limitations . Yeah, Honda should have added more off road goodies to my Passport but I can always add whatever I need to make it perform better. Let’s not forget that these vehicles perform well on the pavement where they may spend a good chunk of their life.

[@JikaInFamous]

@@RRr-yl8zr all off road vehicles are bad on gas tf you talking about. 8 inches is the industry standard, 4runners have 8 inch ground clearance stock.

[@ivanperez707]

I like the awd , v6 and space in the passport

[@Rockmachine99]

Passport owner here. It really doesn't bother me how this video ended. I have the Elite (Touring in Can) with just regular road tires. It's just a great, roomy vehicle that does very well in snow (which is good because Im in Canada). With snow tires it's an absolute beast in the snow. If I wanted offroad capabilities I would have got a 4Runner.

[@travisp11]

I bought a 2024 PP Trailsport about two weeks ago and yeah, I did test drive a 4Runner but I liked the ride and performance on road of the Passport. Mine will see some very light off road use so I wasn't too worried about heavy trail capability.

[@ryanb8736]

@@RRr-yl8zrGo watch JonDZ take his Passport off-road. He’s got no issues at all.

[@isaidit4720]

Amen. People act like the gonna be climbing mountains with this thing. No one is ever in a situation like that lol

[@ValFinale]

dont name it a trailsport then cars trash

[@Monkeyseemonkey79]

@@ryanb8736 his (sweet) ride is heavily modified

[@PaoloFrancesco99]

I'd like a do-over, please. You already showed the Passport to be quite capable in previous videos. As you pointed out in this one, the front end was bottomed out and stuck. Not knowing that, you floored it. If one butted up to a brick wall and floored it, I think any transmission would protest. Any number of factors could have caused the PP to bottom out compared to others: lower approach angle, different wheel base possibly causing a steeper angle when hitting the rut, deeper rut from prior runs... Anyway, my '20 PP that I picked up used has been great and I'm confident it's plenty capable for snow on roads and able to take established dirt roads to camps and hiking trails. The combination of the good AWD system and the on-road manners are the right balance for me. I really like your videos and enjoy your style of reviewing, including your giddy laughs when the good stuff happens.

[@user-yh7hj9qf6e]

I 100% agree, we observed during the extreme Snow challenge, that when Toyota RAV4 Transmisson protested over-heating. You pulled back, reset and then proceeded again. It's good to know you had challenges and expected more from a Trail Sport Trim package. So my question why the bailout on the test? Was it the level of protest by the Honda sensors alone or concern the system was going to get damaged and this was a loner Honda?

[@garrettw99]

Also, it probably didn’t overheat. When certain wheels spin much faster than others, cars often freak out and give you a Christmas tree of alerts. I think it has to do with the wheel speed sensors

[@isaidit4720]

I definitely agree. Who doesn't give it another try when it obviously could been just the drivers fault, NOT the car.

[@ryanb8736]

@@isaidit4720its drivers fault. Hes not the greatest. He tries driving into a pile of dirt, then calls it a fail. Next vehicle, he digs as that earth away. Hes not bright.

[@whynot16384]

I love how you get inside and lay down in these videos.. It shows the size wayyy better..

[@mikespies786]

I genuinely appreciate your calm, easy-going, and measured approach in each of your videos. Your delivery is perfect. Unlike many other reviewers who tend to inflect loudly with a voice that feels unnatural, I find your style more credible. Additionally, I value your willingness to point out deficiencies, such as the older V6 engine and 9-speed transmission, as well as the lack of tow hooks and skid plates. However, I appreciate that you also acknowledge that these aspects may not be deal-breakers for those interested in the vehicle. It's refreshing to see that not everything is seen through a negative lens, and you consistently highlight the positives within your reviews. Please keep them coming.

[@georgesoto5436]

These videos are so insightful, specially if you’re considering purchasing one of these vehicles. Thank you for continuing to put out these quality videos!

[@keithcarothers2643]

This channel actually decided what my last purchase was going to be. No bs just straight reviews. It's the best

[@LionRunner]

@24:54 I think this is why Honda ditched the ZF9 to Honda 10spd in the new Pilot. Glitched like this and transmission overheating is killing the fun. On Hondas defense , true that having all those clutches is no joke. Its not made for rough use like a 4WD system you had on your 4Runner. On the other hand this is pretty capable for 99% of the owners need imo. Excellent video as always..!! .

[@ChefDuane]

Thank you for your reasoned comment. I have a '23 Passport and my buddies have said "Well, it's not a REAL 4 wheeler." Right. It's not meant to be. It's meant to be what it is... an AWD SUV that can handle some logging roads and camp trails, and most folks will find that more than acceptable. You want a 4 wheeler, buy a jeep with a lift and a locker.

[@ramborob9777]

Probably one of the most responsible and reputable channels on KZbin. Another outstanding and honest review sir! Honda, please lift the Ridgeline and Passport and put better tires and suspension on them. Turbo Charge the magical VTECH and you will have a homerun, even in Uni-Body Construction. *But we know you won't. Love my gentleman's truck Honda Ridgeline though.

[@Rodisflawless]

And to think it's called TrailSport. Marketing geniuses.

[@briAction]

There's a forest road off of Mountain Loop Highway that has a big huge hole just like the one in the Fun Forest. It's a perfect analog. Your tests have helped reinforce my decision on a new vehicle. It's really fun to watch and see which cars can get through what I need them to do. Keep up the great work! Really glad I found your channel.

[@knightryder3757]

I was out working in the yard this morning when I heard a wierd laughing /chuckling sound from inside of my garage. I went in to investigate and much to my surprise, heard laughing from my CrossTrek's infotainment system. Curious, I climbed in and your review of this passport immediately started to play. Mystery solved, thanks for making both of us laugh on a cold winter day. 😂

[@adamb3129]

My mother has a ‘20 Passport and it’s been great so far. No issues and great to drive on road. It’s nice to see some proper all terrain tires on this 2024 model. I think the real benefit of the Passport is that it can handle light off roading while not feeling ancient on road like a 4Runner. From what I’ve seen, the Passport will get all the updates of the Pilot for the 2025 model year, which I can’t wait to see.

[@travisp11]

I was interested in the 4Runner but went with a Passport because it had a more comfortable ride and I have always wanted to experience a Honda V6.

[@travisp11]

@@RRr-yl8zr yes and no was getting pressed into the dirt and not over. Hard to get past the physics of the earth pushing back at you.

[@adamb3129]

@@RRr-yl8zr The awd drive system didn’t completely shut down. It overheated because the car was literally stuck. Also, the Trailsport is not supposed to be a heavy duty off roader and the next one will have more upgrades to make it comparable to the new Pilot Trailsport.

[@benhaze1010]

The SH-AWD system is amazing for snow and interesting on-road for some drivers as long as you have the skills to be able to use the on-throttle required to enjoy it. The Trailsport is just a marketing exercise and will be suitable for the folks buying vehicles for the perceived image without ever using it for what you are made believed it can do. Totally agree the Pilot is the better choice even if you don't need the 3rd row. Good call!

[@travisp11]

Mine is gonna see the occasional gravel road and some prairie romps to the deer stand but not much more so for my needs it should work just fine. I'm gonna be installing a No Lo Designs front skid plate in March of this year.

[@kris-8596]

3r row is for larger family and useless to me. Passport fits all my requirements for snow.

[@bobby350z]

I honestly think if Honda offered some of the features from 4 runner, they will get more mkt share. I am glad that Honda is sticking with a V6. Not sure why mfg cheapen out by not putting camera where needed. This thing is not cheap. Let us see what 2025 brings.

[@travisp11]

I think they are holding out on all of the upgrades for the 2025 model year. I've been seeing some concept photos online for it.

[@bobby350z]

@@travisp11 - Thanks. Let us hope that the 2025 model has skid plates, tow hooks, front camera and a better 4wd drive system.

[@peterwojdanski7222]

Also need to ditch 60/40 once and for all and allow the middle seat to fold down independently. Super handy when transporting a bundle of 2×4s, or loading longer skis down the center, without losing the two full-sized seats on either side. My old CRV can do this, so there is always full-sized room for two adults in the rear.

[@kubi0461]

I'm wondering if what's happening is a side effect of taking an AWD system designed for performance (SH-AWD) and not tweaking it for the endurance needed for sustained trail demands. I still love my '22 Passport Trailsport though as it's very fun to drive on the road and dirt roads, and an absolute beast in winter conditions around here on winter tires. I enjoy how i-vtm4 has no hesitation or delay so on even icy roads it's very confident feel. And quite some nice storage underneath the floor in back is great for winter/emergency supplies. My only complaints are that the vehicle is wide and/or there isn't a smaller version with i-vtm4, and that the transmission shifting decisions are a bit inconsistent. Oh and the driver assistance tech is pretty awful. I turned off automatic cruise control because it would constantly be adjusting rather than maintaining a steady speed. The only issue I had was the dreaded infotainment sound static-y thing due to some connectors but I think they finally got that sorted out so hopefully 2024 models don't run into that.

[@jasonsong86]

You just need to know what it can and cannot do.

[@FinancialStorm7]

24:27 TFL had a similar issue with the dodge hornet. It caught the eye of some engineers at stellantis I believe and they found out exactly what caused this. the video about it is on their TFLcar channel titled "The TRUTH About Why The Dodge Hornet Failed On The TFL Slip Test". I could be dead wrong, but maybe it is the same issue.

[@angelas4681]

I actually prefer this Passport's dash than that of the new Pilot, where the multimedia screen appears to be an afterthought.

[@lawdog516]

WOW that was disappointing?? Did the AWD system self correct and reset when you freed the vehicle? Love your reviews Ryan, looking forward to the next one, thanks

[@br9760]

Tons of copium in this comment section. This isn't "all a driver needs" if it can't push through a little loose dirt on its nose. Which is made *worse* by the fact that it has bad enough front end clearance to even catch like that. How is this supposed to get your family through a snow storm? Honda didn't try/test hard enough with this model, simply put.

[@TexasStormChaser]

Someone needs out call out these OEM's with their fake "trail ready" badges that are nothing but marketing. They didn't actually do anything mechanically different from their standard models. It's just a sticker.

[@ryanb8736]

It’s made for small trails. Not climbing big rock mounds.

[@TexasStormChaser]

@@ryanb8736 That is a small trail and on a 1-10 scale of off road it’s a 1.

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Hello Subaru? Are you there? You’ve fallen asleep while designing the Ascent Wilderness. And while you’re at it, make the Wilderness a trim-level add-on package. I want an Ascent Touring Wilderness.

[@KenCheng]

What does your whining have anything to do with this video? You think Subaru is watching this 😂

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

@@KenCheng you sound like the type of gentleman that lowers his pants to the floor while standing at the public urinals.

[@Moistnmeaty90]

@@haroldbeauchamp3770LMAO. Spot on, my friend.

[@CaliSteve169]

Subaru would be great if not for their cvt.

[@ericpizarro3084]

This is about Honda Passport dudes! For sure when the times come there will be a video about Subaru. For now this Honda needs to be revise. I thought it was going to eat the trail!

[@lukiw7044]

Pretty brave SUV. Now we know what this Honda is capable of. Great off road review, thanks Ryan. Greetings

[@JRs-guitars]

I think you got the error messages because the RPMs were too low. So traction control "thought" that there was an issue even though the AWD was still working fine. Otherwise...it would've been an overheat message. But it's a shame that a "trailsport" is so low in the front.

[@travisp11]

I may be removing those lower bumper moldings if it wont affect any of the other components on my 2024.

[@Offshore1977]

I prefer the individual front armrests. More comfortable and easier to transfer from front to rear if needed By the way. I really enjoy your channel. Excellent reviews.

[@ShadowBend]

I thought I was going to like them, but they were waaaay too narrow. My arm naturally fell far wide of where the armrest was. I'm maybe taller than average but not crazy, just over 6'.

[@danielduncan256]

Passport has sport mode for on road. It’s not in the menu you highlighted, it has its own button (which I wish was on the steering wheel). I have a 22 Passport. Really like it. Use sport mode in many traffic situations. Don’t like push button trans though.

[@JamesRussoMillas]

Reminds me of the same way the awd gave out on the Dodge Hornet when TFL was testing it. It's just a software defect in these systems I think.

[@billderas3420]

Great review Ryan! Personally changed its misnomer designation from TrailSport to FailSport. Thinking "Reject, reject, reject Will Robinson".

[@EZapar]

Booo. Failure notification on the dash. . . So much for upgrading the tires. . . Good for you for making these cars actually work on your new course.

[@havinfun44884488]

Love your videos It didn't seem like much to get the Passport stuck especially on an "easy" trail. Glad I got my 5th Gen 4Runner. Ryan, did you get rid of your 4Runner for the Ranger?

[@drivingsports]

4Runner to Maverick to Ranger Tremor to Ranger Raptor or 2024 Land Cruiser, whichever arrives first. 😂

[@havinfun44884488]

@@drivingsports Thanks I didn’t know you kept switching, I thought you were just a baller accumulating cars.

[@steve_arcenio]

Thank Ryan. I want one now

[@lane5686]

24:24 is so disappointing, especially since Honda marketed this vehicle to be an offroader. The fact that even the Hyundai Palisade could power through and that is a more family oriented vehicle is just sad.

[@smokeu600]

We got a 2023 passport Trailsport in the same color. We love our suv,it’s perfect for a family of 4. The gear selector was kinda weird and it took some time to get used to it.

[@jessemunoz2642]

Tbh it needs a redemption video. I have a 2 in lift on my 2021 Honda Ridgeline, along with the Falken Wildpeak AT3 with a 265 60 18 tire size and it is exactly what the truck and what the passport should have came out with from the factory. It is so capable.

[@travisp11]

Id like to see it run again without those lower moldings in place. The angle and the overhang couldn't get past the physics of being pushed into the dirt.

[@aaronbehindbars]

iVTM-4 is known for overheating and throwing error messages. I don't think it's meant for continous, heavy off-road use. The rear torque-vectoring diff doesn't have a lot of cooling capacity. It requires frequent fluid changes with Honda-specific gear oil. The front chin is too low. I catch mine (Ridgeline) on tall curbs. These are good for snow and some sand. I'm a surburban warrior, so that's fine with me. Also, these feel wide because they are wide. 78 inches is about an inch shy of a half-ton. Remember, 80"+ requires clearance lights like Raptors.

[@SlowRollaAE82]

As a PP Elite owner who put in TS wheels and Wildpeak tires who also drove the car on several off road rocky, sandy, and/or mud trails, I disagree with your statement. I have never seen those messages. In this case, the system somehow found out that the front was scraping and the vehicle wasn't moving forward so it told the driver to stop driving and maybe look around. Quite intelligent if you ask me.

[@aaronbehindbars]

​​@@SlowRollaAE82Just because it hasn't happened to you doesn't mean it isn't an issue. Clearly, the issue occurs when you are in situations where you are asking for sustained periods of torque transfer and that overheats the clutches in the rear diff. The temperature sensor registers higher than normal operating temps and stops vectoring power to save the components from physical damage. It isn't that sophisticated to know the front end is up against an obstacle. It's literally just the computer reading wheel speed sensors figuring out how fast the vehicle is moving and where you try to divert power. It's a great system and very advanced in terms of on-demand AWD systems, but it isn't robust like a true off-road 4wd setup. The point of my comment is that these are not heavy-duty off-roaders. They have low ground clearance and it is easy to stuff the nose into dirt berm or high center which is going to tax the AWD system. That AWD system isn't designed for such use. It isn't what I'd call a defect, but a limitation or shortcoming. Multiple journalist who have tested the Passport, Pilot, or Ridgeline have experienced AWD system overheat warnings. Maybe it's misuse/abuse, but I don't think they are necessarily doing something that some owners wouldn't try themselves. At a minimum, it's useful to know how far a vehicle's capabilities go. Journalists aren't going to intentionally abuse a vehicle knowing that such behavior jeopardizes their future ability to have access to press fleet vehicles.

[@WW-wf8tu]

I was about to praise it and or even compare it to a 4R. Right up until the system went wonky when your nose met resistance. The 4R would have been clawing like a trapped animal until you were out or until you stopped to give it outside intervention. So, this is a hard pass for me. Dang it.

[@ryanb8736]

4Runner is awful driving on road. Plus you can’t drive it in AWD in snow storms.

[@R3ts3t]

Interesting that the cut the heated rear seats... My '22 has them 🤔

[@travisp11]

You can get heated rear seats on the black edition.

[@SlowRollaAE82]

They were on the elite (top trim) of the previous pps.

[@PLZU81Truth]

Yea. I’m sticking with a 4 runner

[@ryanb8736]

I wanted a 4Runner till I drove one. Feels like something from the 80’s. Cool, but too outdated and lethargic for me.

[@brians.1357]

What did the owners manual say/recommend regarding the caution lights that you received?? Did a simple power down of the vehicle and start back up clear them?? Obviously going forward wasn’t an option digging dirt with the nose. Nice job getting out. I’d say the lesson here is if you’re gonna be hanging wheels in the air get a 4Runner. Looks like a sweet machine for mud and snow

[@MyBlitz7]

A dedicated sand pit would be a good way to show all the traction modes

[@janetfreysanderson5731]

I thought there was a navigation with the passport trailsport. But I don’t see it on the screen?

[@richeyrich2203]

The top trim level in the US has seat heaters in the rear

[@SlowRollaAE82]

Since others have mentioned the other channel also having the transmission issue, I'm going to let this one go. I will say that watching the other clips, im not sure if you took a different line. Or has the trail already gotten more difficult because of those previous vehicles? I just cant fathom that the air dam of the PP is less than the crown or Palisade which is why my comment above. I understand that you did three launches which could have strained the tranny and you didnt seem to be moving alot for air flow, but i think the overheat issue is just silly. Could the system, perhaps, know that you were not moving forward because the airdam was scraping so it threw in the codes to let you know to stop and get out of the car so you can evaluate the situation? My PP Elite has the 5k lb tow package which adds the tranny cooler. I bought TS takeoffs and added WildPeaks. Ive been in Big Bend and had a blast with those trails. I go to fluffy sandy besches driving around for a while with no issues. Ive even been at an offroad park and again no issues. Im going to say that im disappointed at the results here.

[@stingygunner]

Honda is definitely going to lose some buyers simply due to their refusal to commit to the passport--unfortunate, because the vehicle has SO much potential. Each year is "I wonder when they'll add X." I for one just can't wait any longer. I'd also definitely like to see Honda respond to these AWD system overheats. It's all over KZbin.

[@TaterSalad89]

I am one of these buyers who has passed on Honda for the reasons you mentioned.

[@uncalm]

Same. I cross shopped the Passport early last year and ended up going with a different vehicle, despite really liking the good parts of the Passport. You're absolutely right though, there is so much potential in the platform. Kinda wild that I've seen multiple videos on this channel alone of Passport AWD issues. I believe there was an earlier video on this channel of the AWD system overheating after going up a small hill. I don't know what kind of field testing Honda is doing but whatever it is, it seems to be quite a bit gentler than the stuff Ryan does.

[@serbou007]

EXACTEMENT ! ConsidérEer (en anglais seulement)

[@nhlcfl7733]

Question: did you mention that this current Passport you tested uses the 1st Gen i-VTM4 system, it is somewhat different than the current Pilot with its 2nd Gen i-VTM4 system. If i missed you mentioning it, this could have been pointed out as it seems important enough. Now it’s about testing the current Passport (before completely revised for 2026) versus current Pilot. Thank you.

[@terence4427]

I owned one of these and loved it, but got rid of it because I wanted something with a bit more leg room in the front. I'm hoping, however, the redesign will be more attractive for the money you pay for these vehicles.

[@azores15]

Maybe brake vectoring isn't so bad after all.

[@TnTTyler]

Its never been bad and jeep has been using Brake Lock Differentials since MY2005

[@uncalm]

You're right! While not perfect, brake vectoring has huge advantages. It requires no additional specialized parts (i.e., multiclutch differentials like this Passport), which means there is no additional equipment to: 1. fail, 2. add weight, 3. add complexity/service cost. It's basically just software. As long as your brakes and driveline components can handle the torque being transferred through them by individually braking a wheel and your motor can generate enough power to overcome the braked wheel(s), it tends to be much more capable in practice than many people expect.

[@MechayaAlta]

😊I compared this car to a 2023 Subaru Outback and chose the Subaru for much better, as you touched on, acc/lka.

[@lovelybali61]

That’s nothing beats a true 4x4 system

[@ryanb8736]

Except when you have to drive in a snow blizzard for 3 hours. 4 wheel drive transfer case will overheat. AWD is better for road use.

[@TheRangerman00]

@@ryanb8736you realize a lot of true 4wd systems offer a auto mode now

[@chemuzio-ssir2015]

Wey disappointed with this "TrailSport" Looks like Honda is still doing trial and error here. Would definitely get a 4Runner over this lol And like always, awesome videos Ryan!!

[@bigpoppa1992]

TFL had problems with the awd system when they were testing the passport offroad also.

[@SlowRollaAE82]

I think you're the second person who mentioned that. Did their test car also have the red paint? I wonder if it's the same loaner vehicle.

[@bigpoppa1992]

@@SlowRollaAE82 no their passport was a grayish blueish color. TFL tested a Honda Ridgeline years ago offroad with a few other small pickups and the Ridgeline awd system overheated.

[@K5757-d9q]

When will you test the Cybertruck?

[@maverickmig211]

There goes the Honda passport 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣. Thank you for showing us not to buy a passport

[@vinu_s]

@24:26 made it clear. I am not buying Honda Passport. Now-a-days most manufacturers put in a garbage 4WD and half-baked computer controls and slap an offroad badge. This is not only with Hondas.

[@FordEnthusiast413]

Great review. Deciding between this and an Outback Wilderness. Which is the better choice?

[@drivingsports]

Outback Wilderness.

[@uncalm]

This is literally the comparison I was making early last year and went with the Outback Wilderness after driving both. Happy to answer any questions you have.

[@FordEnthusiast413]

@@drivingsportsthanks!!

[@FordEnthusiast413]

@@uncalmthanks. How has your experience been with the Outback Wilderness. I have owned a few Subarus so I know they are like tanks in snow! I was led to believe that the Passport as well as the Pilot were more reliable than Turbo Subarus with CVTs due to the naturally aspirated V6 and regular transmission.

[@uncalm]

​@@FordEnthusiast413 Overall a great car. My only real complaint is the infotainment. It's slow and clunky but if you're using CarPlay/Android Auto the whole time it is mostly fine. The other negative I can think of is the poor city fuel economy. I get around 20mpg city. This is usually made up for by the great highway economy, usually at or near 30mpg. I've driven it on a few longer trips and the 30mpg highway combined with the 18.5 gallon tank has given me a range of, no joke, ~500 miles, which is amazing. Plenty of power, and it comes on down low, too. All of the torque is available at 2,000rpm, which is where most people are driving when they're in the city anyway. Nice soft and compliant ride. I think the 17" wheels and thicker tires are definitely an upgrade in that regard, even if you never take it off road. The extra sidewall helps with bumps. I'm not sure what to think about the reliability question. I think Honda has a great reputation, and a lot of this kind of thing is mostly that: reputation. Subarus have not had head gasket issues since the early 2000s, but yet the rumor persists that all turbo Subaru motors are unreliable. People don't like CVTs because Nissan in particular put out a terrible product and everyone associated CVTs with those garbage Nissan units. Are modern Subarus more reliable or less reliable than modern Hondas? I have no idea. I know Honda just recalled 2.5M cars for defective fuel pumps, but I wouldn't call Honda unreliable. My family has owned 4 Subarus (2 turbo, 2 NA) and 4 Hondas over the last 40 years, maintained them well, and we've had almost no issues with any of them. When it comes to Japanese cars in particular, I think they're mostly pretty similar. Where you start to get real reliability differences is when you start to compare to American and German, in particular.

[@env7174hs]

Wow, definitely not buying the Passport. Thank for showing us its weakness off-road.

[@mr2gud2u]

One of the best awd systems out there right now. Only thing holding it back is the terrible angles.

[@mattheviewer]

Verh helpful video. Aslde from lack of ground clearance, might it have weak transmission/diff cooling?

[@drivingsports]

Yes, needs a tranny cooler.

[@SlowRollaAE82]

The 5k lb tow package adds a tranny cooler. Maybe that's the reason why I havent seen these messages in my off-road use.

[@ryanb8736]

Honda and Acura have extremely over sensitive yaw rate sensors for early warnings. Especially when on an angle. They need to fix it in software.

[@larrythomas6068]

Thx the sleep test is important to me

[@mikefoehr235]

I loved seeing the warnings all lit up. Does not inspire confidence in a vehicle.

[@Purpleyamz]

Kinda bummed the passport croaked before getting a proper chance to be evaluated. I have a 2019 Passport and once got this same slew of warnings after an oil change. The vehicle is in a crippled state when this happens. Turned out to be a faulty sensor (exhaust sensor I believe, but can't remember atm) tripping up the ECU. Replaced the sensor and haven't seen it since. To say the Ascent or Toyota Crown can do this and not the passport is a little misleading, since they gave you a defective vehicle - a properly running passport would've been fine through there!

[@nickminir56]

Turn trail joyride into Sport Outdoor Exercise real quick 😮

[@KYIV0482]

Interior needs an update. Great movie 👍

[@CarGuy11]

Did the errors clear after cooling off?

[@drivingsports]

Yup.

[@pocobuenouno]

So it looks as though the 2025 Passport addresses many of the issues this model has. But will they be addressed enough?

[@kylewhisman]

Ill go with the competition. The Honda scream jursssic dinosaur. But i bet it will be reliable as all get out

[@Knivess]

I would love to see a comparisen between the trailsport package and the wilderness package

[@Knivess]

Nevermind. Just finished the video.

[@jamespostle6894]

No camparison.

[@richeyrich2203]

You did JonDZ a disservice here. The passport is more capable than you were as a driver this test. Time to redo it, and pick a proper line. Also, that particular vehicle may have had an issue with power shifting in the rear, while the first passport you tested, did not.

[@TheJeep1967]

According to an article on Edmunds, the 2025 Passport will be all new and will be based on the new Pilot.

[@Zanderthelab]

I’d like to see the MDX Type S do this. I’d also love to see a MDX Type S in an off road model.🫢

[@garynapoli3042]

I had a 23 pilot sport I went back to old school for the 24 passport black edition missed that VTEC with the passing power although I think the new motor gave you a little more punch under 3500 RPM, but true passing power the J 35 single overhead camnot quite as refined, but is faster and also has a 300 RPM higher redline

[@tallll70]

Besides the 70% Rear Front capability Honda supposedly has accelerating gearbox which provides the rear wheels spinning faster in turns which is a unique for them... unfortunately it's too weak in such dragging situations as it happened at the end

[@alexphotoslc]

The more I see tests of new wannabe offroaders, the more I enjoy my '05 V8 4Runner 😎 Great content like always !

[@chuckwalla2967]

The infotainment screen is tilted too upward. A deal breaker.

[@skowmi5681]

How would the Chevy Blazer handle that trail?

[@therealshafto]

Dang, maybe drop the trailsport branding on this one!

[@TheWinwin4all]

Trail edition which is not made for the trails

[@johns1646]

Did this one have the optional transmission cooler that Honda offers as an accessory?

[@drivingsports]

Nope.

[@MegaRetr]

Passport has sport mode for on road.

[@TheRangerman00]

How do you get stuck going down hill

[@ryanb8736]

Honda needs to put a 6 inch lift and bigger tires if they want to keep it a trailsport. Also need to recalibrate sensors so not as sensitive.

[@ryanb8736]

@@RRr-yl8zrThat’s what these reviewers want. 😂

[@127Foxtrot]

Notwithstanding the absence of a side by side comparison, I'd hazard to guess that just about any current Subaru would likely have put in a much better off-road show than the TrailSport did in this review. I was really expecting more from it.

[@brians.1357]

I like these older Passport and Ridgelines with the prior interior and VTEC vs the newer Pilot. I’d probably lean towards 24’ Ridgeline over the Passport for the underseat and in bed storage, Wireless apple car and included receiver hitch from the factory vs paying who knows how much at the dealership for install and required disassembly of new vehicle to install said receiver hitch.

[@travisp11]

I had my dealer install the tow package (receiver hitch and wiring harness) and I did watch an install video on it over on the Curt towing YT channel. It's not too difficult but I had the dealer do the install so it wouldn't void my warranty and I paid $900 for everything which yes, was pretty pricey.

[@serbou007]

Ryan, have you asked Honda about the overheating issues with the AWD system that you experienced starting at 24:25 seconds into this video; will they be adjusted for the 2025 model? Because trail edition means good hardened capabilities for off-road. THANKS.

[@drivingsports]

They’re aware of the video. My guess is it won’t be updated until the next model change.

[@williamperry4798]

Wow, great video. I’d like to see the Mazda CX 50 on this trail

[@paulm6481]

The finally got rid of minivan arm rests 🤣

[@sansin6250]

Does the iVTM4 have a speed limit like Subaru's x-mode?

[@ryanb8736]

No. It’s always on.

[@mikeburton8426]

after the launch of the latest pilot I was really anticipating a more attractive Passport and that would have put it on my list. Great car and super functional but it just looks a little boring. Honda is doing some good design work. They need to get on this. I think this segment will see strong demand.

[@hexboxrc5456]

can you review the bmw x5 m60i 2024 and take it offroad, i heard its really good and i want to see you test it, thank you

[@thecleaningteacher638]

I want this vehicle for the cargo space,AWD capabilities, and power train and transmission; however, it definitely has an old soul interior. I agree with you that Honda should filter down some of the Pilot niceties to the Passport. I’m very curious how this will compete with the new Land Cruiser. I would love to see a head-to-head comparison of these two vehicles.

[@bakhtiyarpakhirdinov2461]

At the end of the day Passport and Pilot are glorified versions of the Odyssey minivan. Incomparable to the TLC (which is actually not, because of being in fact the mid-size Prado, and the "true" LC is the 300-series, ditched in the US market) in terms of the off-road capability, same like the LC is no better than these Hondas on pavement, overall ride comfort and cabin space.

[@thecleaningteacher638]

@@RRr-yl8zr 🤣🤣🤣

[@flippypippy1851]

I truly think it could’ve done it, I’ve seen this a lot on ivtm4 systems where they overheat. I think it’s all software and it being overly protective and not wanting you to over work it.

[@serbou007]

Peut-être, mais si Honda veut faire un VUS avec lequel on peut faire des siennes, il suffit de le programmer différemment ! J’allais acheter un passeport 2025, mais grâce à cette vidéo je vois que Honda n’a pas réglé les problèmes de « surchauffe » de son système que j’ai trop vu dans plusieurs vidéos ; Et malheureusement, je laisserai tomber ce choix lors de mon prochain achat. Ils n’avaient qu’à y réfléchir. Nous construisons un SUV pour le tout-terrain ou non. Donc sinon on ne construit que des versions Touring etc..

[@Chubbydippin]

Thankyou for this test and segment. I've been intrigued with this Passport Trailsport. Though it's offroad performance was kind of a let down, there are many things this vehicle does well. Curious if you've heard any rumblings(good or bad) regarding the timing belt? Wonder if the 2025 refresh/updates will include a timing chain instead of a belt. Thanks again for covering this vehicle.

[@flippypippy1851]

@@Chubbydippin it’s supposed to be getting redesigned relatively soon, and no I have not heard anything about rumbling. je suis désolé de ne pas t'avoir répondu plus tôt !

[@billosby9997]

Hard pass.

[@bigstraz]

3:05 no spare tire?

[@drivingsports]

Partial spare behind the bin.

[@esidewand]

Why did you get rid of your 4Runner as your POV?

[@drivingsports]

Had an opportunity to buy one of the first Ford Mavericks. Expected to then buy the new 4R but then it got pushed back.

[@esidewand]

@@drivingsports we shared the same vehicle for a while. I turned my 4Runner in because I felt it made a lousy daily driver. Got a new Acura RDX. Very happy so far. Thanks for all your videos and reviews. I watch even when I’m not in the market 👍

[@TRiablou]

That taillights look like they just gave up at a point when they design them.

[@EV50400]

I have a Honda Passport. Great vehicle except for the crap infotainment system. My 2015 Jeep Cherokee U-Connect Infotainment system was more advanced than what Honda gives you in 2023. You have to manually select things like the gas mileage meter or the compass, which I find very annoying. The vehicle compass and your gas mileage meter should both be visible on the dash display by default, and at the same time. . Could care less about a front camera. That's the least of anyone's worries with all the other shortcomings of the infotainment system.