The 2024 Honda Passport TrailSport Aims to Be a More Serious Off-Roader, But Is It Different Enough?

[@mikespies786]

I love that this is a “vanilla” vehicle. A proven power plant matched with a very reliable, easy-to-maintain 9-speed transmission and Honda’s legacy reliability gives me peace of mind ownership. I like that its simplistic layout offers an intuitive, easy-to-navigate cockpit with old-school buttons and controls. I love the smaller infotainment screen. I don’t want an iPad Pro mounted to my dash; I'm driving, not watching movies. I need to operate the vehicle and its features without being distracted and temperamental, as so many touch screens can be. The Passport fits our empty-nester, active lifestyle. It sits up fairly high off the road, has excellent towing capacity, a 165-lb roof rack rating, and a ton of cargo space. It offers exceptional visibility, is loaded with safety features (Honda Sensing ), and is, in my opinion, value-priced for the segment. Yes, I’m old. I was born in 1967, but with that comes wisdom and experience behind many different steering wheels. We purposely bought a 2024 (Black Edition) to avoid the expected 2025 remodel that may add updated features we don’t want and remove old-fashioned features we do want. This is, in my opinion, a nearly perfect, two-person, hit-the-road with no destination in mind kind of vehicle. Tough. Rugged. Refined and Reliable. What more does anyone want or need?

[@atmartens]

My biggest issue with the Passport is that it’s due for a redesign. The new Pilot is out so I’m not sure why theyre dragging their feet. Same with the Ridgeline. I’d want the 10 speed auto.

[@ryanb8736]

The Pilot is already outdated too. So Honda will wait a couple years till they update the Passport. The 10 speed still has issues. Look at all the complaints. So Honda needs to fix issues before investing into R&D. Next iteration will also be electric. GM and Honda just signed a deal for full electric partnership. GM will be manufacturing them for Honda. Honda seems to be having financial issues.

[@larryjohns8823]

2024 Passports will be out soon. Three changes: real off road tires, shock changes (to match heavier stiffer tires) and redesigned console. The rest = same.

[@BillBrinkop]

lol yeah that one extra gear is so important! 😂

[@LuizStocklerHenrique]

You know what? There are certain advantages of purchasing a product containing engine and transmission and electrical wizzardy that has had multiple revisions over the years. I've reached a point in life where "new and improved" is not necessarily preferable over "old and reliable".

[@nightryder21]

Wait... This isn't the redesign that was expected.

[@MER1CA_1st]

Exactly, Honda focused mainly on the "trailsport" branding!🙄😤

[@rondail5675]

I really like the new TrailSport Passport. I would want that version due to the suspension and tires. I like a smoother ride. I like the size of the Passport also.

[@ryanb8736]

It’s the same suspension as all the other Passports. It’s on the stiffer side. Tires are the only change. Still no skid plates.

[@rondail5675]

@@ryanb8736, I agree, I believe the standard Passport has 20" wheels also. I like the ride in my Ridgeline Black Edition.

[@ryanb8736]

@@rondail5675 I guess they changed the valving on shocks to be more softer.

[@elizabethshimada7809]

I have a 22 exl and love it. Love the new console since I hate the arm rests.

[@distelmarc]

Don't apologize about the beeping. It is part of the vehicle and as a person who is highly irked by beeps and warnings, I do want to hear the beeping. Even though it has a very mild effect on my buying process, it is something that an owner will be VERY aware of the entire time of ownership.

[@JS-ov9jb]

I have a '23 and this thing beeps for EVERYTHING. I've searched and it doesn't appear there is a way to turn any beeps off.

[@TokyoOlympics2020]

I know, being a KZbinr for cars is SOOOOOO HARDDDDD, OH LORD THE BEEPS

[@guitarmetaldemon]

I got a 2021 Touring model that has more interior amenities. It's ridiculous how they got rid of some packages in favor for less equipment and made them even more expensive. I'm glad I bought it when I did.

[@johnnygarcia2514]

I've been waiting for them to fix the arm rest the whole time. I will be purchasing 1

[@Onnitfan1]

Me too!

[@bosse641]

Very nice. Wish it had a proper gear lever instead of the knob.

[@fredmoss4540]

It has the push-button transmission.

[@spursdynasty7378]

You get used to it, not really a big deal. Eventually all vehicles will have it, it’s just a matter of time.

[@mikeyc7072]

Definitely want to see this on the rollers and at the Ranch✅ Would like to see it compared to a 4Runner Limited which has full-time 4WD, 4Lo, and ATRAC. How does Honda’s Computerized system compare to real deal?!

[@markflaugh2293]

They have a video with the Pilot Trailsport which is same drivetrain.

[@mikeyc7072]

@@markflaugh2293 Yes - I saw that - impressive performance on the rollers. Very average articulation, but likely good enough. The 2023 Pilot Trailsport was improved with additional transmission/oil cooling and beefed up rear clutch - and - 10 speed transmission. This Passport Trailsport did not get the 10 Speed Transmission. Not clear from this review if this Passport has the additional cooling and/or beefed up rear clutch🤷‍♂️?

[@markflaugh2293]

@@mikeyc7072 Yeah not something for hard trails for most but fairly capable for what it is. It’s a shame it didn’t get the complete redesign that the Pilot got. Maybe next year?

[@vincefairleigh6899]

The 4 runner is a soft roader compared to the Jeep, the Honda is a joke, no suspension travel, no lockers, no low range, small low profile tires, this is a nice crossover for driving to the ski hill in comfort and reliability, im a Honda fan, although very boring vehicles, but economical and reliable, just not capable off road here.

[@bwaters698]

​@vincefairleigh6899 and jeeps Fall Apart or Break faster than you say it !! Junk!!! I have family that have jeeps Allways having to work on them!!!

[@user-cd1uj6rc5l]

Just want to say….Nathan is my hero on this channel. Support your metalhead brothers. I wonder how this compares to the ascent minus the 2 vs 3 row.

[@user-gq2vn1xj2r]

He looks incredibly unhealthy these days.

[@LionRunner]

@4:42 I don't think 8.1in ground clearance is much as my Toyota Venza had 8.1in clearance and Highlanders also have 8in ground clearance. I think to be considered higher ground clearance we shoult talk about something like 8.7 or higher like the Subarus have. Just a thought.

[@ryanb8736]

The problem will be with fuel mileage if they go higher with lift and bigger tires if they want to keep the V6. Subaru uses a 4 cylinder with CVT. Very disappointing drivetrain just to retain good fuel mpg.

[@ryanb8736]

They do sell aftermarket lifts for these. Honda can even install them after the sale. Just note that you will take a hit in mpg.

[@LionRunner]

@@ryanb8736 100% agree with the CVT and I'm more happy the new Pilot got the 10 speed over the ZF9 continued on the Passport. Hopefully 2025 Passport would get the 10spd Auto. I strongly hope Honda look at Subaru and consider ground clearance improvement. Especially on the Pilot. I trust with 10speed you can still keep good mpg even the ground clearance is increased by an inch.

[@Ghanshyam00000]

I'm going to dig into this Honda Passport Trailsport looks nice even though the Honda Pilot has third-row seats bigger in length than this Trailsport but we have a lot of space in the cargo area however I like two-row SUV vehicles because we can get a lot amount of space you would've scrutinized third row SUV is very inconvenient for passenger and we get small cargo area that's the benefit two-row SUV further 8.1 inches ground clearance which is nice to the all-terrain tyers seats are very comfortable nice stitching as well 3.5 l v6 engine inline-four automatic transmission making 288 hp and 262 pound-feet torque and glittering grille I liked this vehicle thanks both of you.

[@ryanb8736]

It’s not an inline four.

[@ejf0255]

Ours is awesome. Only did a very light off road. But it handled very well. I would prefer a Ridgeline version. But hey. I have both so. :-) Honda 4 life !

[@JS-ov9jb]

We want to see the Passport Trailsport on the OnX Offroad Course.

[@shitloveaduck]

Not that kind of vehicle. Will do very well in the basic tests, but the back,,, this is not even close to that level of off-road vehicle. It’s not even 4Runner level of off-road abilities. It’s like a bigger Crosstrek. In fact the Crosstrek still has .4” more ground clearance.

[@JS-ov9jb]

Meh, it'll be fine as long as it's not my passport 😂

[@ryanb8736]

@@shitloveaduckYou ever watch those videos with all the Toyotas getting stuck on the sand? Some guy has hundreds of videos of them all getting stuck and pulled out. Lots of 4 Runners.

[@stephenharrison734]

When checking the rear seats, can you also lay them down?

[@jakes5530]

They couldve at least taken the digital gauge cluster and new infotainment with wireless carplay from the new pilot… also good luck with the Grabber ATX tire, I have them on my Tremor and theyre loud af, at 32k miles they howl from 35-75 mph. No ones gonna like that in their family soft roader.

[@mikekolb238]

Thats not the atx tho 😅

[@seraphimsscythe1628]

So, they basically need to use up all the remaining old 3.5 engines and 9spd transmissions. Then charge more for exactly the same vehicle from last year, minus a center arm console update. I'll be curious to see how many will fill up the dealer lots and not sell. See a lot of 23's just sitting right now.

[@ryanb8736]

This is what the investors want. Remember a huge recession is coming. Honda is also more focused on their new collaboration with GM with the new electric vehicles. This will save Honda a lot of money.

[@gqami]

Great job guys! Great product Honda! I am going to convert from UAW products to other products, that are made in Ohio, and support local families as well. Plus, they just build cars that last, unlike the big 3.

[@wilmarbarrick3194]

? It's built in Alabama.

[@ryanb8736]

I take it you haven’t seen all the issues that Honda is having lately? Lots of unhappy people with the 10 speed, even in the Acuras.

[@buckhorncortez]

Yeah...fanbois believe anything. I had a 1977 Honda. It had numerous recalls. Engine, upholstery, etc. I have a friend who bought a new Honda every two years...his last one was four years ago. Too many problems.

[@gqami]

@@ryanb8736 to say Honda has issues, is like saying manufacturers in any industy, aren't having supply chain, quality issues. Honda, Toyota are just better built products than the big 3. That's factual.

[@gqami]

@@buckhorncortez 1977 lol. Nice.

[@joeamith838]

I hope you can order more ground clearance !

[@Ram14250]

Probably the last year for that body... Redesign next year probably (same for Ridgeline). One thing to say is all the bugs are out of it... before the new model comes. I've had mine since 2019 and love mine!

[@klwarhouse]

I own a 2022 Ridgeline. I would argue all the bugs are not iron out. 😂

[@spursdynasty7378]

Infotainment could be way better otherwise it’s great !

[@blue85246]

@@klwarhouse - what problems have ya had w/ the 2022 Ridgeline ? I’m considering one. Thanks

[@David356UT]

Not having the 10 speed, skid plates, & missing the ground clearance of the Pilot Trailsport is really sad. It stopped me from ordering the 2024 Pasport.

[@edkronholm9054]

I'm in the market for a Passport, but I'm a solid pass on the old technology. I hear the redesign will feature the same engine, but with the Pilot's 10 speed transmission. I also hear they will up the towing capacity to 6500 lbs with a beefier frame. What I cannot not determine from any source is if they will also upgrade the electronics and instrument cluster to the Pilot's version along with a 12-13 inch Infotainment screen. If any of you dear readers out there know that, please let me know. Will the changes occur with the 2024 model or the 2025 model?

[@ryanb8736]

The new Pilot and this version Passport have different engines. Both are V6’s. The Pilot uses a dual overhead cam No Vtec for lower emissions. This Passport still uses Vtec with single overhead cams.

[@ryanb8736]

Honda will also never go full frame. So they will never have anything above 5000 pounds for towing.

[@feiwong70]

I like the big armrest better than the one in ‘23

[@BobNH3]

Waiting for Ridgeline Trailsport

[@Gl49ers]

It’s a rugged sorento

[@davidwayne9982]

I don't know much about Honda-- except they are WELL MADE usually-- is this one smaller than the Pilot Trailsport??? I want something smaller.

[@dirtycommtroop]

We need a real compact/subcompact offroad vehicle. Not the Subaru wilderness's, the honda trailsport, trailblazers, rav4 offroad, and whatever other "offroad trims" are available. I love my Renegade Trailhawk. If they can make something just a little bigger and better it would be perfect. Perhaps even a redesigned cherokee trailhawk which actually has a transfer case and locker.

[@phild9813]

It’s really sad when we’re just happy to see something that resembles a spare tire in a new vehicle now.

[@thebigempty_5792]

There was nothing quite like the original Passport / Isuzu Rodeo - simple/rugged kinda like the old Jeep Cherokee just bigger.

[@ryanb8736]

All were junk.

[@westwood3286]

Dude I want this suv so bad its been in my list for 1 year,I don't have kids and this vehicle says man van, I have high hopes for the redesign.

[@tylersrubar6451]

Just missing the updated headlights the Pilot has now

[@ZeroPlanB]

Come onnnn Honda make the next one body on frame

[@TRDGE]

As interesting as this is, it reminds me of an interim option considering the Ridgeline is on the way and the Pilot getting a modern design change.

[@brianbanks3044]

my Ridgeline is IDENTICAL to this on the inside...dash, seats, interior...only difference is mine is a 2020 and I don't have the knob for the radio

[@JimLacey-e1m]

I wish the Passport got better mileage. Will the 2025 Passport have a hybrid version ?

[@byronlarson5534]

I think I will keep my Grand Cherokee Trailhawk.

[@shitloveaduck]

@@allentoyokawa9068- you’re not serious. Reliability,,,, sure, but capability,,, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk can get into some pretty technical terrain. This ??? Not so much. The Grand Cherokee has a much nicer interior as well. I’ve driven both as friends own them. Neither have had any issues in about 50,000 kms each. The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk my buddy has has the 5.7 litre V8 as well. It’s the choice I would make if I were to get an older version. I don’t like that Pentastar V6. It’s a much better motor now than before as they have all the kinks out of it, but still not my favourite.

[@robertmorris3892]

It looks like they are trying to redo the old Isuzu Rodeo/Honda Passport because of the two row seating and plastic cladding.

[@kipb2078]

Honda calls them moon roofs

[@allanw6103]

Just ok in typical Honda fashion, but still not on par with the Pilot or even the Trailsport trim despite lift and tires. In fact tires and new center con are the only new things for 24. no skid plate or tow hooks, zonk. no tow pkg, zonk (or is it behind plastic cover?) all black interior, zonk no full size matching spare, zonk. Running boards would be nice like the xrt santafe. Really needs bigger hpd fender flares. Newer grill and fog lamps help. At least they gave it roof rails but i dont think its worth the money. Pilot TS is way better but also has all black interior and captains chairs are standard(no optional bench). Please Honda and others, give it a two tone like the EXL with lighter color pillars and headliner at least to contrast black bathtub on the bottom interior. Too bad bc i think this smaller suv might better suited for off road. The Grand C still beats it at similar trim price, besides it too having all black interior and a thin spare inside. 2025 should be a vast improvement based on Pilot.

[@mikepetrilli4686]

It is under powered. They should put the Acura V6 turbo engine in this thing (not to mention a hybrid system). 355HP - 354 Torque in the Acura engine.

[@sdsrfr831]

This is a 2024 trailsport, not base model, so why does the interior look outdated and cheap? Also, this is an awd and the spare is not the same size? Isn’t it a necessity that all tires on awd be same size and tread depth otherwise you could really mess up your differential?

[@ricatiman]

Are those roof rails rated to hold over 700 lbs like my Subaru Outback Wilderness? Can you carry a Tent on the roof? Will it overland?

[@brians.1357]

Is this from 2021’??

[@ryanb8736]

Go look at the 4Runner. Now that is as old as it gets. The new one still drives like a 20 years old sloppy mess. Slow too. But people are paying 10k over sticker.

[@brians.1357]

@@ryanb8736 I just thought it was humorous that Honda had all these KZbin channels come out for a press release walk around on a machine that hasn’t really changed in 3-5yrs. Don’t get me wrong I love the Passport and the 4Runner but these minute changes not worthy of all the press. Maybe if they actually had a “Black edition” to walk around which is new to the Passport

[@ryanb8736]

@@brians.1357 Honda is not spending that much money with a recession coming in. They are also more focused on their collaboration with GM now. GM will be building their new electric vehicles for Honda and Acura. Not good for Honda fans. Great for Honda investors.

[@chrisb9478]

Honda’s Trailsport models need 3 inches more ground clearance! Subaru Wilderness have over 9 inches, c’mon Honda 🙄

[@markjacobson1285]

Honda got lazy! No way would I buy this over the Pilot! Update it Honda!!!

[@countschad]

That's a donut, not a spare tire...

[@toddwerther188]

I guess if you have $50K lying around getting 20 MPG is just fine. Every year Honda makes keeping my current CR-V easier and easier.

[@lolotus4borderless]

Right on😉

[@mikeyellen362]

Almost 10k miles on my wifes 23' its getting 23 mpg before its due for the 2nd oil change

[@larryjohns8823]

50k and 20mpg and you complain! Any comparable SUV or pickup won't be any better (more likely worse)😮

[@CrumbsQ]

Ya it seems Rugged

[@Revenant_Knight]

Oh boooo...No 10 speed?! I hate that ZF 9.

[@ryanb8736]

10 speeds have a lot of issues too. Go look at all the complaints.

[@Revenant_Knight]

@@ryanb8736 I'm not talking about reliability. Most modern transmissions are going to be nightmares down the road. I'm talking about performance. I hate mid-lag of the ZF9. I think it's the 5-6 shift where it feels like it takes twice as long to shift because of the gear-set design.

[@ejf0255]

I will say this about this version. Ride on highway is not as smooth and MPG suffers at least 2 to 3. Same with the Honda wheel package on my Ridgeline.

[@CrazyGreek80]

Nah bro if it don't say Rubicon or Raptor it's not hardcore!!! LMFAO!!

[@busterboyd4125]

Don't buy a Pilot. Having major transmission problems and dealership says it's normal.

[@jimsomerville3924]

Disappointing compared to Pilot.

[@chibiwizard]

The interior looks very outdated.

[@larryjohns8823]

Function over style.

[@mikeamizzle]

What do you want in it? It’s a Honda, it’s built to last.

[@fredmoss4540]

I totally agree with you as being outdated. Now they did fix armrest. But the interior has been around since 2016 3rd Generation Pilot. Shared with 2017 2nd Generation Ridgeline. Then current 2nd Gen Passport.has it. I completely understand as why I'm switching from getting Ridgeline to redesign Pilot.

[@fredmoss4540]

​@@larryjohns8823But interior is dated from 2016 Pilot and 2017 Ridgeline then Passport. The redesign 2023 Pilot is Functional. I have been an advocate over the years on Ridgeline forum defending interior. Now it's time for me to purchase new. This is why I changed my decision to Pilot. The interior of Ridgeline is dated like this. I know only complete redesign could fix interior looks. Doesn't look like it has Hill Decent Control button, The Brake Hold Feature No Electronic Parking Brake. All the 2023 Pilot TrailSport has. If you listen to Honda spokespeople on 4TH GENERATION Pilot they went for more functionality from previous Gen in layout. This is what Passport has.

[@elliotbgardner]

I have no clue who the audience for this vehicle is, it seems completely unnecessary. The interior design also is reminiscent of 90s vehicles, literally thought I saw a cassette deck for a minute. This falls in line with the other Honda interiors. I get it, they’ll run forever but Toyota has at least done a better job than Honda

[@Van_Liberty]

God gave man fingers to push buttons...

[@jmc6000]

Nothing more than a 2 row Pilot, nothing to see here, moving on!

[@larryjohns8823]

Bye - see ya 😅

[@fredmoss4540]

The Pilot was fully redesign for 2023. It's on a different platform. So the current Pilot TrailSport version is different than this. A little more thought into this slight refresh than just just badge tires. Better tires for off-road capability. This is not my thing as I want the more luxury standard version. I wanted RTL-E Ridgeline but didn't get redesign. So I'm getting 2024 Pilot Elite. But it's interesting to see what they try.

[@ryanb8736]

That’s the whole point.

[@ava9oh1282000]

uhhh. dude has cancer for sure

[@jimmix436]

No Pilot engine, 10 speed transmission, or standard skid plates! Way to disappoint Honda! 😢

[@ryanb8736]

Go look at the issues the new Pilot are having. The 10 speed is not great. Lots of owners not happy.