Toyota Highlander Vs Honda Passport: Which One Should You Choose In 2023?

In the realm of family-friendly SUVs, the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities, spacious interiors, and a host of advanced features. However, discerning buyers may wonder which of these SUVs truly reigns supreme. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport, unveiling their strengths, weaknesses, and the finer details that set them apart. Whether you’re an adventure-seeking family, a city dweller, or a weekend warrior, this guide will help you make an informed decision and choose the SUV that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle and needs.

Performance and Efficiency: A Tale of Two Powertrains

Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, or a hybrid system that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a combined 243 horsepower. The Honda Passport, on the other hand, is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission, generating 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid takes the lead, achieving an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The gasoline-powered Highlander returns 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the Honda Passport delivers 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Everyone and Everything

The Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport excel in providing ample interior space for passengers and cargo. Both SUVs offer seating for up to eight passengers, with the Highlander providing slightly more legroom and headroom in the second and third rows. The Passport, however, offers more cargo space behind the third row, making it a better choice for those who frequently transport large items.

In terms of comfort, both SUVs offer well-cushioned seats, supportive lumbar support, and a variety of adjustment options. The Highlander’s interior features a more upscale design, with premium materials and soft-touch surfaces, while the Passport’s cabin has a more rugged and utilitarian feel.

Safety Features: A Commitment to Passenger Protection

The Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport are both equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to ensure the well-being of occupants. Standard features on both SUVs include airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control. The Highlander, however, offers a few additional advanced safety features as standard, such as lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Technology and Connectivity: Staying Connected on the Road

Both the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport offer a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a premium audio system. The Highlander’s infotainment system is slightly larger and offers a more intuitive interface, while the Passport’s system is known for its crisp graphics and responsive touchscreen.

Off-Road Capability: Embracing the Great Outdoors

The Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport both offer all-wheel drive systems for enhanced traction in slippery conditions. However, the Highlander’s available Adventure trim adds a more robust all-wheel-drive system with a locking rear differential, providing improved off-road capability. The Passport, on the other hand, features a more sophisticated all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring, which enhances handling and stability on both paved and unpaved roads.

Pricing and Value: Finding the Right Balance

The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,420, while the Honda Passport starts at $39,995. However, the Highlander offers more standard features for the price, including a larger touchscreen display, a more comprehensive safety suite, and a more powerful engine. The Passport, on the other hand, offers a more rugged design, a more sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and more cargo space behind the third row.

The Verdict: Choosing the SUV that’s Right for You

Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice. If you value off-road capability, a more rugged design, and more cargo space, the Honda Passport is a compelling option. Both SUVs offer exceptional value for the price, making them top contenders in the family SUV segment.

Beyond the Comparison: Unveiling the Ideal SUV for Your Unique Needs

For the Adventure-Seeking Family: The Toyota Highlander Adventure trim, with its locking rear differential and enhanced all-wheel-drive system, is the perfect choice for families who love exploring the great outdoors.

For the City Dweller: The Honda Passport‘s compact size and impressive fuel efficiency make it an ideal choice for city dwellers who value maneuverability and practicality.

For the Weekend Warrior: Both the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport offer excellent towing and payload capacities, making them capable companions for weekend getaways and outdoor adventures.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?

A: The Toyota Highlander offers slightly more legroom and headroom in the second and third rows, making it a better choice for families with taller passengers.

Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?

A: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient, achieving an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which SUV has a more advanced safety suite?

A: The Toyota Highlander offers a more comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.