Looking for a powerful Honda SUV? The Pilot and Passport offer strong performance, but which is on top?
Many drivers wonder about the real differences between these two vehicles. Both pack V6 engines, but how do they compare on the road?
This Honda Pilot vs Passport showdown will reveal their true strengths. We’ll test their speed, handling, and towing power to see which SUV delivers the best performance.
Are you curious about which one accelerates faster or handles better off-road? Or maybe you want to know which can tow more?
By the end of this comparison, you’ll know exactly how these two Hondas measure up. Ready to find out which SUV has the edge? Let’s put them to the test.
Engine Power: Pilot vs Passport
Let’s look at what’s under the hood of these Honda SUVs. The Pilot has a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 285 horsepower.
It pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Passport also uses a 3.5-liter V-6, making 280 horsepower.
It works with a 9-speed automatic. Both engines produce 262 lb-ft of torque. The Pilot’s 10-speed transmission shifts more smoothly than the Passport’s 9-speed.
Both SUVs offer plenty of power for everyday driving. On long trips, the Pilot’s smoother shifts might give it an edge in comfort.
Regarding towing, both can handle up to 5,000 pounds when set up right.
Speed and Stops: Pilot vs Passport
When it comes to quick starts, the Passport takes the lead. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. The Pilot is a bit slower, taking 6.9 seconds to reach 60 mph.
But what about stopping? The Pilot shows its strength here. It can stop from 60 mph in 126 feet. The Passport needs a bit more room, stopping at 130 feet.
For those who love speed, the Passport might be more fun. Its faster acceleration makes it zippy on the road.
The Pilot offers a good mix of speed and stopping power. It’s a bit slower off the line, but it makes up for it with better braking.
Road Feel: Pilot vs Passport
The Pilot and Passport handle differently on the road. The Pilot has a softer touch. Its steering feels smooth and steady, perfect for easy-going drives.
The Passport, on the other hand, is more alert. Its steering reacts quickly, making it fun on twisty roads.
Regarding corners, the Pilot stays level and calm, making it great for long trips. The Passport feels lighter on its feet and can zip through turns with more pep.
The Pilot is the ideal vehicle for drivers who want a laid-back ride. Its gentle handling makes daily drives more relaxing.
But if you like a more lively drive, the Passport might be your pick. Its quick moves and sporty feel can make even short trips exciting.
Trail Trekking: Pilot vs Passport
Both Honda SUVs offer TrailSport trims for off-road fun, but they’re different. The Pilot TrailSport has a lifted suspension and tough steel plates underneath.
It’s built to take on rough trails. The Passport TrailSport can handle off-road trips, too, but it’s not as rugged as its bigger sibling.
When it comes to ground clearance, there’s a small difference. The Pilot sits 8.3 inches off the ground, while the Passport has 8.1 inches of space underneath. This tiny gap can matter on rocky paths.
For serious off-road fans, the Pilot TrailSport is the top choice. It’s ready for more challenging trails.
The Passport is great for light off-road use and shines more on regular roads. It’s perfect if you like occasional dirt road trips but spend most of your time on paved streets.
Hauling Power: Pilot vs Passport
When it comes to towing, these Honda SUVs are neck and neck. Both can pull up to 5,000 pounds when set up with all-wheel drive. This means they can handle small boats or campers with ease.
There are some differences in real-world use. The bigger pilot feels more stable when towing heavy loads.
Its longer wheelbase helps keep things steady on the highway. While capable, the Passport might feel slightly lighter when pulling big weights.
For those who tow often or have larger trailers, the Pilot might be the better pick. It handles big loads with more confidence.
But if you only tow occasionally, the Passport could be a good fit. It offers plenty of power for occasional use and is easier to handle when not towing.
Gas Mileage Match-Up: Pilot vs Passport
Let’s look at how these SUVs use fuel. The Pilot, with front-wheel drive, leads the pack. It gets 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway.
With all-wheel drive, the Passport manages 19 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway. The Pilot has a slight edge in saving gas, mainly in front-wheel drive mode.
The Passport uses more fuel because its all-wheel drive is always running. Over time, these small differences can add up.
The Pilot might save you more at the pump if you drive a lot. But remember, the Passport’s standard all-wheel drive always gives you extra grip. It’s about balancing fuel savings with the features you need most.
Conclusion
Let’s wrap up our Honda Pilot vs Passport performance showdown. Both SUVs offer strong engines and capable handling, but each shines in different areas.
The Passport takes the lead in quick acceleration and sporty feel, making it great for drivers who enjoy a lively ride.
While slightly slower off the mark, the Pilot offers smoother shifting and better braking, which is ideal for family trips and everyday driving.
The Pilot TrailSport has the edge for off-road adventures, but the Passport is equally capable of light trail use.
In the end, your choice depends on your driving style and needs. Want a sportier drive? Go for the Passport.
Need more space and versatility? The Pilot’s your pick. Both deliver Honda’s well-known reliability, so you can’t go wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the Honda Passport Have the Same Engine as The Honda Pilot?
Almost. Both use a 3.5-liter V6, but the Pilot’s is slightly newer. The Pilot makes 285 horsepower, while the Passport has 280. They both produce 262 lb-ft of torque.
Why Is a Passport More Expensive than A Pilot?
The Passport isn’t always pricier. It starts at a higher price because it skips the Pilot’s lower trims. The larger Pilot often costs more than the Passport when comparing similar trims.
Is the 2024 Honda Passport Bigger than The Pilot?
No, the Pilot is bigger. It’s about 10 inches longer than the Passport and has three rows of seats. The passport is shorter and has two rows, but both SUVs have similar widths and heights.