The 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport Is Better Than You Think
Sometimes you need to take risks and experiment, which is why the Honda Passport TrailSport has emerged. The 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport is attempting to break into the off-roading segment, and it could go further than expected.
Can the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport go off-roading?
Yes, the 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport is designed for off-roading adventures. Although, it hasn’t exactly been put to the test yet. However, critics will often dismiss the TrailSport as simply an appearance package.
But it goes beyond looks. The TrailSport’s track is 10-millimeters wider to improve stance and stability. It also rides on 18-inch wheels with enhanced fender flares. It feels different compared to previous generations.
Also, the upgraded looks include a unique grille, revised hood, blockier front bumper, and remodeled rear bumper. Plus, the badging is black instead of chrome.
The faux skid-plate inserts don’t provide much confidence. But according to Car and Driver, the Passport has an 8.1-inch ground clearance. This is still tall enough to cover smaller obstacles.
How much power does the Passport TrailSport have?
The 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that cranks out 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.8 seconds, which is better than average. When properly equipped, the Passport can tow up to 5,000 lbs.
Plus, the Passport’s nine-speed transmission provides smooth shifts, and the steering wheel has a good weight. It provides responsive and confident handling, but the brakes are a little squishy. The Passport may do a nosedive with hard braking.
Because the Passport is more on the off-roader side, it has a stiffer suspension. But it controls body movements and small impacts well. The cabin is pretty quiet, with little wind and road noise at highway speeds.
The TrailSport has the same fuel economy as other Passport models. It gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and up to 24 mpg on the highway.
Does the TrailSport have nice features?
The 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport starts at about $42,470 and doesn’t skimp on value. The base model starts at about $38,870, so it’s only roughly $3,600 to upgrade. That’s a good deal.
While the interior upgrades are modest, orange stitching spices up the steering wheel, door panels, and seats. The TrailSport logo is embroidered on the headrests too. The 8.0-inch infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation.
The interior is crafted with high-quality materials, and the leather seats and large and comfortable. There is plenty of space for adults in the second row, too, with ample storage space for personal items.
Standard safety features include lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. You can opt for blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
While the Passport TrailSport won’t be keeping up with Jeep Wrangler models, it’s a pretty good start. As more Honda models get the TrailSport trim, we should see an increase in capability.