The 2021 Honda Passport serves as a smaller alternative to the Pilot while retaining the excellent powertrain and interior options. Despite this, the Passport exists in one of the most competitive segments of the crossover market. As a result, it has to excel as a daily driver to become the segment favorite. According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Passport may not be the crossover to buy. Instead, you should look at these two great options.

Why doesn’t Consumer Reports love the 2021 Honda Passport?

On paper, there is a lot to like about the 2021 Honda Passport. As mentioned earlier, it is basically a shortened Pilot. As a result, it retains the same naturally-aspirated V6 engine and nine-speed automatic transmission. In terms of fuel-efficiency, the Passport averaged a respectable 21 mpg during Consumer Reports’ testing. Additionally, you get excellent standard safety features such as forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Honda Passport still reportedly carries a few fatal flaws. For starters, Consumer Reports claims that the Passport’s stiff suspension didn’t yield any benefits in real-world driving scenarios. Unfortunately, the stiff suspension does create a stiff ride that could be slightly uncomfortable in daily-driving scenarios.

In terms of reliability and owner satisfaction, the 2021 Honda Passport received poor ratings in both categories. While its engine is as robust as any other Honda, there are reportedly issues with the transmission, drive system, and in-car electronics.

You should buy the 2021 Ford Edge instead

If you want a slightly cheaper alternative to the 2021 Honda Passport, Consumer Reports recommends giving the 2021 Ford Edge a look. During Consumer Reports’ testing, the small Ford managed to deliver a slightly improved fuel-efficiency rating of 22 mpg. Additionally, its predicted reliability rating is much higher. However, it is worth noting that the Edge also has a less-than-ideal predicted owner satisfaction rating.

Unlike the 2021 Honda Passport, Consumer Reports found that the Ford Edge delivered a quiet interior with tons of room. Additionally, the Edge reportedly felt quite agile and fun to drive without being overly stiff. As a result, the Ford will provide greater comfort for driving daily.

The 2021 Ford Edge is by no means perfect, though. The small crossover struggled in the emergency handling and cargo area categories. As a result, there are trade-offs when comparing it to the Honda.

The 2021 Nissan Murano is also a great option

If the 2021 Ford Edge isn’t for you, you’ll want to give the 2021 Nissan Murano a look as an alternative to the 2021 Honda Passport. Like the Honda, the Nissan managed to consume an average of 21 mpg during Consumer Reports’ testing. However, it is worth noting that its $32,510 base price sits above the Ford’s $31,100 price but below the Honda, which starts at $32,790.

During Consumer Reports’ testing, the reviewers enjoyed the Nissan’s interior, infotainment, and overall accessibility. As a result, the Murano could be the most premium option of the three. In terms of predicted reliability, the Murano scored well. Unfortunately, the predicted owner satisfaction rating remains low like the other contenders. Regardless, now you’ve got two more options to look at in your search for the ideal crossover.