Why the 2023 Honda Pilot Is So Much More Popular Than the Passport
Honda is one of the leading automakers across all genres of vehicles. However, its SUVs are top-notch, with the 2023 Pilot and the Passport being two of the most prominent examples. Both are midsize Honda SUVs, but the 2023 Honda Pilot has a few advantages over the latest Passport. Even beyond that, the Pilot is generally the more popular and talked about of the two.
The 2023 Honda Pilot is slightly more powerful
One of the reasons the 2023 Honda Pilot is a better midsize SUV than the Passport is due to performance. According to Edmunds, both midsize Honda SUVs have a 3.5-liter V6 engine. However, the Pilot has a slightly more powerful engine, with a maximum output of 285 hp. This is a mere five more horses than the 2023 Honda Passport, but it still makes a difference. The Pilot uses a 10-speed automatic transmission, while its sibling SUV has a nine-speed.
Regarding speed, the 2023 Honda Pilot comes out on top. It accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a reported 6.3 seconds. The latest Honda Passport takes just a little longer at 6.7 seconds. Additionally, despite having a slightly more powerful engine, the Pilot consumes a tad less fuel. It averages a combined 22 mpg, while the Passport uses 21 miles per gallon. Again, this is a minor difference, but it shows how the Pilot comes out on top in small ways.
Also, people with off-roading aspirations should note that the 2023 Honda Pilot Trailsport has a suspension tuned for off-roading. However, neither the Pilot nor the Passport, in general, are the best for this hobby. But they can handle a few easy trails outside of the Trailsport Pilot.
The Pilot has a more advanced interior than the 2023 Honda Passport
The Pilot is the best midsize Honda SUV out of the two, partly because of the interior. The problem with the inside of the Honda Passport is that there isn’t anything special about it. In fact, it’s immensely similar to the cabin of the Honda Ridgeline. However, the inside of the latest Honda Pilot is undeniably meant for families. This is its identity, which the Passport lacks, not only on the inside but as a whole.
Besides being comfortable, the inside of the 2023 Honda Pilot is fairly eye-catching. It may not be as special as other midsize SUV options as the 2023 Kia Telluride or the Hyundai Palisade, but it has much to offer. The infotainment system is a standout; it’s not bigger than the one in the 2023 Honda Passport, but it has a much more stylish design as it sits high on the dash.
The Passport has a less stylish exterior
Overall, both are excellent SUVs. The 2023 Honda Pilot hasn’t been crash tested yet, but both midsize Honda SUVs have reputations for both safety and reliability. Another advantage some might find is that the Pilot has a more striking appearance than the Passport. Though subjective, some might say the latest Honda Passport has a more dated exterior appearance, making the Pilot more modern.
