2024 Honda Passport TrailSport AWD Review

This review finds me back behind the wheel of the Honda Passport TrailSport, a trim I first reviewed in 2022 when it was introduced to the lineup. For 2024 Honda amps up its capability with improved off-road performance and makes a notable enhancement to the cabin. The TrailSport slots just beneath the new-for-2024 range topping Black Edition.

Exterior

My Passport TrailSport wears Sonic Gray Pearl, a premium paint hue,  paired with Pewter-painted 18-inch wheels wrapped by new all-terrain tires.  The large black grille features an orange and black TrailSport badge. There's another TrailSport badge on the tailgate.

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All exterior lighting is LED.  Passport TrailSport is equipped with power-folding, heated side mirrors, a rear skid plate, tailgate spoiler, dual exhaust and gloss black roof rails for cargo attachments.

Performance

The Passport lineup offers one engine option: a 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.  Torque-vectoring i-VTM4 all-wheel drive drive is standard across the lineup as well along with four-mode intelligent traction management with Snow Mode, Sand & Mud Modes, and Hill Start Assist. For 2024 the TrailSport trim adds a new exclusive off-road tuned suspension that Honda says improves off-road ride quality.  New standard General Grabber A/T Sport tires improve traction.

Interior 

The Honda TrailSport's interior isn't class-leading, but gives a nice impression overall.  It's a mix of soft-touch and plastic. Cushiony, soft, leather-trimmed seating is standard across the lineup. The TrailSport model's black interior is distinguished by orange contrast trim and embroidered badging on the front headrests, along with orange ambient lighting.   On the down side, switchgear isn't terribly exciting, and the interior door handles could use more weight, bordering on the "flimsy" side.

I enjoyed the comfortable 10-way power driver's seat.  Both front seats are heated. The leather-wrapped,  heated steering wheel with contrast orange stitching is on the beefier side but fits the rugged vibe. Above it,  a large all-digital driver display features possibly the largest print I've ever seen (the complete opposite of Toyota.) It's also bright and colorful with large graphics.  

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The major cabin design change for 2024 is the redesigned center console, in line with the updated Ridgeline I recently reviewed.  Sleeker and flatter than the previous design, it looks more upscale. The tray in front of the gear shirt is also now large enough to fit two larger smartphones side by side. Best of all, the new design axes the hard cover console bin in favor of a soft-touch integrated armrest.  The bin itself is also bigger, too, and can hold a full size tablet.  

An 8-inch multimedia touchscreen surrounded by glossy black is embedded in the top of the center stack, along with a volume knob.  I took note of the quality of the glass and screen resolution. However, its slanted positioning resulted in some sun glare. The system is responsive and includes navigation and a multi-view camera.  It's hooked up to a seven speaker sound system and compatible with non-wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth and HD Radio. 

Passport isn't terribly tech-forward when it comes to the center stack, which feels antiquated in terms of its digital climate controls and traditional controls.  But they are easy to operate.

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The five-passenger Passport is roomy in both rows, both in terms of leg and headroom. Cushiony seats, A/C vents and manual sunshades will keep second-row passengers riding in comfort. A drop-down center armrest provides two cupholders and there are more cupholders in the door panels.  Soft seat back pockets are nice to see.  Back seat passengers have access to two USB-C's and a 115-volt.  It's easy to fold down the 60/40 rear split seats using a one-touch fold button located in the cargo area.  

Standard Passport features include push-button start,  wireless charging,  tri-zone climate, remote engine start, power sunroof, a lockable glove compartment and four USB charging ports (3 of them USB-Cs.) You'll only get rain-sensing wipers, ventilated front seats and a WiFi hotspot on the new Black Edition.

Utility

A power (but not hands-free) tailgate opens up impressive cargo space.  There is also an under storage area. Honda even gives you a temporary compact spare. TrailSport is also equipped with terrific all-season rubber floor mats.

Ride and Drive

TrailSport may be the off-roading powerhouse of the Passport lineup,  but don't think that sacrifices on-road comfort and ride quality.  Both are fantastic.   It's a really easy-to drive SUV with a nice handling, engaging steering and confident braking.  Acceleration feels great, matching its 4,000+ curb weight.  Ride height and visibility are both great and it's fairly quiet.

Safety 

All 2024 Passport models come standard with the Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. On Passport, Honda Sensing® includes Collision Mitigation Braking System with Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control. The lineup is additionally equipped with standard Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Seat Reminder and Seat Belt Reminder.

Verdict   

Honda's given the 2024 Passport some nice updates.  It's a roomy, family-friendly SUV that doesn't sacrifice off-road capability for on-road comfort.