2023 Honda Passport vs. Toyota 4Runner vs Hyundai Santa Fe vs Nissan Murano

With features like a standard V6 and all-wheel drive, the Honda Passport makes an attractive choice in the midsize SUV segment. But it’s not without competitors, and you might be wondering how those competitors compare to the Passport. To help illustrate some of the key differences between the models in the segment, Germain Honda of Surprise has put together a guide to some of the most popular choices.

Honda Passport VS Toyota 4Runner

Honda and Toyota have a longstanding rivalry, so the Toyota 4Runner makes sense as the first competitor to compare. Pricing is very close, but what you get for that money isn’t, starting with the engine. While both vehicles come with a naturally-aspirated V6, the more advanced Honda engine produces more horsepower, and delivers much better fuel economy while doing so. This is also in part because of the more advanced 9-speed automatic transmission found in the Passport. We chose the TrailSport trim because of its offroad focus, which is helped by the fact that AWD is standard on the Passport. Despite also being built for offroad capability, the 4Runner oddly keeps this feature optional.

From the outside, the Passport and 4Runner are extremely similar in size, but Honda can maximize interior space in a way that few carmakers ever have, and you’ll notice the difference. The two areas where it’s most obvious are in front shoulder room and rear legroom, both of which see an advantage in the Passport to the tune of several inches. Looking at the max cargo capacity of both makes it even more obvious just how much more spacious the Passport really is. Inside and out, the Passport is better equipped than the 4Runner, with bigger wheels, heated seats, and active noise canceling for a quieter cabin.

Honda Passport VS Hyundai Santa Fe

Our next competitor to face off against the Honda CR-V is the Subaru Forester, often remembered for its standard all-wheel drive system. Placing the similarly-equipped CR-V EX AWD alongside the Forester Premium, there are some key differences that are worth highlighting. While offering greater horsepower and torque than the Forester, the CR-V is even able to deliver superior city MPG. Engineered with more power and more efficiency, the CR-V is the perfect way to make the most of your weekend plans.

You’ll enjoy a more commanding stance on the road thanks to the larger 18-inch alloy wheels found on the CR-V EX. Innovative driver-assistive safety features are also included as standard on the CR-V EX for enhanced peace of mind. These include the Road Departure Mitigation System, Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor, and Walk Away Auto Lock®. Unfortunately for Subaru shoppers, these exceptional features are either expensive individual options or entirely unavailable on the Forester Premium.

When it comes to interior comfort, the clear favorite is the CR-V with its standard dual-zone climate control system paired with a standard remote engine start system. A perfect fit for drivers living active lifestyles, the CR-V boasts a larger maximum cargo capacity that’s great for transporting all of your favorite gear.

Honda Passport VS Nissan Murano

Last up is the decided not-offroad-focused Nissan Murano. But the Passport comes in a roadgoing luxury trim as well, so we’re looking at the fully loaded versions of both of these for this comparison. Pricing is very similar, and both vehicles come with a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. However, Honda manages to get more power out of this setup, and this power is also sent through a 9-speed automatic transmission. This transmission makes for a more engaging drive, and is also much more robust, as you can see from the huge difference in towing capacity.

You’re less like to need to tow in the first place with the Passport as well, thanks to a much larger cargo area behind the back seats. Back-seat passengers will be much better cared for in the Passport, especially when it comes to temperature, thanks to heated back seats and tri-zone climate control. Active noise cancelation and wireless phone charging are some extra luxury touches that aren’t available on the Murano, but which you will probably appreciate.

Winner – Honda Passport

The Honda Passport is more advanced, more capable, more comfortable, and a significantly better value for money than its competitors. However you intend to use it, the Passport’s incredible versatility makes it easy. But it’s something you should see and experience for yourself. Come by Germain Honda of Surprise and see just how easy it is to love the Passport.