2021 Honda Passport Sport: Specs & Review

Hey guys! Thinking about the 2021 Honda Passport Sport? Let's dive deep into what makes this SUV tick! We're going to break down all the important specs, from engine performance to interior features, so you can make a smart decision. Whether you're hauling the family around or hitting the trails, the Passport Sport aims to deliver. Ready to explore? Let's get started!

Engine and Performance

Alright, let's talk power! The 2021 Honda Passport Sport packs a punch with its 3.5-liter V6 engine. This bad boy cranks out 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. What does that mean for you? Plenty of oomph for merging onto the highway, towing your weekend toys, or tackling those steep hills. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, which helps optimize fuel efficiency and provides seamless acceleration.

Fuel economy is pretty decent for a mid-size SUV. You're looking at around 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway with the standard front-wheel-drive configuration. If you opt for the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version, those numbers will dip slightly, but you'll gain enhanced traction and stability, especially in inclement weather. The i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system is intelligent, automatically distributing torque to the wheels that need it most, improving grip and control. Whether it's rain, snow, or a bit of off-road terrain, the Passport Sport has you covered.

Suspension-wise, the Passport Sport offers a comfortable ride. It soaks up bumps and road imperfections with ease, making it a pleasant daily driver. The independent front and rear suspension contribute to its composed handling. Steering is responsive and well-weighted, giving you confidence behind the wheel. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the Passport Sport has a respectable ground clearance, making it capable of handling light off-roading duties. Just remember, it's not a rock crawler, but it can certainly handle gravel roads and mild trails.

Interior and Features

Step inside the 2021 Honda Passport Sport, and you'll find a spacious and practical cabin. While it's the base trim, it doesn't feel basic. The seats are comfortable and supportive, perfect for long road trips. There's plenty of room for five adults, with ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear. The interior design is functional and straightforward, with all the essential controls within easy reach.

Even in the Sport trim, you get a good selection of standard features. You'll find an 8-inch touchscreen display, which serves as the command center for your infotainment needs. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, so you can seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. Bluetooth connectivity is also standard, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream audio wirelessly. The sound system delivers clear and crisp audio, making your drives more enjoyable.

Other notable standard features include a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what's behind you when backing up, helping you avoid obstacles. Automatic climate control keeps the cabin comfortable, regardless of the weather outside. Keyless entry and push-button start add convenience to your daily routine. The Passport Sport also comes with a suite of Honda Sensing safety technologies, which we'll discuss in more detail later.

Cargo space is one of the Passport's strong suits. Behind the rear seats, you'll find a generous cargo area that can easily accommodate luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more space, making it easy to haul larger items. The cargo floor is also reversible, with one side being carpeted and the other being a durable, easy-to-clean material.

Safety and Technology

When it comes to safety, Honda doesn't mess around. The 2021 Honda Passport Sport comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies. This includes features like adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Forward collision warning alerts you if it detects a potential collision, and the collision mitigation braking system can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a crash. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, and lane keeping assist helps steer you back into your lane.

In addition to these advanced safety features, the Passport Sport also comes with standard safety equipment like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The rearview camera provides added visibility when backing up, helping you avoid accidents. The Passport has also performed well in government and independent safety tests, earning high marks for its crash protection. With all these safety features, you can drive with confidence, knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected.

While the Sport trim is the base model, it still offers a good level of technology. The 8-inch touchscreen display is responsive and easy to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. Bluetooth connectivity lets you make hands-free calls and stream audio wirelessly. The sound system delivers clear and crisp audio. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the higher trims, the Sport trim provides all the essential technology features you need to stay connected and entertained on the road.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2021 Honda Passport comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The Sport trim is the base model, but it's well-equipped with standard features. Moving up the trim ladder, you'll find the EX-L, Touring, and Elite trims, each adding more luxury and convenience features.

The EX-L trim adds leather upholstery, a power moonroof, and a blind-spot monitoring system. The Touring trim includes features like a navigation system, a premium audio system, and rear parking sensors. The Elite trim is the top-of-the-line model, offering features like ventilated front seats, a hands-free power liftgate, and wireless phone charging.

If you're looking for a more rugged and off-road-oriented Passport, you might consider the Passport Trailsport. This trim features unique styling elements, all-terrain tires, and a slightly lifted suspension, making it more capable on rough roads and trails.

While the Sport trim is the most affordable option, it might be worth considering the higher trims if you want more features and amenities. However, the Sport trim provides a great value for the money, offering a good balance of features, performance, and affordability.

Pricing and Value

The 2021 Honda Passport Sport is positioned as a value-packed option in the mid-size SUV segment. Its starting price is competitive, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. While pricing can vary depending on your location and any optional equipment you choose, the Passport Sport generally offers a good bang for your buck. When comparing it to other SUVs in its class, the Passport Sport holds its own in terms of features, performance, and fuel economy.

One of the key factors that contribute to the Passport Sport's value is its strong resale value. Hondas are known for holding their value well over time, which means you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade it in. This makes the Passport Sport a smart choice for those who are concerned about long-term ownership costs.

Another aspect to consider is the Passport's reliability. Hondas have a reputation for being reliable vehicles, and the Passport is no exception. With proper maintenance and care, you can expect your Passport to provide years of trouble-free service. This can save you money on costly repairs down the road.

Overall, the 2021 Honda Passport Sport offers a compelling combination of affordability, features, performance, and reliability. It's a great choice for families, adventurers, and anyone looking for a versatile and capable SUV.

Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on the 2021 Honda Passport Sport? It's a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable, capable, and spacious mid-size SUV. While it's the base trim, it offers a surprising amount of value with its standard features, comfortable interior, and strong V6 engine. Whether you're commuting to work, hauling the family, or exploring the great outdoors, the Passport Sport is up to the task. Sure, it might not have all the fancy bells and whistles of the higher trims, but it provides all the essentials you need for a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Plus, with Honda's reputation for reliability and strong resale value, you can buy with confidence, knowing that you're making a smart investment. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, be sure to give the 2021 Honda Passport Sport a serious look. You might just be surprised at what it has to offer!