2022 Toyota Highlander vs Honda Passport

Take an in-depth look at the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport to discover just how these two durable SUVs differ from one another. From their powerful engines, capable maneuverability, and well-appointed cabins featuring built-in technology; you'll find out why each of them are adept for any terrain or conditions. Don't be fooled by appearances - delve into this comparison now!

The Powertrain

Toyota offers plenty of power for the Highlander with two dynamic engine options, while Honda's Passport relies solely on a 3.5-liter V6 capable of delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque - all paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission complete with paddle shifters to give you total control over shifts when desired.

With the Highlander, there are two distinct powertrain choices. For a more traditional setup, you can choose from an impressively powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine (with 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque) paired with a direct shift eight-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission - almost identical to that found in the Passport model. Or if environmental friendliness is your priority then opt for the hybrid system which combines 2.5 liters of fuel efficiency with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission to deliver 243 net horsepower and maximum eco benefits!

Hybrid Highlander technology takes fuel efficiency to the next level compared to traditional models with its impressive city mileage of 36 miles per gallon and highways mileage at 35 mpg. The Passport follows suit as a more efficient alternative, although slightly lower than the hybrid model with an estimated 20 mpg in cities and 25 on highway roads.

With both vehicles, fuel efficiency is slightly diminished if all-wheel drive (AWD) has been installed. Out of the three Passport trims, two actually come standard with all-wheel drive, and the other one is available with that type of drivetrain. With AWD comes three modes as part of the Intelligent Traction Management System. Those modes are Snow, Sand, and Mud. Even if a Passport has two-wheel drive, it would still have Snow mode. This can be reassuring to drivers who only rarely have to deal with wintry road conditions.

AWD is an option on all of the Highlander trims, with front-wheel drive being standard. Hybrids get to have electronic on-demand AWD, and non-hybrids can either have typically AWD systems or more advanced dynamic torque vectoring AWD. Dynamic torque vectoring AWD comes with two rear electromagnetic couplers so that power can be sent to one rear wheel or the other if the situation calls for it. This is in contrast to a regular system that would send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels as a whole unit rather than two separate units. The result of having dynamic torque vectoring AWD is better cornering and traction in tough conditions.

Hybrid Highlanders have different drive modes. People can choose from Sport, Eco, Normal, and EV modes, depending on what's going on and what their preferences are. Hybrids with AWD have the addition of Trail mode. Non-hybrid Toyota Highlanders with front-wheel drive have Sport, Eco, Normal, and Snow modes. If equipped with all-wheel drive, they would also get to have a Multi-Terrain Select dial. The modes offered with this feature are Mud and Sand, Rock and Dirt, and Normal. If these are offered, it's pretty clear that this SUV was built to handle rough conditions.

The Passport SUV has all the features to make your next drive one that's comfortable, efficient and enjoyable. Remote engine start takes away the hassle of running back out to restart an idle vehicle while Active Noise Cancellation keeps road noise at bay. Hill Start Assist helps prevent vehicles from rolling when taking off on a steep incline and Idle-Stop/Eco assist optimizes fuel economy for even more savings over time - making it easier than ever for you get around in style.

The Passport offers a variety of wheel options for an enhanced ride, with 20-inch and 18-inch configurations available. MacPherson struts to the fore combined with multi-link suspension in the back give you superior handling performance no matter which option is chosen. But that's not all; front-wheel drive models boast impressive hauling capacity at 3,500 pounds - those opting for 4WD can even tow up to 5,000!

Take your drive to the next level with a hybrid Highlander. With its impressive 3,500-pound towing capacity and advanced independent MacPherson front suspension in addition to cutting-edge trailing wishbone rear suspension, you'll have enhanced control over every journey - plus some models boast even more robust sport tuning for maximum performance.

Like the Passport, the Highlander has Hill Start Assist Control. Its AWD models have Downhill Assist Control, too, so that their speed can be maintained when traveling down steep slopes. The non-hybrid Highlanders also have an idle-stop function in which the engine temporarily turns off when stopped for at least a few seconds.

Drivability

The Highlander's ability to seat up to eight passengers gives it a notable advantage over the Passport, which only comes with two rows and can accommodate six people. Designed for larger groups, Toyota's three-row SUV offers plenty of interior versatility: those who opt for captain chairs in the middle row will find seating capacity reduced by one while bench seats expand accommodations from six to seven or potentially even eight occupants.

With 27.7 cubic feet of storage, the Highlander offers space to make any family trip or adventure a comfortable one. Front-row passengers can enjoy generous 42 inches of legroom and those in the back row will appreciate 41-inch seats that provide an extra stretch out opportunity! That's considerably more than what is offered by its competitor - The Honda Passport with 39.6 inches for second row riders and 40.9 for front seat occupants - allowing families or groups of friends plenty room to sit together on long trips without feeling cramped.

The Highlander offers an array of versatile cargo options, making it a great choice for road trips and large shopping hauls. There is 16 cubic feet behind the third row - plenty of space to store groceries or suitcases if needed! Plus, with just one side folded down users can optimize their capacity up to 48.4 cubic feet; when both sets are lowered that number increases all the way to 84.3 cubes - more than enough room for gear from furniture deliveries or family vacations alike.

The Passport accommodates a generous total cargo capacity – up to 77.7 cubic feet with the rear 60/40 split seatback lowered! This versatile configuration can provide substantial space for items when needed, while still allowing seating options of one, two or three people.

The Toyota Highlander certainly lives up to its name, boasting a length of 194.9 inches compared to the Passport's 189.1-inch stature - providing drivers with additional space for their family and friends' needs during road trips or daily drives alike! Mostly comparable in width and height, what sets these two models apart is that the AWD version of Honda’s compact SUV gains more ground clearance than her rival does.

Technology plays a role in the driving experience, especially these days in which almost everyone seems accustomed to doing everything with the help of a screen. Both vehicles come standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and large touchscreens. Customers will appreciate all of this high-tech equipment.

Every 2022 Passport features an eight-inch touchscreen, along with HondaLink, SiriusXM, and HD Radio. The first two trims have seven speakers, one of which is a subwoofer. The highest one has a premium sound system with ten total speakers. This trim also has Wi-Fi capability.

To keep devices charged, the Honda company has made wireless charging a standard component of the Passport. Every model has at least four USB ports, too.

Two out of the three Passport trims get to have integrated navigation. It's a satellite-linked program that works together with Honda HD Digital Traffic, and it accepts voice commands so that drivers can keep their hands on their steering wheels.

The Toyota Highlander offers a variety of impressive infotainment options across its trim lineup, ranging from an eight-inch touchscreen with five USB ports and Amazon Alexa to top models featuring 12.3-inch touchscreens with integrated navigation, 11 JBL speakers, SiriusXM capability and even wireless charging technology. Whether you're looking for basic functions or advanced audio luxury - the Highlander has something suitable for everyone.

The Highlander offers Driver Easy Speak, a convenient program that improves driver-passenger communication by amplifying the driver's voice through their car’s speaker system - ideal for those occasions when music or conversation is in full flow.

Safety

Today's vehicles come packed with innovative safety features like Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ and Honda Sensing Technologies, allowing drivers to travel more confidently. Combining automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist and various monitoring systems designed to alert occupants of potential issues; these two advanced packages provide comprehensive protection on the road.

On the Honda, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are both standard. This provides drivers with additional information so they can make the right decisions at the right times. Also standard are adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a rearview camera.

With the Toyota, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic monitoring aren't integrated into every trim, but they are found on nearly all Highlanders. Higher trims can further be enhanced with front and rear parking assist with a corresponding automatic braking system. The Highlander has the other standard features that the Passport comes with, but it gets to have more systems. One available system mis a ten-inch head-up display that keeps people informed about road signs, their speed, and other important data. Another available component is a bird's eye view camera that provides a 360-degree perspective of what's around the SUV.

Which Has the Best Value?

The Honda Passport EX-L is a luxurious two row SUV offering more than just the basics to add comfort for its drivers. Enjoy premium amenities, such as memory system power adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats and leather upholstery - all available at $38370 and complemented by additional features like an upgraded moonroof and powered tailgate.

The elegant Passport Elite provides luxurious amenities, starting with its exterior features. Rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming and power folding side mirrors, and a hands free power tailgate make for an impressive first impression. Inside the cabin is where it really shines - those in the front row can relax into heated ventilated leather seats while passengers in back enjoy their own personal heating element on all seating surfaces as well as a warm steering wheel to boot. All of this at just $45930 MSRP!

The base trim of the Highlander has similar advantages. Like the Passport, the Highlander has tri-zone climate control, and it has a power-adjustable driver's seat. However, this entry-level trim does not have a power liftgate, moonroof, heated seats, or leather upholstery. This first trim, which is called L, costs $35,855.

The next trim, which is priced at $38,055, does have a few extra amenities, putting it more in line with what the Passport offers. That being said, it's still doesn't has as many features as found in the entry-level trim of the Passport.

Sitting at the top of the Toyota Highlander lineup are the Platinum and Hybrid Platinum. They're priced at $48,010 and $49,510, respectively. They have 12.3-inch touchscreens, panoramic moonroofs, and all-around monitoring systems. They've been upgraded with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front-row seats, and heated second-row seats.

Which Is Better?

Both the Highlander and Passport SUVs offer plenty of convenience, safety features and comfort. With a complete technology package plus several hybrid trims, the Highlander allows fuel-conscious buyers to have their needs met - not to mention its advantageous third row seating offering extra space for passengers. Those looking for an elegant two-row SUV should turn towards the upscale Honda Passport which offers topnotch features that will ensure long term value as well as satisfaction with every drive.