Honda Passport vs. Toyota 4Runner

Brickell Honda

There are a lot of SUV options in the market. If you are looking for rugged options in a mid-size SUV, then you'll want to take a look at the Honda Passport and Toyota 4Runner. Perfect for taking some offroad adventures out of the city, both models are equipped with five-passenger seating and standard safety features. 

With such similar options available, how can you know which car is right for you? Though the models have similar features and design elements, there are some key differences between the two that can help sway your car shopping decision. We'll go over some of the features of each model, plus how they compare to each other, so you can make the choice that's right for you. 

Honda Passport

The current model year Honda Passport is available in three trims–EX-L, TrailSport, and Elite. The most basic trim model costs $41,100. And the most expensive trim is available for $46,560. 

Some of the most important technical features that ensure safe and smooth driving are intelligent traction management (snow, sand, and mud), the Honda Sensing Driver Assistive Features, and a blind spot information system. 

The design of the Honda Passport has convenience and comfort in mind. With a roomy cabin and fold-down backseats for more cargo space, the Passport is perfect for taking on long road trips. The entertainment technology is also centered around convenience with an easy-to-use eight-inch touch screen, plus Apple Carplay and Android Auto capabilities.

Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is available in eight different trims–the SR5, TRD Sport, SR5 Premium, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, 40th Anniversary Special Edition, Limited, and TRD Pro. The most basic trim available is the SR5, which costs $39,555. The prices dramatically increase with the higher-end trims; the TRD Pro costs $54,020. 

There are the typical Toyota standard safety features available on all eight trims, like forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Other safety features include eight airbags and a blind spot monitoring system. 

The rugged exterior design of the Toyota 4Runner is reminiscent of models from the past. The interior design is simple, with notable features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, fold-down seats, and an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen display center.

How Do They Compare?

Both models look to provide mild to moderate outdoor adventure capability. They have similar safety features. So, how are they different? We'll go over some of the pros and cons of the Honda Passport vs. Toyota 4Runner below. 

The Toyota 4Runner Has Slightly More Affordable Options Than the Honda Passport

The Toyota 4Runner has the most expensive trim option available at $54,020. However, it also has the most affordable trim options as well. If you are looking for the most basic trim option for a midsize SUV, then you'd be better off with the Toyota 4Runner over the Honda Passport. There will be more variety of trims available at affordable prices. 

The Honda Passport Has a More Powerful Engine Than the Toyota 4Runner

The Passport and 4Runner have similar power and driving capabilities. However, the Passport performs slightly better than the 4Runner. With faster acceleration speeds, more horsepower, and better handling, driving the Passport is a slightly more sophisticated experience. For a better driving experience, you'll probably prefer the Honda Passport vs. Toyota 4Runner, even if the on-paper grades are only slightly different. 

The Honda Passport Has a More Updated Infotainment Display Center Than the Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner's entertainment technology is noticeably out of date compared to the Honda Passport. The Passport's updated infotainment display center is easy-to-use and has a modern look. Though they are technically the same size, the Passport is more updated. If you want more current technology in your next SUV, you'll prefer the Honda Passport vs. Toyota 4Runner.

The Honda Passport Has More Interior Space Than the Toyota 4Runner

One of the big benefits of choosing the Honda Passport is its roomy cabin and cargo space area. The Toyota 4Runner is cozy in comparison to most of the measurements in the Passport. With plenty of legroom in the backseat for passengers and a lot of headspace around the cabin, the interior of the Passport feels quite roomy. 

For both vehicles, there is an option to fold down the second row of seats to create a large cargo area for transporting gear or other large items. However, if you want an SUV that feels roomy, then you'll want to choose the Honda Passport vs. Toyota 4Runner for your next vehicle.

The Honda Passport Is More Fuel Efficient Than the Toyota 4Runner

An important factor to consider when choosing a vehicle is fuel efficiency. No one wants to spend tons of money at the gas pumps. This is why you might prefer the Honda Passport vs. Toyota 4Runner. The Passport enjoys better fuel efficiency than the 4Runner. The Passport's mpg rating is 19/24 city/highway, while the 4Runner's mpg rating is 16/19 city/highway. While gas SUVs typically don't have stellar fuel efficiency ratings, you can still go with the best option of the bunch. The Passport is the clear winner in this category.

Car shopping can be difficult and time-consuming. With such similar models, you have to take the time to compare the small details in order to make the right decision. However, with readily available comparisons of the most important features, like price, fuel efficiency, power, and design, you can come to a decision easily. In the case of the Honda Passport vs. Toyota 4Runner debate, the clear winner is the Passport. With its better fuel efficiency, power, and interior design, you and your passengers will enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride.