Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Honda Passport Elite, a vehicle that's been making waves in the mid-size SUV market. If you're considering a new SUV that blends rugged capability with luxurious comfort, you've come to the right place. We’re going to explore everything this top-tier trim has to offer, from its performance and interior features to its tech and safety aspects. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2023 Honda Passport Elite

The 2023 Honda Passport Elite stands out as the flagship model in the Passport lineup. It’s designed for those who want a bit more adventure and a touch of luxury in their daily drive. This SUV boasts a powerful engine, a spacious cabin, and a host of premium features that make it a compelling choice in its segment. But what exactly makes the Elite trim so special? Let's break it down.

Key Features and Highlights

The Elite trim is packed with features that set it apart. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Engine: A robust 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 280 horsepower. This powertrain ensures that you have ample power for both city driving and off-road adventures.
• Drivetrain: Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. It's perfect for those snowy winter drives or muddy trails.
• Interior: Leather-trimmed seats, a premium audio system, and a host of comfort features elevate the driving experience. Think of it as your living room on wheels, but much cooler.
• Technology: An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Honda’s advanced safety suite are just a few of the tech highlights.
• Exterior: A distinctive grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, and LED headlights give the Elite a commanding presence on the road. It’s not just an SUV; it’s a statement.

Target Audience

Who is the 2023 Honda Passport Elite really for? It's perfect for:

• Families: With its spacious interior and safety features, it’s an excellent choice for families needing a reliable and comfortable vehicle.
• Adventure Seekers: The AWD and rugged design make it suitable for weekend getaways and exploring off the beaten path.
• Luxury Appreciators: The premium interior and advanced features cater to those who enjoy a touch of luxury in their everyday drive.

Performance and Handling

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how the 2023 Honda Passport Elite performs on the road. We’re talking about the engine, transmission, and how it handles in various driving conditions. This is where the rubber meets the road, literally!

Engine and Transmission

At the heart of the Passport Elite is a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing a healthy 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. The combination provides a responsive and confident driving experience. Whether you're merging onto the highway or climbing a steep hill, the Passport Elite has plenty of power on tap. The engine is known for its reliability and smooth operation, making it a solid choice for an SUV in this class. The 9-speed automatic transmission further enhances the driving experience by providing quick and seamless gear changes.

Driving Dynamics

Driving the 2023 Honda Passport Elite is a pleasure, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. The ride is comfortable, even on rough roads, and the handling is surprisingly agile for an SUV of this size. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, giving you peace of mind when driving in rain, snow, or off-road. The Passport Elite feels planted and stable, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, which adds to the overall driving confidence. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the Passport Elite is also capable off-road, with enough ground clearance and traction to tackle moderate trails. It strikes a good balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is always a concern, especially with larger vehicles. The 2023 Honda Passport Elite delivers respectable fuel economy for its class. It gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. While these numbers might not be class-leading, they are competitive and reasonable for a V6-powered AWD SUV. Real-world fuel economy can vary depending on your driving style and conditions, but overall, the Passport Elite offers a good balance of power and efficiency. Remember, fuel economy is just one factor to consider, and the Passport Elite's performance and features help make up for any slight shortcomings in this area. Driving efficiently can also improve your mileage.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2023 Honda Passport Elite is like entering a premium lounge on wheels. The interior is designed with comfort and convenience in mind, offering a range of features that make every journey enjoyable. Let's take a closer look at what the cabin has to offer.

Cabin Design and Materials

The interior of the Passport Elite is thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials and a clean, modern aesthetic. Leather-trimmed seats are standard, providing a touch of luxury and comfort. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making them ideal for long drives. The dashboard and door panels feature soft-touch materials, adding to the premium feel. The overall design is functional and intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and use. Honda has done a great job of creating an interior that feels both upscale and practical. The attention to detail is evident throughout the cabin, from the stitching on the seats to the layout of the controls.

Infotainment System and Connectivity

The 2023 Honda Passport Elite comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that serves as the command center for all your media and connectivity needs. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The touchscreen is responsive and the menus are easy to navigate. The Elite trim also includes a premium audio system, delivering crisp and clear sound throughout the cabin. Other tech features include Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a wireless charging pad. The infotainment system is a highlight of the Passport Elite, making it easy to stay connected and entertained on the road. The integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is particularly useful, allowing you to access your favorite apps, music, and navigation.

Seating and Cargo Space

Space is where the 2023 Honda Passport Elite truly shines. It offers ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families and adventure-seekers alike. The rear seats provide plenty of legroom and headroom, even for taller adults. The cargo area is generous, with 50.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area to a whopping 100.5 cubic feet. This is more than enough space for luggage, camping gear, or anything else you need to haul. The Passport Elite also has a low cargo floor, making it easy to load and unload items. The spacious interior is one of the key selling points of the Passport Elite, offering versatility and comfort for passengers and cargo alike.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is paramount, and the 2023 Honda Passport Elite is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features to keep you and your passengers protected. Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety technologies, comes standard on the Elite trim. Let's explore the key safety features.

Honda Sensing Suite

The Honda Sensing suite includes a range of technologies designed to help prevent accidents and make driving safer. Key features include:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): This system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help reduce the severity of an impact.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): ACC maintains a set following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed as needed.
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): LKAS helps you stay in the center of your lane by providing gentle steering assistance.
• Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): RDM can detect when you're drifting out of your lane and provide steering and braking assistance to help you stay on the road.
• Blind Spot Information System (BSI): BSI alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, helping you make safer lane changes.

The Honda Sensing suite provides an extra layer of security, making driving less stressful and more confident. These features are not a substitute for attentive driving, but they can be a valuable aid in preventing accidents.

Additional Safety Features

In addition to Honda Sensing, the 2023 Honda Passport Elite includes a host of other safety features, such as:

• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): ABS helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, allowing you to maintain steering control.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC): ESC helps prevent skidding by applying the brakes to individual wheels as needed.
• Traction Control System (TCS): TCS helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration, improving traction and stability.
• Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: This camera provides a clear view of what's behind you when backing up, making parking and maneuvering easier.
• Advanced Airbag System: The Passport Elite includes a comprehensive airbag system to protect occupants in the event of a collision.

The extensive list of safety features demonstrates Honda's commitment to safety. These features work together to provide a safe and secure driving environment.

Safety Ratings

It's important to check safety ratings from independent organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2023 Honda Passport has generally received high safety ratings, indicating its ability to protect occupants in a crash. These ratings can give you added peace of mind when considering the Passport Elite.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2023 Honda Passport is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. The Elite trim sits at the top of the lineup, offering the most luxurious and well-equipped option. Let's take a look at the different trims and their pricing.

Passport Trim Levels

The 2023 Honda Passport is available in three main trim levels:

• EX-L: The base trim offers a good balance of features and value, including leather seats, an 8-inch touchscreen, and Honda Sensing.
• TrailSport: The TrailSport trim is designed for off-road enthusiasts, with features like rugged styling, all-terrain tires, and a slightly lifted suspension.
• Elite: The top-of-the-line Elite trim includes all the features of the lower trims, plus additional luxury amenities like heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and more.

The Elite trim is the most luxurious and well-equipped option, making it the focus of our review. It's the choice for those who want the best that the Passport has to offer.

Pricing and Value

The 2023 Honda Passport Elite has a starting MSRP of around $45,000. While this is higher than the base trim, it's competitive with other top-tier mid-size SUVs in the market. Considering the Elite's extensive list of features, powerful engine, and standard all-wheel drive, it offers good value for the money. It's important to factor in your budget and needs when choosing a trim level. If you prioritize luxury and advanced features, the Elite trim is worth the investment. However, the other trims offer a good value proposition as well. Compare prices and features to determine which trim best suits your needs. Check local dealerships for current pricing and incentives.

Pros and Cons of the 2023 Honda Passport Elite

Before we wrap up, let's summarize the pros and cons of the 2023 Honda Passport Elite. This will give you a clear picture of the vehicle's strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision.

Pros

• Powerful Engine: The 3.5-liter V6 engine provides ample power for both city and highway driving.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: AWD enhances traction and stability in various conditions.
• Spacious Interior: The Passport Elite offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
• Premium Features: The Elite trim is packed with luxury amenities and advanced technology.
• Strong Safety Ratings: The Passport has received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

Cons

• Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is decent but not class-leading.
• Price: The Elite trim is the most expensive in the Passport lineup.
• Infotainment System: While functional, the infotainment system could be more user-friendly.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2023 Honda Passport Elite? It's a fantastic mid-size SUV that offers a compelling blend of power, comfort, and versatility. If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle daily commutes, family trips, and even some off-road adventures, the Passport Elite is definitely worth considering. The premium features and spacious interior make it a comfortable and enjoyable vehicle to drive. While the fuel economy and price are worth noting, the overall package is impressive. The 2023 Honda Passport Elite stands out as a top contender in its class. It's a well-rounded SUV that delivers on multiple fronts, making it a smart choice for a wide range of drivers.