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2024 Honda Passport vs Subaru Outback: Which is Better?
The Honda Passport embraces simplicity with a single powertrain. A spirited 280-hp V6, nine-speed automatic transmission, and AWD. Its two-row setup and spacious rear cargo area make it practical, pulling up to 5000 pounds. However, simplicity may lack excitement and luxury, where competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Kia Sorento shine. Meanwhile, Subaru’s Outback, born from elevating the traditional family station wagon, offers an SUV-like style, a car-like ride, and ample cargo space. Standard with a four-cylinder engine provides an optional turbocharged upgrade for 260 hp. All Outbacks feature AWD and a continuously variable automatic transmission, catering to the current market fascination with trucks and crossovers.
| Honda Passport | Subaru Outback | |
| Dimensions | 189.1 in x 78.6 in x 72.2 in | 191.3 in x 74.6 in x 66.9 in |
| Engine | 3.5L SOHC V6 | 2.4L turbocharged flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 6.0 sec | 5.8 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 16.8 sec | 15.8 sec |
| Top-Speed | 111 mph | 117 mph |
Honda Passport
Engine & Performance
Beneath the hood lies the familiar 280-hp 3.5L V6, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission similar to the Pilot. Every model utilizes AWD for enhanced traction. With 8.1 inches of ground clearance. The Passport can handle a decent amount of uneven terrain without risking damage to the underside. However, it’s crucial to note that while it manages rough patches well, it’s not designed as a dedicated off-roader.
Price & Mileage
The Honda Passport’s pricing begins at $43,275 for the EX-L, reaching up to $49,345 for the Black Edition. Notably, Honda has now made the Passport V6 exclusively paired with its AWD. This configuration earns an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Resulting in a combined rating of 21 miles per gallon.
Acceleration & Features
Weighing in at 4,229 pounds, the Passport exhibits impressive performance. Hitting 60 mph in a swift 6.0 seconds and covering the quarter-mile in 14.6 seconds at 94 mph. Across the lineup, every Passport features an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Additional tech perks include Bluetooth connectivity and a convenient wireless smartphone charging pad. The EX-L and TrailSport models come equipped with a seven-speaker audio system. While the top-tier Passport Elite boasts an upgraded ten-speaker audio setup. Notably, TrailSport and Elite models include a standard 115-volt outlet. However, for those seeking Wi-Fi hotspot availability, it’s exclusive to the Elite trim, as it’s not offered on the lower EX-L and TrailSport models.
Subaru Outback
Engine & Performance
The Outback lineup offers a choice between two flat-four-cylinder engines. a standard 182-hp 2.5L and an optional 260-hp turbocharged 2.4L. Both engines are paired with a CVT designed to simulate an eight-speed gearbox, reducing the annoyance of engine drones. As a Subaru standard, all Outbacks come with AWD. With a substantial 8.7 inches of ground clearance and the reliability of AWD, the wagon can effortlessly navigate through challenging weather conditions and even handle muddy, rutted roads. For those seeking maximum go-anywhere capability, the Wilderness model is the ideal choice, featuring an impressive 9.5 inches of ground clearance, a reinforced suspension, protective skid plates for the underside, and a drive mode selector with dedicated Snow and Mud modes.
Price & Mileage
Opting for the Premium model provides the most appealing combination of standard and optional features at an attractive price point. The Subaru Outback lineup begins at $30,240 for the Base model and reaches $44,090 for the Touring XT. According to EPA estimates, the standard Outback achieves an impressive 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. However, the turbocharged version experiences a notable drop in efficiency, with ratings of 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Acceleration & Features
In the 0-60 mph sprint, the naturally aspirated Outback takes a leisurely 8.5 seconds, while the XT significantly improves the pace to a more acceptable 6.3 seconds. The base Outbacks are equipped with two stacked 7.0-inch touchscreens, while all other models boast a sizable 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen. Featuring large touch icons and responsive performance, the expansive screen includes a rotary volume and tuning knob, along with physical buttons for climate settings, enhancing user-friendliness. While built-in navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless device charging are available as options, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration comes standard. Opting for the top-tier Limited and Touring trim levels treats buyers to a premium 12-speaker, 576-watt Harman/Kardon audio system.