2024 Honda Passport vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, particularly in its 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), was a nostalgic nod to the past with its retro body stripes and heritage grille design. This special edition, based on the SR5 trim, added a unique flair with bronze 17-inch wheels and badges, and was available in black, white, or red paint. The interior, while filled with plastic, was solid and functional, featuring idiot-proof controls that were easy to use even with gloves on. The 4Runner's design was reminiscent of truck-based SUVs from the past, offering an enduring appeal with its robust and purposeful stance.

In contrast, the 2024 Honda Passport maintained a more consistent design language, with only minor tweaks since 2022. The Passport's exterior was rugged yet familiar, with a more upright grille and squared-off corners. The TrailSport trim, which we tested, was the most rugged of the three available trims, featuring all-terrain tires and roof rails. Inside, the Passport offered a simple and unassuming design, with black leather upholstery and orange stitching. The interior was practical, with large air vents, simple controls, and ample storage space, reflecting Honda's utilitarian design approach.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It featured a five-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. The 4Runner offered two 4WD systems: a part-time system and a full-time system on the Limited trim. Its fuel economy was rated at 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The 4Runner excelled off-road, with features like Active Traction Control, a locking rear differential, and Multi-Terrain Select. However, on-road performance was less impressive, with leisurely acceleration, heavy steering, and a lack of composure over larger bumps.

The 2024 Honda Passport, on the other hand, was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and unobtrusive shifts. The Passport's fuel economy was rated at 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The TrailSport trim featured a wider track and off-road-tuned suspension, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Passport's steering was well-balanced and accurate, offering a more refined driving experience. Its towing capacity matched the 4Runner at 2,268 kilograms, but it fell short of some competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered a unique feature with its rear window that powered down into the tailgate, providing excellent ventilation. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seats and dual-zone climate control. The second-row seating area was roomy, with good legroom and USB charging ports. However, the optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner offered 1,337 litres of cargo space, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2024 Honda Passport excelled in cargo capacity, offering 1,430 litres of space behind the rear seats, with additional underfloor storage. With the rear seats folded, cargo space expanded to 2,854 litres. The Passport comfortably accommodated five adults, with ample cupholders and a redesigned centre console for increased storage. The interior was practical and spacious, with a focus on functionality and comfort.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with real knobs and buttons that were easy to use. Voice recognition performed well, although it had limitations with certain commands. The available JBL premium sound system offered a bass-heavy audio experience.

The 2024 Honda Passport also featured an 8-inch touchscreen, which felt small given the cabin's spaciousness. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The infotainment system offered sharp resolution and quick response, but had some quirks, such as persistent turn-by-turn directions on the driver's display. The TrailSport trim's seven-speaker audio system was adequate, but audiophiles might prefer the upgraded system available on the Black Edition trim.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trims. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating from the IIHS for driver protection.

The 2024 Honda Passport offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Despite these features, the Passport received mixed crash-test ratings, with an Acceptable rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.