2024 Honda Passport vs 2025 Lincoln Aviator

The 2024 Honda Passport retained much of its previous-generation design, despite Honda's recent updates to other models like the Civic and Accord. The Passport's design included a more upright grille and squared-off corners from its 2022 tweaks, but it still echoed older Honda aesthetics. The TrailSport trim, which we tested, aimed for a rugged appearance with all-terrain tires and roof rails, but its plastic skid plates and lack of recovery points suggested more style than substance. Inside, the Passport featured traditional controls and an 8-inch touchscreen, with the TrailSport trim offering black leather upholstery with orange stitching, maintaining a simple yet functional interior.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, built on a rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the Ford Explorer, boasted classic design proportions with a blunt nose and a tapered roofline. However, the 2025 styling appeared less elegant, especially with the optional Jet Appearance Package. Inside, the Aviator offered a plush interior with a traditional architectural sensibility, avoiding the screen-heavy approach of other Lincoln models. The Aviator's remote keyless entry fob was criticized for its cheap feel, but the SUV's Phone as a Key technology and touchpad entry system provided modern conveniences. The Reserve trim, which we tested, came with numerous desirable features, including a high-end audio system and 30-way-adjustable front seats.

The 2024 Honda Passport was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, provided adequate acceleration for its size. The Passport's fuel economy was rated at 12.5 L/100 km in the city and 9.8 on the highway. The TrailSport trim featured wider tracks and off-road-tuned suspension, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Passport's towing capacity reached 2,268 kg, surpassing some competitors but falling short of others like the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

In contrast, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator offered a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This power was managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing swift acceleration and passing capabilities. The Aviator's fuel economy was rated at 11.9 L/100 km combined, though our test observed 13.3 L/100 km. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes and an optional adaptive air suspension, enhancing ride quality. However, the heavy 22-inch wheels and thin tires affected ride comfort on rough surfaces. The Aviator's steering and handling were more focused on comfort than sportiness, aligning with Lincoln's mission for a composed and calming driving experience.

The 2024 Honda Passport excelled in cargo capacity, offering 1,430 litres behind the rear seats and expanding to 2,854 litres with the rear seats folded. The Passport comfortably accommodated five adults, with ample storage and cupholders throughout the cabin. The front centre console was redesigned for 2024, providing more storage space but slightly reducing the airy feel of the front-seat environment.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with its Perfect Position front seats, offering 30-way adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also comfortable, though the third-row seats were less accommodating for adults. The Aviator provided 466 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,131 litres with the third row folded and 2,149 litres in total. The Aviator's interior featured ample storage, including a smartphone charging pad and deep door pockets, though it lacked side window sunshades.

The 2024 Honda Passport featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which felt small compared to competitors. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a wireless charging pad. The system's navigation display was criticized for its persistent turn-by-turn directions, and the TrailSport's seven-speaker audio system was deemed lacking compared to competitors' offerings.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator boasted a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lincoln Digital Experience. This system included Google Built-in and Alexa Built-in, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Google Assistant struggled with voice prompts in our test vehicle. The Aviator's 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D sound system delivered excellent audio quality, and the head-up display provided comprehensive data, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Honda Passport came standard with 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.

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator included the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 Drive 2.0 suite, featuring advanced driver assistance systems like active blind-spot monitoring, intersection assist, and evasive steering assist. The Aviator's BlueCruise system offered hands-free driving assistance on approved highways. The Aviator received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, indicating strong safety performance.