2023 Honda Passport vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The Passport and 4Runner overlap in many ways, including price, off-roading adventure, and size. In this SUV comparison, we’ll look at the strengths and weaknesses of these two rivals.

1. Price and Ownership Costs

   The 2023 Toyota 4Runner MSRP starts at $39,555 while the 2023 EX-L price is $41,100 MSRP (1). However, we will show how the Passport starts out a premium 2-row product with more standards than the 4Runner.

   In addition to offering a longer list of standards, the 2023 Honda Passport EX-L, Trailsport and Limited trims can claim better fuel economy. These all-wheel drive SUVs earn four miles per gallon more in combined driving.

   On the go, the Honda reduces highway gas use through variable cylinder management which shuts down cylinders when the vehicle has achieved highway velocity. Even better, it reduces gas use in the city with an idle stop system for redlights and fast food drive-thrus.

2. Standard AWD Performance

   While the 2023 Toyota 4Runner has available AWD, Intelligent AWD is standard on every 2023 Passport SUV. Furthermore, while the 4Runner has a capable 5-speed automatic, the Honda has an even more capable 9-speed shift-by-wire automatic transmission.

   

   The Toyota has a higher torque rate overall, while the Honda has the higher horsepower. They have matching tow capabilities with the right hitch equipment. It’s hard to call a winner here, but we do think the fuel economy settles the issue.

3. Driver’s Cockpit

   The Driver’s Cockpit is arguably the most important spot in any vehicle. In this case, these two SUVs have power driver’s chairs, push button start, and an 8-inch touchscreen. Both infotainment systems are assisted by Android Auto and Apple CarPlay interfaces. Furthermore, either SUV allows you to utilize satellite radio connectivity.

   

   However, the Passport cockpit is more contemporary. It has HD radio, a wireless charger, and a unique push-button electronic gear shifter. Drivers benefit from the Honda Passport’s standard auto-dimming rearview mirror and HomeLink remote system, extras on the Toyota 4Runner.

4. Interior Spaciousness and Seating

   How do these compare in terms of seating. Both have standard 2 rows of seating, but the Toyota 4Runner offers an available third row.

   Passports establish their value again in this area by offering a standard 4-way power passenger chair and heated front seats on every trim. Furthermore, while the Toyota automatic climate controls have dual capability, every Passport has tri-zone automatic controls.

   

   It’s highly likely that the Honda SUV’s second row is the most pleasant place to be. Not only do passengers have dedicated air vents and dual USB ports, but they have almost 7 extra inches of legroom. That wiggle room is definitely important if you have adults or teens on the backrow.

5. Cargo Organization and Space

   The Honda Passport is plenty big with 41.2 cubic feet of space in its cargo hold. That’s more than almost any rival. With the seats folded, that climbs to more than 77 cubic feet. However, the 4Runner remains ahead with 47 cubic feet, climbing to 88 cubic feet.

   It should be noted that the Passport interior cargo space can be maximized. At that point, you can actually achieve 50.5 cu ft in the cargo hold and 100.8 cu ft overall.

   

   Both SUVs come with a standard power tailgate, and the Passport has a hands-free tailgate with the higher trims. 4Runners have a power-slide rear window which is not available on the Passport.

   We’d say the Passport pulls ahead of the 4Runner by having standard cargo floor storage and, even more importantly, a one-touch fold-flat capability for the second row. You can check these features out when you visit Earnhardt Honda.

6. Adventure Comparison

   Every Honda Passport has all-wheel drive and an ample 8.1 inches of ground clearance. Intelligent Variable Torque Management AWD moves torque to the wheels that need a push.

   For road and off-road traction, it includes settings for snow, sand, and mud. Approach and departure angles are sharp at 21.1 degrees and 24.3 degrees.

   Toyota sticks with rear-wheel drive for the first few trims and offers Active Traction Control part-time four-wheel drive. This AWD system is a standard on TRD models.

   In this area, we’ll admit that the TRD Pro is the best off-roader, but the Passport isn’t interested in that kind of contest. It’s more interested in adventure, and it has remarkable off-road capability most people actually can use. If on the trail, it has the advantage of Honda’s active engine mount system which provides an extra measure of protection for your powertrain.

   Plus the Passport is definitely the champion when it comes to the ride quality and performance. That should make it a better place to be when taking a weekend jaunt or a long trip.

Conclusion

With its numerous advantages, the Passport is just a better choice for your automotive dollar. We definitely encourage you to test drive the 2023 Honda Passport at your Earnhardt Honda dealer serving Phoenix AZ drivers.