For most buyers, the Honda Passport is the better everyday SUV, offering a smoother ride, better fuel economy, and more interior practicality. The Toyota 4Runner shines when you truly need off-road capability and rugged durability. The right pick depends on how you plan to use the vehicle.
Performance and powertrains
Engine options
Below is a concise look at the core powertrains and how they influence everyday use and capability.
- Honda Passport: 3.5-liter V6 engine producing about 280 horsepower, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission; available with all-wheel drive (AWD) for variable conditions.
- Toyota 4Runner: 4.0-liter V6 engine producing about 270 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission; 4x4 is standard on most trims, with off-road-oriented options available.
In short, the Passport emphasizes smooth highway performance and modern drivability, while the 4Runner prioritizes proven off-road capability with a more traditional, rugged drivetrain.
Ride, handling, and interior quality
How the two SUVs feel on the road and inside the cabin shapes daily usability and long-distance comfort.
- Honda Passport: Generally offers a calmer, quieter ride with a more refined interior, roomy second row, and user-friendly tech. The cabin tends to feel more car-like and comfortable for daily commuting and family trips.
- Toyota 4Runner: Ride is typically firmer, with a more rugged, utilitarian interior that prioritizes durability. The focus is less on premium refinement and more on capability and rugged practicality.
Overall, the Passport leans toward everyday comfort and practicality, while the 4Runner emphasizes purpose-built toughness that suits longer off-road expeditions.
Capability and practicality
Off-road and rugged capability
Capability on rough terrain is a key differentiator. Here’s how they compare in field conditions.
- Honda Passport: AWD helps in rain or light sprinkle of dirt but it remains a unibody crossover designed primarily for paved roads and light trails; off-road hardware is limited compared with purpose-built SUVs.
- Toyota 4Runner: Built on a body-on-frame chassis with robust off-road systems; TRD trims offer features like locking differentials, upgraded suspension, and crawl control for challenging trails.
For serious off-roading and overland travel, the 4Runner has the clearer edge due to its chassis design and available hard-core off-road equipment.
Cargo, seating, and daily practicality
Everyday usability includes cargo space, seating arrangements, and how easy it is to live with the SUV day to day.
- Honda Passport: Ample cargo space behind the rear seats and a comfortable five-passenger setup; interior layout prioritizes practicality and passenger comfort with modern infotainment.
- Toyota 4Runner: Also offers practical interior and solid cargo space, but the design leans more toward rugged versatility and durability; fifth passenger seating is common, with flexible cargo configurations when gear is involved.
In daily use, the Passport typically feels more accommodating for families and daily errands, while the 4Runner prioritizes durability and utility on demanding trips.
Pricing, value, and ownership costs
Cost of ownership includes sticker price, resale value, and ongoing running costs. Here’s what buyers often experience in practice.
- Honda Passport: Typically carries a lower starting price than a well-equipped 4Runner, with strong value for the segment and generally favorable maintenance costs.
- Toyota 4Runner: Usually commands a higher starting price, reflected in strong resale value and a reputation for long-term durability; maintenance costs can be comparable or slightly higher depending on trim and usage.
For buyers who want long-term value with strong reliability, both brands perform well, but the 4Runner’s resale resilience is a notable advantage in certain markets.
Who should consider each model
If your daily routine centers on commuting, school runs, and family trips with occasional highway travel, the Honda Passport offers a more comfortable, efficient, and user-friendly experience. If your needs include frequent off-road adventures, towing challenging gear, or you prioritize a durable, rugged platform with a proven off-road pedigree, the Toyota 4Runner is the stronger choice.
Bottom line
The Honda Passport is the better all-around, everyday SUV for most buyers, delivering comfort, practicality, and efficiency. The Toyota 4Runner is the go-to option for enthusiasts who prioritize off-road capability, rugged durability, and strong resale value. Your best pick hinges on how much you value on-road comfort versus off-road prowess.
Summary
Across powertrains, ride quality, and capability, the Passport excels in daily usability and efficiency, while the 4Runner shines when the terrain gets tough. Consider your typical driving you do, the kind of trips you take, and how often you’ll go off the pavement to decide which model best fits your lifestyle.
What is the most common problem with a Honda Passport?
Top Honda Passport Problems
- Failed O-rings Can Cause Accumulator Cover to Leak on Automatic Transmissions.
- Check Engine Light and Erratic Fuel Gauge Operation.
- Rear Hatch Won't Open Due to Broken Hatch Button.
- Varnish buildup in engine may cause ticking noise.
- Vibration at Highway Speed Due to Various Issues.
Is a Honda Passport bigger than a 4Runner?
While the Honda Passport has 114.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, more than the two-row volume for the 4Runner (97.3 cubic feet), the three-row Toyota offers 128 cubic feet to accommodate more occupants. First-row legroom is also better for the 4Runner, at 41.7 inches compared to 40.9 inches for the Honda model.
What SUV is as reliable as a 4Runner?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee: A blend of luxury and capability
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has long been a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, much like the 4Runner. With its robust build and impressive four-wheel-drive system, the Grand Cherokee can tackle rough terrain with ease.
Which Toyota 4Runner to stay away from?
The 2003 through 2005 4Runners may be Toyota's worst. All three model years have serious rusting issues, so much so that many owners report severe rust accumulating on the vehicle's frame. This generation also had widespread reports of head gaskets leaking or failing, which is an expensive issue for owners.