What To Know
- The naturally aspirated engine achieves 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged engine delivers 23 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
- The Honda Passport, on the other hand, is ideal for buyers who seek a more powerful engine, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a higher level of standard equipment.
- While both the Forester and the Passport are capable off-road, the Passport has a slight edge due to its higher ground clearance and available locking rear differential.
The midsize SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with two prominent players vying for supremacy: the Subaru Forester and the Honda Passport. Both vehicles offer a blend of versatility, capability, and comfort, making them ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of each SUV to determine which emerges as the superior choice.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The Forester offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. The naturally aspirated engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged engine boasts 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Passport, on the other hand, is equipped with a single 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
When it comes to fuel economy, the Forester has a slight edge. The naturally aspirated engine achieves 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged engine delivers 23 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Passport, with its larger V6 engine, gets 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Forester and the Passport are capable off-road performers. The Forester comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability in various conditions. The Passport also features all-wheel drive, but it offers an optional locking rear differential that enhances its off-road capabilities. Additionally, the Passport has a slightly higher ground clearance of 8.1 inches compared to the Forester’s 8.7 inches.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Forester and the Passport offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Forester’s cabin is well-designed with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. It provides ample headroom and legroom for passengers in both rows. The Passport’s interior is equally impressive, with a spacious cabin and comfortable seats. However, the Forester offers slightly more cargo space behind the rear seats, making it a better choice for hauling larger items.
Safety Features
Both the Forester and the Passport have received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Forester comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Passport also offers a wide range of safety technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist.
Price and Value
The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,395, while the Honda Passport starts at $32,990. The Forester offers a more affordable entry point, but the Passport provides a higher level of standard equipment and features. Ultimately, the best value depends on the specific needs and budget of the buyer.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Subaru Forester is an excellent choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency, off-road capabilities, and affordability. Its combination of versatility, performance, and safety features makes it a great option for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Honda Passport, on the other hand, is ideal for buyers who seek a more powerful engine, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a higher level of standard equipment. Its off-road prowess and impressive safety ratings make it a compelling choice for those who demand both performance and capability.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which SUV has better off-road capabilities?
A: While both the Forester and the Passport are capable off-road, the Passport has a slight edge due to its higher ground clearance and available locking rear differential.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Honda Passport has a slightly more spacious interior, particularly in terms of cargo space behind the rear seats.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Subaru Forester is more fuel-efficient than the Honda Passport, especially with its naturally aspirated engine.
Q: Which SUV has a higher safety rating?
A: Both the Forester and the Passport have received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Subaru Forester has a lower starting price than the Honda Passport.