Honda offers a couple of choices for the midsize SUV segment: the Pilot and the Passport. Both SUVs have multiple strong points, but the 2023 Honda Pilot has one giant advantage over the 2023 Honda Passport: an outstanding redesign.

Unlike the 2023 Honda Passport, the 2023 Honda Pilot has a redesign

Honda revamped its SUV lineup for the 2023 model year. The Japanese automaker first unveiled the redesigned subcompact HR-V, followed by the compact CR-V. And now, the 2023 Honda Pilot midsize SUV has a redesign as well. However, the 2023 Honda Passport is the lone model in the lineup that didn’t get a redesign. It hasn’t had a major overhaul in four years. For those that are drawn to the latest look for a midsize SUV, the Pilot is the better choice. 

The redesigned Pilot has an attractive new look. It has more rugged styling, with a truck-like design and a boxier shaper. Notable exterior design elements include a large upright grille, a strong horizontal beltline, and flared fenders. Also, at the rear of the vehicle, there’s a new body-colored roof spoiler and LED taillights. Plus, the hood is longer and the A-pillars are pulled back. 

Furthermore, the redesigned midsize SUV has a new off-road model with the Pilot TrailSport trim. It’s even more rugged than the standard model — and has a range of features for aiding off-road excursions. This includes a TrailWatch camera system, a trail torque logic off-road system, stabilizer bars, and 18-inch wheels with inset spokes.

2023 Pilot has a more spacious cabin than the 2023 Passport

The 2023 Honda Pilot has a revamped cabin as well. With the redesign, the Pilot grew in size, resulting in a more spacious interior. With its three-row layout, it can seat up to eight people and has a total passenger volume of 158.4 cu-ft. In comparison, the 2023 Honda Pilot has two rows, a five-passenger capacity, and 114.9 cu-ft of passenger space. 

Also, the Pilot provides more storage space. It offers a maximum cargo capacity of 113.7 cu-ft, compared to 100.8 cu-ft for the Passport. Plus, it provides additional storage capabilities via its multitude of storage compartments and cupholders.

Furthermore, the cabin of the Pilot has a more modern and upscale look. It’s also more comfortable — exemplified by the new body-stabilizing seats, which reduce fatigue on long excursions. Also, the midsize SUV provides a quieter ride with sound insulation materials that minimize noise and vibration. 

Other ways the Honda Pilot is better than the Passport

There are some other ways the 2023 Pilot is better than the 2023 Passport. Both midsize SUVs have a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, but the one in the Pilot is slightly more powerful. It produces 285 horsepower, while the one in the Passport generates 280 horsepower. The Pilot is also slightly more efficient. It has an estimated gas mileage of up to 22 combined mpg, compared to 21 combined mpg for the Passport.

Furthermore, the Pilot is more affordable. It has a starting price of $39,150 MSRP, while the Passport starts at $41,100 MSRP.

With its outstanding redesign, the 2023 Honda Pilot has a giant advantage over the 2023 Honda Passport. The redesign doesn’t necessarily mean that the Pilot is a better overall vehicle, but it’s a factor to consider for midsize SUV shoppers.