Skip to main content

The Honda Passport has earned its place among the best midsize SUVs. Mazda’s SUVs have had an incredible last few years. Several Mazda SUV models rank among the best in their respective segments according to multiple automotive publications. The 2022 Mazda CX-9 could be a better buy than the 2022 Honda Passport for many drivers.

The 2022 Mazda CX-9 is more affordable than the 2022 Honda Passport

A gray 2022 Mazda CX-9 midsize SUV is parked.
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 | Mazda

Affordability isn’t always at the forefront of the minds of consumers when shopping for a midsize SUV. Value, on the other hand, is an important part of a midsize SUV purchase for many American consumers. Value relates to a vehicle’s reliability, longevity, quality, and standard features.

We’ll compare how much value these two midsize SUVs offer later on, but let’s explore pricing first. The base model 2022 Mazda CX-9 starts at $35,630. The 2022 Honda Passport starts at $38,370. The CX-9 maxes out around $47,560 with the Signature trim. The 2022 Honda Pilot Elite final trim starts at $45,930.

Mazda offers the more affordable base model, but which midsize SUV provides more value for the money? Both models have great overall scores from respected automotive publications, but the CX-9 is the better buy.

The CX-9 provides more value for the money

A gray 2022 Mazda CX-9 midsize SUV.
The 2022 Mazda CX-9 | Mazda

The Mazda CX-9 and Honda Passport are two very different SUVs. The CX-9 is luxurious and sporty at some of its upper trim levels. The Passport is more rugged and geared toward adventure. Comparing the two may not seem fair, but plenty of consumers have pitted the midsize models against each other.

The CX-9’s base model is about $2,740 cheaper than the base Passport. That’s quite the price difference. The Mazda CX-9 offers more value for the money because it is the more refined midsize SUV. The CX-9 features a comfier cabin and better standard tech than the Honda Passport.

The Mazda CX-9 is a more attractive daily driver

Style is subjective but it’s hard to ignore the CX-9’s sleek design and distinct character lines. Mazda SUVs are known for their luxury-esque aesthetic. Honda SUVs, on the other hand, differ with each model. The Passport screams practicality, and that may not be appealing to some drivers.

The folks that run the popular TFL YouTube channel even compare the CX-9 to a sports car. It’s surely one of the sportier midsize SUVs on the market. The 2022 CX-9 got an Editor’s Choice award from Car and Driver.

The 2022 Mazda CX-9 offers more seating

The interior of a 2022 Mazda CX-9.
The interior of a 2022 Mazda CX-9 | Mazda

The Mazda CX-9 is a better buy than the Honda Passport because it’s a three-row SUV. The CX-9 can hold an extra one or two more passengers than the Passport. Seating is important for folks that want to carpool or pack as many passengers in as possible for road trips.

The 2022 Mazda CX-9 is one of the best midsize SUV options on the market. It competes with the popular Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. If you’re looking for a classy midsize SUV that doesn’t break the bank, the CX-9 is definitely worth considering.

Read more about Mazda’s midsize SUV in the next article below.

Related

2021 Mazda CX-9 Review, Pricing, and Specs