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Honda is one of the most reliable car brands. Two of its models with a long history of high-level reliability are the Civic and Accord. These sedans have earned a much-deserved reputation for lasting many miles and years. However, a recent survey shows the most reliable Honda car isn’t the Civic or Accord. It’s the 2023 Honda Passport midsize SUV.

Owners say the 2023 Honda Passport is the most reliable Honda

Leather Interior 2023 Honda Passport EX-L
2023 Honda Passport EX-L | Honda

After surveying hundreds of thousands of vehicle owners, Consumer Reports named the 2023 Honda Passport the most reliable Honda model. That’s somewhat surprising. For one, the brand’s compact and midsize sedans, the Civic and Accord, have traditionally been more reliable than its SUVs. Also, the Passport is among the least popular Honda models — and is often overshadowed by other vehicles from the Japanese automaker. 

However, in Consumer Reports’ reliability study, the Passport beat all other Honda models, including the Civic and Accord.

The Honda Passport earned higher reliability ratings than the Civic and Accord

Dashboard in 2023 Honda Passport midsize SUV, most reliable Honda car, not Civic or Accord, says Consumer Reports
2023 Honda Passport | Honda

The title of the most reliable Honda for the 2023 Passport is based on Consumer Reports’ annual Auto Reliability Survey. For 12 months, the consumer nonprofit collected owner surveys for over 300,000 vehicles, including all models in the Honda lineup. Owners identified various problem areas, such as car noises, engines, paint, leaks, electrical systems, and brakes.

Owners indicated the Passport’s issues were less frequent and severe than those in other Honda vehicles. So the midsize SUV earned the top spot for Honda reliability. After the Passport, the next most reliable Honda is the Accord Hybrid, followed by the Civic. The gas-powered version of the Accord placed fourth.

Also, Consumer Reports rates Honda as one of the most reliable car brands. It ranks fifth, behind Toyota, Lexus, BMW, and Mazda.

Is the Passport a good SUV?

In addition to its high-level reliability, the 2023 Honda Passport has other positive attributes. It’s a larger alternative to the best-selling CR-V compact SUV, so it provides generous passenger space. The Passport can comfortably seat five, with a total passenger volume of 114.9 cubic feet. 

In addition, it provides plenty of storage space. This midsize SUV boasts 41.2 cubic feet of rear cargo space and a maximum capacity of 100.8 cubic feet. Also, the Passport’s cabin is more upscale than some rivals.

Additionally, the Passport packs a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine. It churns out 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, helping to deliver relatively fast acceleration. Also, this reliable SUV has good handling and a smooth, comfortable ride. And it offers an off-road model in the rugged TrailSport trim. 

Furthermore, the 2023 Honda Passport touts many desirable features. They include a wireless charging pad, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, a tri-zone climate control system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a hands-free power tailgate, and a 10-speaker premium audio system. In addition, expect a broad range of advanced driver-assistance features, such as lane-keeping assist, a collision mitigation braking system, and adaptive cruise control. 

Surprisingly, owners say the most reliable Honda car isn’t the Civic or Accord. It’s the 2023 Honda Passport midsize SUV. Though the Passport isn’t as popular as other models in the lineup, it’s tops in reliability.

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