Hey guys, let's dive into a comparison of the 2019 Honda Passport Sport and EX-L trims. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, the Honda Passport is a fantastic choice, offering a blend of practicality, performance, and Honda's renowned reliability. But, choosing between the Sport and EX-L trims can be a tough decision. Both offer a lot, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. In this article, we'll break down the key differences to help you figure out which 2019 Honda Passport is the perfect fit for you. We'll explore features, performance, and overall value, so you can make an informed decision. Let's get started!

Performance and Handling: Sport vs. EX-L

When it comes to performance and handling, both the 2019 Honda Passport Sport and EX-L share the same powerful engine and drivetrain. This means you're getting consistent performance regardless of which trim you choose. Under the hood, both are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing a robust 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. This combination ensures plenty of power for daily driving, merging onto highways, and even tackling some light off-roading. The Passport's engine provides peppy acceleration, making it enjoyable to drive in various conditions. The all-wheel-drive system, which is available on both trims, further enhances the vehicle's capability, providing improved traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions or on uneven terrain. The Passport EX-L is slightly heavier than the Sport due to added features, but this doesn't significantly impact performance. Both trims offer a comfortable and composed ride, with well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road. The steering is responsive, making the Passport easy to maneuver in both city streets and open highways. Fuel economy is also consistent between the two trims, with both offering competitive numbers for the mid-size SUV class. While the Sport might be marginally lighter, the difference in fuel efficiency is negligible. Overall, both the Sport and EX-L deliver a satisfying driving experience, with the same strong engine, responsive handling, and comfortable ride quality.

So, if you're looking for a vehicle with great power and handling, either trim will serve you well. The choice between them comes down to the features and amenities you prioritize. The shared engine and transmission mean that the driving experience itself will be virtually identical. The real differences lie in the features and creature comforts that each trim offers. The all-wheel-drive system is an excellent option for those who live in areas with inclement weather or enjoy occasional off-road adventures, and it's available on both the Sport and EX-L. The 2019 Honda Passport is designed to provide a versatile and capable driving experience, suitable for a wide range of needs and preferences. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Passport is well-equipped to handle the task. With its powerful engine, responsive handling, and comfortable ride, it's a vehicle that's both fun to drive and practical for everyday use. And remember, the core driving experience is the same across the Sport and EX-L trims, so your decision can focus on the other factors that matter most to you, such as interior features, technology, and exterior styling.

Interior Features and Technology: Sport vs. EX-L

Interior features and technology are where the Sport and EX-L trims start to diverge, offering different levels of comfort and convenience. The Sport trim, being the base model, provides a solid foundation with essential features. You'll find cloth upholstery, a decent infotainment system with a 5-inch display, and a multi-angle rearview camera, which is super helpful for parking and backing up. The Sport trim is designed to be functional and practical, providing everything you need without any unnecessary frills. This makes it an attractive option for those who prioritize value and simplicity. On the other hand, the EX-L trim steps up the game with several upgrades that enhance the overall driving experience. One of the most noticeable improvements is the leather-trimmed seats, which add a touch of luxury and sophistication to the interior. You'll also get a larger 8-inch touchscreen display, making it easier to access and control the infotainment system. The EX-L trim also includes heated front seats, providing added comfort, especially during colder months. Another key advantage of the EX-L is the inclusion of advanced driver-assistance features, like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. These features enhance safety and make driving a little easier. The EX-L also usually includes features like a power moonroof and a premium audio system, further enhancing the overall experience. When it comes to technology, the EX-L offers a more comprehensive package, providing a more connected and user-friendly experience. The larger touchscreen is easier to navigate, and the added features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration make it easy to connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation systems. The EX-L's advanced safety features provide an extra layer of protection, giving you greater peace of mind on the road. The EX-L trim truly elevates the driving experience with its enhanced features and technologies. While the Sport trim focuses on functionality, the EX-L prioritizes comfort, convenience, and advanced safety features. For those who value a more luxurious and technologically advanced interior, the EX-L is the clear winner. However, if you are looking for a more basic and practical option, the Sport trim is a great choice, offering all the essential features at a more affordable price point.

Ultimately, the choice between the Sport and EX-L trims comes down to your personal preferences and budget. The Sport trim is ideal if you value simplicity and functionality. It provides a solid set of features at a more accessible price. The EX-L trim, on the other hand, is an excellent choice if you're looking for a more luxurious and technologically advanced interior, with features like leather seats, a larger touchscreen, heated front seats, and advanced safety features. So, consider your priorities and which features are most important to you when making your decision. Both trims offer a high level of quality and reliability, but their focus areas differ.

Exterior Styling and Design: Sport vs. EX-L

Let's talk exterior styling and design. The 2019 Honda Passport, in both Sport and EX-L trims, shares the same robust and adventurous design language. It's a mid-size SUV that projects a sense of ruggedness and capability, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventures or simply want a vehicle that looks ready for anything. The overall silhouette is consistent across both trims, with a bold front fascia, a sloping roofline, and muscular fenders. This design gives the Passport a confident stance on the road. However, there are some subtle differences in the details that distinguish the Sport and EX-L. The Sport trim typically features more basic design elements, often including black exterior accents and more standard wheels. This gives the Sport a more understated and rugged appearance, emphasizing its functionality. The EX-L trim, on the other hand, often adds more chrome accents, upgraded wheels, and other design elements that give it a more premium appearance. This is not always the case, but it's a common trend. The EX-L trim may have upgraded wheels that add a touch of sophistication, and chrome accents around the windows, grille, and other exterior elements, providing a more refined look. Both trims come with practical features like roof rails, perfect for carrying extra gear like bikes, kayaks, or cargo carriers, and the Passport's design is both stylish and functional, offering a good balance of form and utility. The Passport's design is both stylish and functional, offering a good balance of form and utility. You'll find that the overall design philosophy is consistent: a vehicle that looks as capable off-road as it does cruising the city streets. The choice between the Sport and EX-L trims here is largely a matter of personal preference. The Sport's more basic design is attractive for those who prefer a more rugged and understated look. The EX-L's added design elements are great if you are looking for a more premium appearance. The key takeaway is that both trims have a strong and attractive design. The EX-L adds a touch of extra sophistication, while the Sport retains a clean and functional aesthetic.

Value and Pricing: Making the Right Choice

Okay guys, let's break down the value and pricing. This is a super important aspect when deciding between the Sport and EX-L trims of the 2019 Honda Passport. The Sport trim typically comes in at a lower price point, making it the more affordable option. This makes it a great choice for those who are budget-conscious but still want the reliability and capability of a Honda Passport. You are getting the same powerful engine, capable handling, and a solid set of essential features. The EX-L, with its added features like leather seats, a larger touchscreen, heated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems, will command a higher price. But remember, you're paying for those extra comforts and conveniences. When evaluating value, you need to consider what features are most important to you. If you can live without the leather seats and advanced tech, the Sport trim offers great value. You'll get a well-equipped SUV at a more attractive price. If, however, the added features of the EX-L align with your needs and preferences, the extra cost is probably justified. The EX-L offers a more premium driving experience, making it a good value for those who want those specific features. The EX-L's advanced safety features can provide an added layer of peace of mind, making it a valuable addition for some drivers. Resale value is something to keep in mind, and the EX-L trim may hold its value slightly better over time due to its extra features. When considering value, think about your daily driving needs and which features will enhance your driving experience the most. Is it more important to have a luxurious interior with advanced technology, or do you prioritize a more basic, functional option? The Sport trim offers excellent value for its price, providing a solid foundation and essential features. The EX-L trim offers a more premium experience, but at a higher cost. It's all about finding the right balance between features, price, and your personal preferences. Before making your final decision, take both trims for a test drive. This will give you a feel for how the features and amenities of each trim align with your needs.

Conclusion: Which Trim Should You Choose?

So, which 2019 Honda Passport trim should you choose? It really depends on your needs, your budget, and what you prioritize in an SUV. If you are looking for an affordable, reliable, and capable SUV with all the essentials, the Sport trim is a fantastic choice. You get the same great performance and handling, with a solid set of features at a more accessible price. If you are looking for a more luxurious experience with added comfort and advanced technology, the EX-L is the better option. You get premium features like leather seats, a larger touchscreen, and advanced safety features. Consider your daily driving needs and which features will enhance your driving experience the most. Remember to factor in your budget, as the Sport trim offers great value for its price, while the EX-L provides a more premium experience. Ultimately, both trims offer the same reliable and capable driving experience, so you can't go wrong. It really boils down to which features and amenities are most important to you. Test drive both trims to see which one feels like the best fit! Happy driving, guys!