Touring has folding mirrors too. Elite not worth it IMO
Touring vs Elite
Two weeks ago I didn't even know these cars existed, and now I want one. Decided the Elite was the way to go, but I'm having second thoughts. I keep looking at it and wondering what am I really getting for an extra 4.4K? I definitely like the rain sensing wipers and the folding side mirrors, but for that kind of money? The ventilated seats sound nice but I've heard in these forums they're not very good. Heated steering wheel and a wireless phone charging pad. Yeah, ok whatever.
Is there anything I'm missing? Because other that the mirrors it looks like the Touring is much more bang for the buck.
Any thoughts appreciated.
Is there anything I'm missing? Because other that the mirrors it looks like the Touring is much more bang for the buck.
Any thoughts appreciated.
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You get folding unheated, non dimming mirrors for the Touring, but no sensing wipers, wireless charger, ventilated seats or heated steering. The leather of the Touring is perforated and doesn't get as hot as non. Has never burned me but I use sun shades and live in climate with only a few 100 degree days a year.
To me the extra features were useless EXCEPT heated steering which I love- but you can add that as an option for about $550. The heater works really well and can warm the wheel material in about 10 minutes so maybe I will skip it.
To me the extra features were useless EXCEPT heated steering which I love- but you can add that as an option for about $550. The heater works really well and can warm the wheel material in about 10 minutes so maybe I will skip it.
Welcome to the club!Two weeks ago I didn't even know these cars existed, and now I want one. Decided the Elite was the way to go, but I'm having second thoughts. I keep looking at it and wondering what am I really getting for an extra 4.4K? I definitely like the rain sensing wipers and the folding side mirrors, but for that kind of money? The ventilated seats sound nice but I've heard in these forums they're not very good. Heated steering wheel and a wireless phone charging pad. Yeah, ok whatever.
Is there anything I'm missing? Because other that the mirrors it looks like the Touring is much more bang for the buck.
Any thoughts appreciated.
I obsessed about getting the Passport from the release rendering in December to finally finding a Modern Steel West The Colorado. I was originally looking for AWD Touring, but never found it in that color, finally found one in So Cal in an AWD Elite so I took it home.
From what I read, touring mirrors fold as well. The ventilated seats are crap. They are so noisy and I never use the feature. It only blows cabin air from under your seat up into the seat. The heated seats and steering wheel are nice. I live in So Cal, so I don’t use them that often. From what I’ve read on here the Elite has some thing different with the windshield and windows. They supposedly have an insulated acoustic glass that makes the road noise extra quiet. I only drove test the sport (in white) and my elite, so I can’t say for certain. The wireless charging pad is nice, but I plug in my phone to use the Apple Car play, so I’ve only used the charging pad a few times,
I do love my Elite. Especially after going from a 2006 CRV-Ex. It was a big upgrade!
The added features of the Elite were not overly important to me either, with my rational as follows:
1) Auto-Dimming Heated Mirrors: Never owned a vehicle with them and in So. Cal. they are not really needed and not missed.
2) A/C Seats: My wife has them in her Lexus and never uses them, again, I've never had them in any of my daily drivers, the PP has air conditioning and I used it all the time this summer and not once did I think "wouldn't it be nice to cool my rear as well".
3) The Wireless Phone Charger: First if you want to use Apple Play, the phone needs to be connected via USB, which will charge the phone. Second, it was recently mentioned here that you CANNOT add the CD Player on the Elite because it has the Phone Changer - Well I added the CD player to my Touring as I have a couple of thousand CD's and burn new CD Playlists all the time.
4) Rain Sensing Wipers: I had this feature on my last (2) BMW's and loved it, and would have equally loved to have it on the PP, but I also found that it takes a fraction of a section and very little effort to turn the wipers on. Oh and in So. Cal. we only average something like 8 inches of rain a year.
5) AWD: I got AWD on my Touring
So for me the difference was not $4k, since I got the AWD option. But even so, those 4 features were NOT worth $2k to me, even though I could have easily afforded an Elite! Plus my wife's Lexus RX350 cost $42k (with a $7k discount off of the $49k MSRP) so buying an Elite for MORE MONEY than her Lexus made no sense at all...
1) Auto-Dimming Heated Mirrors: Never owned a vehicle with them and in So. Cal. they are not really needed and not missed.
2) A/C Seats: My wife has them in her Lexus and never uses them, again, I've never had them in any of my daily drivers, the PP has air conditioning and I used it all the time this summer and not once did I think "wouldn't it be nice to cool my rear as well".
3) The Wireless Phone Charger: First if you want to use Apple Play, the phone needs to be connected via USB, which will charge the phone. Second, it was recently mentioned here that you CANNOT add the CD Player on the Elite because it has the Phone Changer - Well I added the CD player to my Touring as I have a couple of thousand CD's and burn new CD Playlists all the time.
4) Rain Sensing Wipers: I had this feature on my last (2) BMW's and loved it, and would have equally loved to have it on the PP, but I also found that it takes a fraction of a section and very little effort to turn the wipers on. Oh and in So. Cal. we only average something like 8 inches of rain a year.
5) AWD: I got AWD on my Touring
So for me the difference was not $4k, since I got the AWD option. But even so, those 4 features were NOT worth $2k to me, even though I could have easily afforded an Elite! Plus my wife's Lexus RX350 cost $42k (with a $7k discount off of the $49k MSRP) so buying an Elite for MORE MONEY than her Lexus made no sense at all...
When I asked the question am I missing anything, realize now that yeah, I didn't take into account AWD (which is a must have for me) is standard on the Elite. At least now the 4K makes a little more sense. But I agree completely about the wipers, seats and phone charger. As for the mirrors, the main thing I want is folding, so the Touring checks that off.The added features of the Elite were not overly important to me either, with my rational as follows:
1) Auto-Dimming Heated Mirrors: Never owned a vehicle with them and in So. Cal. they are not really needed and not missed.
2) A/C Seats: My wife has them in here Lexus and never uses them, again, I've never had them in any of my daily drivers, the PP has air conditioning and I used it all the time this summer and not once did I think "wouldn't it be nice to cool my rear as well".
3) The Wireless Phone Charger: First if you want to use Apple Play, the phone needs to be connected via USB, which will charge the phone. Second, it was recently mentioned here that you CANNOT add the CD Player on the Elite because it has the Phone Changer - Well I added the CD player to my Touring as I have a couple of thousand CD's and burn new CD Playlists all the time.
4) Rain Sensing Wipers: I had this feature on my last (2) BMW's and loved it, and would have equally loved to have it on the PP, but I also found that it takes a fraction of a section and very little effort to turn the wipers on. Oh and in So. Cal. we only average something like 8 inches of rain a year.
5) AWD: I got AWD on my Touring
So for me the difference was not $4k, since I got the AWD option. But even so, those 4 features were NOT worth $2k to me, even though I could have easily afforded an Elite! Plus my wife's Lexus RX350 cost $42k (with a $7k discount off of the $49k MSRP) so buying an Elite for MORE MONEY than her Lexus made no sense at all...
So, if I went with a Touring AWD, I'd just have to decide if those other features are, as you say, worth 2K.
BTW, I was looking heavily at the RX 350, but the only one I wanted was the F Sport Performance model, which really drives up the price, finally decided it wasn't worth it.
However, I keep studying and seeing other things. Edmunds mentions the Elite having some kind of interior LED lighting that apparently the Touring doesn't have, what is that about?
1) Auto-Dimming Heated Mirrors: Never owned a vehicle with them and in So. Cal. they are not really needed and not missed.
- - - what is this? I’ve not noticed a difference in the auto dimming mirrors or heated mirrors? Is it for melting snow?
2) A/C Seats: My wife has them in here Lexus and never uses them, again, I've never had them in any of my daily drivers, the PP has air conditioning and I used it all the time this summer and not once did I think "wouldn't it be nice to cool my rear as well".
???
- - - I didn’t buy the elite for these either, I bought the elite because it was all I found. I was excited about having a cool rear, however, it doesn’t work. Remember when I kept thinking there was a window down or door open and I kept pulling over to check, and then it was my water bottle blocking the light for the passenger seat vent, they are that loud.
4) Rain Sensing Wipers: I had this feature on my last (2) BMW's and loved it, and would have equally loved to have it on the PP, but I also found that it takes a fraction of a section and very little effort to turn the wipers on. Oh and in So. Cal. we only average something like 8 inches of rain a year.
- - - did it rain 8” here when I was in San Jose? We could sure use some rain right now!
- - - what is this? I’ve not noticed a difference in the auto dimming mirrors or heated mirrors? Is it for melting snow?
2) A/C Seats: My wife has them in here Lexus and never uses them, again, I've never had them in any of my daily drivers, the PP has air conditioning and I used it all the time this summer and not once did I think "wouldn't it be nice to cool my rear as well".
???
- - - I didn’t buy the elite for these either, I bought the elite because it was all I found. I was excited about having a cool rear, however, it doesn’t work. Remember when I kept thinking there was a window down or door open and I kept pulling over to check, and then it was my water bottle blocking the light for the passenger seat vent, they are that loud.
4) Rain Sensing Wipers: I had this feature on my last (2) BMW's and loved it, and would have equally loved to have it on the PP, but I also found that it takes a fraction of a section and very little effort to turn the wipers on. Oh and in So. Cal. we only average something like 8 inches of rain a year.
- - - did it rain 8” here when I was in San Jose? We could sure use some rain right now!
When I asked the question am I missing anything, realize now that yeah, I didn't take into account AWD (which is a must have for me) is standard on the Elite. At least now the 4K makes a little more sense. But I agree completely about the wipers, seats and phone charger. As for the mirrors, the main thing I want is folding, so the Touring checks that off.
So, if I went with a Touring AWD, I'd just have to decide if those other features are, as you say, worth 2K.
BTW, I was looking heavily at the RX 350, but the only one I wanted was the F Sport Performance model, which really drives up the price, finally decided it wasn't worth it.
However, I keep studying and seeing other things. Edmunds mentions the Elite having some kind of interior LED lighting that apparently the Touring doesn't have, what is that about?
I went AWD if I decide to tow an Airstream Nest one day.
And the LED lighting is so minimal. There is a very subtle glow in the cup holders up front and the front door pocket. It’s so subtle, that if it was a $50 add on, I wouldn’t buy it.
Look into the acoustic glass though. For me, Honda’s have always had a lot of road noise and not sure this is a fake news story about the elite having it and if it really makes a difference? I’ve never had a Honda that runs so quiet on the highway.
Also, are you able to find both models in the color you want? Like I mentioned, that was my deciding factor for the Elite.
Just as a matter of interest, in Canada the PP trims are Sport, EX-L and Touring and only come in AWD. As well, the Canuck Touring trim is the equivalent of the USA Elite...rain sensing, wireless charger, ventilated front seats, etc.
AWD I can understand as it’s almost a given up here, but I have no idea why Honda would do this.
AWD I can understand as it’s almost a given up here, but I have no idea why Honda would do this.
I'm always willing to drive a bit to get a better deal, say, a 250 mile radius. Can't remember the last time I bought a car in the town I live in. Haven't started looking for AWD Touring yet, so I'm not sure how readily they are available near me.I went AWD if I decide to tow an Airstream Nest one day.
And the LED lighting is so minimal. There is a very subtle glow in the cup holders up front and the front door pocket. It’s so subtle, that if it was a $50 add on, I wouldn’t buy it.
Look into the acoustic glass though. For me, Honda’s have always had a lot of road noise and not sure this is a fake news story about the elite having it and if it really makes a difference? I’ve never had a Honda that runs so quiet on the highway.
Also, are you able to find both models in the color you want? Like I mentioned, that was my deciding factor for the Elite.
That RX350 I mentioned, I live in north Florida and the closest one equipped the way I wanted was in Chattanooga! I'll drive a bit, but not that far!
Thanks for the info on the LED. Some of the higher line cars have some really unique interior LED lighting. I was also previously looking at an Audi SQ5, and you can make that guy look like a party at night!
I am very interested in finding out about the acoustic glass. I have not seen anything mentioned on Honda's site or Edmunds. Checked the forum here and someone posted that both the Touring and Elite both have it, but apparently not the other trims.
The biggest bang for your buck is to go up from the sport to the ex-l
I know this is going to sound like a stupid question, but can I assume that the AWD system in the Elite is the same as in the other models? The reason I ask is because other vehicles I've researched recently do have differing systems the higher up you go in trim levels.The interior ambient lighting and acoustic glass comes on the touring models as well. These are the only things the elite has that the touring doesn’t: View attachment 4176
I get that. I live in So Cal and was willing to go as far as Arizona and Nevada for a Modern Steel Touring, but they were no where back then.
And I have a friend with the Audi, it IS a party! I also have a friend in Denver with a Ford Fiesta...it has better interior lighting than our Passport! He bought it as a cheap commuter car and doesn‘t care what it looked like.
And I have a friend with the Audi, it IS a party! I also have a friend in Denver with a Ford Fiesta...it has better interior lighting than our Passport! He bought it as a cheap commuter car and doesn‘t care what it looked like.
Great question because some makers DO have different AWD systems including honda having the ivtm-4 and Acura having the sh-awd. All of the passports use the same ivtm-4 awd system.I know this is going to sound like a stupid question, but can I assume that the AWD system in the Elite is the same as in the other models? The reason I ask is because other vehicles I've researched recently do have differing systems the higher up you go in trim levels.
It's the same i-VTM4 awd drive in all models.
The high end elite comes with awd, but it's an option on the other 3 trim levels.
FYI...awd is a must have option.
The high end elite comes with awd, but it's an option on the other 3 trim levels.
FYI...awd is a must have option.
totally agree, for only $2,000 more AWD is a no brainer! Unless you never drive in any adverse conditions ever lolIt's the same i-VTM4 awd drive in all models.
The high end elite comes with awd, but it's an option on the other 3 trim levels.
FYI...awd is a must have option.
I can confirm the Touring windows have laminate for noise reduction as well.
Also agree AWD is definitely worth it unless you will never drive in inclement weather or off pavement. Then maybe you could do without. The AWD is the same on any trim level if optioned.
Also agree AWD is definitely worth it unless you will never drive in inclement weather or off pavement. Then maybe you could do without. The AWD is the same on any trim level if optioned.
Yeah, you really have to step up to get that stuff. Originally I wanted that Audi, but the S model cannot be fitted with a trailer hitch, Then I switched to a 2020 Mercedes GLC AMG 43, which aren't available yet in the U.S. Wanted that one really bad, but decided even though I could afford to buy it (barely), having to maintain it in retirement would probably be more than I could deal with. Then I went to a Genesis G80, but wanted the 420hp V8 model, but decided to nix that for the same reason as the Merc. Still wanting luxury and performance but willing to downsize, I went to the RX, but only if I could get the F Sport Performance, which, the closest to me is a 400 mile drive.I get that. I live in So Cal and was willing to go as far as Arizona and Nevada for a Modern Steel Touring, but they were no where back then.
And I have a friend with the Audi, it IS a party! I also have a friend in Denver with a Ford Fiesta...it has better interior lighting than our Passport! He bought it as a cheap commuter car and doesn‘t care what it looked like.
Finally came completely back to earth and discovered the Passport. Which is why I'm here. Just recently sold my 17 Pilot to a family member with the intention of taking that money, trading in my 17 Ridgeline to get the upscale vehicle. Now I feel like an idiot sitting here wanting to buy the Passport. Back when I sold the Pilot, I didn't even know the Passport existed.
I know this is way TMI, but it's perhaps a lesson for others to really think carefully before doing what I did.
That said, I must say I really do like this vehicle. With no kids and zero need for that 3rd row, this is the closest thing to what I want, minus the luxury appointments and a 350hp+ motor!
You have to do your research. It’s a big purchase,
And since you had two recent Honda’s you know their reliability. It is the only line of vehicles I’ve owned. Find one near you even if it’s not the trim or color you want and take it for a drive and see if you like it.
I wasn’t even the market for a new car when I saw the Passport. I literally planned on taking my 2006 CRV to my grave because it was such an awesome vehicle. Then The Passport was resurrected! I didn’t even look at any other vehicles before purchasing it.
Now that I’ve given it some personality, it is the best vehicle over ever had. There have been some issues with other owners, but I’ve been lucky, only a clunk noise once in a while...There is a handful of us that have the clunk noise 1 out of 30 times reversing out of a parking spot and turning the wheel clockwise, but no one can pinpoint the exact cause of it. That along with the engine auto idle is my only complaint.
![4177]()
And since you had two recent Honda’s you know their reliability. It is the only line of vehicles I’ve owned. Find one near you even if it’s not the trim or color you want and take it for a drive and see if you like it.
I wasn’t even the market for a new car when I saw the Passport. I literally planned on taking my 2006 CRV to my grave because it was such an awesome vehicle. Then The Passport was resurrected! I didn’t even look at any other vehicles before purchasing it.
Now that I’ve given it some personality, it is the best vehicle over ever had. There have been some issues with other owners, but I’ve been lucky, only a clunk noise once in a while...There is a handful of us that have the clunk noise 1 out of 30 times reversing out of a parking spot and turning the wheel clockwise, but no one can pinpoint the exact cause of it. That along with the engine auto idle is my only complaint.
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