2025 Cadillac Escalade vs 2024 Honda Passport

The 2024 Honda Passport retained much of its familiar design, despite Honda's recent updates across its lineup. While it received some tweaks in 2022, such as a more upright grille and squared-off corners, it largely maintained the previous-generation aesthetic. The Passport offered three trim levels: EX-L, TrailSport, and Black Edition, all featuring leather seats, a power moonroof, identical touchscreens, and all-wheel drive. The TrailSport trim, designed for rugged appeal, included all-terrain tires and roof rails but lacked true off-road enhancements like metal skid plates or recovery points. Inside, the Passport featured simple controls, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a utilitarian design with black leather upholstery accented by orange stitching.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade showcased a luxurious and updated design, distinguishing itself from its GM siblings. The new front end aligned with Cadillac's EVs, featuring large vertical headlights and 24-inch wheels. Available in standard and long-wheelbase versions, the Escalade offered multiple trims, including the performance-focused Escalade-V. Inside, Cadillac emphasized a screen-centric design with a 55-inch display spanning the dashboard. The interior boasted high-quality materials, with options for leather upholstery and curated motifs. The Premium Luxury Platinum trim impressed with Whisper Beige upholstery and wood trim, offering a refined experience.

The 2024 Honda Passport featured a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Managed by a nine-speed automatic transmission, it delivered smooth acceleration. The Passport's torque-vectoring iVTM4 AWD system and traction-management settings enhanced its off-road capabilities. However, its fuel economy was modest, rated at 19 mpg city, 24 highway, and 21 combined. The TrailSport trim offered wider tracks and off-road-tuned suspension, but road noise was noticeable at highway speeds. The Passport's towing capacity reached 5,000 pounds, surpassing some competitors but falling short of others.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade dropped its diesel option, leaving a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Escalade-V featured a supercharged V8 with 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts, while RWD was standard, with 4WD optional. The Escalade-V's AWD system focused on performance. Magnetic Ride Control and optional air suspension improved ride quality, though the Escalade's handling couldn't match some luxury rivals. Towing capacity reached 8,100 pounds, competitive within its segment.

The 2024 Honda Passport excelled in cargo space, offering 41.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 77.7 cubic feet with seats folded. It comfortably accommodated five adults, with ample storage and cupholders. The front center console was redesigned for more storage, though it reduced the airy feel.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, available in two lengths, provided generous interior space. The ESV model offered increased cargo capacity, with up to 142.8 cubic feet available. Seating for up to eight was possible, with options for captain’s chairs. The Escalade boasted best-in-class first-row legroom and competitive cargo space, with power liftgate and folding seats enhancing versatility. Towing capacity was robust, though lacking some advanced towing features.

The 2024 Honda Passport featured an 8-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. While responsive, the screen felt small compared to competitors. Navigation directions dominated the driver’s display, which could be annoying. The TrailSport's audio system was adequate but not exceptional.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade integrated a 55-inch display, combining digital instruments and infotainment. A 19-speaker AKG audio system was standard, with a 36-speaker upgrade available. The Escalade retained wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with intuitive controls. The Executive Second Row Package added luxury features for rear passengers, enhancing comfort and entertainment.

The 2024 Honda Passport included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Despite these, it received mixed crash-test ratings, with some areas rated below top marks by the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade offered adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. GM's Safety Alert Seat provided tactile warnings. Super Cruise allowed hands-free driving on mapped roads, though crash-test ratings were unavailable at publication.