2023 Honda Ridgeline

Honda’s sole pickup model, the Ridgeline, persists in its challenge against its more conventionally designed midsize truck counterparts, amalgamating robust capability with a level of comfort akin to that of cars. Now entrenched within its second generation, the Ridgeline stands alone as the singular midsize pickup featuring unibody construction and an independent rear suspension — attributes it shares with the Honda Passport SUV. Notably, each Ridgeline variant comes equipped with a spacious four-door crew cab, all-wheel drive, and a commanding V6 engine.

In stark contrast, all other midsize pickups, encompassing the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Jeep Gladiator, and Ford Ranger, adhere to the traditional body-on-frame construction, complemented by a solid-axle rear end. Consequently, these models proffer heightened off-road capability and towing prowess in comparison to the Ridgeline. However, Honda’s offering is distinct in its refined and comfortable road presence, presenting a driving experience reminiscent of crossovers. Its ride quality, handling prowess, and cabin space align more closely with those of a crossover. For a significant portion of buyers, this translates into a commendable trade-off, and an increasing number of automakers are embracing this trend.

While they may be smaller than the Ridgeline, the recently introduced Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick serve as further instances of crossover-based pickups. They opt to prioritize comfort over sheer capability, akin to the Ridgeline’s approach.

2023 Honda Pilot

When it comes to accommodating growing families, three-row midsize SUVs stand as exceptional options. The Honda Pilot had long held the favored position until the arrival of the Kia Telluride in 2020, which sparked a shift in preferences. However, the tide is set to turn once again with the arrival of the redesigned 2023 Honda Pilot, brimming with an array of modifications and enhancements. This revamped iteration of the Pilot boasts an elongated form, surpassing its predecessor by 3.4 inches. This expansion translates to increased legroom for occupants in the second and third rows, while also elevating cargo capacity to a level that leads its class.

At first glance, the new Pilot exudes a more upright and utilitarian silhouette, projecting a commanding presence that ideally complements the refreshed TrailSport off-road model. Unlike its predecessor, which predominantly leaned towards cosmetic enhancements, the latest TrailSport model boasts genuine off-road capabilities. Stepping into the interior, a fresh feature takes center stage: a removable second-row center seat, an innovation that delivers unparalleled versatility to the Pilot’s configuration.

In light of these myriad refinements and advancements, the 2023 Honda Pilot possesses the attributes required to once again mount a formidable challenge to the Telluride and its sibling, the Hyundai Palisade.

2023 Honda Passport

Upon reflection, the inception of the Passport concept appears as a straightforward and logical endeavor. The idea was to distill the finest attributes from Honda’s acclaimed SUV crossovers, namely the compact Honda CR-V and the three-row Honda Pilot, and converge them into a midsize configuration infused with a hint more off-road capability than either source model. This synthesis culminates in the form of the 2023 Honda Passport, now embarking on its fourth year of production (excluding the Passport of the late 1990s, which bore the same emblem as an Isuzu variant).

Evident touches from the Pilot abound: the commanding V6 performance, a spacious cabin layout, an intuitively designed tech interface, and a notably expansive cargo hold. Meanwhile, the CR-V’s influence is discernible through agile handling dynamics and a steering feel that resonates with a sense of natural responsiveness. Accompanying these features, the Passport integrates a comprehensive infotainment system and a generous selection of driver safety features that are standard across nearly all contemporary Honda models.

Regrettably, the Passport does not match the fuel efficiency of its smaller crossover counterpart. In fact, it even falls slightly short in efficiency when juxtaposed with its larger counterpart, the Pilot. This divergence could possibly be attributed to the need for certain concessions to enhance its modest off-road prowess. While it aligns with rivals featuring V6 engines, such as the Chevrolet Blazer, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, and Jeep Grand Cherokee, it lags behind the Nissan Murano.

Only adversaries endowed with turbocharged four-cylinder engines can lay claim to a distinct fuel economy advantage. However, it’s important to note that none can rival the Passport’s seamless V6 power delivery or the abundant interior space that positions it as a premier midsize all-rounder.

2023 Honda Odyssey

Continuously ranked as one of the top-performing minivans in the United States, the Honda Odyssey consistently delivers the essential attributes desired by most minivan buyers: spaciousness, comfort, features, and a commitment to safety upheld by the highest ratings. In addition, the Odyssey showcases Honda’s hallmark reliability. Accommodating up to eight occupants, this vehicle boasts ample headroom and legroom, with a particularly noteworthy third row that stands as one of the most capacious within its class. Remarkably, it offers substantially more legroom than comparable alternatives such as the Kia Carnival or Chrysler Pacifica. Further underscoring its practicality, the Odyssey outpaces its rivals with a larger maximum cargo capacity, exceeding the offerings of the Pacifica and Toyota Sienna.

When navigating the open road, the Odyssey exudes a sense of seamlessness and sophistication. Its ride quality is exceptional, complemented by effortlessly responsive steering, rendering this sizeable van surprisingly maneuverable and effortless to park. Diverging from some competitors, the Odyssey does not offer hybrid options or all-wheel drive. However, it compensates by asserting its position as one of the swiftest minivans in the market. Anchored by a potent V6 engine, the Odyssey boasts a satisfying burst of acceleration from a standstill and ample passing power, even when fully laden with passengers.

2023 Honda HR-V

The Honda HR-V holds its ground as one of the best-selling compact SUVs in the United States, which is no small feat considering the explosive surge in popularity within the compact crossover segment in recent years. This year heralds the arrival of an entirely revamped HR-V. Honda has orchestrated a complete overhaul, rendering this budget-friendly subcompact SUV a substantially improved iteration across the board. Its dimensions have expanded, culminating in greater comfort and refinement, while its aesthetics have undergone enhancement, resulting in a more appealing appearance. Furthermore, the HR-V now boasts an expanded cargo capacity, signifying a leap in practicality. Notably, the driving experience has been elevated, thanks to a larger and more potent engine, select steering components inherited from the sporty Honda Civic, and the integration of an advanced independent rear suspension inspired by the Honda CR-V.

The new interior of the HR-V is also captivating. Displaying a sleek and dynamic design reminiscent of the Civic, it introduces fresh and captivating elements such as a gracefully curved double-tiered center console. Additionally, the HR-V now boasts a digital instrument cluster and an enlarged touchscreen. The amalgamation of these comprehensive enhancements, combined with its accessible pricing, positions the HR-V on the forefront in its rivalry against significant competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Mazda CX-30, Kia Seltos, and Hyundai Kona.

2023 Honda CR-V

Welcoming the dawn of its next generation, the 2023 Honda CR-V arrives with a comprehensive array of updates that are poised to uphold its distinguished position within the compact SUV segment. An enduring best-seller for nearly three decades, the CR-V has adhered to a philosophy of incremental enhancements rather than radical overhauls every few years. While it has consistently maintained its finesse and capability, the CR-V faced some setbacks in the realm of infotainment technology and active safety features, given the fierce competition within this popular category.

The forthcoming CR-V aims to redefine its trajectory, spearheaded by a thoroughly revitalized chassis that boasts a longer and slightly broader profile. This dimensional transformation not only fosters additional interior space but also holds the promise of enhanced handling (verification pending upon actual test drives). Evidently influenced by the rugged aesthetics of the Honda Ridgeline pickup and the larger Honda Passport SUV, the redesigned model exhibits a more robust and adventure-inspired appearance. The technological landscape is poised for a substantial upgrade, featuring enlarged touchscreens, advanced software integration, and innovative attributes like wireless smartphone control. The hybrid variants experience a power surge, empowering them to tow loads of up to 1,000 pounds. While not equivalent to the capabilities of a diesel pickup, this achievement remains noteworthy for a hybrid-driven CR-V.

These updates are strategically positioned to elevate the CR-V’s standing within its class, aligning its fuel efficiency with the Toyota RAV4 and augmenting its technological and infotainment capabilities to rival the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sorento. Although it might not match the athletic prowess of the Mazda CX-5 or venture as deeply into off-road territory as the Subaru Forester, the new-generation Honda CR-V undoubtedly presents an attractive proposition, ticking numerous boxes for a wide array of prospective buyers.

 

2023 Honda Civic

Renowned as one of the most sought-after vehicles in the United States, the Honda Civic boasts an array of virtues, including economical efficiency, unwavering reliability, comfortable interiors, and a commitment to safety. Yet, what truly sets it apart from the rest of the compact car lineup is the distinctive “secret sauce” that infuses a dose of driving enjoyment beyond mere affordable transportation. This year’s introduction of the new Type R variant stands as a testament to this, showcasing the vehicle’s inherent thrill. However, the great news is that experiencing a high level of entertainment doesn’t necessitate purchasing the Type R model.

The Civic’s driving pleasure stems partly from its compact dimensions. Both the sedan and hatchback iterations sport modest footprints while providing ample interior space. In fact, the current-generation Civic sedan maintains the same height and is less than 2 inches longer than its previous iteration. This successful formula has influenced competitors in the market. Notable rivals for the Civic include the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mazda3, and Hyundai Elantra. While Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors have exited this category, the European-designed Volkswagen Jetta remains as one of the limited alternatives. Much like its contenders, the Civic accommodates up to five adults, with optimal comfort for two individuals in the rear seat. This versatile vehicle is offered in both a four-door sedan and a four-door hatchback configuration.

 

2023 Honda Accord

While SUVs have become a go-to choice for families, the enduring relevance of traditional midsize family sedans should not be underestimated. Despite lacking the heightened ride and cargo space of SUVs, sedans often compensate with a more budget-friendly price point, superior fuel efficiency, and enhanced maneuverability. Honda’s iconic Accord has consistently reigned supreme in this category for decades, and now, a new generation has emerged in 2023.

The 2023 Honda Accord has undergone a comprehensive redesign, boasting refreshed aesthetics both inside and out, introducing novel features, and presenting the option between a conventional gasoline engine or a hybrid powertrain. Both powertrains hold their own against competitors in terms of power and efficiency. What’s more, Honda now provides a pre-paid maintenance package for the initial two years. Beyond this, the Accord retains its reputation for delivering a sufficiently spacious interior and an enjoyable driving experience.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that the Accord isn’t the sole sedan deserving of consideration. The Kia K5 stands as a robust contender, boasting sporty aesthetics and a generous array of features relative to its cost. It also offers all-wheel drive, catering to those in regions susceptible to challenging weather conditions. The Hyundai Sonata, closely related to the K5, exclusively offers front-wheel drive but compensates with a high-performance N model and a comparable extended warranty to Kia’s. Meanwhile, the Toyota Camry remains a favored option for its renowned reliability. Yet, its aging design is becoming evident, leading to subpar driving dynamics and interior compared to its sedan counterparts.

It would be unsurprising if the all-new Accord maintains its lead within its category. Stay tuned for further details, including driving experiences, as we keep you updated on the latest developments.