Despite its hard-won reputation as a reliable producer of econoboxes, Honda is also an increasingly formidable SUV manufacturer.
Its flagship SUV, the Honda CR-V, was the fifth highest-selling luxury car in the US in 2021.
So, to give you a better understanding of Honda’s SUV catalog, we reviewed four of the brand’s luxury cars in the market today.
What Makes A Car Luxurious?
Luxury cars differ from ordinary models in several ways.
First, they come with powerful engines, better transmission systems, more advanced safety features, and higher quality sound systems.
They also have better exhaust systems, higher quality sound insulation, reasonable storage capacity, and in most cases, better-looking bodies.
What Is The Top Of The Line Honda SUV?
Arguably, the best model in the Honda SUV line is the Honda Passport.
It features a 280 Horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 engine and has a gas mileage range of 20-25 mpg, which is significantly lower than the global SUV average of 55 mpg.
Other noteworthy features on the Passport include remote engine start, smart entry, and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
The safety features are pretty decent too and include adaptive cruise control, an electronic braking system, and a road departure prevention system.
What Is Honda’s Luxury Brand?
Honda’s luxury brand is the Acura.
The brand was launched in March 1986, as the Japanese automaker intensified its efforts to dominate the North American market.
Its largest factories are therefore in the USA and Canada, with the Mexican facility opening in 2004.
The first, and perhaps most successful luxury model was the Honda Legend, while the Acura MDX was the first SUV under the brand.
Currently, the models under the Acura brand include;
- SUVs – Acura CDX, Acura SDX, and the Acura MDX
- Executive sedans – Acura TLX and Acura ILX
- Exotic sports car – the Acura NSX
Is Acura As Good As Honda?
No. Being a luxury brand, Acura is more focused on comfort than functionality.
This in effect means their cars are not only expensive but also require regular maintenance, which can be costly in the long run.
In contrast, Honda cars have lower price tags, cheap and easily available spares, and better fuel economy.
Ultimately, the performance and reliability of the two brands depend on the model in their catalog.
For instance, a higher-priced Honda like the Passport offers a better experience than a cheaper Acura, and vice versa.
4 Best Luxury Honda SUV
1. Honda Passport
The Passport is arguably the best and most reliable model in the Honda SUV line.
It’s spacious, has good fuel economy, and comes with impressive safety features
It also features a V6 engine and the Independent Traction Management System that allows easy maneuverability on unfavorable terrains.
Notable features
- 7.5-inch ground clearance
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enabled
- 3.5-liter engine
- Carrying capacity: 5 adults
- Adaptive cruise control
- Road Departure Mitigation mechanism
- Electronic braking system
2. Honda Pilot
The Pilot has a larger interior, which can accommodate 7 or 8 adults.
Its maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds, and it has a cargo capacity of 109 cubic feet.
The standout feature of the Honda Pilot is perhaps the CabinControl mobile app functionality.
The app allows passengers to adjust temperature settings from their phones with minimal fuss.
Notable features
- Automatic power tailgate
- 109 cubic feet cargo space
- Rear entertainment system
- Panoramic roof
- 3.6-liter V6 engine
- 280 Horsepower
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Sunroof
Read our full guide on the Honda Pilot where we answer all your questions about the SUV.
3. Honda CR-V
The CR-V is arguably the best-selling Honda SUV.
The car is available in both FWD and AWD models and has a gas mileage of between 27-34 mpg.
It also has a classy, upscale, and decent-sized interior, which can fit 5 passengers.
The most notable feature of the CR-V is the 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that gives it stunning power and acceleration.
Notable features
- 1.8-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder Engine
- 190 Horsepower
- 5 passengers capacity
- 1,500 pounds Maximum Towing Capacity
- 78.5 cubic feet storage space
- AWD/FWD
4. Honda HR-V
If you want a compact and reasonably priced SUV then look no further than Honda HR-V.
Its ‘family car’ credentials are boosted by its 5-seat capacity, while the driver-assist technology significantly boosts its safety ratings.
The best part is that you can fold the seats in the second row and use the space as a storage or cargo-carrying area.
Notable features
- 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine
- 141 Horsepower
- 58.8 Cubic Feet maximum storage capacity
- Foldable seats for added storage space
- Heated front seats
- Passive entry
- Automated emergency braking
What Is The Most Luxurious SUV On The Market?
Rolls Royce is easily the most recognizable brand of luxury vehicles and their SUVs regularly exceed industry expectations.
The 2021 Rolls Royce Cullinan, arguably one of the most expensive SUVs in the world, is the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication.
It features a super-powerful, twin-turbo V12 engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a whopping 563 Horsepower.
Combined, these features provide a smooth and seamless driving experience and you will hardly feel the G-forces on the road.
Despite weighing 3 tons, the car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.
It also has a remarkable fuel economy, giving you 12-20 miles per gallon.
Final Thought And Best Pick
Although the Honda luxury line is not as large as those of its competitors (such as Mercedes-Benz and Rolls Royce), the company has some spectacular SUVs.
From the list above, we were most impressed by the Honda Passport.
Apart from its relatively large interior, which provides more comfortable seating space, the model’s performance specs are quite impressive. It is also cheaper than most luxury SUVs in its class.
