​​An Automotive Journalist Picks Seven Favorite Test Vehicles – Two of Them Are Hondas​

We read and watch a lot of content from various automotive journalists across multiple platforms. We want to know what they think of certain vehicles we might be interested in. Our eyes are on their thoughts, impressions, and takes on every new vehicle hitting the market. Sometimes we agree and are influenced to put it on our shopping lists. They can sway us away from one because they did not like it.

One of the journalists at Autoblog compiled a list of their seven favorite vehicles tested in 2025. Of those seven, two of them were from Honda – the 2025 Civic Type R and the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite. Why are these two models great choices?

When it comes to sports compacts, the 2025 Civic Type R represents a gravitational pull for enthusiasts. It is not because of the large spoiler in the rear, the large Brembo brakes sitting behind 19-inch alloy wheels shod on Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, the dual-axis front suspension, the 315-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, and its six-speed manual transmission. It is the sum of everything that goes into one.

The Autoblog journalist remarked that the 2025 Civic Type R “checks literally every box for me.” Moreso, they called it “fun” to drive. It is right for the driver who likes to take it to the limit. Spring-to-Fall drives across the Sierras induce the endorphins needed to enjoy it at the limit. Plus, it is still a Civic – practical to the core. They added that “you can haul the family in it, use it to get groceries, take it to the track, and commute to and from work, all in the same day.”

There are moments when the trail calls instead of the tarmac. This is where you choose the new 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite to answer it. The 285-horsepower V6 powers this agile machine by sending all its power through the i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system and its terrain-ready off-road drive modes. An off-road-tuned suspension enables the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite to handle rougher sections of the trail without compromise.

Even on the road, the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite is also livable, especially around Carson City. The Autoblog journalist remarked that it, too, “checked all the boxes.” They cited that it is “spacious, comfortable, great for families, has a quiet and smooth ride.” The Elite adds an elevated leather interior, making roughing it a very nice experience overall.

We thoroughly admit that we love their choices. If they happen to be on your shopping list, contact us at Michael Hohl Honda to see the 2025 Civic Type R and 2026 Passport TrailSport soon.