I recently bought myself a Passport 3. I think - for me at least - the thread cutting option is not worth the extra money. The cutting part is good but then the next seam starts with a knot.
But - I love this machine and it's a good "carrying" machine. AND it sews really well - just like it's much older "big sisters" - my Pfaff 1222/E/SE - any one of them!