The Isuzu Passport is a mid-size SUV built for off-road use and everyday driving

The Isuzu Passport is a body-on-frame sport utility vehicle that Isuzu has manufactured since 1994, with a current generation that began in 2019. It sits between compact and full-size SUVs in terms of interior space and price. The vehicle is designed with a ladder frame (the same structural approach used in pickup trucks) rather than the unibody construction found in most modern cars, which makes it heavier and more capable on rough terrain but typically less fuel-efficient on highways.

If you are considering buying a Passport—whether new, used, or certified pre-owned—you need to understand what it is built to do, what it costs to own, and how it compares to similar vehicles in its class. This guide walks through the practical details that affect your decision.

Key Takeaways

  • The Passport is a truck-based SUV designed for off-road capability, which means it handles differently than car-based SUVs and uses more fuel on highways.
  • Fuel economy ranges from roughly 18 to 23 miles per gallon depending on whether you choose two-wheel or four-wheel drive and how you drive.
  • Maintenance costs are generally moderate, but repairs to the four-wheel-drive system or frame can be expensive if damage occurs.
  • Used Passports hold their value reasonably well, so a model from three to five years ago may still cost a significant portion of the new price.
  • Direct competitors include the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, and Chevrolet Blazer, each with different strengths in comfort, off-road performance, and price.

Engine options and what they mean for performance

The current Isuzu Passport (2019 and later) comes with a single engine choice: a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 280 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 is adequate for highway driving and moderate towing, but it is not the most powerful option in its class—the Toyota 4Runner, for comparison, offers a 4.0-liter V8 with more horsepower.

You will choose between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive adds weight and reduces fuel economy by roughly 1 to 2 miles per gallon, but it gives you the ability to shift between high-range and low-range gearing, which is useful for steep grades and rocky terrain. Two-wheel drive is lighter and cheaper, and it is sufficient if you drive mostly on paved roads and light gravel.

Fuel economy and the cost of ownership

The EPA estimates fuel economy at approximately 18 miles per gallon in the city and 23 on the highway for the two-wheel-drive model, with four-wheel-drive versions averaging about 1 to 2 miles per gallon lower. These figures assume normal driving; actual mileage varies based on driving habits, terrain, and load. If you tow a trailer or drive frequently in stop-and-go traffic, expect numbers closer to the city rating.

Over five years of ownership, fuel costs add up significantly. A vehicle driven 12,000 miles per year at an average of 20 miles per gallon, with gasoline at $3.50 per gallon, will cost roughly $10,500 in fuel alone. Add routine maintenance (oil changes, air filters, transmission fluid) and you should budget $150 to $300 per year for preventive care on a newer model. Repairs outside of routine maintenance—such as brake work, suspension components, or transmission issues—can range from $500 to $2,000 depending on what fails.

Off-road capability and real-world limitations

The Passport's frame-based construction and available low-range four-wheel drive make it genuinely capable on unpaved roads, rocky terrain, and steep grades. It has a ground clearance of 8.6 inches and an approach angle of 31 degrees, which means it can navigate obstacles that would damage a car-based SUV. The body-on-frame design also means the cabin is separate from the structural frame, so damage to the frame does not automatically total the vehicle—but frame repair is expensive and time-consuming.

That said, the Passport is not a rock-crawling machine like a Jeep Wrangler, and it is not as refined on-road as a Toyota 4Runner. It is a middle ground: capable enough for camping trips, forest roads, and moderate off-roading, but not specialized for extreme terrain. If you plan to use it primarily on paved roads and occasional gravel, you are paying for capability you will not use. If you plan serious off-roading, a Wrangler or 4Runner may be better suited.

Interior space and comfort features

The Passport seats five passengers and offers 76 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats. With the rear seats folded, that expands to 144 cubic feet—enough for camping gear, luggage, or building materials. The cabin is functional rather than luxurious; materials are durable plastic and cloth rather than leather or soft-touch surfaces, which is appropriate for a vehicle designed to handle rough use.

Standard features on base models include a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a backup camera, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims add features like a power sunroof, heated front seats, a larger 8-inch touchscreen, and a power liftgate. The infotainment system is straightforward to use, though it is not as advanced as systems in luxury SUVs. Rear legroom is adequate for adults on short trips but tight for long drives with passengers in the back.

How the Passport compares to similar vehicles

The Passport's main competitors are the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, and Chevrolet Blazer. The 4Runner is more expensive, offers a more powerful engine, and has a reputation for extreme durability, but it is also less fuel-efficient and less refined on-road. The Wrangler Unlimited is lighter, more nimble off-road, and has a removable top, but it is less comfortable for highway driving and has less cargo space. The Blazer is car-based, more fuel-efficient, and more comfortable on-road, but it lacks the off-road capability and towing capacity of the Passport.

The Passport typically costs less than a 4Runner but more than a Wrangler or Blazer. If your priority is off-road performance and durability, the 4Runner may justify the extra cost. If your priority is fuel economy and on-road comfort, the Blazer is a better choice. The Passport is the right choice if you want a balance of off-road capability, reasonable fuel economy, and moderate pricing.

Reliability and maintenance records

Isuzu has a mixed reputation for reliability. The current generation Passport (2019 and later) has not been on the market long enough for comprehensive long-term data, but early reports suggest it is reasonably reliable. The V6 engine is proven and durable, and the transmission has not shown widespread problems. However, some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system freezing or losing connectivity, and a small number have experienced transmission hesitation.

Maintenance is straightforward because the Passport uses conventional components and a straightforward design philosophy. Oil changes, filter replacements, and brake service are standard procedures that any mechanic can perform. Parts are moderately priced—not as cheap as Honda or Toyota parts, but not expensive like luxury brands. If you buy a used Passport, request the full service history and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a mechanic familiar with Isuzu vehicles.

New versus used: what the price difference means

A new Passport starts around $32,000 to $35,000 for a base two-wheel-drive model, with four-wheel-drive versions starting around $35,000 to $38,000. Higher trims add $5,000 to $10,000. A used Passport from 2021 or 2022 typically costs 15 to 25 percent less than the new equivalent, while a 2019 or 2020 model may cost 25 to 35 percent less. These percentages vary based on mileage, condition, and local market demand.

Buying used saves money upfront but introduces uncertainty about maintenance history and hidden wear. A vehicle with 40,000 miles is still under most factory warranties (typically 3 years or 36,000 miles for basic coverage), while one with 60,000 miles is not. If you buy used, prioritize a pre-purchase inspection and request records of all service performed. A well-maintained used Passport can be a good value; a neglected one can become expensive quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can the Passport tow?

The Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with a trailer package. This is adequate for small trailers, jet skis, or light recreational equipment, but not for large boat trailers or heavy construction equipment. Check the owner's manual for your specific model year, as towing capacity can vary slightly.

Is the Passport good for winter driving?

The four-wheel-drive version handles snow and ice reasonably well, especially with winter tires. The higher ground clearance helps in deep snow, and the low-range gearing provides traction on slippery grades. However, it is heavier than many sedans and does not stop as quickly on ice, so winter driving still requires caution and appropriate tires.

What is the difference between the Passport and the Isuzu D-Max truck?

The D-Max is a pickup truck sold primarily outside the United States, while the Passport is an SUV sold in the U.S. market. They share some mechanical components but are different vehicles designed for different purposes. The Passport offers an enclosed cabin and cargo area, while the D-Max has an open bed.

Can I find parts easily if something breaks?

Common parts like filters, belts, and brake pads are available at most auto parts stores. Specialized components like transmission parts or suspension pieces may need to be ordered from an Isuzu dealer or specialty supplier, which can take a few days. Isuzu has a smaller dealer network than Toyota or Honda, so repair options may be more limited depending on where you live.

How long do Passports typically last?

With regular maintenance, a Passport can reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles. The frame-based construction and straightforward mechanical design support longevity, but actual lifespan depends on driving conditions, maintenance habits, and how hard the vehicle is used. Highway miles are easier on a vehicle than off-road miles, so a Passport driven mostly on pavement will typically last longer than one used frequently for rough terrain.