What engine powers the Honda Passport

The Honda Passport uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine across all model years currently in production. This engine produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission that sends power to either two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the trim level you choose.

The V6 is Honda's standard engine for the Passport — there is no turbocharged option, no diesel variant, and no smaller four-cylinder alternative. If you are shopping for a Passport, this is the only powertrain available. The engine itself is shared with other Honda models, including the Pilot three-row SUV, which means parts availability and service costs tend to be straightforward across Honda dealerships.

Key Takeaways

  • The Passport engine is a 3.5-liter V6 with 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, the only engine option across all trim levels.
  • The V6 pairs with a 9-speed automatic transmission that handles both two-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
  • Fuel economy ranges from 21 miles per gallon city and 26 highway on two-wheel drive models to 20 city and 25 highway on all-wheel drive versions.
  • The engine is designed for towing and off-road use, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
  • Honda has used this same V6 engine in the Passport since the model's 2019 reintroduction, with no major changes to displacement or output.

Engine performance and towing capacity

The 3.5-liter V6 is built for both highway driving and light off-road work. The 280 horsepower output is competitive with other midsize SUVs in its class, though not the highest in the segment. The torque figure of 262 pound-feet arrives at 4,700 RPM, which means the engine reaches its pulling power in the mid-range rather than at very high engine speeds.

For towing, the Passport can pull up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the towing package. This includes a Class II or Class III receiver hitch, depending on trim, plus engine oil cooler and transmission cooler upgrades. The towing capacity is lower than some competitors — the Jeep Grand Cherokee, for example, can tow up to 6,200 pounds — but sufficient for small trailers, jet skis, or light recreational equipment.

The engine does not have a turbocharger or supercharger, so acceleration is steady rather than quick. Zero-to-60 times fall in the 7.5 to 8-second range depending on drivetrain and trim, which is middle-of-the-road for the class. The V6 is naturally aspirated, meaning it draws air at atmospheric pressure, which makes it simpler mechanically and generally more reliable over time than forced-induction engines.

Fuel economy and real-world consumption

The EPA rates the two-wheel drive Passport at 21 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway, with a combined rating of 23 mpg. The all-wheel drive version drops to 20 city, 25 highway, and 22 combined. These figures have remained consistent since the Passport's return to the market in 2019.

Real-world fuel economy depends heavily on driving habits and terrain. Owners who drive mostly highway miles often report numbers close to the EPA estimate or slightly better. Those who drive in stop-and-go city traffic or frequently tow typically see consumption closer to the city rating or worse. Off-road driving, especially with the transmission in low-range four-wheel drive, will reduce fuel economy noticeably.

The Passport requires regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Using premium fuel (91 or 93 octane) does not improve performance or economy, so it is not necessary unless your local fuel quality is poor or you are driving at very high altitude.

Engine maintenance and service intervals

Honda recommends an oil and filter change every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. The engine holds approximately 4.4 quarts of oil when you change the filter. Transmission fluid should be checked at each service, though Honda does not specify a drain-and-fill interval for the 9-speed automatic — it is designed to last the life of the vehicle under normal driving conditions.

The spark plugs are rated for 100,000 miles, which is longer than many competitors. The air filter should be inspected every 15,000 miles and replaced when visibly dirty, typically every 30,000 miles in normal conditions or sooner if you drive in dusty environments. If you tow frequently or drive in severe conditions, Honda recommends more frequent fluid checks and filter replacements.

Coolant is a 50/50 mix of water and Honda-brand antifreeze. Honda does not specify a drain interval for the cooling system; the coolant is designed to last 10 years or 120,000 miles. However, if you live in an area with very hard water or tow frequently, flushing the system earlier may prevent corrosion inside the engine block.

Comparison with other midsize SUV engines

The Passport's 3.5-liter V6 is larger than the engines in some direct competitors. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a 3.6-liter V6 with 293 horsepower, slightly more powerful but also less fuel-efficient. The Chevrolet Blazer uses a 3.6-liter V6 with 308 horsepower, making it quicker off the line. The Toyota 4Runner, which competes in a slightly larger category, uses a 4.0-liter V6 with 270 horsepower and better low-end torque for off-road work.

What sets the Passport engine apart is its balance. It is not the most powerful, but it is reliable and relatively straightforward. It does not require premium fuel, and parts are widely available. The 9-speed transmission is smoother than many competitors' gearboxes, which translates to better highway comfort and slightly better fuel economy on the highway.

If maximum towing or off-road torque is your priority, the 4Runner's larger displacement engine may be worth considering. If you want the highest horsepower in the segment, the Blazer or Grand Cherokee will accelerate faster. If you prioritize fuel economy and ease of maintenance, the Passport's V6 is a solid middle ground.

Common engine issues and reliability

The 3.5-liter V6 in the Passport has a strong reliability record. Honda has used this engine in multiple models since the early 2000s, and the version in the current Passport has been in production since 2019 with no widespread mechanical problems reported. The engine does not have known issues with carbon buildup, timing chain stretch, or valve cover gasket leaks that plague some competitors.

The most common complaint from Passport owners is not an engine defect but rather the engine's modest power output compared to competitors. Some owners feel the acceleration is adequate but not impressive, especially when towing or merging on highways. This is a matter of expectation rather than a mechanical fault.

The 9-speed transmission paired with the engine has been more reliable than early versions in other Honda models. Transmission fluid leaks and shift hesitation were reported in some earlier 9-speed applications, but the current generation in the Passport has shown fewer issues. Regular fluid checks and prompt service of any leaks will keep the transmission healthy.

Engine modifications and aftermarket options

The Passport engine is not commonly modified by aftermarket tuners, partly because the engine is already well-matched to the vehicle's weight and suspension, and partly because the gains from modification are modest. A cold-air intake may add 5 to 10 horsepower and improve throttle response slightly, but will not transform performance. A performance exhaust system can reduce backpressure and add a few horsepower, but again, the gains are incremental.

Turbocharging or supercharging the Passport engine is theoretically possible but extremely rare and expensive. The engine block and internals are not designed for forced induction, so any boost system would require significant internal reinforcement. Most owners who want more power choose a different vehicle rather than pursue extensive engine modification.

For off-road use, the focus is typically on suspension, tires, and drivetrain upgrades rather than engine power. The V6 has enough torque for rock crawling and trail work, and adding power does not improve traction or handling on rough terrain. Protecting the engine with a skid plate and upgrading the cooling system for extreme off-road use is more practical than chasing extra horsepower.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Passport with a four-cylinder or turbocharged engine?

No. Honda offers only the 3.5-liter V6 for the Passport. There is no four-cylinder option, no turbocharged variant, and no diesel engine. If you want a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine, you would need to consider a different SUV model.

What is the difference between the two-wheel and all-wheel drive engines?

The engine itself is identical in both versions. The only difference is that the all-wheel drive model weighs slightly more, which reduces fuel economy by about 1 mile per gallon across all driving conditions. The horsepower and torque output remain the same.

How much does it cost to replace the engine if it fails?

A complete engine replacement at a Honda dealership typically costs between $4,000 and $7,000 in labor and parts, depending on your model year and local labor rates. However, the 3.5-liter V6 in the Passport is durable, and complete engine failure is rare with proper maintenance. Most owners never face this expense.

Is the Passport engine good for towing a boat or travel trailer?

The 5,000-pound towing capacity is suitable for smaller boats, jet skis, and lightweight travel trailers under 4,000 pounds. For larger trailers or heavier boats, you may want a vehicle with higher towing capacity. Always check your specific trailer's dry weight and loaded weight against the Passport's limits before purchasing.

Does the Passport engine need premium gasoline?

No. The engine is tuned for regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Using premium fuel will not improve performance, economy, or reliability. Regular fuel is the correct choice for this engine.