What the Honda Passport Actually Gets in Miles Per Gallon
The Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV that typically returns 19 to 23 miles per gallon combined, depending on the model year, transmission type, and how you drive it. The 2024 model with the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine and automatic transmission is rated at 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined by the EPA. Older model years (2019–2023) fall in the same range, though some variation exists between all-wheel drive and two-wheel drive versions.
Real-world fuel economy often runs lower than EPA estimates, especially in city driving or when towing. Owners commonly report 18 to 20 combined MPG in mixed driving, with highway stretches pushing closer to the EPA highway figure. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds, and using that capacity will noticeably reduce fuel economy.
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 Honda Passport is rated 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined MPG with the standard V6 and automatic transmission.
- All-wheel drive models consume slightly more fuel than two-wheel drive versions across the same model year.
- Real-world MPG typically runs 1 to 3 miles per gallon lower than EPA combined ratings in everyday driving.
- Towing, cold weather, and frequent city driving all reduce fuel economy below highway estimates.
How the Passport Compares to Similar Mid-Size SUVs
The Passport sits in a competitive segment with vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler, Toyota 4Runner, and Chevrolet Blazer. The Wrangler (2024, 2.0-liter turbo) reaches 21 combined MPG, while the 4Runner (2024, 2.4-liter turbo) achieves 20 combined. The Blazer (2024, 2.0-liter turbo) rates at 22 combined. The Passport's 21 combined is middle-of-the-road for this class.
The trade-off is capability. The Passport is built on a truck frame (unlike the Blazer, which uses a car platform) and is designed for off-road use. That frame and body-on-frame construction add weight, which directly reduces fuel economy compared to lighter, car-based competitors. If fuel economy is your primary concern, a unibody SUV like the Blazer or Honda CR-V will deliver better numbers.
EPA Ratings by Model Year and Drivetrain
| Model Year | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | City / Highway / Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 3.5L V6 | 10-speed automatic | 2WD | 19 / 25 / 21 |
| 2024 | 3.5L V6 | 10-speed automatic | AWD | 18 / 24 / 20 |
| 2023 | 3.5L V6 | 10-speed automatic | 2WD | 19 / 25 / 21 |
| 2023 | 3.5L V6 | 10-speed automatic | AWD | 18 / 24 / 20 |
| 2022 | 3.5L V6 | 10-speed automatic | 2WD | 19 / 25 / 21 |
| 2022 | 3.5L V6 | 10-speed automatic | AWD | 18 / 24 / 20 |
The Passport has used the same 3.5-liter V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission since its 2019 introduction, so EPA ratings have remained consistent across model years. The difference between 2WD and AWD is one mile per gallon across all three measures (city, highway, combined). If you do not need all-wheel drive, choosing 2WD will save fuel.
Earlier model years (2019–2021) carry the same ratings as the 2022–2024 generation, meaning fuel economy has not changed materially over the Passport's production run. This consistency makes it easier to predict real-world economy regardless of which year you are considering.
What Affects Your Real-World Fuel Economy
EPA ratings assume a mix of 55 percent highway and 45 percent city driving at moderate speeds. Your actual MPG depends on how you drive and where. Highway driving at steady speeds will approach or meet EPA highway numbers. City driving with frequent stops, acceleration, and idling will fall well short of EPA city numbers.
Cold weather reduces fuel economy by 10 to 20 percent because the engine runs richer during warm-up and tire rolling resistance increases. Towing a 3,500-pound trailer will reduce combined MPG by 2 to 4 miles per gallon. Roof racks, cargo carriers, and other aerodynamic drag also lower economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and can cost you 1 to 3 MPG.
Driving style matters significantly. Aggressive acceleration, speeding, and frequent braking all reduce fuel economy. Smooth, gradual acceleration and maintaining steady highway speeds will keep you closer to EPA estimates. The Passport's 10-speed transmission helps by keeping the engine in an efficient RPM range, but only if you drive smoothly.
Fuel Tank Size and Range
The Honda Passport holds 19 gallons of fuel. At the EPA combined rating of 21 MPG (2WD), that gives you a theoretical range of about 399 miles on a full tank. In real-world mixed driving at 20 combined MPG, expect closer to 380 miles. Highway-only driving at 25 MPG would extend range to 475 miles.
The fuel gauge typically shows empty when 1 to 2 gallons remain, so you have a practical range of 350 to 450 miles before you must refuel. This is adequate for most daily driving and weekend trips, though not exceptional for a vehicle in this class. Plan fuel stops on longer road trips accordingly.
How to Improve Your Passport's Fuel Economy
Keep your tires inflated to the pressure listed on the driver's door jamb (not the maximum pressure on the tire itself). Check pressure monthly, as tires lose 1 PSI per month naturally and more in cold weather. Proper inflation can improve economy by 1 to 3 percent.
Use the recommended grade of motor oil (0W-20 for the Passport). Thicker oil increases engine friction and reduces economy. Change the oil and filter on schedule—a clogged air filter or dirty engine also reduces efficiency. Remove roof racks and cargo carriers when not in use; aerodynamic drag increases fuel consumption at highway speeds.
Avoid idling for more than 10 seconds. Modern engines use less fuel restarting than idling. If you sit in traffic or at a drive-through for more than a minute, turn the engine off. The Passport does not have an automatic stop-start system, so this is a manual choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Honda Passport have a hybrid or turbo option to improve MPG?
No. The Passport is available only with the 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. Honda does not offer a hybrid Passport, and there is no turbocharged variant. If fuel economy is a priority, you may want to consider the Honda CR-V or Accord, both of which offer hybrid powertrains.
What is the difference between EPA estimates and real-world MPG?
EPA ratings are based on controlled laboratory tests, not actual road driving. Real-world MPG is typically 1 to 3 miles per gallon lower than the combined EPA estimate, depending on driving habits and conditions. Highway driving often meets or exceeds EPA highway numbers, while city driving usually falls short of EPA city numbers.
Will all-wheel drive significantly hurt my fuel economy?
All-wheel drive reduces combined MPG by one mile per gallon compared to two-wheel drive on the Passport (20 vs. 21 combined). The difference is modest but consistent. If you live in an area without snow or rough terrain, two-wheel drive will save fuel without sacrificing capability for most drivers.
How much does towing reduce fuel economy?
Towing a 3,500-pound trailer typically reduces combined fuel economy by 2 to 4 miles per gallon. The exact loss depends on trailer aerodynamics, road conditions, and driving speed. Highway towing at steady speeds is more efficient than city towing with frequent stops.
Can I improve MPG by using premium fuel instead of regular?
No. The Passport's engine is designed for regular 87-octane fuel. Using premium fuel will not improve economy or performance. The owner's manual specifies regular fuel, and using premium is a waste of money.