The 2019 Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV built on a truck frame

The 2019 Honda Passport is Honda's revival of a nameplate that had been dormant since 2002. It sits between the smaller CR-V and the larger Pilot in Honda's SUV lineup, and it shares its platform with the Honda Ridgeline pickup truck. This shared architecture gives the Passport a body-on-frame construction rather than the unibody design found in most modern SUVs, which affects how it handles, what it can tow, and how it performs off-road.

Honda positioned the Passport as an adventure-focused vehicle aimed at buyers who want SUV practicality without the size of a full-frame truck. It came in two trim levels for 2019: the base Sport and the higher-end Trailsport, with all-wheel drive standard across the lineup.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Passport uses a truck frame and shares its platform with the Honda Ridgeline, making it body-on-frame rather than unibody like most competitors.
  • Engine options for 2019 include a 3.5-liter V6 with 280 horsepower paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive standard.
  • Towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, and the Passport has a maximum payload of around 1,500 pounds.
  • The 2019 model year introduced the Passport as a new offering, so used examples from this year are among the earliest available on the market.
  • Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, transmission fluid service, and inspection of the all-wheel-drive system components.

Engine, transmission, and performance specs

The 2019 Passport came with a single engine choice: a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 is the same unit found in the Ridgeline and Pilot, so parts availability and service familiarity are generally good across Honda dealers.

Fuel economy for the 2019 Passport with all-wheel drive is rated at 19 miles per gallon in the city, 24 on the highway, and 21 combined by the EPA. Real-world numbers vary based on driving habits and conditions, but owners typically report figures close to these estimates. The Passport requires regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher.

The truck-based platform means the Passport rides higher and has more ground clearance than unibody SUVs, but it also results in a stiffer ride on paved roads. The independent double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension are tuned for both on-road comfort and light off-road capability.

Towing capacity and payload ratings

The 2019 Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the available towing package, which includes a Class III receiver hitch, transmission cooler, and engine oil cooler. Without this package, towing capacity is lower, so verify what your specific vehicle includes before planning a towing job.

Maximum payload capacity is approximately 1,500 pounds, which refers to the total weight you can carry in the bed and cabin combined. This figure varies slightly depending on options and configuration, so check the door jamb sticker on your vehicle for the exact number. Payload is different from towing capacity—you can tow more than you can carry, but both limits matter when planning trips with cargo or a trailer.

Interior space and seating configuration

The 2019 Passport seats five passengers across two rows. The front seats offer good support for long drives, and the driver's seat includes power adjustment on both trim levels. The rear seats fold flat to create a large cargo area, though the truck-based design means the cargo floor is higher than in traditional SUVs, which can make loading heavy items more difficult.

Cargo space behind the rear seats measures 33.9 cubic feet, and with the rear seats folded, that expands to 76.5 cubic feet. The interior width and length are generous compared to the CR-V, but the Passport is narrower and shorter overall than the Pilot. Storage cubbies and cup holders are distributed throughout the cabin, and the center console includes a covered storage bin.

Standard features and available options for 2019

All 2019 Passports came standard with a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a multi-angle backup camera system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not standard on the base Sport trim but were available as part of the Honda Sensing suite on the Trailsport.

The Trailsport trim added features aimed at off-road and adventure use, including all-terrain tires, skid plates, a roof rack, and a more rugged exterior appearance. Both trims offered options like a power moonroof, upgraded audio system, navigation, and heated front seats. The Honda Sensing safety package, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, and collision mitigation braking, was standard on Trailsport and available on Sport.

Common maintenance and known issues

The 2019 Passport shares many mechanical components with the Ridgeline and Pilot, which means Honda service centers have established maintenance procedures and parts availability is generally reliable. Routine maintenance includes oil changes every 10,000 miles, transmission fluid service at 60,000 miles, and inspection of the all-wheel-drive system components at regular intervals.

Early model year Passports have not reported widespread defects, but owners should monitor the transmission for smooth shifting and listen for any unusual noises from the all-wheel-drive transfer case. The truck-based suspension can develop creaks or rattles over time, particularly if the vehicle is used for off-road driving. Brake pads and rotors typically last 40,000 to 60,000 miles depending on driving style.

The infotainment system on early 2019 models occasionally requires software updates to address minor glitches. Honda dealers can perform these updates during routine service visits.

How the 2019 Passport compares to competitors

The 2019 Passport's main competitors include the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, and Chevrolet Blazer. The Grand Cherokee offers more luxury features and a wider range of engine options, but costs more. The 4Runner is larger and more capable off-road but has lower fuel economy. The Blazer is smaller and more car-like but offers better on-road handling.

The Passport's truck-based platform is closer to the 4Runner than to the Grand Cherokee or Blazer, which means it prioritizes off-road capability and towing over on-road refinement. Buyers choosing between these vehicles typically prioritize either adventure-focused features (favoring the Passport or 4Runner) or luxury and comfort (favoring the Grand Cherokee).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the 2019 Passport Sport and Trailsport?

The Trailsport adds all-terrain tires, skid plates, a roof rack, and Honda Sensing safety features as standard. The Sport trim is more basic but can be equipped with many of the same options. The Trailsport is priced higher but appeals to buyers planning off-road use.

Can the 2019 Passport handle serious off-road driving?

The Passport is designed for light to moderate off-road use, such as unpaved roads and mild trails. It is not built for rock crawling or extreme terrain like a Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner. The truck frame and all-wheel-drive system provide more capability than a typical SUV, but ground clearance and approach angles are moderate.

How reliable is the 2019 Passport engine?

The 3.5-liter V6 has a proven track record in the Ridgeline and Pilot, with no widespread defects reported. Regular maintenance and timely fluid changes are important for long-term reliability. Most owners report the engine runs smoothly and starts reliably in various weather conditions.

What fuel economy should I expect from a 2019 Passport?

EPA ratings are 19 city, 24 highway, and 21 combined for all-wheel-drive models. Real-world results typically fall within a few miles per gallon of these figures, depending on driving habits, road conditions, and whether the vehicle is towing or carrying heavy cargo.

Is the 2019 Passport good for towing a small trailer?

Yes, with the towing package installed, the Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is suitable for small utility trailers, boat trailers, or lightweight RVs. Verify your specific vehicle has the package by checking the window sticker, and always use a properly rated hitch and safety chains.