The 2021 Honda Passport Sport is a mid-size SUV built on a truck frame
The 2021 Honda Passport Sport is Honda's body-on-frame SUV, meaning it shares its underlying structure with a pickup truck rather than a car platform. This design gives it more ground clearance and towing capacity than Honda's unibody SUVs like the CR-V or Pilot. The Sport trim is the base model in the Passport lineup, which also includes the EX, EX-L, and Touring trims.
If you're considering this vehicle, you're looking at something positioned between a traditional SUV and a light truck. It seats five passengers and comes standard with two-wheel drive, though four-wheel drive is available. The Sport trim focuses on essential features rather than luxury amenities, which affects both the price and what you get inside.
Key Takeaways
- The 2021 Passport Sport is Honda's truck-based SUV with seating for five and a starting price around $46,000 for the two-wheel-drive model.
- Standard features on the Sport trim include an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rearview camera, and Honda Sensing safety technology.
- The 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
- Four-wheel drive adds approximately $2,000 to $2,500 depending on the model year and current market conditions.
- The Passport Sport has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for small trailers and boats.
Engine performance and fuel economy
The 2021 Passport Sport uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 delivers enough power for highway merging and moderate towing, though it's not designed for heavy-duty work like a full-size truck.
Fuel economy for the two-wheel-drive model is estimated at 21 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway. The four-wheel-drive version drops slightly to 20 city and 25 highway. These figures are typical for a vehicle of this size and weight, though they're not exceptional compared to some competitors. Real-world mileage varies based on driving habits, terrain, and how much weight you carry.
Interior features and comfort
The Sport trim comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to connect your smartphone for navigation and audio. The system responds to voice commands and includes Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Climate control is manual rather than automatic, which is typical for a base trim.
Seating is upholstered in cloth, and the driver's seat includes manual adjustment. There's no power seat adjustment or lumbar support on the Sport trim. The cabin has decent storage with cup holders, door pockets, and a center console, though the back seat legroom is moderate rather than generous. Cargo space behind the rear seats is 28.3 cubic feet, expandable to 76.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Safety features and technology
The 2021 Passport Sport includes Honda Sensing, Honda's suite of driver-information technologies. This package includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. These features work together to help prevent accidents, though they are not a substitute for attentive driving.
A rearview camera is standard, which displays on the touchscreen when you shift into reverse. The Sport does not include a surround-view camera or blind-spot monitoring, features found on higher trims. The vehicle has eight airbags positioned throughout the cabin. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration both conduct crash testing, and you can find their ratings on their respective websites.
Towing and cargo capacity
The 2021 Passport Sport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the available towing package. This capacity is suitable for small utility trailers, jet skis, or modest boat trailers, but not for larger recreational vehicles or horse trailers. The towing package includes a Class II receiver hitch and trailer wiring harness.
Payload capacity—the weight the truck bed can carry—is approximately 1,500 pounds, though the Passport doesn't have a traditional truck bed. Instead, it has a cargo area behind the rear seats. If you plan to tow regularly or carry heavy loads, you'll want to verify the specific numbers with a dealer, as configurations vary based on options selected.
Trim levels and pricing context
The Sport is the entry-level trim, followed by the EX, EX-L, and Touring. Each step up adds features like power seats, upgraded audio systems, leather upholstery, and additional technology. The EX adds features like power-adjustable front seats and a power liftgate. The EX-L includes leather seating and a sunroof. The Touring is the most equipped, with premium audio and additional luxury features.
Pricing varies based on whether you choose two-wheel or four-wheel drive, and used market prices fluctuate based on mileage, condition, and local demand. If you're shopping for a used 2021 model, prices will be lower than the original retail price, but you'll want to check the vehicle history report and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a trusted mechanic.
Maintenance and reliability considerations
Honda vehicles generally have a reputation for reliability, and the Passport is no exception. The 3.5-liter V6 is a proven engine used across multiple Honda models. Routine maintenance includes oil changes every 10,000 miles, air filter replacements, and transmission fluid checks. Parts availability is good because Honda has a wide dealer network.
Common maintenance costs for a 2021 Passport Sport are comparable to other mid-size SUVs. Tire replacement, brake service, and fluid changes are standard expenses. If you're considering a used model, ask the seller for maintenance records to see whether the vehicle was serviced regularly. A vehicle with documented service history typically indicates better long-term reliability than one with gaps in maintenance records.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 2021 Passport Sport compare to the Honda CR-V?
The Passport is larger, truck-based, and more rugged, while the CR-V is a car-based SUV that prioritizes fuel economy and everyday practicality. The Passport offers more towing capacity and ground clearance; the CR-V offers better fuel economy and a lower price point. Choose the Passport if you want truck-like capability; choose the CR-V if you want efficiency and ease of use.
Is the 2021 Passport Sport good for off-roading?
The Sport trim is capable of light off-road use thanks to its truck frame and available four-wheel drive, but it's not equipped with specialized off-road features like skid plates or all-terrain tires. Higher trims like the EX and Touring add more off-road capability. If serious off-roading is your goal, you may want to explore the Trailsport trim or consider a dedicated off-road vehicle.
What's the difference between the Sport and EX trims?
The EX adds power-adjustable front seats, a power liftgate, a larger touchscreen, and upgraded interior materials. It also includes additional safety features and a better audio system. The price difference is typically $3,000 to $4,000, depending on whether you choose two-wheel or four-wheel drive.
Can I fit a car seat safely in the back of a Passport Sport?
Yes, the rear seats have LATCH connectors for find car seat installation. The back seat has adequate space for a car seat and a passenger, though the legroom is moderate. Always consult your car seat manual and the vehicle's owner manual to may support proper installation.
What warranty does a 2021 Passport Sport come with?
Honda's standard warranty covers the vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles for basic coverage, and five years or 60,000 miles for powertrain coverage. If you're buying used, the remaining warranty depends on the vehicle's age and mileage. A certified pre-owned Passport may include an extended warranty through Honda.