The 2025 Honda Passport TrailSport is a mid-size SUV built for off-road driving

The 2025 Honda Passport TrailSport is Honda's answer to buyers who want a capable off-road vehicle without the size or price of a full-size truck. It sits between Honda's CR-V (a crossover for everyday driving) and larger body-on-frame SUVs. The TrailSport trim specifically adds off-road features like all-terrain tires, skid plates, and a locking rear differential — equipment designed to handle unpaved terrain, water crossings, and steep grades.

This is not a luxury SUV or a family hauler first. It prioritizes ground clearance, approach angles, and traction over interior space or quiet highway rides. If you spend weekends on dirt roads or need to navigate rough terrain regularly, the TrailSport is built for that. If you mostly drive pavement and want maximum cargo room, a different trim or vehicle may suit you better.

Key Takeaways

  • The TrailSport trim adds all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and a locking rear differential compared to base Passport models.
  • Engine output is 280 horsepower from a 3.5-liter V6, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
  • Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, with approach and departure angles designed to clear obstacles on uneven terrain.
  • The TrailSport starts around $48,000 to $50,000 before options, though pricing varies by region and dealer inventory.
  • Fuel economy is approximately 20 to 22 miles per gallon combined, lower than crossovers due to the heavier frame and all-terrain setup.

Engine, transmission, and drivetrain specifications

The 2025 Passport TrailSport uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine is shared across Honda's SUV lineup and is known for reliability and steady power delivery rather than high performance. It pairs with a nine-speed automatic transmission that handles both highway cruising and low-speed off-road maneuvering.

All-wheel drive is standard on every 2025 Passport, including the TrailSport. The system sends power to all four wheels automatically, with the ability to lock the rear differential — a feature that forces both rear wheels to turn at the same speed, improving traction when one wheel loses grip. This locking differential is what separates the TrailSport from lower trims and is essential for serious off-road driving.

The transmission includes a low-range gear setting for crawling over obstacles at slow speeds. This is not the same as straightforward shifting into a lower gear on the highway; low-range multiplies engine torque and gives you finer control when navigating rocks, steep descents, or water crossings.

Off-road features and ground clearance

The TrailSport trim comes with several factory-installed off-road upgrades. All-terrain tires replace the all-season tires on base models — these have deeper treads and reinforced sidewalls to resist punctures on rocks and rough surfaces. Honda also installs aluminum skid plates under the engine, transmission, and fuel tank to protect vital components from rocks and debris.

Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, measured from the lowest point of the vehicle to the ground. This is higher than most crossovers (typically 6 to 8 inches) but lower than full-size trucks (often 9 to 11 inches). The approach angle — how steep a hill the front bumper can climb without scraping — is 29 degrees. The departure angle (rear bumper) is 26 degrees. These numbers matter on rocky terrain or steep driveways; a lower angle means the vehicle will hang up or scrape sooner.

The Passport also has a body-on-frame construction, meaning the metal frame sits separately from the body panels. This design absorbs impacts from rough terrain better than unibody construction (where the body and frame are welded together as one unit). Crossovers use unibody construction, which is lighter and more fuel-efficient but less suited to serious off-roading.

Interior space and seating

The Passport seats five passengers across two rows. The front seats are spacious and adjustable, with good visibility for the driver. The second row has adequate legroom for adults on short trips but is tighter than a three-row SUV or full-size truck. There is no third row option.

Cargo space behind the rear seats is 39.3 cubic feet. With the rear seats folded, that expands to 76.5 cubic feet — enough for camping gear, tools, or luggage for a week-long trip. The cargo area has tie-down points and a power liftgate on most trims. The TrailSport does not offer as much interior room as a Honda Pilot (a three-row SUV) or a truck bed, so if you regularly haul large items, those may be better choices.

The cabin is functional rather than luxurious. Materials are durable plastics and cloth or leather depending on the trim level. The TrailSport includes a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to mirror your phone for navigation and music.

Fuel economy and running costs

The 2025 Passport TrailSport is rated at approximately 20 miles per gallon in the city, 22 on the highway, and 21 combined. These figures come from the EPA and assume regular driving conditions. Off-road driving, towing, and driving in mountains will lower these numbers. The all-terrain tires and heavier weight of the TrailSport trim reduce fuel economy compared to lighter crossovers, which typically achieve 25 to 30 miles per gallon combined.

The vehicle requires regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane), not premium. The fuel tank holds 19.5 gallons, giving a theoretical range of around 400 miles per tank on highway driving. In real-world mixed driving, expect 350 to 380 miles before refueling.

Maintenance costs are moderate. Oil changes, tire rotations, and brake service are standard. The all-terrain tires wear faster than all-season tires, especially on pavement, so budget for replacement every 30,000 to 40,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Honda parts are widely available, and repair costs are generally lower than luxury brands.

Safety features and crash test ratings

The 2025 Passport includes Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-information features standard on all trims. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and lane departure warning. These systems use cameras and radar to monitor the road and alert or information the driver if a collision risk is detected.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have not yet published final 2025 Passport crash test results as of early 2025. The 2024 model received good ratings in most categories, though some tests were still pending. Check the NHTSA and IIHS websites directly for the most current data before purchase.

Off-road capability does not translate to crash safety. The body-on-frame design and higher center of gravity increase rollover risk compared to lower crossovers. Electronic stability control is standard and helps prevent skids, but driving at safe speeds on unpaved roads remains the driver's responsibility.

Pricing and trim options

The 2025 Passport TrailSport starts around $48,000 to $50,000 before taxes, fees, and options. This is the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP); actual prices vary by dealer, location, and current inventory. Some dealers may charge above MSRP if demand is high, while others may offer discounts.

The Passport lineup includes several trims below the TrailSport (such as the base model and Sport trim) that cost less but lack the off-road features. Higher trims like the TrailSport Touring add luxury features like leather seats and a premium audio system, pushing the price toward $55,000 or more. Options like a roof rack, towing package, or upgraded wheels add $500 to $2,000 depending on the feature.

Honda offers financing through Honda Financial Services, and many dealers work with third-party lenders. Compare interest rates and loan terms before committing. If you are trading in a vehicle, get a pre-purchase appraisal from a third party (not just the dealer) to understand its true value.

Comparison with similar vehicles

The Passport TrailSport competes directly with the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner in the off-road SUV segment. The Wrangler is lighter and more nimble on technical terrain but has less interior space and lower fuel economy. The 4Runner is larger, offers a third row, and has a stronger reputation for durability in extreme conditions, but costs significantly more (often $55,000 to $70,000) and gets worse fuel economy.

If off-road capability is not a priority, the Honda CR-V (a crossover) offers more interior space, better fuel economy, and lower cost, but lacks ground clearance and all-terrain tires. The Honda Pilot (a three-row SUV) provides more seating and cargo space but is heavier and less suited to rough terrain.

Your choice depends on how you plan to use the vehicle. For weekend off-road trips with light gear, the Passport TrailSport is capable and affordable. For daily family hauling with occasional light trails, a CR-V or Pilot may be more practical. For extreme terrain or long-term durability in harsh conditions, the 4Runner has a stronger track record, though at higher cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the 2025 Passport TrailSport tow a trailer?

Yes, with the optional towing package. The Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, which is adequate for small boat trailers, utility trailers, or light campers. The towing package includes a hitch receiver, wiring harness, and transmission cooler. Verify the exact capacity with your dealer, as it depends on the specific configuration.

Is the Passport TrailSport good for daily commuting?

It works for commuting, but it is not optimized for it. The all-terrain tires are noisier on pavement than all-season tires, fuel economy is lower than crossovers, and the ride is stiffer due to the off-road suspension. If you commute daily and use the vehicle off-road only occasionally, a base Passport or CR-V may be more comfortable and economical.

What is the difference between the TrailSport and other Passport trims?

The TrailSport adds all-terrain tires, locking rear differential, underbody skid plates, and all-terrain-specific badging. Lower trims have all-season tires, no locking differential, and less protection. Higher trims like the TrailSport Touring add luxury features like leather and premium audio but cost more. Choose based on whether you need the off-road features or prefer comfort upgrades.

How does the Passport handle snow and ice?

The all-wheel drive system and all-terrain tires provide better traction in snow than a front-wheel-drive crossover. However, all-terrain tires are not winter tires and do not perform as well in deep snow or ice as dedicated winter tires. If you live in a snowy climate, consider switching to winter tires in the cold months for safety.

What warranty does Honda offer on the 2025 Passport?

Honda's standard warranty covers the vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first) for defects in materials and workmanship. The powertrain warranty extends to five years or 60,000 miles. Some components like the battery may have different coverage. Review the warranty booklet or ask your dealer for specifics on what is covered.