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

The Honda Passport is a rugged sport utility vehicle designed to handle both highway driving and rough terrain. It sits between Honda's smaller CR-V and larger Pilot in the lineup, and it's built on the same platform as the Ridgeline pickup truck, which gives it a stronger frame than most traditional SUVs in its class.

The Passport comes with standard all-wheel drive, a V6 engine, and a nine-speed automatic transmission. It has a higher ground clearance than the CR-V and more towing capacity — typically around 5,000 pounds — making it a genuine choice if you plan to tow a trailer or boat regularly. The interior seats five passengers and includes a cargo area behind the rear seats.

Honda reintroduced the Passport name in 2019 after a long gap. The original Passport (1994–2002) was a compact SUV that competed with the Toyota 4Runner. The modern version is larger and more refined, but it keeps the off-road focus of the original.

Key Takeaways

  • The Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV with standard all-wheel drive and a V6 engine, designed for both highway and off-road use.
  • It can tow around 5,000 pounds and has higher ground clearance than the CR-V, making it suitable for outdoor recreation and heavier loads.
  • The Passport seats five people and offers a cargo area, with trim levels that add features like leather seating and advanced safety technology.
  • Fuel economy typically ranges from the mid-20s in city driving to the low 30s on highways, depending on driving conditions and trim level.
  • Used Passports from 2019 onward are available on the secondhand market, with prices varying by model year, mileage, and condition.

Engine, transmission, and performance specs

The Passport uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque across all model years since 2019. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels through Honda's Real Time AWD system, which can shift power between the front and rear axles as needed.

The vehicle has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, and a payload capacity (the weight you can carry in the truck bed or cargo area) of around 1,500 pounds. Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, which is notably higher than the CR-V's 8.2 inches and allows the Passport to clear obstacles and rough terrain more easily.

Fuel economy varies slightly by model year and driving conditions. Most owners report 21 to 23 miles per gallon in city driving and 26 to 29 miles per gallon on the highway. These numbers can shift based on how much weight you carry, your driving habits, and terrain.

Trim levels and standard features

The Passport is offered in several trim levels, each adding features to the base model. The entry-level trim includes air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a rearview camera. All trims come with Honda Sensing, a suite of safety features that includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, and collision mitigation braking.

Higher trims add leather seating, a power liftgate, a sunroof, heated front seats, and upgraded audio systems. Some trims include a power moonroof and a hands-free power tailgate. The specific features available depend on the model year, so checking the window sticker or owner's manual for your particular vehicle will show exactly what came with it.

Off-road features vary by trim as well. Some versions include all-terrain tires, skid plates to protect the undercarriage, and a terrain management system that adjusts engine and transmission behavior for different driving surfaces.

Interior space and cargo capacity

The Passport has seating for five people across two rows. The front seats are bucket-style, and the rear bench seat folds down to expand cargo space. Behind the rear seats, there is 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats up. When you fold the rear seats flat, that expands to 76.5 cubic feet, which is enough for camping gear, sports equipment, or building materials.

The cargo area has tie-down points and a power liftgate on higher trims, making it easier to load and unload heavy items. The rear seats do not slide forward or backward, so the cargo space is fixed once you decide how to arrange the seating.

Safety ratings and crash test results

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has tested the Passport and given it an overall rating of four out of five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has also tested the vehicle, though ratings vary by model year and test type.

All Passports come standard with Honda Sensing, which includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping information. These features are designed to prevent or reduce the severity of crashes, though they are not a substitute for attentive driving.

If you are considering a used Passport, you can look up the specific model year and trim on the NHTSA and IIHS websites to see detailed crash test results and safety ratings for that particular generation.

Maintenance costs and reliability

Honda Passports have a reputation for reliability, and owners report relatively few major mechanical issues in the first five to seven years of ownership. Routine maintenance includes oil changes every 10,000 miles, tire rotations, and fluid checks. Honda recommends replacing the transmission fluid every 60,000 miles and the coolant every 100,000 miles or ten years, whichever comes first.

Brake pads typically last 50,000 to 70,000 miles depending on driving style and terrain. If you drive frequently on rough terrain or tow regularly, you may need to replace them sooner. Tire replacement depends on the type of tire and how much you use the vehicle off-road; all-terrain tires wear faster than highway tires.

Repair costs for common items like batteries, filters, and brake pads are comparable to other mid-size SUVs. More complex repairs, such as transmission or engine work, can be expensive, but these are uncommon in the first decade of ownership if the vehicle is maintained properly.

Comparing the Passport to similar vehicles

The Passport's closest competitors are the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Chevrolet Blazer. The 4Runner is larger and more expensive but has a reputation for extreme durability in harsh conditions. The Grand Cherokee offers more luxury features and a wider range of engine options. The Blazer is smaller and less capable off-road but costs less upfront.

Compared to Honda's own CR-V, the Passport is larger, has more towing capacity, and sits higher off the ground. The CR-V is more fuel-efficient and has a lower price tag, making it a better choice if you prioritize economy and everyday practicality. The Passport is the better choice if you plan to tow, camp, or drive on unpaved roads regularly.

If you are deciding between these vehicles, consider how you actually plan to use the SUV. Highway commuting and occasional road trips favor the CR-V or Blazer. Regular off-road use, towing, or outdoor recreation favor the Passport or 4Runner.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Honda Passport cost?

New Passport prices vary by trim level and model year, typically ranging from the mid-$40,000s to the mid-$50,000s. Used models from 2019 onward are available on the secondhand market at lower prices depending on mileage and condition. Check local dealerships or online marketplaces for current pricing in your area.

Can the Passport handle serious off-road trails?

The Passport is designed for light to moderate off-road use — dirt roads, gravel, and rocky terrain. It is not built for extreme rock crawling or deep water crossings like a Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner. For serious backcountry driving, those vehicles are better choices.

What is the difference between the Passport and the CR-V?

The Passport is larger, has more ground clearance, tows more weight, and is designed for off-road use. The CR-V is smaller, more fuel-efficient, and better suited to city and highway driving. Choose the Passport if you tow or go off-road; choose the CR-V if you prioritize fuel economy and everyday practicality.

How long do Honda Passports typically last?

With regular maintenance, a Passport can run reliably for 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. The V6 engine and transmission are durable, and major repairs are uncommon in the first ten years if you follow Honda's maintenance schedule.

Is the Passport good for towing?

Yes, the Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is suitable for small trailers, jet skis, or light boats. It is not designed for heavy trailers or RVs; larger trucks or SUVs are better for those purposes.