The 2021 Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV built on a truck frame

The 2021 Honda Passport is a mid-size sport utility vehicle that sits between Honda's smaller CR-V and larger Pilot. It uses a truck-based frame rather than a car-based platform, which gives it more ground clearance and off-road capability than most SUVs in its class. The Passport comes with either a 3.5-liter V6 engine or, in certain trim levels, a turbocharged option.

Honda designed the Passport to appeal to buyers who want SUV practicality but also want the ability to handle rough terrain and towing. It seats five passengers and offers a cargo area behind the rear seats, plus additional storage space when you fold those seats down. The vehicle is available in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 Passport uses a truck frame and V6 engine, making it more capable off-road than most mid-size SUVs.
  • It comes in multiple trim levels—Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring—each adding features like leather seats, navigation, and advanced safety technology.
  • Four-wheel drive is available on all trims and includes multiple terrain modes for different driving conditions.
  • The Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, though towing capacity varies by trim and drivetrain.
  • Real-world fuel economy typically ranges from 19 to 22 miles per gallon depending on whether you choose two-wheel or four-wheel drive.

Engine options and performance specs

The 2021 Passport comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine pairs with a 9-speed automatic transmission and is the only powertrain choice for the 2021 model year. The V6 is designed to balance power with fuel efficiency, though it is not the most economical choice in the mid-size SUV category.

The Passport accelerates from zero to 60 miles per hour in approximately 8 to 8.5 seconds, depending on whether you have two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive versions are slightly slower due to added weight. The vehicle has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when equipped with the proper hitch and brake controller, though some trim levels may have different ratings.

Trim levels and what each one includes

The 2021 Passport is sold in four trim levels: Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring. The base Sport trim includes air conditioning, power windows and locks, a 5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and Honda Sensing (a suite of driver information features). It also comes with all-terrain tires and skid plates designed for light off-road use.

The EX trim adds heated front seats, a power liftgate, and an 8-inch touchscreen. The EX-L includes leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a sunroof. The top Touring trim adds navigation, a premium audio system, and additional luxury features like heated rear seats and a hands-free power tailgate. Each step up also includes more advanced safety technology and convenience features.

Two-wheel drive versus four-wheel drive

The 2021 Passport is available in both two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) versions on all trim levels. Two-wheel drive is lighter and delivers better fuel economy—typically around 21 to 22 miles per gallon combined—but offers no off-road capability. Four-wheel drive adds approximately 200 pounds and reduces fuel economy to around 19 to 20 miles per gallon combined.

The four-wheel drive system includes multiple terrain modes: Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand. These modes adjust engine power delivery, transmission shifting, and traction control to match different driving conditions. Four-wheel drive also includes a locking rear differential on most trims, which improves traction when one rear wheel loses grip. If you plan to drive on unpaved roads or in winter weather regularly, four-wheel drive is worth the cost; if you drive mostly on highways and city streets, two-wheel drive saves money at the pump.

Interior space and cargo capacity

The Passport seats five people across three rows of seating—two in front and three in back. The rear seats are spacious enough for adults on shorter trips, though legroom is tighter than in Honda's larger Pilot. Behind the rear seats, the Passport offers 28 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 luggage, camping gear, or building materials.

The interior includes multiple storage cubbies, cup holders, and door pockets. Higher trim levels add features like a power liftgate and a hands-free tailgate that opens when you kick your foot under the rear bumper. The dashboard layout is straightforward, with physical buttons for climate control and audio volume rather than touch-only controls, which many drivers find easier to use while driving.

Safety features and crash test ratings

All 2021 Passport models come standard with Honda Sensing, a collection of driver information features that includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. These systems use cameras and radar to monitor the road and can alert you to potential hazards or explore the brakes if a collision seems imminent.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2021 Passport an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. It scored 5 stars in the side crash test and 4 stars in both the frontal crash and rollover tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated it "Good" in most crash tests, though it did not receive the organization's top safety award. These ratings place it in the middle range for mid-size SUVs.

Fuel economy and real-world costs

The EPA estimates that the 2021 Passport with two-wheel drive achieves 21 miles per gallon in the city, 26 on the highway, and 23 combined. Four-wheel drive versions are rated at 19 city, 24 highway, and 21 combined. Real-world fuel economy often runs slightly lower than EPA estimates, particularly in city driving or when towing. If you drive 12,000 miles per year at current gas prices, expect to spend between $1,400 and $1,700 annually on fuel, depending on your local prices and driving habits.

Maintenance costs for the Passport are moderate compared to other mid-size SUVs. Oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements follow Honda's standard schedule. The V6 engine requires premium gasoline in some cases, though regular unleaded is acceptable—check your owner's manual for your specific trim. Repair costs for major components like the transmission or engine are typically higher than for smaller vehicles but comparable to other V6-powered SUVs.

Common issues and reliability

The 2021 Passport is a relatively new model in Honda's lineup, so long-term reliability data is still accumulating. Early reports from owners and mechanics suggest the vehicle is generally reliable, with no widespread defects reported during the first few years of ownership. The V6 engine and 9-speed transmission have proven durable in other Honda models, which is a positive sign.

Some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system occasionally freezing or requiring a restart, though this is not universal. The all-terrain tires that come standard on the Passport wear faster than highway-focused tires, so budget for replacement sooner than you might with other SUVs. Regular maintenance—oil changes every 10,000 miles, fluid checks, and tire rotations—will help keep the Passport running smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a 2021 Honda Passport cost?

Prices vary based on trim level and whether you choose two-wheel or four-wheel drive. The base Sport 2WD starts around $46,000, while the top Touring 4WD can exceed $55,000. Used 2021 models typically sell for $5,000 to $10,000 less than the original retail price, depending on mileage and condition.

Can the Passport handle serious off-roading?

The Passport is designed for light to moderate off-road use—unpaved roads, gravel, and shallow water crossings. It is not built for extreme rock crawling or deep mud. The locking rear differential and terrain modes help on rough terrain, but the Passport is more of a lifestyle vehicle than a hardcore off-road machine.

How does the Passport compare to the Toyota 4Runner?

The 4Runner is larger, heavier, and more capable off-road, but it also costs more and gets worse fuel economy. The Passport is more car-like to drive on highways and better for daily commuting. If off-road performance is your priority, the 4Runner is the better choice; if you want a balance of on-road comfort and occasional off-road use, the Passport fits better.

Is the Passport good for towing?

The Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is enough for a small boat, utility trailer, or camping trailer. However, it is not designed for heavy towing like pickup trucks are. If you plan to tow regularly or pull heavy loads, a truck or larger SUV would be a better choice.

What warranty does the 2021 Passport come with?

Honda covers the Passport with a 3-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Some components like the hybrid battery (if applicable) or emissions equipment may have longer coverage. Check your owner's manual or contact a Honda dealer for the complete warranty details.