The Honda Passport comes standard with all-wheel drive on all trim levels

Every Honda Passport sold in the United States since the model's 2019 reintroduction comes with all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard equipment. There is no front-wheel drive option, and no trim level where you can delete AWD to lower the price. The system is built into the vehicle from the factory, not an add-on package you choose at purchase.

This differs from some competitors in the midsize SUV class — the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner, for example, offer both two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions. Honda's decision to make AWD universal on the Passport means every buyer gets the same drivetrain, which simplifies inventory and pricing but removes that choice from the customer.

Key Takeaways

  • The Honda Passport AWD system is standard on all models and cannot be removed or downgraded to save money.
  • The system uses a multimode transfer case that lets you select between Normal, Sport, and Snow modes depending on road conditions.
  • Real-world fuel economy with AWD ranges from 19 to 21 miles per gallon depending on driving conditions and transmission type.
  • The Passport's AWD adds roughly 200 to 300 pounds to the vehicle weight compared to a two-wheel drive equivalent in other brands.
  • Maintenance costs for the AWD system include regular transfer case fluid changes, which most owners perform every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

How the Passport AWD system distributes power to the wheels

The Passport uses an on-demand AWD system paired with a multimode transfer case. In Normal mode, the system sends most power to the rear wheels and engages the front wheels only when it detects slippage or loss of traction. This setup reduces fuel consumption during highway driving and everyday conditions where all-wheel drive is not needed.

When you shift the transfer case into Sport mode, the system locks in a 50/50 power split between front and rear axles at all times. This mode is designed for off-road driving, gravel roads, or situations where you want maximum traction without waiting for the system to detect wheel slip. Snow mode operates similarly to Sport but adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prevent wheel spinning on slippery surfaces.

The transfer case itself is a mechanical component that physically routes engine power to both the front and rear differentials. Unlike some AWD systems that use electronic clutches, the Passport's transfer case is a traditional gearbox design, which means it is durable but also requires its own fluid maintenance separate from the engine oil and transmission fluid.

Fuel economy impact of the Passport AWD system

The EPA rates the Passport with AWD at 19 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway when paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission. Combined, that works out to 21 mpg. These figures assume normal driving and do not account for towing, off-road use, or aggressive acceleration, all of which lower real-world numbers.

The weight penalty of the AWD system — roughly 200 to 300 pounds depending on which component you measure — accounts for some of this fuel consumption. The rest comes from the mechanical friction of driving two axles instead of one and the engine's work to keep both differentials spinning. In Normal mode, the system minimizes this penalty by disengaging the front axle during highway cruising, which is why highway fuel economy is noticeably better than city figures.

If you drive mostly on highways and rarely encounter snow or unpaved roads, the fuel cost difference between the Passport and a comparable two-wheel drive SUV could add $300 to $500 per year depending on gas prices and annual mileage. This is worth factoring into the total cost of ownership, though the resale value benefit of AWD in many markets may offset some of that expense.

Transfer case maintenance and fluid changes

The Passport's transfer case requires its own fluid, separate from the engine oil and transmission fluid. Honda specifies a synthetic transfer case fluid that should be changed every 30,000 miles if you regularly drive in severe conditions — towing, off-road use, or repeated mountain driving — or every 60,000 miles under normal conditions. Some owners go longer without issues, but Honda's maintenance schedule is the baseline for warranty coverage.

A transfer case fluid change typically costs between $150 and $250 at a Honda dealership, depending on your location and whether the shop charges for diagnosis or inspection. Independent shops may charge less, but you should verify they use Honda-approved fluid, as the wrong fluid can damage the transfer case gears and bearings.

Beyond fluid changes, the transfer case itself is relatively trouble-free on the Passport. Common issues in other vehicles — grinding noises, difficulty shifting between modes, or fluid leaks — are uncommon on the Passport, though they can occur if the vehicle is driven through deep water or if the transfer case is subjected to extreme shock loads off-road.

Comparing the Passport AWD to competitors

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers both two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions, with the four-wheel drive option adding roughly $2,000 to $3,000 to the purchase price. The Toyota 4Runner similarly offers a two-wheel drive base model, though four-wheel drive is more common in the market. The Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia offer AWD as an option rather than standard, allowing buyers to choose based on their needs and budget.

The Passport's standard AWD approach means you pay for the system whether you need it or not, but it also means every Passport has the same capability. There is no risk of buying a two-wheel drive model and later wishing you had four-wheel drive, and there is no confusion about which trim levels include the system. This simplicity appeals to buyers who know they want AWD but may frustrate those who do not.

In terms of off-road performance, the Passport's transfer case and multimode system are comparable to the Jeep Grand Cherokee's Quadra-Trac system and the 4Runner's full-time four-wheel drive. The Passport is generally considered more capable than the Blazer or Acadia, which are designed primarily for on-road driving with AWD as a traction aid rather than a true off-road tool.

Off-road capability with the Passport AWD system

The Sport and Snow modes on the Passport's transfer case are designed to handle unpaved roads, rocky terrain, and conditions where traction is uncertain. Sport mode's 50/50 power split prevents the vehicle from relying on traction control to detect slip, which is useful when you are moving slowly over obstacles where wheel slip is expected and normal. Snow mode's throttle adjustments prevent the wheels from spinning excessively on ice or packed snow, which can actually reduce traction rather than improve it.

The Passport also comes with an electronic locking rear differential on higher trim levels, which further improves off-road traction by forcing both rear wheels to spin at the same speed. This feature, combined with the transfer case's Sport mode, makes the Passport capable of handling moderate off-road trails, forest service roads, and beach driving. It is not a rock crawler like a Jeep Wrangler, but it is substantially more capable than a typical crossover SUV.

For most owners, the Passport's AWD system in Normal mode is sufficient for winter driving, gravel roads, and light off-road use. The Sport and Snow modes are useful features but are not necessary for everyday driving, even in harsh climates. Understanding when to use each mode — and when to leave the system in Normal — helps you get the best fuel economy and longest component life.

Resale value and insurance considerations

The standard AWD on the Passport generally supports resale value, particularly in regions with winter weather or buyers interested in outdoor recreation. A used Passport with AWD is easier to market and typically commands a higher price than a comparable two-wheel drive vehicle would in the same market. This resale benefit can offset some of the fuel economy penalty over the vehicle's ownership life.

Insurance rates for the Passport are not significantly higher because of AWD. Most insurers view AWD as a safety feature that reduces accident risk, which can actually lower your premium slightly compared to a two-wheel drive model. The difference is usually small — $20 to $50 per year — but it works in your favor rather than against it.

Repair costs for the AWD system are moderate and predictable. Beyond the transfer case fluid changes mentioned earlier, major repairs to the front or rear differentials are uncommon and typically cost $800 to $1,500 if they occur outside the warranty period. This is comparable to repair costs on competitors' AWD systems and is not a significant ownership risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I turn off the AWD on the Passport to save fuel?

No, the AWD system cannot be fully disabled. In Normal mode, the system disengages the front axle during highway driving to reduce fuel consumption, which is the closest equivalent to two-wheel drive operation. Shifting to Sport or Snow mode actually increases fuel consumption by locking in a permanent 50/50 power split.

Does the Passport AWD system work in deep snow and ice?

Yes, the Snow mode is specifically designed for winter driving and adjusts throttle response to prevent wheel spinning on slippery surfaces. The system works well for winter commuting and light snow, though it is not a substitute for winter tires. Winter tires make a larger difference in snow and ice performance than the AWD system itself.

What is the difference between Sport mode and Snow mode?

Sport mode locks in a 50/50 power split for off-road driving and gravel roads where you expect wheel slip. Snow mode uses the same power split but adjusts the engine and transmission to prevent excessive wheel spinning on ice and packed snow. Use Sport for off-road trails and Snow for winter highways and parking lots.

How much does the AWD system add to the Passport's price?

The AWD system is standard on all Passport models and is not priced separately. You cannot buy a Passport without it. If you are comparing the Passport to competitors that offer two-wheel drive options, the AWD cost difference is built into the Passport's base price, which is typically $2,000 to $3,000 higher than a two-wheel drive competitor.

Will the transfer case need repairs if I use the Passport off-road?

The transfer case is designed for off-road use and is durable when maintained properly. Regular fluid changes and avoiding extreme shock loads — such as high-speed impacts with rocks or deep water crossings — keep the system reliable. Most owners never need transfer case repairs beyond fluid maintenance.