The Honda Passport EXL is a mid-size SUV built for both highway and light off-road driving

The Honda Passport EXL sits in Honda's lineup as a rugged SUV that splits the difference between a daily commuter and a vehicle capable of handling unpaved roads. It shares its platform with the Honda Pilot but is smaller, lighter, and designed with a body-on-frame construction rather than the unibody design of its larger sibling. The EXL trim is the mid-level option, sitting between the base Sport trim and the higher Touring and TrailSport trims.

The Passport EXL comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It is available in both two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, though the all-wheel drive version is more common and better suited to the vehicle's intended purpose. The EXL trim adds features like a power liftgate, heated front seats, and a touchscreen infotainment system compared to the base Sport model.

Key Takeaways

  • The Passport EXL uses a V6 engine with 280 horsepower and comes standard with either two-wheel or all-wheel drive.
  • The EXL trim includes heated seats, a power liftgate, and an eight-inch touchscreen, making it more comfortable for daily driving than the base Sport trim.
  • Fuel economy for the Passport EXL ranges from approximately 19 to 21 miles per gallon depending on drivetrain and driving conditions.
  • The vehicle has a towing capacity of around 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, suitable for small trailers and boats.
  • Ground clearance of 8.6 inches and approach and departure angles make it capable of light off-road trails, though it is not designed for extreme terrain.

Engine performance and fuel economy

The 3.5-liter V6 engine in the Passport EXL delivers enough power for highway merging and moderate towing without feeling sluggish in everyday driving. The nine-speed automatic transmission helps the engine operate efficiently across a range of speeds, though the transmission can occasionally feel hesitant during low-speed maneuvers in parking lots.

Real-world fuel economy depends on whether you choose two-wheel or all-wheel drive and how you drive. Two-wheel drive models typically see around 21 miles per gallon on the highway and 19 in mixed city and highway driving. All-wheel drive versions lose roughly one mile per gallon across both categories due to the added weight and drivetrain friction. Highway driving yields better mileage than city driving because the engine operates at lower RPMs on the interstate.

Interior comfort and technology features

The EXL trim prioritizes comfort over the base Sport model with heated front seats that warm up quickly on cold mornings. The cabin is spacious enough for five adults, though the rear seats are best suited for shorter trips since legroom is tighter than in the larger Pilot. The cargo area behind the rear seats holds 28 cubic feet of space, expanding to 76 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.

The eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to mirror your phone's navigation and music apps. The system responds reasonably quickly to inputs, though the menu structure takes a few minutes to learn. The EXL does not include a premium audio system; the standard six-speaker setup is adequate for casual listening but lacks the depth some drivers prefer on long drives.

Off-road capability and ground clearance

The Passport EXL sits higher than most crossovers with 8.6 inches of ground clearance, and its body-on-frame construction means the chassis can flex slightly when driving over uneven terrain. The approach angle (the steepness a vehicle can climb without scraping the front bumper) is 31 degrees, and the departure angle is 26 degrees, both respectable for a vehicle in this class. These angles allow the Passport to handle rocky trails and moderate stream crossings that would stop a typical sedan or crossover.

The all-wheel drive system is not a low-range transfer case like you would find in a true off-road truck; it is designed for traction on slippery surfaces rather than extreme rock crawling. Drivers who plan to tackle serious off-road terrain should consider the TrailSport trim, which adds all-terrain tires, skid plates, and a locking rear differential. The EXL with all-wheel drive is suitable for forest service roads, light trails, and unpaved parking areas, but not for technical rock gardens or deep mud.

Towing and payload capacity

The Passport EXL can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the available towing package, which includes a trailer hitch receiver and wiring harness. This capacity is sufficient for small utility trailers, jet skis, or lightweight boat trailers, but falls short if you plan to tow a full-size travel trailer or horse trailer. The payload capacity (the weight you can carry in the bed and cabin) is approximately 1,500 pounds, meaning you can load gear and passengers without exceeding the vehicle's weight limits.

If you plan to tow regularly, confirm that your specific model year includes the towing package, as it is not standard on all EXL trims. The transmission fluid cooler and engine oil cooler that come with the package help keep temperatures stable under load, extending the life of both components.

Safety features and crash test ratings

The Passport EXL comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of driver information features that includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, and collision mitigation braking. These systems use cameras and radar to monitor the road ahead and can automatically slow the vehicle if a collision risk is detected. The lane keeping information gently corrects steering if you drift out of your lane without signaling, though it can be turned off if you find it intrusive.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has tested the Passport and awarded it four out of five stars overall, with five-star ratings in several categories including frontal crash and rollover resistance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has also tested the vehicle, though ratings vary by model year. Check the NHTSA and IIHS websites directly for the specific model year you are considering, as safety improvements are made annually.

Maintenance costs and reliability

Honda vehicles generally have a reputation for reliability, and the Passport EXL is no exception. Routine maintenance includes oil changes every 10,000 miles, air filter replacements every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on driving conditions, and transmission fluid checks at regular intervals. The V6 engine is proven and widely used across Honda's lineup, meaning parts are readily available and repair shops are familiar with common issues.

Owners report that the Passport EXL typically requires no major repairs in the first 100,000 miles if maintenance is kept current. Brake pads usually last 50,000 to 70,000 miles depending on driving style, and tires typically need replacement around 40,000 to 60,000 miles. Extended warranty options are available through Honda dealers if you want coverage beyond the standard three-year, 36,000-mile warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Passport EXL compare to the Honda Pilot?

The Pilot is larger, seats up to eight people, and has more cargo space. The Passport is smaller, lighter, and designed for off-road capability. If you need maximum seating and cargo space, the Pilot is the better choice. If you want a nimble SUV that can handle rough terrain, the Passport EXL is more suitable.

Can I fit a roof rack on the Passport EXL?

Yes, Honda offers factory roof racks designed for the Passport, and aftermarket options are also available. The roof can support a certain weight limit, so check your vehicle's manual for the exact capacity before loading gear on top.

What is the difference between the EXL and TrailSport trims?

The TrailSport adds all-terrain tires, skid plates under the engine and fuel tank, a locking rear differential, and all-terrain-specific styling. If you plan serious off-road driving, the TrailSport is worth the extra cost. The EXL is better for drivers who want off-road capability without the specialized equipment.

Does the Passport EXL come with all-wheel drive standard?

No, two-wheel drive is standard on the EXL trim. All-wheel drive is available as an option and is recommended if you plan to drive in snow, on unpaved roads, or in wet conditions regularly.

What is the warranty on a new Passport EXL?

Honda's standard warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles for most components, whichever comes first. The powertrain warranty extends to five years or 60,000 miles. Extended warranties can be purchased at the time of purchase or shortly after.