The Honda Passport produces between 280 and 310 horsepower depending on the model year and engine configuration

The Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV that has been produced in two distinct generations. The current generation, which began in 2019, uses 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 option available for the model.

The original Passport, produced from 1994 to 1997, used a different engine entirely — a 3.2-liter V6 that generated 215 horsepower. That first-generation model was discontinued for over two decades before Honda revived the nameplate. Understanding which generation you are looking at matters because the power output and driving characteristics differ significantly.

Key Takeaways

  • The current Honda Passport (2019 and newer) produces 280 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 engine, with no other engine option available.
  • The original Passport (1994–1997) produced 215 horsepower from a 3.2-liter V6 and is no longer in production.
  • Horsepower remains consistent across trim levels within the same model year — the difference between trims is in features and interior options, not engine output.
  • The 280-horsepower rating places the current Passport in the middle range for mid-size SUVs, behind some competitors but ahead of others in its class.

How the 3.5-Liter V6 Engine Performs

The 3.5-liter V6 in the current Passport is the same engine used in other Honda vehicles like the Pilot and Ridgeline. It is a naturally aspirated engine, meaning it does not use a turbocharger or supercharger to boost power. The 280 horsepower figure is the maximum output the engine produces at 6,000 revolutions per minute (RPM).

Torque — the twisting force that moves the vehicle — reaches its peak of 262 pound-feet at 4,700 RPM. This torque delivery is important for towing and off-road performance, which are key reasons buyers choose the Passport over other SUVs. The engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission that manages gear shifts to balance fuel economy and performance.

Real-world acceleration and towing capacity depend on more than just horsepower. The Passport's all-wheel-drive system, suspension tuning, and transmission programming all affect how the engine's power translates to movement. The EPA rates the Passport's towing capacity at 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Horsepower Across Model Years and Trim Levels

Since the modern Passport launched in 2019, Honda has kept the same 280-horsepower engine across all model years through 2024. No mid-cycle refresh or update has changed the power output. Every trim level — whether you choose the base TrailSport, the mid-range EX-L, or the top Touring — uses the identical 3.5-liter V6.

Trim level differences focus on interior appointments, technology features, and exterior styling rather than performance. A TrailSport and a Touring have the same acceleration, top speed, and towing capacity. The choice between trims should be based on which features matter to you, not on engine performance.

How the Passport Compares to Other Mid-Size SUVs

The Passport's 280 horsepower places it in a competitive but not dominant position within the mid-size SUV segment. The Jeep Grand Cherokee produces up to 360 horsepower in its most powerful configuration, while the Toyota 4Runner generates 282 horsepower — nearly identical to the Passport. The Chevrolet Blazer offers 308 horsepower, slightly above the Passport.

Horsepower alone does not determine how an SUV feels to drive or how well it performs off-road. Weight, transmission type, suspension design, and tire choice all matter. The Passport is lighter than some competitors, which means its 280 horsepower delivers acceleration that feels more responsive than the raw number might suggest. Conversely, heavier competitors with similar horsepower may feel less quick.

For buyers prioritizing fuel economy, the Passport's naturally aspirated engine is more efficient than turbocharged alternatives, though it produces less peak power. For buyers prioritizing towing or off-road capability, the 262 pound-feet of torque is more relevant than the horsepower figure.

What Horsepower Actually Means for Your Driving

Horsepower measures the rate at which an engine can do work, expressed in units of power. A higher horsepower number means the engine can accelerate faster and reach higher speeds more quickly. However, horsepower is only one factor in how a vehicle performs.

The Passport's 280 horsepower is sufficient for highway merging, passing slower traffic, and moderate acceleration from a stop. It is not designed for high-performance driving or racing. The engine prioritizes reliability and fuel economy over maximum power output, which is typical for Honda's engineering philosophy.

Off-road, horsepower matters less than torque, ground clearance, and traction control. The Passport's 262 pound-feet of torque is what helps it climb steep grades and navigate rocky terrain. The engine's power delivery is smooth and linear, meaning it does not have sudden power surges that could destabilize the vehicle on uneven ground.

Engine Modifications and Aftermarket Options

Some Passport owners explore aftermarket modifications to increase horsepower. Cold-air intake systems, performance exhaust systems, and engine tuning software are available from various manufacturers. These modifications typically add 10 to 20 horsepower in best-case scenarios, though results vary based on the specific products used and the quality of installation.

Modifications can affect warranty coverage, fuel economy, and emissions compliance. Honda's factory warranty may not cover engine damage resulting from modifications. Before pursuing any changes, research the specific product's reputation and understand the potential consequences for your vehicle's warranty and resale value.

The stock 280-horsepower engine is designed to be reliable for the vehicle's intended use. Most owners find it adequate for daily driving and recreational off-roading without modifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Honda Passport have more horsepower than the Pilot?

No, both vehicles use the same 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower. The Pilot is larger and heavier, so the same horsepower feels less responsive. The Passport's lighter weight gives it slightly better acceleration despite identical engine output.

Can I get a turbocharged or diesel engine in the Passport?

No, Honda offers only the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 for the current Passport. There is no turbocharged or diesel option. The engine configuration has remained unchanged since the model's 2019 introduction.

Is 280 horsepower enough for towing a trailer?

Yes, the Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with a trailer package. The 262 pound-feet of torque is more important for towing than the horsepower figure. Always verify your specific trim level's towing capacity and follow Honda's guidelines for trailer weight distribution.

What was the horsepower of the original 1990s Passport?

The first-generation Passport (1994–1997) produced 215 horsepower from a 3.2-liter V6. It was a different vehicle entirely from the modern Passport, with different capabilities and design. The nameplate was revived in 2019 with a completely new platform and engine.