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

The Honda Passport is a body-on-frame sport utility vehicle that Honda has manufactured since 1994, with a redesigned version launched in 2019. It sits between Honda's smaller CR-V crossover and larger Pilot SUV in terms of size and capability. The current generation Passport is built on the same platform as the Ridgeline pickup truck, which gives it a truck-like frame and suspension designed to handle both highway driving and rough terrain.

The Passport comes in two main trim levels: Sport and TrailSport. Both versions share the same 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The vehicle seats five passengers and offers a cargo area behind the rear seats, though the exact storage space varies depending on whether the rear seats are folded.

Key Takeaways

  • The Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV with a truck-based frame, designed for both on-road comfort and off-road capability.
  • All Passport models use the same 3.5-liter V6 engine with nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
  • The Sport trim is the base model, while the TrailSport adds off-road-focused features like all-terrain tires and skid plates.
  • Fuel economy ranges from approximately 19 to 21 miles per gallon depending on driving conditions and transmission type.
  • The Passport competes directly with vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and Toyota 4Runner in the mid-size SUV segment.

Engine, transmission, and fuel economy

Every Honda Passport uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers consistent power across all trim levels. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that handles both city driving and highway cruising. The all-wheel-drive system is standard on all models, meaning you cannot order a Passport with front-wheel drive only.

Fuel economy depends on how you drive and road conditions. The EPA estimates the Passport achieves approximately 19 miles per gallon in the city and 21 miles per gallon on the highway when driven under normal conditions. Real-world fuel consumption often varies based on driving habits, terrain, and load. Towing capacity is rated at 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Sport trim versus TrailSport trim

The Sport trim is the base Passport and includes standard features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and Honda Sensing safety technology. The interior uses cloth upholstery, and the wheels are 18-inch all-season tires. This trim is suitable for drivers who want the Passport's size and capability for everyday use without specialized off-road equipment.

The TrailSport trim adds features specifically designed for off-road driving. These include all-terrain tires instead of all-season tires, underbody skid plates to protect the engine and transmission, a locking rear differential for improved traction, and a multi-terrain select system that adjusts engine and transmission behavior based on the surface you are driving on. The TrailSport also includes leather-trimmed seating and upgraded interior materials. If you plan to drive on unpaved roads or rocky terrain regularly, the TrailSport's additional protection and traction features make a meaningful difference.

Interior space and seating

The Passport seats five people across two rows. The front seats are individual bucket seats with adjustable lumbar support on higher trims. The rear bench seat folds down to expand cargo space, creating a flat load floor when fully folded. Headroom and legroom are generous compared to smaller crossovers, though the Passport is narrower than full-size SUVs like the Pilot.

Behind the rear seats, the Passport offers approximately 28 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats up. With the rear seats folded, that expands to roughly 76 cubic feet. The cargo area includes tie-down points and a power rear window that can open independently of the tailgate, which is useful for carrying longer items. There is no third row of seating, so the Passport is designed for smaller families or those who prioritize cargo space over passenger capacity.

Off-road capability and suspension

The Passport's truck-based frame and suspension give it genuine off-road capability that crossovers cannot match. The independent double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension are tuned for both comfort on highways and articulation on uneven terrain. Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, which is higher than most crossovers but lower than full-size trucks.

The TrailSport trim adds a locking rear differential, which forces both rear wheels to turn at the same speed and dramatically improves traction when one wheel loses grip. The multi-terrain select system adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points, and traction control settings for different surfaces: Normal, Gravel, Mud, and Sand modes each optimize the drivetrain for those specific conditions. These features make the TrailSport genuinely capable on unpaved roads, though it is not designed for extreme rock crawling like a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.

Safety features and technology

All Passport models include Honda Sensing, which is Honda's suite of driver-information technologies. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. A rearview camera is standard, and a surround-view camera system is available on higher trims. These features help prevent accidents during normal driving and provide visibility when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces.

The infotainment system uses a touchscreen display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to mirror your smartphone for navigation and audio. Bluetooth connectivity is standard for hands-free calling and audio streaming. The system responds to voice commands for some functions, though the interface requires some learning to use efficiently. Wireless charging for compatible phones is available on certain trims.

Comparing the Passport to similar vehicles

The Passport competes in a narrow segment with vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and Toyota 4Runner. The Wrangler Unlimited is lighter, more nimble off-road, and has a removable roof and doors, but it is less comfortable on highways and has less cargo space. The 4Runner is larger, offers a third row of seating, and has more towing capacity, but it costs significantly more and gets worse fuel economy.

Compared to Honda's own Pilot, the Passport is smaller, more off-road focused, and less expensive. The Pilot offers a third row of seating and more cargo space, making it better for larger families. The CR-V is Honda's smallest SUV and is more fuel-efficient, but it lacks the Passport's truck-based frame and off-road capability. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize off-road performance, passenger capacity, or fuel economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Honda Passport tow a trailer?

Yes, the Passport has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped with the appropriate hitch and brake controller. This is suitable for small trailers, jet skis, or lightweight boats. Check your owner's manual for specific requirements and weight distribution guidelines before towing.

Does the Passport have a third row of seating?

No, the Passport seats only five people in two rows. If you need a third row, Honda's Pilot SUV is the alternative within Honda's lineup. The Passport prioritizes cargo space and off-road capability over passenger capacity.

What is the difference between all-season and all-terrain tires?

All-season tires are designed for pavement and light snow, offering a quieter ride and better fuel economy. All-terrain tires have deeper treads and harder rubber compounds that grip unpaved surfaces like gravel, mud, and sand, but they are noisier on highways and reduce fuel economy slightly. The TrailSport comes with all-terrain tires; the Sport comes with all-season tires.

How much does regular maintenance cost for a Passport?

Routine maintenance like oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks follows Honda's recommended schedule, which varies by model year. Costs depend on your location and whether you use a Honda dealership or independent shop. Budget for oil changes every 10,000 miles and more significant services every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.