The Mazda Passport is a mid-size SUV built for both city driving and off-road terrain

The Mazda Passport is a sport utility vehicle that Mazda has manufactured since 1994, with a current generation that began in 2019. It seats five passengers, has a truck-based frame, and comes standard with all-wheel drive. The vehicle is designed to handle both highway commutes and rougher terrain, making it a choice for people who want SUV capability without the size of a full-size truck.

Mazda positioned the Passport as a more car-like alternative to traditional body-on-frame SUVs. It uses a unibody construction on a truck platform, which means it rides and handles more like a crossover than a traditional SUV, while still offering genuine off-road features like skid plates and all-terrain tires on higher trim levels.

Key Takeaways

  • The Passport is a mid-size SUV with seating for five and comes standard with all-wheel drive on all trim levels.
  • It uses a truck-based platform but with car-like handling, making it easier to drive in traffic than traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
  • Fuel economy ranges from the mid-20s to low 30s miles per gallon depending on driving conditions and which engine you choose.
  • The current generation (2019 and newer) offers multiple trim levels with different features, from base models to fully equipped versions with leather and premium technology.

Engine options and fuel economy

The current Mazda Passport comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as standard. This engine produces 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Real-world fuel economy typically falls between 21 and 26 miles per gallon combined, depending on whether you drive mostly highway or city streets and how aggressively you accelerate.

Mazda does not offer a hybrid or electric version of the Passport. If fuel economy is your primary concern, you may want to compare it against other mid-size SUVs in its class, as some competitors offer hybrid powertrains that achieve higher mileage numbers. The turbocharged engine does require premium gasoline for optimal performance, though regular gasoline will work if needed.

Trim levels and what comes with each

Mazda offers the Passport in several trim levels: Sport, Select, Preferred, and Premium. The Sport is the base model with standard all-wheel drive, a touchscreen infotainment system, and smartphone integration. The Select adds features like a power liftgate and upgraded interior materials. The Preferred trim includes leather seating, a power driver's seat, and a Bose premium audio system. The Premium adds navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and additional luxury features.

Off-road capability is fairly consistent across trims. All Passports come with all-terrain tires, skid plates, and an electronic locking rear differential. Higher trims add convenience features rather than changing the core driving experience. If you plan to use the vehicle primarily on roads, a lower trim saves money without sacrificing the core SUV functionality.

Interior space and cargo capacity

The Passport has 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 76.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is smaller than a full-size SUV but larger than most compact crossovers. The rear seats fold nearly flat, creating a long, open cargo area suitable for camping gear, sports equipment, or building materials.

Passenger space is comfortable for five adults on shorter trips, though the rear legroom is tighter than in larger three-row SUVs. The second row has good headroom and the doors open wide, making it straightforward to install car seats or load children. Climate control zones are available on higher trims, allowing front and rear passengers to set different temperatures.

Off-road features and towing capacity

The Passport can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, which is enough for small trailers, jet skis, or motorcycles but not full-size boat trailers. It comes with a standard towing package on most trims. The electronic locking rear differential helps distribute power to the wheels with the most traction, useful when driving on loose surfaces or climbing steep terrain.

Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, and the approach and departure angles (the steepness the vehicle can climb or descend) are designed for light off-road use. The Passport is capable on dirt roads, rocky terrain, and shallow water crossings, but it is not a hardcore rock-crawling vehicle like a Jeep Wrangler. It strikes a middle ground between a street-focused crossover and a dedicated off-road truck.

Safety ratings and standard features

The Passport has received good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on all trims include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims add a 360-degree camera system and blind-spot monitoring.

The vehicle has eight airbags standard and a reinforced steel frame. Stability control and traction control come on every model. If safety ratings matter to you when comparing SUVs, the Passport performs well in crash tests, though you should review the specific ratings from NHTSA or IIHS for the model year you are considering, as ratings can vary year to year.

Maintenance costs and reliability

Mazda vehicles generally have a reputation for reliability, and the Passport is no exception. Routine maintenance includes oil changes every 10,000 miles, tire rotations, and periodic fluid checks. Parts are widely available because Mazda has a large dealer network, and repair costs are typically moderate compared to luxury brands.

The turbocharged engine requires premium gasoline and may need more frequent spark plug changes than naturally aspirated engines, which can add to long-term costs. Warranty coverage is three years or 36,000 miles for basic coverage and five years or 60,000 miles for powertrain coverage on new vehicles. Extended warranties are available if you plan to keep the vehicle beyond the standard warranty period.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Mazda Passport compare to the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4?

The Passport is larger and more truck-like than the CR-V or RAV4, with a truck-based frame instead of a car-based platform. It offers better off-road capability but typically lower fuel economy. The CR-V and RAV4 are more fuel-efficient and easier to park in tight spaces, while the Passport is better for towing and rough terrain.

Can the Passport handle snow and ice?

Yes. All-wheel drive comes standard, and the Passport handles winter driving well with proper winter tires. The electronic locking rear differential helps maintain traction on slippery surfaces. However, winter tires are still recommended for snow and ice, just as they are for any vehicle.

What is the difference between the Passport and a Jeep Wrangler?

The Wrangler is more capable off-road and has removable doors and roof panels for open-air driving. The Passport is more comfortable on highways, has better fuel economy, and is easier to drive in daily traffic. Choose the Wrangler for serious off-roading; choose the Passport if you want off-road capability with more everyday practicality.

Does the Passport come in different colors?

Yes. Mazda offers the Passport in multiple exterior colors that vary by model year, including white, black, silver, red, and blue options. You can check the current color availability with a local Mazda dealer or on Mazda's official website.

Is the Passport good for families?

The Passport works well for families who need an SUV with cargo space and off-road capability. It seats five comfortably, has good safety ratings, and the cargo area is large enough for road trips. If you need three rows of seating, you would need a larger SUV like the Mazda CX-9.