The 2025 Honda Passport gets a redesigned interior, updated safety features, and a new hybrid powertrain option
The 2025 Honda Passport arrives as a mid-cycle refresh of Honda's three-row SUV, with the most noticeable changes happening inside the cabin. The exterior keeps the same general shape, but the dashboard, infotainment system, and seating materials are all new. Honda added a hybrid version alongside the traditional V6 engine, giving buyers a fuel-efficiency choice they didn't have before. The safety suite has been updated with newer versions of Honda Sensing, the brand's driver-information technology package.
If you already own a 2024 Passport or are comparing it to the 2025 model, the differences are meaningful but not dramatic. The refresh targets the interior experience and powertrain options rather than a complete redesign. Pricing and trim structure remain similar to previous years, though the hybrid version carries a modest premium over the gas-only model.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Passport offers a new hybrid powertrain alongside the standard 3.5L V6, with the hybrid delivering better fuel economy at the cost of slightly less towing capacity.
- The interior dashboard and infotainment system are completely redesigned, with a larger touchscreen and updated materials throughout the cabin.
- Honda Sensing driver-information features have been updated with newer technology, including improved collision mitigation and adaptive cruise control.
- The three-row seating layout and overall dimensions remain unchanged, so cargo space and passenger room stay the same as the previous generation.
- Trim levels and pricing structure are similar to 2024, with the hybrid model available across most trim levels at a higher price point.
Engine and Powertrain Changes
The 2025 Passport now offers two powertrain choices. The standard engine is still the 3.5-liter V6, which produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission and is available in both two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. Towing capacity remains at 5,000 pounds with the gas engine.
New for 2025 is a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.0-liter V6 with electric motors. The hybrid system produces 340 horsepower total and delivers better fuel economy than the gas-only version, though Honda has not yet released exact EPA fuel-economy figures. The trade-off is that the hybrid model has a lower towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, which matters if you plan to pull a trailer regularly. The hybrid is available on most trim levels, though some entry-level trims may be gas-only.
Both engines use an 8-speed automatic transmission in the hybrid and a 10-speed in the gas model. All-wheel drive is available with either powertrain and includes Honda's Real Time AWD system, which adjusts power distribution between the front and rear wheels based on driving conditions.
Interior and Technology Updates
The dashboard layout is completely new for 2025, with a horizontal design that stretches across the width of the cabin. The infotainment touchscreen is now larger than before—Honda has moved to an 11.6-inch display on higher trims, up from the previous 8-inch or 10.2-inch options. The screen sits higher on the dashboard and is angled slightly toward the driver, making it easier to reach and read while driving.
The materials inside have been upgraded across the board. Higher trim levels now feature leather seating with improved stitching and padding, while lower trims get a higher-quality cloth upholstery. The steering wheel is new, with a flatter bottom and better grip. Climate controls are now touch-sensitive buttons instead of traditional knobs, which is faster to use once you learn the layout but takes some adjustment if you're coming from an older model.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on all trims, so you can mirror your phone without plugging in a cable. The system also supports over-the-air software updates, meaning Honda can push improvements and bug fixes to your vehicle without a dealer visit. USB-C charging ports are now standard throughout the cabin, replacing the older USB-A ports on some models.
Safety Features and Driver information
Honda Sensing, the brand's suite of driver-information features, has been updated for 2025. The collision mitigation system now uses improved radar and camera technology to detect pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles more reliably. Adaptive cruise control has been refined to follow traffic more smoothly, and lane-keeping information is now more responsive without being overly aggressive.
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert remain standard on most trims. The backup camera now includes a wider field of view and better image quality. On higher trims, you get a surround-view camera system that stitches together images from four cameras around the vehicle, giving you a bird's-eye view when parking or navigating tight spaces.
The automatic emergency braking system can now detect and brake for pedestrians in a wider range of scenarios, including at higher speeds. Honda has also added a new feature called Road Departure Mitigation, which alerts you if the vehicle drifts out of its lane unintentionally and can explore gentle steering correction to keep you centered.
Trim Levels and Pricing Structure
The 2025 Passport keeps the same basic trim hierarchy as 2024: Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring. Each trim adds features and comfort upgrades as you move up the ladder. The Sport is the entry-level model with the fewest features but still includes Honda Sensing and the new infotainment system. The EX adds all-wheel drive as standard, power seats, and a power liftgate.
The EX-L brings leather seating, a power moonroof, and a premium audio system. The Touring is the top trim and includes the largest touchscreen, a hands-free power tailgate, and additional interior lighting. Pricing for 2025 has not been officially released by Honda, but expect the base Sport to start around the same price as the 2024 model, with the hybrid version adding roughly $2,000 to $3,000 depending on the trim.
All-wheel drive is standard on EX and higher trims with the gas engine, and available on all hybrid trims. The hybrid is not available on the base Sport trim in most markets, though this varies by region and dealer inventory.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The outside of the 2025 Passport looks very similar to the 2024 model, with the same overall shape and proportions. Honda made subtle updates to the front grille and headlight design, giving it a slightly more modern appearance, but these changes are not dramatic. The rear bumper and taillights remain largely unchanged. The roof line, cargo area, and general silhouette are identical to the previous generation.
Length, width, and height all stay the same, so the Passport still seats up to eight passengers across three rows. Cargo space behind the third row is unchanged at 10.6 cubic feet, and with the third row folded down, you get 47.9 cubic feet. The wheelbase and track width remain the same, so handling and stability characteristics are similar to before.
Wheel options range from 18-inch to 20-inch depending on trim level, with new designs for 2025. All-terrain and all-season tire options are available, and the all-wheel-drive system includes an available terrain management system that adjusts throttle response and traction control for different driving surfaces.
Comparison to the Previous Generation
If you're deciding between a 2024 Passport and the 2025 model, the main reasons to choose 2025 are the hybrid powertrain option, the updated interior, and the newer safety technology. The 2024 model is still a solid choice and will likely be discounted as dealers clear inventory, so the value proposition depends on whether the new features matter to you.
The hybrid powertrain is the biggest practical difference. If you drive mostly highway miles and want better fuel economy, the hybrid makes sense despite the lower towing capacity. If you tow regularly or prefer the simplicity of a traditional engine, the gas V6 is still available and unchanged in performance.
The interior updates are noticeable but not transformative. The larger touchscreen and new materials feel more modern, but the 2024 cabin is still functional and comfortable. The safety updates are incremental improvements rather than major leaps, so if you already own a 2024 Passport, upgrading for safety features alone probably doesn't make financial sense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2025 Passport have more cargo space than the 2024?
No, cargo space remains the same. The 2025 model keeps the identical three-row layout and dimensions, so you get 10.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 47.9 cubic feet with the third row folded. The interior redesign doesn't change how much you can carry.
What's the fuel economy difference between the hybrid and gas engine?
Honda has not released official EPA fuel-economy numbers for the 2025 hybrid yet. Based on similar Honda hybrids, expect the hybrid to deliver roughly 25 to 30 percent better fuel economy on highway driving, though city driving improvements are typically smaller. The hybrid's lower towing capacity of 3,500 pounds versus 5,000 pounds is the main trade-off.
Can I get all-wheel drive with the hybrid?
Yes, all-wheel drive is available on hybrid models across most trim levels. The hybrid is not offered on the base Sport trim in most markets, but EX, EX-L, and Touring trims can be ordered with either two-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Is the new infotainment system compatible with my phone?
Yes, the 2025 system supports both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can mirror your phone without a cable. USB-C ports are now standard for charging, though the system also includes a wireless charging pad on higher trims.
How much more does the hybrid cost than the gas version?
Honda typically prices the hybrid at a premium of $2,000 to $3,000 over the equivalent gas trim, though exact pricing varies by trim level and region. The fuel savings over time may offset this premium if you drive high annual mileage, but the payback period depends on gas prices and your driving patterns.