Yes. The Honda Passport is a solid, well-rounded midsize SUV that combines strong V6 power, substantial cargo space, and reliable practicality. It offers a comfortable ride and solid safety features, though it trades some off-road capability and third-row seating for its two-row, family-friendly design.
In this article, we take a closer look at what makes the Passport appealing for everyday driving, who it suits best, and where it may fall short compared with rivals. We’ll cover performance and practicality, interior comfort, safety and technology, and ownership considerations.
Performance and practicality
Below are the key strengths and limitations of the Passport’s power, towing ability, and interior layout.
Powertrain and towing
- 3.5-liter V6 engine producing around 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
- Standard or available all-wheel drive, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
- Maximum towing capacity typically around 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Strong on-road acceleration for a midsize SUV, with smooth power delivery for highway merging and passing.
The Passport prioritizes steady, confident highway and city driving rather than rugged performance. Its V6 offers ample power for most needs, and the available AWD helps with traction in rain or light snow.
Interior space and everyday practicality
- Two rows of seating for five, with ample front-seat comfort.
- Generous cargo capacity—roughly 50 cubic feet behind the rear seats and about 100 cubic feet with seats folded (numbers vary by model year and configuration).
- User-friendly cargo area and wide opening for easy loading tall items like bikes or luggage.
- Quiet cabin with supportive seats for long drives.
The Passport shines as a practical family SUV, offering plentiful cargo space and a comfortable interior without the extra (and often less efficient) third row found in some competitors.
Safety, reliability, and value
Safety features, ride quality, and ownership costs are central to evaluating any vehicle. Here’s how the Passport stacks up.
- Honda Sensing suite (forward collision warning with braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control) is standard on most trims.
- Strong safety ratings from major agencies (IIHS and NHTSA) in recent model years, with ongoing updates to equipment and ratings as new tests are released.
- Proven Honda reliability history, with low expected maintenance costs relative to many peers.
- Competitive resale value and a price point that positions the Passport as a value-conscious choice in the midsize SUV segment.
In short, the Passport is a sensible buy for buyers who want a dependable, well-equipped SUV with good cargo capacity and a capable powertrain, along with strong safety features. It sits comfortably between more budget-focused crossovers and more rugged, off-road-oriented models.
Which buyers should consider a Passport?
The Passport is particularly well-suited for families and individuals who prioritize cargo space, comfortable daily driving, and straightforward maintenance, while not needing a third row. It competes with two-row rivals and sits near the Pilot in many respects, but at a lower price point and with a more compact footprint.
Considerations and trade-offs
- Not a dedicated off-road vehicle; ground clearance and suspension aren’t tuned for serious rock crawling like some competitors.
- No third-row seating, which may be a drawback for households needing extra passenger capacity.
- Fuel economy is solid for a V6 two-row SUV but lags behind some four-cylinder rivals.
- Standard features and safety tech make it a strong value, especially in mid-level trims.
For buyers who value interior space, a robust V6, and a comfortable ride without stepping up to a larger or more rugged SUV, the Passport stands out as a compelling option.
Summary
The Honda Passport offers a well-rounded package: strong power, substantial cargo space, and a reputation for reliability and safety. It excels as a practical family SUV with a comfortable ride and good everyday usability, while trading off some off-road ability and third-row practicality. If you prioritize interior room, straightforward ownership costs, and Honda-grade reliability, the Passport is a strong contender in the midsize two-row segment.
Bottom line
Overall, the Honda Passport is a good vehicle choice for many buyers, especially those who want a capable, comfortable, and dependable two-row SUV with ample cargo space and strong safety features. As with any purchase, test-driving across your typical uses and comparing with rivals like the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Telluride will help you confirm if it best fits your needs.