No. The Honda Passport is not offered with a manual transmission; it uses a 9-speed automatic (9AT) paired to a 3.5-liter V6 engine.
Transmission basics
Key facts about the Passport’s drivetrain and how it’s specified for buyers.
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic (9AT); no manual option exists for any trim.
- Engine: 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 producing around 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available on most trims.
- Configuration: The 9AT is shared across Passport trims, and no manual variant is offered in the current lineup.
In short, buyers looking for a manual Passport will not find one; the model remains an automatic-only SUV with optional AWD for family, commuting, and light off‑roading needs.
Why there is no manual option
Several market and engineering factors help explain Honda’s decision to skip a manual in the Passport lineup.
- Market demand: Manuals are uncommon in mainstream midsize SUVs, especially for consumers prioritizing ease of use and versatility.
- Efficiency and packaging: Automatic transmissions, particularly modern multi-speed units, offer better overall efficiency and smoother operation in an SUV platform.
- Development costs: Adding a manual option would require additional engineering, certification, and production adjustments across AWD configurations.
- Platform alignment: The Passport shares architecture with the Pilot; Honda has standardized on automatic transmissions within this family for reliability and resale value.
For buyers who specifically want a manual, the Passport’s current stance means turning to non-SUV Honda models or performance-oriented Civics rather than a Passport. Honda’s lineup still offers manual options in the Civic family and performance variants like the Civic Si and Type R, but those are not SUVs.
Manual options in Honda’s lineup (for reference)
If a manual is a priority, prospective buyers can consider Honda models that still offer manual transmissions, though none are SUVs.
- Honda Civic (6-speed manual) – available on several trims, providing a traditional manual driving experience.
- Honda Civic Si (6-speed manual) – sportier, performance-oriented variant with a manual gearbox.
- Honda Civic Type R (6-speed manual) – high-performance model with a racing-focused manual transmission.
These options exist outside the Passport’s SUV category. If you specifically want a manual transmission in an SUV, Honda currently does not offer one in its SUV lineup as of 2024–2026.
Additional context
Automotive trends have shifted toward automatic transmissions in the SUV segment due to convenience, efficiency, and safety considerations. While enthusiasts may prefer a manual for engagement, the Passport’s design and market positioning prioritize practicality and everyday usability in all conditions.
Summary
The Honda Passport does not come with a manual transmission. It is equipped exclusively with a 9-speed automatic paired to a 3.5L V6, with optional AWD. If you specifically want a manual Honda, you’ll find options in the Civic lineup rather than in Honda’s current SUV offerings.