The Passport and Pilot share Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 engine from the company’s J-series family, paired with a 9‑speed automatic transmission, delivering similar overall power. In current configurations, both SUVs use the same core engine architecture and offer available all-wheel drive.
Beyond the engine itself, the two SUVs cater to different buyers: the Passport is a two‑row, more ruggedly styled model geared toward versatility and light off‑roading, while the Pilot is a three‑row family hauler with a larger footprint. While the engine is the same family and typically delivers comparable output, tuning, weight, and trim choices can cause noticeable differences in performance, towing, and fuel economy between the two.
Shared powertrain foundation
Core specs common to Passport and Pilot
Here are the engine and transmission elements that Honda uses across both models in recent years.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 i-VTEC (part of Honda’s J-series family)
- Displacement: approximately 3.5 L
- Horsepower: around 280 hp
- Torque: around 262 lb-ft
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Drivetrain options: available front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
In practice, the two SUVs share the same basic powerplant and transmission, with tuning aimed at meeting each model’s design goals. The engine’s fundamental design and outputs have been stable across model years, ensuring similar driving character between Passport and Pilot when configured similarly.
Engine tuning and model differences
How the two models diverge beyond the engine itself
Even with the same engine block, calibration and vehicle structure influence how the engine feels in daily driving. The Passport’s lighter, two‑row design and, in certain trims, off‑road bias, can yield different throttle response, feel, and towing behavior compared with the Pilot’s heavier, three‑row configuration.
- Passport vs Pilot: weight and aerodynamics can shift perceived acceleration and efficiency, even if horsepower and torque numbers are similar
- Trim-specific tuning: some trims emphasize smoother highway cruising, while others aim for stronger low- and mid-range performance for towing or off‑road use
- Drivetrain interplay: AWD availability exists on both, but the overall dynamics (weight distribution, tire sizes, suspension tuning) affect real-world performance
Overall, Honda does not use a different engine family for the Passport versus the Pilot; the main differences come from calibration, vehicle weight, seating layout, and intended use. For buyers, this means you’ll generally get a familiar V6 feel in either model, with more or less the same peak power and torque, but the driving experience can vary based on trim and configuration.
Other considerations
Reliability and maintenance profiles for Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 have been well established over many years. Some owners note the active cylinder deactivation system (when enabled) can be audible or noticeable at light loads, but this is a common trait across modern V6 engines designed to improve efficiency. Regular maintenance — including spark plugs, oil changes with the correct viscosity, and transmission service per Honda’s schedule — helps keep the shared engine performing consistently in both models.
Summary
In short, yes—the Honda Passport and Pilot use the same 3.5-liter V6 i-VTEC engine family and a 9-speed automatic transmission, with AWD available on both. The core powertrain is shared, but the two vehicles are tuned for different roles: the Passport emphasizes a lighter, two‑row layout and potential off‑road capability, while the Pilot offers three rows of seating and a highway‑focused balance. Prospective buyers should consider trim-specific tuning, weight, and seating needs when evaluating the two models.
Which one is better, Honda Passport or Honda Pilot?
The Passport earned our 10Best Trucks award and Editors' Choice, with a 10/10 rating; the Pilot holds an 8.5/10 rating. Front-wheel-drive Pilot models achieve 27 mpg highway, while all-wheel-drive versions rate 23–25 mpg highway; the Passport rates 25 mpg highway (RTL) or 23 mpg highway (TrailSport).
Why is a Passport more expensive than a Pilot?
The Honda Passport and Honda Pilot cater to different needs and preferences. The Pilot is larger, has a third row of seats, and is better suited for off-roading. The Passport is sportier, has a more refined interior, and is generally more expensive. Choose the Pilot for more space, or the Passport for a sportier ride.
Do the Pilot and Passport have the same engine?
Like the Passport, the Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6, generating 262 pound-feet of torque plus 285 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard on the Pilot, giving this three-row family SUV a tow rating of 3,500 pounds.
What is the most common problem with a Honda Passport?
Top Honda Passport Problems
- Failed O-rings Can Cause Accumulator Cover to Leak on Automatic Transmissions.
- Check Engine Light and Erratic Fuel Gauge Operation.
- Rear Hatch Won't Open Due to Broken Hatch Button.
- Varnish buildup in engine may cause ticking noise.
- Vibration at Highway Speed Due to Various Issues.