No. The Honda Passport uses a traditional 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT) paired with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, not a CVT.
Since its introduction for the 2019 model year, the Passport has been built as a midsize SUV with a conventional automatic gearbox. It shares its powertrain architecture with other Honda SUVs like the Pilot, but it does not employ a continuously variable transmission (CVT) like the CR-V or some smaller Honda models.
Transmission configuration in the Passport
The Passport’s drivetrain centers on a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT) with a torque converter. It is offered in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with paddle shifters available on higher trims to provide manual-like control.
Key specs at a glance
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic (9AT)
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard; all-wheel drive (AWD) available
- Gear features: 9 speeds with typical automatic shift; paddle shifters on certain trims
- Not a CVT
In summary, the Passport uses a conventional automatic gearbox rather than a CVT, offering stepped gear shifts and traditional torque-converter behavior that some buyers prefer for driving feel and towing performance.
Comparisons with other Honda models
Understanding how the Passport fits within Honda’s broader lineup helps clarify its transmission choice compared to its siblings.
How it stacks up within the lineup
- Honda CR-V: Typically uses a CVT, contrasting with the Passport’s 9AT
- Honda Pilot: Uses a 9-speed automatic (9AT) similar to the Passport
- Honda Ridgeline: Uses a 9-speed automatic (9AT)
- Smaller crossovers like the HR-V: Often use CVTs
Thus, the Passport aligns with Honda’s other larger models (Pilot and Ridgeline) that employ a traditional automatic, while some smaller models favor CVTs for efficiency.
Summary
For buyers evaluating transmissions, the Honda Passport offers a conventional 9-speed automatic (9AT) rather than a CVT, paired with a 3.5L V6 and available AWD. This setup provides familiar shift steps and strong towing capability, aligning the Passport with the Pilot and Ridgeline in Honda’s lineup, while distinguishing it from CVT-equipped models like the CR-V.