The Honda Passport is powered by a single, robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers about 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the trim. This article breaks down the engine’s specifications and what they mean for performance and everyday use.
Engine type and specifications
Key specifications that define the Passport’s powertrain are listed below.
- Displacement: 3.5-liter V6
- Valvetrain: i-VTEC with variable cylinder management (VCM) on some trims
- Horsepower: approximately 280 hp
- Torque: approximately 262 lb-ft
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) depending on trim
Note: This engine is shared with Honda’s Pilot, tuned for a balance of everyday usability and capable acceleration in the Passport’s mid-size SUV footprint.
In daily driving, the V6’s torque helps with confident passing and highway merging, while the available AWD system provides extra traction in poor weather or light off-road conditions.
Technology and driving dynamics
Beyond the raw numbers, Honda equips the Passport’s engine with modern tech to improve efficiency and responsiveness. The i-VTEC system optimizes valve timing for power at higher loads and efficiency at lighter loads, and VCM (cylinder deactivation) is available on some trims to reduce fuel consumption during steady cruising. The 9-speed automatic transmission is tuned for smooth shifts and responsive performance, complementing the engine’s broad torque curve. AWD variants are designed to enhance traction on slippery surfaces and light-duty off-road use.
What this means for buyers
For most buyers, the Passport’s engine delivers strong, dependable performance for daily driving, family trips, and highway overtaking, with the benefit of available all-wheel drive for challenging weather or terrain. There is no alternative turbocharged or hybrid engine option in current models; the 3.5-liter V6 remains the sole engine choice across trims.
Summary
Bottom line: the Honda Passport runs on a 3.5-liter V6 with about 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and available in either FWD or AWD. This setup provides strong mid-range power, confident highway performance, and versatility for weather and light off-road conditions, making it a steady pick in the midsize SUV segment.