The current Honda Passport uses a 9-speed automatic transmission, paired with Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 engine and available Real Time AWD.
Current-generation transmission details
In the modern Passport (introduced in 2019 and continuing today), the vehicle is equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and Honda offers Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System as an option on all-wheel-drive models. This setup is designed to balance smooth daily driving with capable low- to mid-range performance for light off-road use and towing.
What this means for driving experience
The 9-speed automatic provides more gears for improved highway efficiency and responsive acceleration, with shifts that aim to feel seamless for everyday driving. When equipped with AWD, the system can send power to the rear wheels as needed to maintain traction in variable conditions.
Historical context: earlier Passport generations
Honda’s Passport nameplate originally appeared from 1993 to 1998 as a badge-engineered version of the Isuzu Rodeo. Those early models used automatic transmissions, with some markets offering manual options on certain Rodeo configurations. In 2019, Honda revived the Passport with a modern unibody design and a contemporary drivetrain, including the 9-speed automatic in the current generation.
Notes on transmission options by generation
The modern Passport does not offer a manual transmission option; it relies on the 9-speed automatic. The original Passport era leaned on automatic transmissions, with manual options available in some Rodeo variants in specific markets, rather than a standardized Passport configuration.
Summary
Short answer: The Honda Passport currently uses a 9-speed automatic transmission, paired with a 3.5L V6 and available Real Time AWD. Across its generations, transmission configurations have varied: the modern model relies on the 9-speed automatic, while the original 1993–1998 Passport was based on the Isuzu Rodeo and offered automatic (and, in some markets, manual) options. For the exact setup on a specific model year and trim, consult the owner's manual or a Honda dealer.