Honda

Are Honda Passports Any Good? Market Feedback Trends

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The Honda Passport. It's a name that evokes memories of a rugged, boxy SUV from the 90s, and now, a more modern, refined, and mid-size offering. But is the current generation Passport any good? More importantly, is it the right SUV for you? We're diving deep into market feedback trends to give you the straight scoop on what owners and experts are saying about this popular vehicle. We'll be covering everything from reliability and performance to comfort and value, so you can make an informed decision.

Remembering the Past: How the Passport Evolved

The original Honda Passport, sold from 1993 to 2002, was actually a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo. It was a body-on-frame SUV, built for off-road adventures and tough conditions. While it had its fans, it wasn't exactly known for Honda-level refinement. Fast forward to 2019, and Honda resurrected the Passport name, but this time, it was a different beast altogether. The modern Passport is a unibody SUV, sharing its platform with the Pilot and Ridgeline.

Why the change? The market shifted. People wanted SUVs that were comfortable, fuel-efficient, and capable enough for everyday driving, with occasional off-road excursions. The new Passport aimed to fill that niche perfectly.

What Owners are Raving About (and Complaining About)

Let's get into the real meat of the matter: what are real-world owners saying about their Honda Passports? We've scoured online forums, owner reviews, and surveys to bring you a comprehensive overview.

The Good Stuff:

  • Spaciousness: This is consistently cited as a major plus. The Passport offers ample room for passengers and cargo, especially in the rear. Perfect for families, road trips, and hauling gear. Many owners specifically mention the generous legroom in the second row.
  • Powerful Engine: The 3.5-liter V6 engine is a workhorse. It provides plenty of power for acceleration, passing, and towing (up to 5,000 lbs with the AWD model). Owners appreciate the smooth and responsive performance.
  • Comfortable Ride: The Passport delivers a comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections well, making it a pleasant vehicle for long drives.
  • Honda Reliability (Mostly): Honda has a strong reputation for reliability, and the Passport generally lives up to that. While there have been some reported issues (more on that later), the overall consensus is that it's a dependable vehicle.
  • Off-Road Capability (For What It Is): While not a dedicated off-roader like a Jeep Wrangler, the Passport's available all-wheel-drive system and decent ground clearance make it capable enough for light to moderate off-road trails. The "Intelligent Traction Management" system with modes for snow, mud, and sand is a helpful feature.

The Not-So-Good Stuff:

  • Fuel Economy: While the V6 engine is powerful, it's not the most fuel-efficient. Owners report that the real-world fuel economy often falls short of the EPA estimates, especially in city driving.
  • Infotainment System: This is a common complaint. The infotainment system in earlier models (pre-2023) was often criticized for being clunky, slow to respond, and lacking features. Honda has addressed this in later models with a redesigned system, but it's still a potential sticking point for some buyers.
  • Some Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, including rough shifting and occasional hesitation. This seems to be more prevalent in earlier model years.
  • Road Noise: While the ride is comfortable, some owners find the road noise to be excessive, especially at highway speeds. This can be a factor on long trips.
  • Price: The Passport can be a bit pricey, especially when compared to some of its competitors. Depending on the trim level and options, it can quickly climb into the higher end of the mid-size SUV segment.

Digging Deeper: Common Problems and Reliability Concerns

While the Passport generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability, it's important to be aware of some potential issues. Here's a closer look at some of the more common problems reported by owners:

  • 9-Speed Transmission Issues: As mentioned earlier, the 9-speed automatic transmission can be a source of frustration for some owners. Symptoms can include rough shifting, hesitation, and even complete transmission failure in rare cases. It's crucial to have the transmission properly maintained and to address any unusual symptoms promptly.
  • Infotainment System Glitches: The older infotainment system (pre-2023) was prone to glitches, including freezing, crashing, and connectivity problems. While software updates have addressed some of these issues, it can still be a source of annoyance.
  • Battery Drain: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven regularly. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty battery, a parasitic drain, or leaving accessories on.
  • Paint Issues: A few owners have reported issues with the paint, including chipping and peeling. This seems to be more common in certain colors.

What to do about it?

  • Check the Vehicle History Report: Before buying a used Passport, always check the vehicle history report for any reported accidents, maintenance records, and recalls.
  • Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before you buy it. This can help you identify any potential problems that may not be obvious.
  • Research Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any recalls or TSBs that apply to the Passport. These documents provide information about known problems and how to fix them.

How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition?

The mid-size SUV segment is crowded, with plenty of excellent options to choose from. Here's how the Honda Passport stacks up against some of its key competitors:

  • Toyota 4Runner: The 4Runner is a more rugged and off-road-focused SUV than the Passport. It has a body-on-frame construction and a more robust four-wheel-drive system. However, it's less refined and comfortable than the Passport. Verdict: If off-roading is your top priority, the 4Runner is a better choice.
  • Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Grand Cherokee offers a blend of luxury, capability, and technology. It's available with a variety of engines, including a V8, and offers impressive off-road performance. However, it can be more expensive than the Passport. Verdict: If you want a more luxurious and capable SUV, the Grand Cherokee is worth considering.
  • Ford Edge: The Edge is a stylish and comfortable SUV that offers a good balance of features and value. It's available with a turbocharged engine and offers a sporty driving experience. However, it's not as spacious as the Passport. Verdict: If you prioritize style and driving dynamics, the Edge is a good alternative.
  • Hyundai Santa Fe/Kia Sorento: These Korean SUVs offer excellent value for money, with a long list of features and a competitive price. They're also backed by a long warranty. However, they may not be as refined or reliable as the Passport. Verdict: If you're on a budget, the Santa Fe or Sorento are worth checking out.
  • Nissan Murano: The Murano prioritizes comfort and style over off-road capability. It boasts a premium interior and a smooth ride, but its cargo space is limited compared to the Passport. Verdict: If a luxurious interior and comfortable ride are your main priorities, the Murano could be a good fit.

Trim Levels and Key Features: Which Passport is Right for You?

The Honda Passport is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and equipment. Here's a quick overview:

  • EX-L: This is the base trim, but it's still well-equipped. Standard features include leather seats, a power moonroof, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.
  • TrailSport: This trim is designed for those who want a more rugged look and some added off-road capability. It features unique styling cues, all-wheel drive standard, and a slightly raised suspension.
  • Elite: This is the top-of-the-line trim, offering all the bells and whistles. It includes features like heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a hands-free power tailgate.

Which trim is the best value? For most buyers, the EX-L trim offers the best balance of features and value. It includes all the essentials, plus some nice-to-haves, without breaking the bank.

Important Note: The infotainment system was significantly upgraded in the 2023 model year. If a modern and responsive infotainment system is important to you, look for a 2023 or newer Passport.

Is the Honda Passport a Good Used Car?

Absolutely! A used Honda Passport can be a great value, especially if you're looking for a spacious and reliable SUV. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Check the model year: As mentioned earlier, the infotainment system was upgraded in 2023. If this is important to you, make sure you're looking at a 2023 or newer model.
  • Consider the mileage: Lower mileage is always better, but don't be afraid of a Passport with higher mileage if it's been well-maintained.
  • Get a pre-purchase inspection: This is crucial to identify any potential problems before you buy.
  • Negotiate the price: Don't be afraid to negotiate the price, especially if you find any issues during the inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is the Honda Passport good in snow? Yes, the Passport's available all-wheel-drive system and snow mode make it capable in snowy conditions.
  • What is the towing capacity of the Honda Passport? The Passport can tow up to 5,000 lbs with the AWD model.
  • Does the Honda Passport have a third row? No, the Passport is a two-row SUV.
  • What is the gas mileage of the Honda Passport? The EPA estimates are around 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, but real-world mileage may vary.
  • Is the Honda Passport reliable? Generally, yes. Honda has a good reputation for reliability, and the Passport is typically a dependable vehicle.

The Bottom Line

So, are Honda Passports any good? The answer is a resounding yes, with a few caveats. The Passport excels in spaciousness, power, and comfort, making it a great choice for families and road trips. While there are some potential issues to be aware of, particularly with the transmission and older infotainment systems, overall reliability is generally good. Be sure to do your research, get a pre-purchase inspection, and choose the trim level that best suits your needs. With proper care and maintenance, a Honda Passport can provide years of reliable service.