2023 Honda Passport: new speck and features

Overview

The 2023 Honda Passport is a steady and reliable SUV that offers plenty of good features without drawing too much attention to itself. With more than two dozen rivals competing in the mid-size SUV segment, the Passport doesn't stand out as a superstar. But its respectable all-around capabilities and lack of negatives make it one of the better options in this crowded and competitive class.

Standard features on the two-row Passport, based off the larger three-row Honda Pilot, include safety and driver-assistance tech. Along with a V6 engine, nine-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive, this car model is sure to get you where you need to go.

The Passport might not have the same excitement as some other cars on the market, but it more than makes up for it in power and performance. It can tow up to 5000 pounds and is a great option for families. If you like the Passport but need even more room, consider its cousin-model, the three-row Honda Pilot.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Found under the hood of the Passport is the same 280-hp 3.5-liter V-6 and nine=speed automatic transmission as in the Pilot. In our testing, we found it to be zippy with a comfortable ride on most roads--steering was pleasingly direct which gave it a nimble feel. It also has 8.1 inches or ground clearance, allowing you to get across rougher terrain without damaging the underside; however, this by no means makes it a serious off=roader competent enough for more difficult challenges. Though not ideal, it can tow up to 5000 pounds if needed.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Although the front-wheel drive configuration has been removed for the 2023 model year, we still expect it to have a single EPA rating. This is because the 2022 all-wheel drive models are identical in mechanics. The 2022 Passport was rated at 19 in city driving and 24 on the highway for a combined rating of 21 miles per gallon.

After driving the 2022 TrailSsport for a couple of weeks, we averaged 17 mpg. However, on our fuel-economy route which we use as part of our extensive testing regimen (75 mph), it increased to 23 mpg-- just 1 mpg short of its EPA highway rating. If you want to know more about the Passport's fuel economy and how it was tested, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The minute you enter the Honda Passport, you'll feel as though you've been here before. Why? Because its interior is identical to the Ridgeline's. Though not exciting or unique in any way, it's still attractive with nicelyorganized controls--even if we would prefer knobs and buttons over a touchscreen. Plus, the front seats are comfortable and roomy with an adjustable armrest for extra convenience.

There's plenty of space in the back seat for up to five people, and 41 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seat. Folding that row down unlocks 78 cubes of room. Interior cubby storage is great thanks to useful bins throughout the cabin and a huge center-console bin.