Best Honda Passport Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

1. 2024 Honda Passport TrailSport

The 2024 TrailSport ranks first because it is the most capable and refined Passport ever offered, combining the 3.5L V6 with standard i-VTM4 torque-vectoring all-wheel drive. It adds all-terrain tires, a retuned suspension, steel skid plates, and unique styling, with towing rated at 5,000 pounds. The cabin includes leather upholstery, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the full Honda Sensing suite. This is the benchmark for the nameplate in 2027.

This pick is for buyers who want maximum off-road readiness and the latest technology without sacrificing daily comfort. It trades away the lower used price of older models, costing significantly more than a 2023 EX-L. Compared to the 2023 TrailSport below, the 2024 benefits from a longer remaining factory warranty and the most refined suspension tuning. It is the best overall choice for those who prioritize capability and peace of mind.

2. 2023 Honda Passport EX-L

The 2023 EX-L ranks second because it delivers the post-refresh styling and standard all-wheel drive with the proven 3.5L V6, at a more accessible used price than the 2024 TrailSport. It includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, wireless smartphone integration, and Honda Sensing, with the same 5,000-pound towing capacity. This year benefits from a well-sorted drivetrain and strong crash scores from IIHS. It is a reliable, feature-complete package without the off-road premium.

This is the sweet spot for buyers who want a modern-looking Passport with standard AWD and full V6 capability, but do not need trail-focused hardware. It trades away the TrailSport's all-terrain tires and skid plates, saving thousands in the used market. Compared to the 2021 EX-L ranked third, it offers fresher styling and a wider track for better stability. It is the practical mainstream choice for most families.

3. 2021 Honda Passport EX-L

The 2021 EX-L ranks third as the best value pick, offering the same 3.5L V6, 9-speed automatic, and available i-VTM4 AWD as newer models, plus leather, heated seats, a power liftgate, and Honda Sensing. Because it predates the 2022 refresh, clean examples sell well below comparable two-row SUVs, often $4,000 to $6,000 less than a 2022 model. It delivers the full Passport experience—V6 power, AWD, leather, and 5,000-pound towing—at a strong discount.

This is for value-conscious shoppers who want the complete Passport formula without paying for updated styling. It trades away the refreshed look and wider track of the 2022 model, but retains the identical drivetrain and interior space. Compared to the 2023 EX-L above, it lacks the standard AWD on all trims, but the available AWD system is the same. It is the smartest purchase for maximizing features per dollar.

4. 2022 Honda Passport EX-L

The 2022 EX-L ranks fourth because it introduced the major refresh with new front and rear styling, a wider track, and standard all-wheel drive across the U.S. lineup. It pairs the 3.5L V6 with leather upholstery, heated seats, and Honda Sensing, delivering improved stability from the wider stance. As the first year of the modern look, it offers updated aesthetics at a lower used price than 2023 or 2024 models.

This is for buyers who want the refreshed design but are willing to accept a slightly older model to save money. It trades away the refinements and longer warranty of the 2023 EX-L, but the mechanicals are identical. Compared to the 2021 EX-L ranked third, it costs more but adds standard AWD and a more contemporary exterior. It is a balanced choice for those who value looks and capability equally.

5. 2024 Honda Passport EX-L

The 2024 EX-L ranks fifth because it offers the latest year's refinement and the longest remaining factory warranty among non-TrailSport trims, with the 3.5L V6 and standard AWD. It includes leather upholstery, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and the full Honda Sensing suite, towing up to 5,000 pounds. For buyers who want a recent, well-equipped Passport for mostly on-road use, this is the practical choice. It is the newest mainstream trim without the off-road premium.

This is for buyers who prioritize having the newest model and warranty coverage over saving money. It trades away the TrailSport's all-terrain tires and skid plates, which most owners never use. Compared to the 2023 EX-L ranked second, it is nearly identical but costs more due to its newer model year. It is the right pick for those who plan to keep the vehicle long-term and want maximum peace of mind.

6. 2023 Honda Passport TrailSport

The 2023 TrailSport ranks sixth because it introduced the rugged-look trim with all-terrain tires, unique styling, and orange interior accents over the standard 3.5L V6 and AWD. It brings added trail appeal and a distinctive appearance at a lower price than the 2024 version, with the same 5,000-pound towing capacity. The drivetrain and Honda Sensing suite are unchanged from other trims, ensuring reliability. It is the first TrailSport to offer genuine off-road flair.

This is for buyers who want the TrailSport's look and light trail capability without paying the 2024 premium. It trades away the retuned suspension and steel skid plates of the 2024 model, which are only useful in serious off-road use. Compared to the 2023 EX-L ranked second, it costs more but adds all-terrain tires and a more aggressive stance. It is a style-forward choice for weekend adventurers.

7. 2020 Honda Passport EX-L

The 2020 EX-L ranks seventh because it is a well-equipped pre-refresh car offering the 3.5L V6, available AWD, leather, heated seats, and Honda Sensing at a low used price. As the second model year, it benefited from minor sorting over the launch car, with solid reliability and crash scores. It tows 5,000 pounds and provides the same space and drivetrain as newer models. Buyers should confirm early 9-speed software updates were applied.

This is for budget-minded buyers who want a loaded Passport with leather and AWD without the post-refresh price tag. It trades away the updated styling and wider track of 2022 models, but the mechanicals are identical. Compared to the 2021 EX-L ranked third, it is slightly older and may have more miles, but costs less. It is a dependable choice for those who prioritize value over aesthetics.

8. 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport

The 2022 TrailSport ranks eighth because it debuted alongside the refresh as a more appearance-focused trim, adding unique exterior styling and a wider track with the standard 3.5L V6 and AWD. It bridges the gap between standard cars and the more capable later TrailSports, offering a sportier flavor at a moderate price. It includes the full Honda Sensing suite and tows 5,000 pounds. This is the first TrailSport, but it lacks the all-terrain tires of later versions.

This is for buyers who want the refreshed look with a rugged appearance but do not need genuine off-road hardware. It trades away the all-terrain tires and retuned suspension of the 2023 TrailSport, which are significant for trail use. Compared to the 2022 EX-L ranked fourth, it adds styling flair but costs more. It is a niche pick for those who value looks over function.

9. 2019 Honda Passport EX-L

The 2019 EX-L ranks ninth because it was the launch trim for the reborn Passport, offering the 3.5L V6 with 280 horsepower, available i-VTM4 AWD, leather, and Honda Sensing. As the oldest modern Passport, clean examples are the cheapest entry into the V6, two-row formula. The main caveats are pre-refresh styling and the need to verify early 9-speed software updates and open recalls.

This is for buyers who want the lowest possible price for a V6 Passport and are willing to accept launch-year quirks. It trades away the refinements of later years, including transmission software improvements and infotainment fixes. Compared to the 2020 EX-L ranked seventh, it is the same mechanically but may have more early-production issues. It is a viable budget pick, but requires careful inspection before purchase.

10. 2020 Honda Passport Sport

The 2020 Sport ranks tenth because it is the affordable base trim, delivering the same 3.5L V6, available AWD, and standard Honda Sensing in a less-equipped package without leather. It is the value-minded pick for buyers who want the Passport's space, V6 power, and 5,000-pound towing at the lowest price, accepting cloth seats and fewer luxuries. Reliability is the same as pricier trims, making it a sound mechanical choice.

This is for buyers who prioritize function over comfort and want the full V6 and towing capability for the least money. It trades away leather, heated seats, and a power liftgate, which are standard on higher trims. Compared to the 2020 EX-L ranked seventh, it saves thousands but loses premium features. It is the entry point for those who need a capable two-row SUV on a tight budget.

How we ranked these

We ranked Passport model years by weighting six criteria: reliability and recall history (30%), value versus used price (25%), capability and towing (15%), interior space and features (15%), safety scores (10%), and fuel economy (5%). Data came from NHTSA recall records, Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and IIHS crash tests. All years share the same 3.5L V6 and 9-speed automatic, so differences hinge on the 2022 refresh and TrailSport hardware.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and dealer-specific pricing variations. We also excluded aftermarket modifications and non-factory accessories, as these vary widely and are not consistent across listings. Resale value projections beyond 2027 were not considered, since market conditions shift. Our focus stayed on objective, verifiable data that directly impacts ownership satisfaction and long-term dependability.

What to look for

When choosing between Passport years, prioritize the 2022 refresh if you want standard AWD and updated styling, but know that pre-refresh 2021 models offer the same V6, towing, and reliability for thousands less. Decide between TrailSport for off-road flair or EX-L for comfort and value. Verify early 9-speed software updates and check the VIN against NHTSA for open recalls before purchasing any used unit.

The biggest mistake buyers make is overpaying for a 2024 TrailSport when a 2021 EX-L delivers the same drivetrain, 5,000-lb towing, leather, and Honda Sensing at a significant discount. Another common error is ignoring fuel economy—expect around 20 mpg combined, which adds up. Also, don't buy a Passport if you need a third row; the Pilot is the better choice for that.

Related questions

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What are the best Honda Crosstour model years?

The Honda Crosstour, produced from 2010 to 2015, is best in its final years, 2014 and 2015. These models received a significant refresh with updated styling and a more powerful V6 option. The 2015 model, in particular, offers the most refined ride, better infotainment, and improved build quality compared to earlier years.

What are the best Honda S2000 model years?

The Honda S2000, built from 2000 to 2009, is best in its later years, especially 2006-2009. These models feature a larger 2.2L engine (in non-US markets) or the revised 2.0L with improved torque, plus updated suspension and interior. The 2008 and 2009 models are the most refined, with better stability and fewer early-production issues.

FAQ

What is the most reliable Honda Passport model year?

The 2021 and 2022 model years are widely considered the most reliable, as they benefit from years of refinement on the same 3.5L V6 and 9-speed transmission. Owners report fewer early-production issues compared to the 2019 and 2020 models, though no year has widespread major problems.

Is the Honda Passport good for off-roading?

The Passport TrailSport trim, introduced in 2022 and refined for 2024, offers the best off-road capability with standard i-VTM4 all-wheel drive, increased ground clearance, and all-terrain tires. It excels on gravel, light trails, and snowy roads rather than rock crawling.

Which Passport year should I avoid?

The 2019 model year is the least recommended due to early-production teething issues, including occasional transmission hesitation and infotainment glitches. Later years have fewer complaints and more refined software.

How much does a used Honda Passport cost in 2027?

A 2019–2021 Passport typically sells between $22,000 and $30,000 depending on mileage and trim, while 2022–2024 models range from $28,000 to $38,000. TrailSport and Elite trims command higher prices, often $5,000–$8,000 above base models.

Does the Honda Passport have good towing capacity?

Yes, all Passport models with the 3.5L V6 can tow up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped, which is strong for a midsize two-row SUV. The 2022 refresh did not change this rating, so any year from 2019 onward offers the same towing ability.

What is the best value Honda Passport trim?

The 2021 EX-L offers the best balance of features and price, with leather seats, a power liftgate, and available all-wheel drive at a used price often $4,000–$6,000 less than a comparable 2022 model. It lacks the updated styling but retains the same reliable drivetrain.

What is the fuel economy of the Honda Passport?

The Honda Passport with the 3.5L V6 and 9-speed automatic achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg combined (19 city/24 highway) for AWD models. Front-wheel-drive versions are slightly better at 21 mpg combined. Real-world driving may vary, especially with heavy loads or towing.

Does the Honda Passport have a third row?

No, the Honda Passport is a two-row, five-seat SUV. It is designed for buyers who want ample cargo space and a more planted feel without the third row. If you need seating for seven, the Honda Pilot is the closely related alternative with similar drivetrain and towing capability.

What are the main differences between the 2021 and 2022 Passport?

The 2022 model received a major refresh with new front and rear styling, a wider track, and standard all-wheel drive across the U.S. lineup. The 2021 model retains the pre-refresh look but offers the same 3.5L V6, 5,000-lb towing, and available i-VTM4 AWD, often at a lower used price.

Sources

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Passport
• https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
• https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/passport/
• https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/honda/passport-4-door-suv
• https://www.jdpower.com/cars/honda/passport
• https://automobiles.honda.com/passport
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov/

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