The 2024 Honda Passport is a midsize SUV built on a truck frame, designed for buyers who want off-road capability without the full size and fuel costs of a full-size truck
The Passport sits between Honda's CR-V (a car-based crossover) and the full-size Ridgeline truck. It uses the same frame as the Ridgeline but with a shorter wheelbase, a removable roof panel, and a more compact footprint. That frame-on-body construction means it handles rough terrain better than most crossovers, but it also rides firmer on highways and gets worse fuel economy than comparable car-based SUVs.
For 2024, Honda made no major changes to the Passport's structure or powertrain. The engine remains a 3.5-liter V6 producing 280 horsepower, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard. The main updates are interior refinements, a revised infotainment system, and new color options.
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 Passport costs between $47,000 and $55,000 depending on trim level and options, with all-wheel drive included as standard.
- Real-world fuel economy runs 19–21 mpg combined, which is lower than the CR-V but higher than full-size trucks, so budget accordingly for gas.
- The removable roof panel and standard all-wheel drive make it genuinely capable off-road, but that capability costs you comfort on daily commutes compared to crossovers.
- Resale value is strong because the Passport has a loyal owner base, but insurance and maintenance costs are higher than for car-based SUVs due to the truck frame.
- The main competitor is the Jeep Wrangler, which offers more off-road heritage but worse fuel economy and less interior space.
Pricing and trim levels for the 2024 model year
The 2024 Passport comes in four trims: Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring. Base prices start around $47,000 for the Sport and climb to roughly $55,000 for the Touring, though these figures vary by region and dealer. All trims include all-wheel drive, which is not an option you can remove to save money.
The Sport is the entry point and includes the essentials: the 3.5-liter V6, 9-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, a 5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Honda Sensing (Honda's suite of driver information features). The EX adds an 8-inch touchscreen, a power moonroof, and heated front seats. The EX-L brings leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Touring adds a panoramic sunroof, a 12-speaker audio system, and navigation.
Destination charges add roughly $1,200 to the final price. Dealer markups vary widely; in high-demand markets, you may pay $2,000 to $5,000 above MSRP, while in slower markets you may negotiate below it. Check multiple dealers and use resources like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book to see what others in your region paid.
Fuel economy and real-world running costs
The EPA rates the 2024 Passport at 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. Real-world numbers from owners typically fall between 19 and 21 mpg combined, depending on driving habits and terrain. If you spend time on rough roads or towing, expect the lower end of that range.
At current gas prices (which vary by region and time), budget roughly $1,800 to $2,200 per year for fuel if you drive 12,000 miles annually. That is higher than a CR-V (which averages 28–30 mpg combined) but lower than a full-size truck like the Ford F-150 (which averages 18–21 mpg). Insurance for the Passport runs $1,200 to $1,600 per year depending on your age, location, and driving record—higher than a CR-V but comparable to other midsize SUVs. Maintenance costs are moderate; Honda reliability is strong, and parts are widely available.
Off-road capability and daily driving trade-offs
The Passport's truck frame, standard all-wheel drive, and removable roof panel make it genuinely capable on unpaved roads, rocky terrain, and light trails. The approach angle (the steepness it can climb without scraping the front bumper) is 27.8 degrees, and the departure angle is 23.1 degrees—numbers that matter if you plan to drive over obstacles. Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, which is solid for an SUV.
That capability comes with a cost on paved roads. The Passport rides noticeably stiffer than a car-based crossover like the CR-V or Toyota Highlander. Road noise is higher, and the suspension transmits bumps more directly to your spine. If you spend 90 percent of your time on highways and city streets, a crossover will feel more comfortable. If you spend weekends on forest roads or in rough terrain, the Passport's trade-off makes sense.
Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds, which is adequate for a small trailer or jet ski but not for a full-size boat or horse trailer. The CR-V maxes out at 1,500 pounds, so if towing matters to you, the Passport is a meaningful step up.
Interior space and seating
The Passport seats five across two rows. Rear legroom is 38.3 inches, which is tight for adults on long drives but acceptable for children or occasional passengers. Cargo space behind the rear seats is 33.9 cubic feet; with the rear seats folded, you get 76.5 cubic feet. That is less than a full-size truck but more than a CR-V (39.3 cubic feet with seats folded).
The removable roof panel (standard on all trims) opens up the cabin and is genuinely useful if you spend time outdoors, but it is a two-person job to remove and store, and it is not something you will do on a whim. The interior materials are durable plastics and cloth or leather depending on trim; nothing feels premium, but nothing feels cheap either.
Comparing the Passport to other midsize SUVs
| Model | Base Price | EPA Combined MPG | Cargo Space (Seats Up) | Off-Road Capability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Honda Passport | ~$47,000 | 23 | 33.9 cu ft | Strong (truck frame, removable roof) |
| 2024 Honda CR-V | ~$33,000 | 28–30 | 39.3 cu ft | Minimal (car-based, no AWD option on base) |
| 2024 Jeep Wrangler | ~$38,000 | 18–21 | 31.7 cu ft | Excellent (truck frame, removable doors/roof) |
| 2024 Toyota 4Runner | ~$48,000 | 18–20 | 36.4 cu ft | Excellent (truck frame, body-on-frame) |
The CR-V is cheaper, more fuel-efficient, and better for daily driving, but it is not designed for serious off-road use. The Wrangler is more capable off-road and has stronger brand heritage for adventure, but it gets worse fuel economy and is noisier on highways. The 4Runner is a full-size alternative with more interior space and towing capacity, but it costs more and drinks gas at a similar rate to the Wrangler.
Choose the Passport if you want a balance: better off-road capability than a crossover, better fuel economy and comfort than a full-size truck, and a smaller footprint than either. Choose the CR-V if you rarely leave pavement and want lower costs. Choose the Wrangler if off-road adventure is your primary use case. Choose the 4Runner if you need maximum space and towing capacity.
Reliability, warranty, and resale value
Honda's reliability record is strong across its lineup, and the Passport benefits from a proven V6 engine and transmission. The truck frame is shared with the Ridgeline, which has been in production since 2006, so the underlying platform is well-tested. Most owners report few problems in the first five years.
The factory warranty covers the powertrain for 5 years or 60,000 miles, and the full vehicle for 3 years or 36,000 miles. That is standard for the industry but not exceptional; some competitors offer longer coverage. Extended warranties are available through Honda dealers and third-party providers; whether they make sense depends on your plans to keep the vehicle long-term.
Resale value is strong. Passport owners tend to keep their vehicles longer than average, and the used market is active. A 2021 Passport with 40,000 miles typically holds 60–65 percent of its original purchase price, which is above average for the segment. That strength reflects both the vehicle's durability and the loyalty of its owner base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2024 Passport have a third row of seats?
No. The Passport seats five across two rows only. If you need a third row, you will need to look at full-size SUVs like the 4Runner or Highlander, which will cost more and use more fuel.
Can I tow a trailer with the Passport?
Yes, up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That covers small utility trailers, jet skis, or a lightweight boat. For heavier loads, you will need a full-size truck. Check the owner's manual for the specific towing package requirements.
How much does the removable roof panel cost to replace if I lose it?
A replacement roof panel from Honda costs roughly $800 to $1,200 depending on your trim level and whether you buy it from a dealer or aftermarket supplier. It is not cheap, so store it carefully if you remove it.
Is the Passport better for off-roading than the CR-V?
Yes, significantly. The Passport has a truck frame, higher ground clearance, and a removable roof. The CR-V is car-based and designed for paved roads. If off-road use is important to you, the Passport is the right choice between the two.
What is the difference between the Passport and the Ridgeline truck?
The Ridgeline is a full-size truck with a bed for cargo and a longer wheelbase. The Passport is shorter, has an enclosed cargo area instead of a bed, and is easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Choose the Ridgeline if you need a truck bed; choose the Passport if you want truck capability in a more compact package.