The 2000 Honda Passport: Engine, Trim Levels, and Standard Features

The 2000 Honda Passport is a mid-size sport utility vehicle built on the Isuzu Rodeo platform. It came with a single engine option: a 3.2-liter V6 that produced 215 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque. This engine paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic, depending on the model you chose.

Honda offered the 2000 Passport in three trim levels: the base EX, the mid-level LX, and the top-tier SE. All models came standard with four-wheel drive, a feature that set the Passport apart from some competitors at the time. The vehicle seated five passengers and had a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Standard features across all trims included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a cassette player with AM/FM radio. The EX trim added cruise control and a roof rack. The LX added leather upholstery and heated front seats. The SE included all previous features plus a power sunroof, alloy wheels, and an upgraded sound system.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2000 Passport uses a 3.2-liter V6 engine with 215 horsepower and can be paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
  • All 2000 Passport models came standard with four-wheel drive, which affects fuel economy and maintenance compared to two-wheel-drive alternatives.
  • Three trim levels were available—EX, LX, and SE—with each adding comfort and convenience features but not changing the engine or drivetrain.
  • The Passport had a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for small trailers and boats but not heavy-duty hauling.
  • Interior features ranged from basic power accessories on the EX to leather seats and a sunroof on the SE, but all models used the same cassette-based audio system.

Fuel Economy and Real-World Performance

The 2000 Passport with the automatic transmission achieved approximately 16 to 18 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving. The manual transmission version was slightly more efficient, typically returning 17 to 19 miles per gallon. These figures assume normal driving conditions and regular maintenance. Four-wheel drive systems consume more fuel than two-wheel drive, so actual mileage varied based on how often drivers engaged the transfer case.

The V6 engine was known for reliable performance in this generation, though it was not particularly quick by modern standards. Acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour took roughly 9 to 10 seconds depending on transmission type. The Passport handled highway driving smoothly but had a higher center of gravity than car-based vehicles, which affected cornering feel on winding roads.

Interior Space and Cargo Capacity

The 2000 Passport offered 37.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded, that expanded to 74.4 cubic feet. This made it practical for camping gear, sports equipment, or household items, though it was smaller than full-size SUVs of the era. The rear liftgate opened upward, and the cargo floor sat relatively high off the ground, which affected how easily you could load heavy items.

The cabin had decent legroom for front passengers but rear legroom was moderate—adequate for children or shorter adults on longer trips, but not spacious for five full-sized adults on a cross-country drive. The rear bench seat could fold flat to create a nearly level cargo floor, which was useful for moving larger items.

Maintenance and Reliability Considerations

The 3.2-liter V6 engine in the 2000 Passport was derived from Isuzu's engine family and had a solid reputation for durability. Regular oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on driving conditions, were the primary maintenance requirement. The automatic transmission was generally reliable, though some owners reported issues with the transfer case on four-wheel-drive models if they were not maintained properly.

Common wear items included brake pads, which typically lasted 40,000 to 60,000 miles, and the serpentine belt, which Honda recommended replacing around 105,000 miles. The cooling system should be flushed every 30,000 miles to prevent corrosion. Spark plugs lasted approximately 30,000 miles. If you are considering a used 2000 Passport, have a mechanic inspect the transmission fluid condition and the four-wheel-drive system before purchase.

Safety Features and Crash Test History

The 2000 Passport came standard with dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes on all models. It did not have side-impact airbags, electronic stability control, or backup cameras—features that became standard on newer vehicles. The vehicle had a higher rollover risk than car-based vehicles due to its SUV design, which was a known concern for this class of vehicle in 2000.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted crash tests on the Passport. Results showed moderate protection in frontal crashes but lower ratings in side-impact tests compared to vehicles tested under later standards. Seat belt use and proper child seat installation were especially important in this model, as the vehicle lacked modern safety technology.

Differences Between Manual and Automatic Transmissions

The five-speed manual transmission offered slightly better fuel economy and lower maintenance costs over the vehicle's lifetime. Manual transmissions had fewer complex components and were generally less expensive to repair if problems arose. However, they required driver engagement and were less convenient in stop-and-go traffic.

The four-speed automatic transmission was smoother and easier to operate, particularly in city driving. It shifted more slowly than modern automatics, which some drivers found less responsive. The automatic was the more popular choice among buyers and may be easier to find in the used market. Both transmissions were durable, but the manual required a driver who understood clutch operation and gear selection.

Comparing the 2000 Passport to Its Competitors

The 2000 Passport competed directly with the Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Explorer, and Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Blazer offered similar size and price but had less interior refinement. The Explorer was larger and more popular but had a higher rollover rate in early testing. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offered more off-road capability but was more expensive and had different styling.

The Passport occupied a middle ground: more refined than the Blazer, more affordable than the Grand Cherokee, and more reliable than some Explorer models of that era. It was a practical choice for buyers who wanted four-wheel drive without the size or cost of a full-size SUV. The Passport's main weakness compared to competitors was its smaller cargo area and less powerful engine options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the EX, LX, and SE trim levels?

The EX is the base model with power windows, locks, and cruise control. The LX adds leather upholstery and heated front seats. The SE includes a power sunroof, alloy wheels, and an upgraded audio system. All three use the same engine and transmission options.

Can a 2000 Passport tow a boat or trailer?

Yes, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This is suitable for small boats, jet skis, or utility trailers. For heavier loads, you would need a larger SUV or truck. Always verify that your specific vehicle has the proper towing package installed.

How much cargo space does the 2000 Passport have?

Behind the rear seats, you have 37.3 cubic feet. With the rear seats folded down, that increases to 74.4 cubic feet. This is adequate for camping gear and sports equipment but smaller than full-size SUVs.

Is the 2000 Passport good for off-road driving?

The Passport was designed for light off-road use and had four-wheel drive as standard. It handled dirt roads and mild terrain well but was not built for serious rock crawling or extreme conditions like a Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner.

What kind of fuel economy should I expect?

Expect 16 to 18 miles per gallon in combined driving with the automatic transmission, or 17 to 19 with the manual. Real-world mileage depends on driving habits, road conditions, and how often you use four-wheel drive.