The 2021 Honda Passport Failed to Fix 1 Major Issue
The 2021 Honda Passport received a slight refresh, but the updates didn’t seem to fix one major issue. Also, the Honda Passport received a price increase, which almost isn’t justified due to the lack of changes.
The 2021 Honda Passport is a gas guzzler
The 2021 Honda Passport isn’t good on gas, which is surprising, because Honda vehicles have a reputation for getting excellent fuel economies. The Honda Passport gets an EPA estimated 20 mpg in the city and up to 25 mpg on the highway. If you equipped your Honda Passport model with AWD, then it gets about 1 mile less per gallon.
These numbers are closer to what a large three-row SUV like the Chevy Tahoe should get. Instead, the Honda Passport is a midsize SUV with two rows. Rivals such as the Chevy Blazer get an estimated EPA rating of up to 29 mpg. Also, the Ford Explorer, which has three rows, gets up to 29 mpg.
As far as we know, there isn’t a hybrid powertrain in the works for the Honda Passport at the moment. But Honda could have tricks up their sleeves to improve the fuel economy in future models. The Honda Passport is heading for a redesign in 2022, according to AutomotiveNews.
What is new for the 2021 Honda Passport?
Not much is new for the 2021 Honda Passport at all. According to CarandDriver, the base models get a new 8.0-inch standard touchscreen, which is an update from the old 5.0-inch screen. The rest of the lineup remains the same except for receiving a small price increase.
The 2020 Honda Passport has an MSRP of $31,990, and the 2021 Honda Passport has an MSRP of $32,590. So, the price increase is only about $600, which feels like a lot for a new touchscreen. It might be better to wait and see what the 2022 model has in store for us.
Under the hood, you’ll find the same 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine allows the Honda Passport to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, creating a fast and sporty ride.
Despite being top-heavy, according to CarandDriver, the Honda Passport has a good ride with confident handling. It has a nimble turning radius and a smooth ride on the pavement. But it can feel rough while off-roading.
In terms of capability, the Honda Passport can tow up to 5,000 lb, which is pretty good for its class. You can also equip all-wheel-drive for an extra $2,000 if you need to handle snow or other slippery conditions.
How is the 2021 Honda Passport interior?
The Honda Passport feels precisely like the Ridgeline on the inside. The tech has a nice layout, but CarandDriver noted that the controls are fussy. Apparently, the touchscreen buttons are frustrating to use.
There are 41 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 78 cubic feet total. Also, the storage is excellent because of useful bins throughout the cabin and the large center console. Plus, the seats are large and spacious. There is enough room for five adults to sit comfortably.
