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The 2021 Honda Passport, the baby Pilot, is coming unchanged for the next season. The two-row SUV is still fresh and there is no need for the first update. Well, we could see the PHEV model if its twin brother gets this configuration.
Under the hood of the 2021 Passport remains a V6 engine. The company might add a turbo-four version as well. Four trim levels are going to be available for the build, while there are plenty of additional packages and options to boost the ride.
The biggest change we could see in the color palette. One or two new paintjobs will refresh the offer. What’s more, a reshuffle of features across trim levels is always a good move. Minor changes won’t make the price go up.
Why Buy 2021 Honda Passport?
The 2021 Honda Passport is a smaller version of the Pilot SUV. Still, it is slightly more expensive than the big brother. The new version will cost less than before to draw more attention. Currently, the MSRP starts at $32,000. So, you can buy a vehicle identical to the two-row Pilot at a better price.
With the lack of the third row, there is more space for passengers and cargo. The SUV offers up to 78 cu.ft. and behind the second row, there are more than 41 cubic feet. The safety is on the highest levels and the Passport is rated with five stars.
Downsides are really questionable. Some drivers don’t like the high position of the bucket. Others are not happy with transmission. Techies say the touchscreen display could be more responsive. However, no one can deny superb off-road skills.
2021 Honda Passport V6 Specs
The 2021 Honda Passport is using a 3.5-liter V6 engine. It is the most reliable powerplant the Japanese company is currently using. Its durability made Pilot so popular. Well, its little brother takes advantage of this setup as well. The engine sends power through a nine-speed automatic transmission to front wheels. Well, some would like to see the RWD, but the optional drive is an all-wheel drive. Total power produced by a V6 drivetrain is 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Towing capacity is the same as for the Pilot – 5,000 pounds.
Plug-In Hybrid
There is no official news about this drivetrain. But, the spy photos are unveiling that Honda is developing such a unit for its flagship Pilot SUV. It was about time since its main rivals are already out with hybrid configurations. The Japanese company is ready to take another step with the PHEV unit. Passport will take advantage of its connection with Pilot and we can see the SUV borrowing the plug-in system to boost the gas mileage and power. The outputs will go over 300 hp and the gas-saving will make the Passport return more than 30 mpg combined. What’s more, the PHEV model will be able to run on the electric power only. The range is going to depend on the size of the battery.
Dimensions
The 2021 Honda Passport is 4 inches shorter than Pilot. That affects total cargo capacity, but improves handling and maneuvering. The new Passport is 190.5 inches long, with 111 inch wheelbase. Width is 78.6 in, and height 70 inches. The curb weight, depending on options, is between 4,000 and 4,300 pounds. Base models come with 7.5 inches of ground clearance, while AWD versions are lifted by 0.6 in.
Trim Levels and Accessories
The SUV is a two-row model without the option to add the third row. However, the Passport offers plenty of other options. First, there are four trim levels. The base model is Sport, EX-L and Touring are mid-range offers, and buyers are getting the most from the Elite version.
The standard offer includes a 5-inch infotainment display. However, bundles for upper trims add an 8-inch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. If you want a wireless charging and premium audio, you will have to purchase the Touring or Elite model.
EX-L might be the best-buy with leather-trimmed upholstery and moonroof. The 2021 Honda Passport Touting will bring hands-free power tailgate. The audio system gets an upgrade with a total of 10 speakers. All seats are heated, and the Elite model adds ventilation for the front row as well. Rain-sensitive wipers and heated steering wheels are also notable upgrades.
2021 Honda Passport Prices
The new 2021 Honda Passport will be available late in 2020. Then, we will get the confirmation about the discount. The current SUV costs from $32,000 and the new one will be cheaper. Still, Honda is going to keep the MSRP of higher trim levels by adding more features. So, the EX-L will cost around $36,500 and Touring is still under $40k. All-wheel drive is standard for Passport Elite, as well as the starting price of $44,000. Urban and Adventure packages are available as optional upgrades. Both come in three grades.
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