2021 Honda Passport Review: Reliable Midsize SUV With Low Running Costs As It Ages

Alex Showalter
Jan 3, 2024

The 2021 Honda Passport lasts around 250,000 miles, with some minor transmission software and stereo system issues reported. At $26,755 to $37,599, it’s a great value for a midsize SUV that’s a practical choice for shoppers in regions that get snow.

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likeFilled The Good
The handling is better than other midsize SUVs, the V6 engine offers great power and the rear seats are spacious.
dislikeFilled The Bad
The stereo system controls are frustrating, adaptive cruise control only works above 20 MPH and the suspension is firm.

Is the 2021 Honda Passport a Good Used SUV?

  • Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a good year for the Passport since it has a comfortable cabin and great reliability ratings. Owner reviews praise the standard safety tech, all-wheel drive system, and the smooth suspension.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are fairly basic, the seats still offer good support on long drives, cargo space is also good behind the rear seats.
  • Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems reported on the 2021 Passport. Models from 20192023 are all very good, with no widespread mechanical issues.
  • Performance 7/10 – The standard V6 engine offers reasonable power, but it’s not a very sporty SUV.
  • Safety 9/10 – The 2021 Passport is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist. Optional upgrades include parking sensors along with blind-spot monitoring.
  • Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at around 22 MPG, giving 429 miles of range from the 19.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $9 cheaper than average at $199 per month.
  • Value 8/10 – The 2021 Honda Passport is less expensive than other midsize SUVs, with average depreciation rates, making it a good value for shoppers.

What Do Critics Say About the Honda Passport?

  • Consumer Reports says the 2021 Honda Passport offers better off-road performance than the other Honda SUVs, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
  • Edmunds rates the Honda Passport at 4.3/5, enjoying all the storage compartments in the cabin, but doesn’t like the high driver’s seat.
  • Kelley Blue Book users give the Passport a 4.4/5, praising the roomy interior for a lot of passengers, but owners don’t like the lower fuel economy than some competitors.

What Common Problems Does the 2021 Honda Passport Have?

Common problems found on the 2021 Honda Passport include delayed gear changes, a frozen stereo system, along with excessive brake wear. Overall, these problems are similar to other midsize SUVs, but repair costs are lower due to the affordable parts and labor for Honda vehicles.

Delayed gear changes are the most widespread complaint on the 2021 Passport, showing up within the first 1,000 miles. There are transmission control module software updates available, which improve the speed of the gear changes. Most dealerships will install these for free, while some charge around $100 for labor.

A frozen stereo system has also been reported by Passport owners within the first 500 miles. There are software updates available which make the system more reliable. Usually, these updates are installed for free during normal servicing, but some shops charge around $50.

Excessive brake wear is another problem mentioned by 2021 Passport owners at roughly 10,000 miles. The front brake pads, in particular, tend to wear down very quickly and have to be replaced. Changing out the brake pads costs around $150, while a new set of rotors is $350 if they have damage from metal-on-metal contact.

There are three recalls on the 2021 Honda Passport, which is similar to other midsize SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers a loose fastener on the brake booster assembly. Honda will replace the bolt on affected models for free. Other recalls include the rearview image and side view mirrors, which Honda will also fix for free.

How Long Will the 2021 Honda Passport Last?

A well-maintained 2021 Honda Passport can last around 250,000 miles, which is a bit shorter than the long lasting Toyota 4Runner. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than some competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $351 per year.

As a used 2021 Passport reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the spark plug wires for $155, coolant reservoir costing $290, along with the alternator voltage regulator, which costs $325.

How Is the Technology?

The standard entertainment technology is very good and includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Optional features include a ten-speaker upgraded audio system.

Standard safety technology is also great, and it has:

  • Rearview camera
  • Forward automatic emergency braking
  • Lane departure warning
  • Automatic high-beam headlights
  • Forward collision warning
  • Lane-keep assist
  • Road departure mitigation

Optional driver assistance features include:

  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers
  • Rear cross-traffic alert

Is the 2021 Honda Passport a Good Value?

Yes, the 2021 Honda Passport is a good value since it’s practical and has great reliability ratings as it ages. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $26,755 to $37,599, making it less than a Jeep Grand Cherokee or Hyundai Palisade. When new, the price range was $32,790 to $44,180. Depreciation is similar to other midsize SUVs, losing about 7% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Honda Passport?

There are four main models of the 2021 Honda Passport offered, from the entry-level Sport through to the more luxurious Elite. The Passport comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.

Honda Passport Sport is the entry-level model with:

  • Cloth upholstery
  • 8-inch touchscreen
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Two USB ports
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Seven-speaker audio system
  • Tri-zone automatic climate control
  • Push-button start
  • Proximity keyless entry
  • Remote start
  • Rearview camera
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane-keep assist
  • Lane-departure warning
  • Road departure mitigation
  • Automatic high-beam headlights
  • Optional rear parking sensors

Honda Passport EX-L is a step-up, adding:

  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated and power-adjustable front seats
  • Satellite radio
  • HD Radio
  • Additional USB ports
  • HondaLink system
  • Moonroof
  • Power liftgate
  • Universal garage door opener
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear cross-traffic alert

Honda Passport Touring is a popular choice with:

  • Navigation system
  • Wi-Fi hotspot
  • 10-speaker premium audio system
  • Heated rear outboard seats
  • Hands-free power liftgate
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Ambient LED interior lighting
  • 115-volt power outlet

Honda Passport Elite is the flagship model with:

  • Ventilated front seats
  • Wireless device charging
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Rain-sensing windshield wipers
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Sport Sport
280 HP 21 MPG
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EX-L Sport
280 HP 21 MPG
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Touring Sport
280 HP 21 MPG
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Elite Sport
280 HP 21 MPG

What Engines Come In the Honda Passport?

The 2021 Honda Passport is equipped with a single engine option across all its trims:

  • 5-liter V6 Engine: This robust engine delivers a substantial 280 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft of torque. It’s paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission, contributing to a combined fuel economy of about 22 MPG. Acceleration is brisk, with the Passport capable of reaching 0-60 MPH in 6.2 seconds. This engine offers a blend of power and efficiency, suitable for both daily driving and more demanding tasks.

What Colors Does the Honda Passport Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Honda Passport?

The 2021 Honda Passport is widely recognized for its comfort, making it a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts. Its interior is thoughtfully designed to provide a pleasant driving and riding experience. The seats are a highlight, with the front seats offering ample support and cushioning, ideal for long drives. Both the driver and front passenger can enjoy the benefits of power-adjustable seats, allowing for easy customization of seating positions. The rear seats are equally comfortable, providing plenty of legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. This makes the Passport an excellent choice for families or groups traveling together.

In addition to the seating, the 2021 Passport’s ride quality contributes significantly to its overall comfort. The suspension is tuned to strike a balance between responsiveness and softness, making sure that the vehicle remains stable and composed on various terrains. The cabin is well-insulated, effectively minimizing road and wind noise, which enhances the sense of tranquility inside the vehicle. Climate control is another aspect where the Passport excels, offering efficient heating and cooling, along with available features like heated and ventilated seats, further elevating the comfort levels.

Moreover, the interior design and materials used in the 2021 Honda Passport add to the vehicle’s comfort. The layout is user-friendly, with controls and infotainment features within easy reach. High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin, giving it a premium feel. Ample storage spaces, cupholders, and USB ports add convenience for all occupants, making the Passport not just comfortable, but also practical for daily use and long journeys alike. The blend of spaciousness, ride quality, and thoughtful amenities makes the 2021 Honda Passport a standout in its segment for comfort.

How Much Storage Space Does the Honda Passport Have?

The 2021 Honda Passport offers a generous amount of storage space, catering to the needs of families and adventurers alike. In terms of cargo capacity, the Passport boasts an impressive 41.2 cubic feet of space behind the second-row seats. This area can easily accommodate a variety of large items, such as multiple suitcases, camping gear, or a couple of large dog crates. For those requiring more space, folding down the second-row seats expands the cargo area to a vast 77.9 cubic feet. This expanded space is more than enough for larger objects like bicycles, a kayak, or a substantial amount of home improvement supplies.

Apart from the main cargo area, the 2021 Passport also excels in offering numerous small interior storage solutions. These include a sizable underfloor storage area in the cargo compartment, which is perfect for keeping valuable items out of sight or storing muddy or wet gear separately. Additionally, the cabin is equipped with multiple practical storage spaces, such as door pockets, a large center console, and cup holders, which are ideal for everyday items like water bottles, phones, and small bags. The glove compartment and additional storage nooks throughout the vehicle further enhance its convenience, making the Passport an excellent choice for those who prioritize both space and organization in their vehicle. Overall, the 2021 Honda Passport stands out for its spacious and versatile storage options, accommodating a wide range of lifestyle needs.

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What Are the Differences Between Years?

The Honda Passport was launched for the 2019 model year, after it had been out of production since 2002.

2019: All-new model introduced by Honda with better off-road performance than other SUVs in their lineup.

2020: No large changes since its introduction last year.

2021: A new 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now standard.

2022: Minor exterior styling changes, new TrailSport model launched, Sport and Touring models have been discontinued.

2023: All-wheel drive is now standard on all models.

How Does the Honda Passport Compare to the Competition?

The 2021 Honda Passport is a great midsize SUV which offers plenty of passenger room, low ownership costs, and better off-road capabilities than other choices from Honda.

The Honda Pilot is another midsize SUV, which costs about $2,000 more. Passenger room is better in the Honda Pilot, while the Honda Passport is better on dirt roads and in the snow. We recommend the Honda Pilot if you need to haul a lot of people, while the Passport is a better choice if you don’t.

The Toyota Highlander is another popular competitor, which is available for $3,500 more. Interior materials are nicer in the Toyota Highlander, while the Honda Passport offers a more rugged driving experience. We recommend the Toyota Highlander since it’s one of the longest lasting midsize SUVs, but both are great choices.

Do Owners Recommend the Honda Passport?

avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.