The Honda Passport III, specifically the facelifted version introduced in September 2021 and continuing through November 2024, represents Honda’s mid-size, two-row SUV offering in the North American market. Positioned above the CR-V and below the Pilot in Honda’s lineup, the Passport aimed to provide a more rugged and spacious alternative for buyers seeking adventure-ready capability without the need for three-row seating. The 3.5 V6 AWD Automatic variant, producing 280 horsepower, served as a key trim level, offering a balance of performance, practicality, and standard features. This iteration built upon the foundation of the fifth-generation Honda Pilot platform, sharing its core structure but with distinct styling and a focus on off-road capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Passport |
| Generation | Passport III (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (280 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| End of production | November, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Tier 3 Bin 125 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 187.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 355 Nm @ 4700 rpm (261.83 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | J35Y6 |
| Engine displacement | 3471 cm3 (211.81 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC, i-VTEC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1897-1938 kg (4182.17 – 4272.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2450 kg (5401.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 512-553 kg (1128.77 – 1219.16 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1430 l (50.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2854 l (100.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73.8 l (19.5 US gal | 16.23 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2268 kg (5000.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 4821 mm (189.8 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2116 mm (83.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2279 mm (89.72 in.) |
| Height | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2817 mm (110.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1694-1704 mm (66.69 – 67.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1694-1704 mm (66.69 – 67.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 193 mm (7.6 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.98 m (39.3 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21.1° |
| Departure angle | 24.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/60 R18 105H; 265/45 R20 104H |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2021-2024 Honda Passport 3.5 V6 AWD Automatic lies the J35Y6 engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine is a member of Honda’s well-regarded J-series family, known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. The J35Y6 utilizes Honda’s i-VTEC (intelligent Variable valve Timing and lift Electronic Control) system, which optimizes valve timing and lift based on engine speed and load, enhancing both fuel efficiency and performance. Direct fuel injection further contributes to improved combustion efficiency and power output. The engine produces 280 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 262 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. This power is channeled through a nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the six-speed unit found in earlier Passport models. The nine-speed transmission provides a wider gear ratio spread, improving both acceleration and fuel economy. The Passport utilizes Honda’s Intelligent Traction Management system, allowing drivers to select various drive modes (Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand) to optimize performance for different terrain conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5 V6 and nine-speed automatic combination in the Passport delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a sports car, the engine provides ample power for everyday driving and confident highway passing. The nine-speed transmission generally shifts smoothly, although some drivers have noted occasional hesitation at lower speeds. Compared to the earlier six-speed automatic, the nine-speed offers improved fuel economy and a more refined driving experience. The Passport’s all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, making it a capable vehicle for inclement weather and light off-road adventures. The steering is light and precise, contributing to easy maneuverability. However, it lacks the sporty feel found in some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5 V6 AWD Automatic trim of the Honda Passport typically included a comprehensive suite of standard features. These included Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies (Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist System), a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, LED headlights, and a power liftgate. Higher trim levels, such as the Elite, added features like leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and ventilated front seats. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof and all-season floor mats.
Chassis & Braking
The Passport utilizes a unibody construction with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension features McPherson struts with coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link design with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The Passport also features ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) for enhanced safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021-2024 Honda Passport 3.5 V6 AWD Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and capable all-wheel-drive system. However, some critics noted that its fuel economy was not class-leading and that its styling was somewhat conservative. Compared to other mid-size SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Passport offered a more refined driving experience and a more comfortable interior, but lacked the same level of off-road prowess as the 4Runner. Its fuel economy was comparable to other V6-powered SUVs in its class.
Legacy
The Honda J35 engine family has a long-standing reputation for reliability, and the J35Y6 in the Passport is expected to be similarly durable. The nine-speed automatic transmission, while newer, has proven to be generally reliable in other Honda and Acura models. As a used vehicle, the 2021-2024 Honda Passport 3.5 V6 AWD Automatic holds its value well, thanks to its reputation for reliability and practicality. It remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, capable, and well-equipped mid-size SUV.
