Honda Passport 3rd Gen (2019-2025)
Two-row mid-size crossover. Pilot platform-shared. 3.5L V6 (280 hp). 9-speed auto. AWD i-VTM4 with terrain modes.
YF6 platform — Honda's two-row mid-size crossover, slotted between CR-V and Pilot. Based on 3rd-gen Pilot platform (Global Light Truck Platform shared with 2nd-gen Ridgeline) but with shortened overall length and same wheelbase — effectively a two-row Pilot. 3.5L SOHC J35Y6 V6 (280 hp / 262 lb-ft, direct injection), 9-speed ZF automatic. FWD or i-VTM4 AWD — i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management) is Honda's torque-vectoring AWD with active rear differential, with Intelligent Traction Management (Normal / Sand / Snow / Mud modes) on AWD-equipped cars. 5,000 lb towing with optional package. 7.5-inch ground clearance FWD, 8.1-inch AWD. 5-passenger seating (no third row option, distinguishing it from Pilot). TrailSport trim introduced 2022 — first-ever Honda TrailSport — initially cosmetic-focused (rugged styling, easier-to-clean leatherette, orange stitching, all-weather floor mats) on EX-L equipment level. 2024 TrailSport upgrade: trim-specific suspension retuning + standard all-terrain tires (genuine off-road improvement vs initial cosmetic-only TrailSport). 2022 mid-cycle facelift updated front-end design (similar styling to 2nd-gen Ridgeline post-facelift). Built at Lincoln Alabama assembly plant. Discontinued early 2025 to make way for the all-new 4th-gen Passport. The 3rd-gen Passport is currently the most-affordable 280-hp V6 mid-size SUV with available genuine off-road TrailSport option.
Strengths
- i-VTM4 AWD with torque vectoring
- 9-speed ZF automatic
- TrailSport trim (2024+ with all-terrain tires)
- 5,000 lb towing capacity
- Built at Lincoln Alabama
- Two-row layout (more cargo than 5-pax Pilot)
- Honda 5-yr/60k powertrain warranty
Weaknesses
- 9-speed automatic shift quality (early years)
- Pre-2024 TrailSport more cosmetic than capable
- No third-row option (vs Pilot)
- Cabin tech behind RAV4 / CR-V on early cars
- Replaced by 4th gen for 2026
- Resale below 4Runner
Notable tech
- i-VTM4 AWD with torque vectoring
- Direct-injection J35Y6 V6 (280 hp)
- 9-speed ZF automatic
- Intelligent Traction Management (Normal/Sand/Snow/Mud)
- TrailSport (cosmetic 2022, all-terrain capable 2024+)
- HondaSensing ADAS suite
- 5,000 lb towing capacity
Common issues
- 9-speed automatic shift quality (early years)
- Direct-injection carbon build-up (J35Y6)
- i-VTM4 differential service interval (60k miles)
- Power-window regulator failures
- Power-liftgate motor failures
Used-market budget
$30,000
2019-2020 EX-L $24-32k. 2021-2022 facelift cars $28-38k. 2023-2024 cars $32-42k. 2024 TrailSport (with all-terrain upgrade) commands premium. 2025 final-year cars hold value awaiting 4th gen.
