The Passport came back after a quite long hiatus. However, things are a little bit different these days, as we are talking about a modern crossover, instead of a re-badged Isuzu SUV. The new model came recently, as the 2019 model year. Therefore, we don’t expect to see any significant changes for the 2021 Honda Passport, which will represent the third production year. The overall design will definitely remain the same, as well as most of the features. Still, it’s always possible to see a couple of additions in terms of standard equipment, color options etc.
On the other side, the mechanical aspect of the 2021 Honda Passport will definitely remain the same. The new model will continue to share most of the parts with the Pilot, including the engine. Therefore, we don’t expect changes in price, while the new model should hit the market sometime in the last quarter of 2020.
2021 Honda Passport Design
In terms of base design characteristics, the Passport looks pretty familiar in all aspects. That’s because it is heavily based on the popular family crossover Pilot. First of all, the two models are mechanically pretty similar, though the Passport came with a couple of tweaks to the suspension setup. Also, the Passport is notably smaller, and things like shorter wheelbase definitely have a positive effect on off-road performances, so the 2021 Honda Passport will remain pretty strong in this aspect.
When it comes to the styling, 2021 Honda Passport changes are not expected. We count on the same exterior design, which has a lot in common with the Pilot. The front face looks very similar, though there are some distinctive details, such as blacked grille with a different mesh pattern. Also, the bumper has been slightly revised, as well as a couple of areas around the vehicle. Things should remain the same in the next year, though we won’t exclude the possibility to see new color options and similar things.
Interior
Once again, things should remain largely the same. This means the same cabin layout, which is slightly different compared to the Pilot. This is a two-row crossover and we like the fact that there is plenty of legroom in both rows of seats. The cabin is spacious and also well-built. The dashboard looks pretty much the same as the one in Pilot and we doubt that bigger changes will be made on the 2021 Honda Passport. The overall impression is very good, though base trims could look a little bit bland, due to very basic center-stack screen and lack of nice color schemes. On the other side, higher trims look very stylish, as you get leather upholstery, nice door panels and a full load of features.
Features
One of the biggest complaints about the current model goes to the list of standard equipment. Base models could be much more generous, as the list of standard tech features starts with a small 5-inch infotainment display. The list of standard equipment also includes things like Bluetooth, USB port, 7-speaker audio system etc. Therefore, a couple of additions for the 2021 Honda Passport would be nice. Fortunately, things are much better in higher trim levels. You can count on an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, Wi-Fi, wireless charging, satellite radio, 10-speaker audio system, additional USB ports etc.
When it comes to safety, a good thing to know is that all models come standard with Honda Sensing suite of safety features. This includes things like lane keep assist, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a road departure mitigation system. A rearview camera and automatic high beams are also standard, so we don’t expect bigger changes for the next year. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert are available.
2021 Honda Passport Engine
Things under the hood will definitely remain the same. Although some reports suggest 2021 Honda Passport changes in this aspect, we are pretty sure that a well-known V6 engine will remain the only powertrain option in the offer. It is a 3.5-liter engine, which is good for about 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Driving dynamics are pretty good and the ride is very smooth, thanks to a new 9-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel economy is pretty average for the class. You can count on about 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Also, you can count on a pretty decent max towing capacity that goes up to 5.000 pounds.
2021 Honda Passport Release Date and Price
When it comes to the 2021 Honda Passport release date, we presume the new model will hit the market sometime in the last quarter of next year. The price should remain the same, which means that base models will go around 32.000 dollars. Some of the biggest rivals are models like Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe, Chevrolet Blazer etc.