Are Honda passports good for towing?
Yes. The Honda Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it a solid option for mid-size trailers. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine and nine-speed automatic transmission provide robust torque, but real-world capability depends on the chosen trim, equipment, and payload you carry inside the vehicle.
The Passport sits between compact SUVs and larger three-row family haulers in the Honda lineup. It shares its underpinnings with the Pilot but emphasizes a two-row layout and a more rugged styling. This article will explain what that means for towing, what equipment you’ll need, and how to tow safely with this SUV.
Key specs and ratings
Before you tow, it helps to know the core numbers that determine what the Passport can handle. The following specs are the baseline figures most buyers will rely on when planning a trailer or boat tow.
- Max towing capacity: up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 with around 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission
- Tow package: Factory tow package or equivalent equipment is required to reach the 5,000-pound rating
- Payload capacity: Approximately 1,000–1,500 pounds depending on trim and equipment
In practice, the 5,000-pound rating applies to towing a trailer with no more than its stated weight and with a properly installed hitch, harness, and cooling provisions. Your actual capability will be constrained by payload (passengers and cargo inside the SUV) and the trailer’s load distribution.
How it performs when towing
Engine and drivetrain
The Passport’s 3.5L V6 is designed to deliver steady pulling power, especially at freeway speeds or when climbing grades. The nine-speed automatic helps keep the engine in its efficient range while maintaining adequate torque for modest acceleration while towing. All-wheel drive can improve stability on slippery roads and help with trailer control in variable conditions.
Braking and stability
With a trailer connected, braking dynamics change, and the Passport relies on its braking system plus the trailer’s brakes (if equipped) to manage stopping power. Honda’s stability features, in models that include them, can assist with sway control when towing a trailer. Always verify that your trailer has functional brakes and that the vehicle-to-trailer braking setup complies with local regulations.
Payload and real-world limits
Even though the Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds, you must consider payload. Carrying a full complement of passengers or heavy cargo reduces the available tow capacity. If you’re near the 5,000-pound limit, you’ll have less reserve for passengers, cargo, and gear inside the cabin, so plan accordingly and consult the owner’s manual for GCWR (gross combined weight rating) guidelines.
Practical towing guidelines
To help you tow safely and reliably with a Honda Passport, here are guidelines to keep in mind when planning a tow.
Before any list, here is a paragraph explaining what the list will cover.
- Follow the manufacturer’s stated maximum tow weight (up to 5,000 pounds) and never exceed it.
- Use the factory tow package or recommended equipment for the best stability and cooling performance.
- Ensure you have a proper Class III hitch (2-inch receiver) and a compatible wiring harness for trailer lights.
- Consider adding a trailer brake controller if your trailer has electric brakes; verify legal requirements in your area.
- Keep tire pressures at or near the door-jamb placard values for both the Passport and the trailer’s tires; correct load ratings matter for stability.
- Check coolant and transmission cooling provisions; towing can increase heat load, so factory-provided cooling enhancements are advisable.
- Distribute weight to achieve a safe tongue weight of roughly 10–15% of the trailer’s gross weight, typically around 500–750 pounds for a 5,000-pound trailer.
- Plan routes with gentler grades when possible and allow extra braking distance and longer stopping distances when towing.
Following these guidelines helps ensure safe, predictable handling while towing with the Passport and minimizes wear on powertrain and brakes.
What to expect in daily towing scenarios
Everyday tasks
For light-to-moderate towing—such as a small boat or a utility trailer—the Passport offers ample capability with comfortable highway performance and predictable handling. You’ll notice a modest drop in acceleration and fuel economy when towing, but the V6’s torque helps maintain highway speed without excessive revving.
Heavy loads and long trips
Tow up to the maximum rating with caution on long climbs or at high elevations. Allow for longer climbing times, increased braking distances, and perhaps reduced fuel economy. Plan for more frequent checks of tires, trailer brakes, and cooling components on extended trips.
Bottom line
The Honda Passport is a solid, mid-size tow-capable SUV that can handle trailers up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. It combines a strong V6 engine, a capable nine-speed automatic, and practical interior space, making it a practical choice for families that need occasional towing. Real-world towing success will depend on how you configure the vehicle (tow package, AWD, trailer brakes) and how much payload you carry inside the cabin.
Summary
Key takeaway: A properly equipped Honda Passport is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for many mid-size trailers. Pay attention to payload, equipment needs, and safe towing practices to ensure reliable performance. Always consult the owner’s manual and confirm specifications for your exact model year and trim before towing.
