Do Honda Passport seats fold flat?

Yes. The Honda Passport’s second-row seats fold down to create a near-flat cargo floor, thanks to a 60/40 split rear bench that lets you fold one side or both to suit cargo and passenger needs.

In detail, the Passport is a two-row SUV that prioritizes flexible space. The 60/40 split allows selective folding, so you can carry passengers on one side and still load long items on the other, or fold both sections for maximum cargo room. As of the 2024 model year, this feature remains a core part of the vehicle’s practicality.

Seat folding mechanism

To maximize cargo space, understand that the Passport uses a 60/40 split rear bench. You can fold either portion, or both, to create a flat or near-flat load surface.

• Identify the release mechanisms for each seatback (located at the top edge of the seatback or near the seat’s fold line).


• Fold the desired portion(s) of the seatback forward toward the front seats. The seat cushions typically stay in place while the backrests lay down to form the loading floor.


• For maximum flatness, fold down both segments if you need the full height clearance for long items. In practice, the floor will be nearly flat with a small untidy area around wheel wells or hinges.


• Reposition head restraints if needed to improve visibility when seats are upright, and verify there are no obstructions in the cargo area after folding.

In use, this folding approach gives you a versatile cargo area that can accommodate everything from camping gear to luggage, with the back seats folded to optimize space.

Cargo capacity and practicality

Key figures help illustrate how folding affects space. The Passport provides a solid baseline behind the second row, and folding the seats expands that footprint significantly.

• Behind the second row: about 41.2 cubic feet of cargo space when the seats are up.


• With the second-row seats folded: up to about 77.9 cubic feet of cargo space.

These figures demonstrate the Passport’s flexibility for everyday cargo as well as longer items. While the floor becomes nearly flat when folded, you may encounter small irregularities near wheel wells or hinge areas, which is typical for many mid-size SUVs.

Summary

The Honda Passport does fold its seats flat in practical terms. The second-row 60/40 split bench folds down to create a near-flat floor, expanding cargo capacity from about 41.2 cubic feet behind the seats to roughly 77.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. This feature, available across the current generation (introduced in 2019 and continuing through the 2024 model year), makes the Passport a capable option for buyers needing a balance of passenger space and cargo versatility. Always consult your model’s owner’s manual for exact instructions and any model-year variations.

Why is the Passport more expensive than the Pilot?

The Honda Passport is often more expensive than the Honda Pilot because it comes standard with features like all-wheel drive and is marketed as a more rugged, adventure-focused SUV with a sportier design and more premium standard features. The Pilot, while larger, often has a lower starting price because its standard, front-wheel drive configuration is less expensive, and its features are designed for a broader family-oriented market. 
Key factors contributing to the Passport's higher price

• Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD): The Passport comes standard with Honda's i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system, which is typically an upgrade on the Pilot, making the Passport's base price higher. 
• Premium and Rugged Features: The Passport is positioned as the more adventure-oriented model, with features like a sportier design and, in some trims, off-road-tuned suspension, which can increase its manufacturing cost. 
• Standard Amenities: The Passport's base trim often comes with more standard amenities, such as premium interior materials and a higher-level infotainment system, which can also contribute to a higher starting price compared to the Pilot's more basic standard offerings. 

Key factors contributing to the Pilot's lower price

• Lower Starting Price: The Pilot's base model is typically less expensive due to its front-wheel drive standard setup. 
• Family-Focused Design: The Pilot is designed to be more practical for larger families, prioritizing space and seating capacity over the ruggedness and standard features of the Passport. 
• Wider Range of Trims: The Pilot generally has more trim levels, allowing for a lower entry point into ownership. 

What are the seating options for the Honda Passport?

The 2026 Passport is a two-row SUV with five seats. A blend of cloth and leather upholstery is standard, along with heated and power-adjustable front seats. Genuine leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel are available.

What SUV has back seats that fold down flat?

Many SUVs have back seats that fold down flat, including the Chevrolet Suburban, Ford Explorer, and Honda CR-V. Other popular models that offer this feature are the Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, and the BMW X7. This allows for more flexible cargo space to transport larger items.
 
This video shows how to fold down the rear seats in a Kia EV9 to maximize cargo space: 50sCars With SteveYouTube · Mar 1, 2025

• Chevrolet Suburban: This full-size SUV has second and third-row seats that fold down for a flat load floor. 
• Ford Explorer: Available with power-folding third-row seats that fold flat for extra cargo room. 
• Honda CR-V: The rear seats fold down to create a flat area for cargo. 
• Mazda CX-5: Features rear seats that fold down to increase cargo capacity. 
• Toyota RAV4: The rear seats can be folded down to create up to 69.8 cubic feet of cargo volume. 
• BMW X7: Offers three-row seating where the third-row seats can fold down flat. 
• Other models:
  • GMC Terrain
  • Subaru Outback 
  • Toyota Land Cruiser 
  • Honda Fit 
  • Volvo V60 (an SUV/wagon hybrid) 

What is the most common problem with the Honda Passport?

The most common problems with the Honda Passport include infotainment system malfunctions, such as the display going blank and speakers crackling, and issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, which can include delayed or harsh acceleration. Other frequent complaints involve body hardware issues like a rear hatch that won't open and occasional electrical problems with features like the fuel filler pipe or air bags.
 
Infotainment and electrical issues 

• Display screen and audio: The infotainment screen may go blank, and speakers can crackle or pop. 
• Fuel system: Some models have had issues with a faulty fuel filler pipe, leading to fuel leaks. 
• Body and interior: Common problems include a rear hatch button that breaks, a gas smell inside the vehicle, and fading or peeling paint. 

Transmission problems 

• 9-speed transmission: Some owners report delayed, harsh, or erratic shifting with the 9-speed transmission, particularly in models from 2019-2022. 
• Engine and related systems:
  • Varnish buildup: This can cause a ticking noise from the engine. 
  • Oil in spark plug tubes: This can lead to misfires. 
  • Timing belt: Newer models have a timing belt that requires replacement, which is an expensive but necessary maintenance item to prevent engine failure. 

Other potential problems

• Steering: Some 2023 models have been recalled for a risk of steering loss due to a loose ball joint. 
• Brakes: Some reports mention premature brake wear and issues with the ABS light coming on. 
• Vibration: Some owners have experienced vibration, particularly at highway speeds.