How much weight can a Honda SUV carry?
In general, Honda’s SUV lineup can carry roughly 900 to 1,600 pounds of combined passengers and cargo, depending on the model, trim and drivetrain. The exact payload figure for your vehicle is printed on the door jamb placard and in the owner’s manual, so checking those sources will give you the precise number before loading up. This article breaks down what that means and offers model-specific guidance.
Payload basics: what the numbers mean
Payload is the total weight you can safely put inside a vehicle, including passengers, cargo and any installed options. It is calculated as the difference between the vehicle’s GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and its curb weight. GVWR represents the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle when fully loaded, while curb weight is the vehicle’s own weight without passengers or cargo. To stay within safe limits, remember that payload changes with trim level, added equipment and whether the vehicle is two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Model-by-model snapshot
To give you a sense of typical payload ranges across the main Honda SUV lineup, here are common figures you’ll see in current models. Keep in mind that exact numbers vary by trim and options, so consult your door placard for the precise rating.
- Honda CR-V: about 1,000–1,200 pounds (450–545 kg)
- Honda HR-V: about 900–1,100 pounds (410–500 kg)
- Honda Pilot: about 1,400–1,600 pounds (635–725 kg)
- Honda Passport: about 1,200–1,500 pounds (545–680 kg)
In practice, these ranges reflect typical configurations available in recent years. Your actual payload will depend on factors such as trim, engines (including hybrid options), AWD vs. FWD, and any added accessories. Always verify with the correct door placard for your exact vehicle.
How to find your exact payload
If you want the precise figure for your Honda SUV, use these steps to locate and compute it accurately:
- Locate the GVWR and curb weight values on the door jamb placard or in the owner’s manual.
- Subtract the curb weight from the GVWR to obtain the base payload capacity.
- Include the weight of all occupants and cargo to determine the practical payload you can carry in daily use.
- Remember that accessories or heavy options can reduce payload, so recalculate if you change equipment or seating configurations.
Understanding payload helps you load your Honda SUV safely and efficiently without exceeding the vehicle’s limits. If you frequently carry heavy loads or many passengers, consider planning trips with lighter cargo or upgrading to a model with a higher payload rating.
Payload vs. towing capacity
Payload is distinct from towing capacity. Towing capacity refers to how much weight the vehicle can pull behind it, which is a separate specification affected by hitch setup, cooling, and transmission. Always check both values for your specific model and configuration before attempting to tow or haul heavy loads.
Summary
Payload capacity for Honda SUVs varies by model and trim, but most current models fall in roughly the 900–1,600-pound range. For exact figures, check the door jamb placard and the owner’s manual for your vehicle’s GVWR, curb weight and resulting payload. Properly matching loads to these ratings enhances safety, handling and longevity of your Honda SUV.
