Is the Honda Passport on a truck frame?
The answer varies by generation. The original Honda Passport (1993–1998) used a body-on-frame design, like a traditional truck-based SUV. The modern Passport (2019–present) rides on a unibody platform shared with the Honda Pilot, not a separate truck frame.
First-generation Passport (1993–1998)
Frame and chassis
During its first run, the Passport was built on a body-on-frame chassis borrowed from the Isuzu Rodeo. This construction means a separate steel frame supports the body, a typical setup for trucks and rugged SUVs of that era.
- Body-on-frame construction (truck-style)
- Based on the Isuzu Rodeo platform
- Optional four-wheel drive
In this generation, the Passport aligned with truck-frame SUVs in construction and durability, offering robust off-road capability.
Modern Passport (2019–present)
Platform and construction
The current Passport sits on a unibody architecture—the same platform used by the Honda Pilot. The body and frame are integrated into a single structure, not a separate truck-style chassis. This yields lighter weight and improved on-road handling while still delivering practical off-road capability via available AWD.
- Unibody construction (integrated body and frame)
- Platform shared with Honda Pilot
- All-wheel drive available
In this generation, Honda opted for the unibody approach instead of a traditional truck frame.
Bottom line: how to tell by generation
To determine the Passport’s frame type, look at the model year. 1993–1998 models are body-on-frame and Rodeo-based, while 2019–present models utilize a unibody design tied to the Pilot platform.
Summary
Across its two generations, the Honda Passport has lived two very different chassis identities: a 1990s body-on-frame, truck-inspired SUV, and a modern, unibody two-row crossover that borrows its platform from the Pilot. The frame type reflects the era and intended use, influencing ride quality, towing, and off-road capability.
Is the Honda Passport body-on-frame or unibody?
The Honda Passport is a unibody SUV, meaning its body and frame are a single structure, which differs from traditional body-on-frame SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner. This unibody construction provides advantages such as a more refined and comfortable ride, quieter operation, and better handling.
This video explains why body-on-frame SUVs have a higher center of gravity: 59sAutomotivePressYouTube · Jul 22, 2025
- Unibody construction: The Passport uses a reinforced unibody frame, where the body and frame are integrated into one structure for increased rigidity and a lighter weight.
- Benefits: This design contributes to a smoother, quieter ride on paved roads and superior handling and cornering compared to many body-on-frame competitors.
- Comparison to body-on-frame: Unlike the Passport, traditional body-on-frame SUVs have a separate body that is bolted onto a ladder frame. This method is often associated with heavy-duty capability but can result in a less comfortable ride and more interior noise.
This video shows how Honda demonstrates the strength of the Passport's unibody chassis: 57sSean ChandlerYouTube · Mar 27, 2025
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.
Is a Honda Passport considered a truck?
The Honda Passport is a line of sport utility vehicles (SUV) from the Japanese automaker Honda.
Is the Honda Pilot built on a truck frame?
No, the Honda Pilot is not built on a truck frame; it has a car-like unibody construction, similar to a crossover SUV, which combines the body and frame into a single structure. This design is shared with other Honda products like the Odyssey minivan and is a deliberate choice for advantages in ride quality, handling, and efficiency.
You can watch this video to learn more about the difference between unibody and body-on-frame SUVs: 1mAutomotivePressYouTube · Aug 6, 2023
- Unibody vs. body-on-frame: The Pilot uses a unibody design, where the frame and body are one integrated piece. This is different from traditional truck frames, which are separate and the body is then mounted on top.
- Advantages of unibody: This construction method provides a more car-like driving experience with better ride quality and handling, while still maintaining the rugged versatility and strength of an SUV.
- Shared platform: The Pilot shares its unibody platform with other Honda vehicles, such as the Acura MDX and the Odyssey minivan.
- Off-road capability: While built on a unibody platform, the Pilot's design is still capable of handling light off-road use due to its construction and suspension tuning.
This video explains how Honda's Ridgeline is built on a unibody platform, similar to the Pilot: 1mAutomotivePressYouTube · Jun 12, 2024
