What is the clearance on a Honda Passport?

The Honda Passport has about 8.1 inches (206 millimeters) of ground clearance in recent model years.

This specification applies to the current generation and most trims, reflecting a balance between on‑road comfort and the ability to handle rougher surfaces, light off‑roading, and steeper driveways without bottoming out.

Official clearance figure for recent Passport models

Honda lists the Passport’s ground clearance at 8.1 inches (206 mm) across many trims and model years in the modern generation. This measurement is used for both front‑wheel‑drive and all‑wheel‑drive configurations and remains consistent despite some suspension tuning among trims.

Before exploring how that figure translates to real‑world use, it’s helpful to note what the number means for daily driving and light adventure. The 8.1‑inch clearance is enough to clear typical curb rises and most potholes, and it offers reasonable capability on gravel roads and uneven surfaces without sacrificing on‑road stability and ride comfort.

Below are the key points that summarize the clearance information for the Honda Passport.

• Ground clearance: 8.1 inches (206 mm) on most current Passport configurations.


• Consistency across trims: The figure is generally the same for FWD and AWD versions, with only minor, non‑material variations due to suspension tuning in some model years.


• Practical impact: Suitable for urban use, snow‑covered surfaces, light off‑roading, and handling steep driveways or rough pavement without scraping the underbody under typical conditions.

In practical terms, you can expect reliable clearance for everyday driving and occasional off‑the‑beaten‑path excursions, without venturing into the more extreme ground clearance found in dedicated off‑road vehicles.

Real‑world considerations for clearance

While 8.1 inches is solid for a midsize SUV, drivers should still consider factors such as tire size, load, and aftermarket accessories. Larger tires or added equipment can marginally affect clearance under certain conditions, and slopes or uneven terrain can also influence whether you’ll encounter contact with the underbody. Always drive within the vehicle’s designed capabilities and consult the owner’s manual for guidance on ground clearance limits during off‑road use.

Summary

The Honda Passport offers around 8.1 inches (206 mm) of ground clearance across most modern models, providing a strong balance between on‑road comfort and the ability to tackle rough roads and light off‑road surfaces. This clearance is largely consistent across trims and drive configurations, making it a reliable choice for drivers who want practical capability without sacrificing everyday ride quality.

Which is better, Honda Passport or Toyota RAV4?

The Honda Passport is a larger, more powerful SUV, while the Toyota RAV4 is a smaller, more fuel-efficient, and technologically advanced crossover. The Passport has a V6 engine and significantly more cargo and passenger space, making it better for towing and off-road use, whereas the RAV4 offers better gas mileage, a wider range of tech features (including hybrid options), and more advanced safety assists. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize performance and space (Passport) or fuel economy and tech (RAV4).
 
Honda Passport

• Performance: Equipped with a powerful standard V6 engine, the Passport is better for towing and has more robust off-road capability when paired with its available AWD system. 
• Space: Offers considerably more cargo and passenger space, with larger cargo volume both behind the rear seats and with the seats folded down. 
• Features: Comes with a standard cap-less fueling system. 

Toyota RAV4

• Performance: Features a smaller, more fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, with hybrid options available that offer excellent gas mileage. 
• Space: Has less cargo and passenger space compared to the Passport. 
• Technology: Many trims feature a larger touchscreen with a more responsive infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and it offers advanced safety features like the Parking Support Brake and Downhill Assist Control. 
• Fuel Economy: The RAV4 (especially hybrid models) gets significantly better gas mileage than the Passport. 

Which one should you choose?

• Choose the Honda Passport if: You need more power for towing, greater off-road capability, and significantly more interior and cargo space for family, gear, or both. 
• Choose the Toyota RAV4 if: You want better fuel economy, a more modern and feature-rich tech package, and advanced safety assists, and don't need to tow heavy loads or require the extra space of the Passport. 

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 the Honda Passport being discontinued?

The Honda Passport was discontinued in 2002 but was brought back in 2019 after a hiatus, and a redesigned fourth generation is scheduled for the 2026 model year. The original discontinuation was due to the introduction of the Honda Pilot and a shift in Honda's SUV strategy, but the nameplate was revived to meet renewed consumer interest in rugged, mid-size SUVs.
 
First generation and discontinuation

• The first-generation Passport was sold from 1993 to 2002. 
• It was a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo and was a key part of Honda's entry into the SUV market. 
• In 2002, Honda discontinued the Passport to focus on the new Honda Pilot, a car-based crossover with a focus on comfort and fuel efficiency. 

Hiatus and revival

• The Passport name was absent from Honda's lineup for nearly 17 years, during which the company focused on other models like the CR-V and HR-V. 
• As interest in more rugged, mid-size SUVs grew, Honda revived the Passport nameplate. 
• The third-generation Passport, which is still in production, was released for the 2019 model year. 

Current and future models

• The current Passport is a two-row, mid-size SUV built on the same platform as the Pilot. 
• A completely redesigned fourth generation is slated to debut for the 2026 model year. 
• This new generation will feature a more rugged design, updated technology, and enhanced off-road capabilities, according to Honda Newsroom. 

Is a Honda Passport high clearance?

That's why the 2026 Honda Passport features 8.3 inches of ground clearance with short bumper overhangs and high approach angles at 23 degrees for added vehicle protection during spirited, off-road moments.