Ever stood at a crossroads, torn between two paths that seem equally promising? Choosing between the Honda Passport and Honda Pilot feels a lot like that moment. Both SUVs promise adventure, reliability, and that signature Honda quality, but they cater to different lifestyles. Whether you’re hauling a big family, towing gear for a weekend getaway, or craving a rugged ride with a touch of refinement, this comparison will guide you to the right choice. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of the 2026 Honda Passport vs. 2025 Honda Pilot, exploring their price, specs, ride quality, towing capacity, weight, reliability, and even how they stack up against the Honda CR-V.
What Sets the Honda Passport and Pilot Apart?
The Honda Passport and Pilot are like siblings with distinct personalities. The Pilot is the family-oriented, spacious big brother, while the Passport is the adventurous, agile younger sibling. Both share a robust 3.5L V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, but their designs and purposes diverge. The Pilot offers three rows for up to eight passengers, perfect for large families, while the Passport sticks to two rows, seating five with a focus on cargo space and off-road capability. Curious about how these differences play out in real life? Let’s break it down.
Honda Passport vs. Pilot: Price Comparison
Price often tips the scales when choosing an SUV. The 2026 Honda Passport starts at around $44,750 for the RTL AWD trim, with the top-tier TrailSport Elite AWD reaching $53,650. The 2025 Honda Pilot, on the other hand, kicks off at $40,200 for the Sport 2WD trim, climbing to $54,580 for the Black Edition AWD.
- Passport: Higher starting price due to standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and premium features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
- Pilot: More affordable entry point with front-wheel drive (FWD) options, but top trims are pricier than the Passport’s.
Which is more cost-effective? If you need three rows and don’t mind a base model, the Pilot’s lower starting price is appealing. For solo adventurers or smaller families, the Passport’s standard AWD and tech upgrades justify the cost.
Specs Face-Off: Power, Performance, and Features
Both SUVs share a 3.5L V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and similar performance stats, but their specs diverge in key areas:
- Engine & Drivetrain:
- Technology:
- Safety:
What’s the takeaway? The Passport edges out with cutting-edge tech, while the Pilot offers flexibility with drivetrain options.
Towing Capacity: Hauling Power for Your Adventures
Got a boat, trailer, or camping gear? Both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with AWD, but the Pilot’s 2WD models are limited to 3,500 pounds. Whether you’re pulling a small camper or jet skis, either SUV handles the job with ease, provided you opt for AWD. For off-road enthusiasts, the Passport’s higher ground clearance (8.3 inches vs. Pilot’s 7.3 inches) makes it a better companion for towing over rough terrain.
Ride Quality: Comfort Meets Capability
Ever wonder what it feels like to glide over highways or tackle a gravel trail? The Honda Pilot and Passport deliver smooth, family-friendly rides, but their approaches differ:
- Pilot: Designed for comfort, its multi-link rear suspension absorbs bumps, making it ideal for long road trips with kids. The third row, however, can feel cramped for adults.
- Passport: With a slightly stiffer, off-road-tuned suspension (especially in TrailSport trims), it offers agile handling and a planted feel on uneven surfaces.
Which rides better? The Pilot prioritizes plush comfort for daily driving, while the Passport shines for those who venture off the beaten path.
Weight and Dimensions: Size Matters
The Pilot is the larger, heavier sibling, tipping the scales at 4,313–4,660 pounds and stretching 199.9 inches long. The Passport, at 4,478 pounds and 191.5 inches, is more compact, making it easier to maneuver in tight city streets.
- Cargo Space:
- Seating:
Why does weight matter? The Pilot’s extra heft impacts fuel economy slightly, while the Passport’s lighter frame enhances agility.
Reliability: Can You Trust These SUVs?
Honda’s reputation for reliability is legendary, and both the Passport and Pilot uphold it. J.D. Power rates both the 2025 Pilot and Passport at 80/100 for quality and reliability, a “Great” score. Real-world owners on platforms like Reddit praise their durability, with one Passport owner noting four years of flawless performance despite an accident. Regular maintenance, like using 0W-20 oil as recommended, keeps these V6 engines humming for years.
Honda Passport vs. Pilot vs. CR-V: The Compact Contender
What about the Honda CR-V? This compact SUV is smaller, more affordable (starting at ~$30,000), and fuel-efficient (up to 28/34/30 MPG with its 1.5L turbo or hybrid engine). Unlike the Passport and Pilot, the CR-V seats five and offers 39.3 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 76.5 cu. ft. Its towing capacity maxes out at 1,500 pounds, making it less suited for heavy hauling.
- CR-V Pros: Lower price, better MPG, nimble handling.
- CR-V Cons: Less power, limited towing, smaller interior.
When to choose the CR-V? If you’re a solo driver or small family prioritizing efficiency over space, the CR-V is a budget-friendly pick. For larger families or towing needs, the Pilot or Passport is the way to go. For more on the Pilot’s family-friendly features, check out this Honda Pilot SUV guide.
People Also Ask: Your Questions Answered
Is the Honda Pilot bigger than the Passport?
Yes, the Pilot is larger, measuring 199.9 inches long with a 113.8-inch wheelbase, compared to the Passport’s 191.5 inches and 113.6-inch wheelbase. The Pilot’s third row boosts passenger capacity to 8, while the Passport seats 5.
Which is better for off-roading: Passport or Pilot?
The Passport, especially the TrailSport trim, is the better off-roader. Its 8.3-inch ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and off-road-tuned suspension outperform the Pilot’s 7.3-inch clearance and street-focused setup.
How do the Passport and Pilot compare in fuel economy?
The Pilot’s 2WD models edge out slightly with 19/27/22 MPG (city/highway/combined) compared to the Passport’s 19/25/21 MPG (AWD only). The Pilot’s AWD trims match the Passport’s efficiency.
Which SUV is more reliable?
Both score 80/100 from J.D. Power for reliability, with similar warranties (3 years/36,000 miles basic, 5 years/60,000 miles drivetrain). Owner reviews suggest minimal issues with proper maintenance.
Real-World Scenarios: Which SUV Fits Your Life?
Imagine piling the kids, their sports gear, and a weekend’s worth of groceries into your SUV. The Pilot’s third row and 87 cu. ft. of max cargo space make it a family-hauling champ. Now picture a solo camping trip, your kayak strapped to the roof, winding through a forest trail. The Passport’s rugged design and standard AWD feel right at home. Both SUVs are reliable, powerful, and packed with tech, but your lifestyle dictates the winner.
- Choose the Pilot if: You need seating for 7–8, prioritize a smoother ride, or want a lower starting price.
- Choose the Passport if: You value off-road capability, a compact footprint, or premium tech like Google Built-In.
The Verdict: Passport or Pilot?
The Honda Passport and Pilot are two sides of the same coin—reliable, versatile, and built for adventure. The Pilot shines for large families, offering more seats and cargo space, while the Passport caters to those craving agility and off-road prowess. Price, towing, and reliability are close, but the Passport’s tech and the Pilot’s size set them apart. Which one calls to you? Test drive both at your local Honda dealer or explore more at Edmunds to feel the difference.
Soban Arshad is a car lover and founder of RoadLancer.com, sharing news, reviews, and trends from the automotive world.