21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling competitions, but for the 2024 Honda Passport AWD with its strong 3.5L V6, it’s a figure that accurately reflects the vehicle’s mission: providing reliable all-weather capability and comfortable passenger space without pretense. Nobody buys a Passport expecting Prius-like efficiency; they buy it for its reputation, its space, and its ability to handle anything from snowy commutes to forest service roads.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Honda Passport AWD at 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure is a function of the V6 engine’s displacement and the stop-and-go driving conditions that demand more frequent acceleration. The highway number, while not stellar, is reasonable given the Passport’s aerodynamics and the fact that it’s always lugging around an all-wheel-drive system. Honda’s engineering prioritizes power delivery over chasing ultimate efficiency figures. You will NOT be disappointed in its acceleration and passing power.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Honda Passport AWD is $2,100. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and how much time you spend with your right foot buried in the carpet. While every driver has control over their own driving habits, remember that even tiny changes to the fuel prices will affect how often you see the gas station attendant!

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Aggressive driving, carrying heavy loads, and prolonged idling will all negatively impact your MPG. Conversely, adopting a more conservative driving style, ensuring proper tire inflation, and avoiding unnecessary weight in the vehicle can help you get closer to, or even exceed, the EPA estimates. Those who live in areas with extended winters and require constant all-wheel-drive engagement will likely see slightly lower numbers. Owners who primarily use the Passport for highway cruising may find themselves closer to the 24 MPG mark. Owners can check the PASSPORT MPG across all years to see if there are any trends.

How it compares

The Passport’s fuel economy places it squarely in the middle of its competitive set. The Toyota 4Runner, another popular choice for off-road capability and ruggedness, achieves just 17 MPG combined. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, in its V6 AWD configuration, fares similarly to the Passport with around 22 MPG combined. The Subaru Outback, with its available turbocharged engine, can achieve around 26 MPG combined, but it sacrifices some of the Passport’s cargo space and towing capability. These differences MATTER because Passport buyers choose its capabilities (and inherent fuel costs!) over ultimate MPG at the pump.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Pay attention to tire pressure. Proper tire inflation can improve fuel economy by as much as 3%. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb, or in the owner’s manual.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Passport’s V6 is responsive, but heavy-footed driving significantly reduces fuel economy. Accelerate smoothly and brake gradually to conserve fuel. The Honda’s smooth-shifting automatic transmission works best when it’s allowed to shift efficiently.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The more weight your Passport carries, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle to improve fuel economy. Cleaning the junk out of your trunk is the easiest way to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency!

Consider your route and driving conditions. Highway driving is generally more fuel-efficient than city driving. Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic and congested areas. And check all Honda fuel economy data for other models to compare against your Passport.

Use cruise control when appropriate. On long highway drives, cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel economy. The Passport’s adaptive cruise control system can further enhance efficiency by automatically adjusting speed to maintain a safe following distance.