21 MPG combined from the 2020 Honda Passport AWD 3.5L 6-cyl isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but it’s a perfectly reasonable figure for a capable, comfortable mid-size SUV built for weekend adventures. This Passport targets a specific buyer: someone who values space, reliability, and light off-road ability more than outright fuel efficiency. They want a vehicle that can comfortably haul the family and gear on road trips, handle snowy mountain passes with confidence, and maybe even tackle a forest service road on the way to a campsite. For that customer, the Passport delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Honda Passport AWD are 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving and idling inherent in urban environments, conditions where the 3.5L V6 works harder. The highway MPG showcases the Passport’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds, thanks in part to its nine-speed automatic transmission (S9) optimizing engine RPM. These numbers directly reflect the engine’s power output and the vehicle’s weight and aerodynamic profile.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Honda Passport AWD will be $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices when the EPA performed its testing. Keep in mind that the actual cost you incur will depend on your individual driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Someone who drives predominantly in the city and has a heavy foot will likely spend more than $2,100, while drivers who stick to the highway and practice efficient driving techniques may spend less. Even relatively small differences in local gas prices can make a meaningful impact on the annual cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy inevitably varies. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, carrying heavy loads, and using accessories like roof racks can all decrease MPG. Some drivers report figures close to the EPA estimates, with some achieving slightly better highway mileage on long trips. Ultimately, managing expectations means understanding that the Passport prioritizes capability and comfort over maximizing every last mile per gallon. It’s not trying to be a hybrid, and its fuel consumption reflects that design choice.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size SUVs with all-wheel drive, the 2020 Honda Passport’s fuel economy is competitive, though not class-leading. For instance, the Toyota 4Runner, known for its off-road strength, typically achieves around 17 MPG combined in its 4WD configuration. The Subaru Outback, a popular alternative emphasizing fuel efficiency and standard AWD, manages around 29 MPG combined with its 2.5L engine but offers less horsepower than the Passport. A comparable Jeep Grand Cherokee 4×4 with a V6 lands around 21 MPG combined, similar to the Passport. These comparisons highlight the trade-offs inherent in choosing a vehicle with AWD capability and a powerful engine. Buyers often cross-shop these vehicles, and the PASSPORT MPG across all years is a key consideration for them. You can browse all Honda fuel economy data to compare with other Honda models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Driving smoothly is one of the easiest ways to improve fuel consumption in the Honda Passport. Avoid abrupt acceleration and hard braking, as these actions waste fuel. A more gradual approach to both acceleration and deceleration will allow the engine and transmission to operate more efficiently. The goal is to maintain a steady speed and avoid the need for sudden bursts of power.

Regular maintenance is also critical. Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Ensure that the engine air filter is clean to allow for optimal airflow. Following the recommended maintenance schedule will help keep the engine running efficiently and reduce fuel consumption over time.

Minimize the use of accessories that increase aerodynamic drag. Remove roof racks or cargo carriers when they are not needed, as they can significantly reduce fuel economy, especially at highway speeds. These items create wind resistance, forcing the engine to work harder to maintain speed. The same logic applies to any other add-ons that alter the vehicle’s airflow.

Consider using the Passport’s “Econ” mode, if equipped. This driving mode adjusts throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it might slightly reduce performance feel, it can contribute to noticeable fuel savings, especially in city driving. This feature is specifically designed to help drivers extract the most MPG possible from the 3.5-liter engine.

Finally, plan your routes efficiently to avoid heavy traffic and unnecessary idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, so minimizing the time spent in gridlock can directly improve fuel economy. Using a navigation app to find the most efficient route, even if it’s slightly longer, can save fuel in the long run.