The 2021 Honda Passport FWD 3.5L V6 gets 22 MPG combined. This isn’t the best fuel economy, but it’s a trade-off for a vehicle that prioritizes space, reliability, and a bit of ruggedness over achieving maximum fuel efficiency. This mid-size SUV is designed for weekend trips and family duties, and its fuel consumption reflects this.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 Honda Passport FWD with the 3.5L V6 are 20 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. This difference is due to the engine’s workload in different driving scenarios. The city rating reflects the frequent stopping and starting of urban driving, which increases fuel consumption. The highway figure shows the engine’s efficiency at consistent speeds, where wind resistance is the main factor. Expect highway MPG to drop when the vehicle is full of passengers and cargo, or when driving into headwinds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Honda Passport FWD 3.5L V6 at $2,000. This assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation uses the national average fuel price at the time of testing. Your actual costs may vary based on local fuel prices and your driving habits. If you drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles per year, or if local fuel prices are much higher or lower, adjust your expectations. The engine does not require premium fuel, which helps to lower overall costs.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard, but real-world fuel economy varies. Driving style is a major factor; accelerating quickly and braking hard will lower MPG. Terrain matters, too. Hilly or mountainous roads require more engine power, increasing fuel consumption. Weather, such as strong winds or extreme temperatures, also affects efficiency. Finally, the vehicle’s load, including passengers and cargo, impacts fuel economy. To improve fuel efficiency, drive gently, keep tires properly inflated, and minimize extra weight. Many owners find their numbers are a bit lower than the combined 22 MPG, meaning this vehicle can consume a fair bit of fuel in mixed driving.

How it compares

The 2021 Honda Passport’s fuel economy is about average for a mid-size SUV. The Toyota 4Runner, which is known for off-road ability but not fuel efficiency, gets about 17 MPG combined in its base configuration. The Nissan Murano, with a similar purpose as the Passport, achieves slightly better fuel economy with 23 MPG combined in FWD form. A Subaru Outback with its standard 2.5L engine achieves 29 MPG combined, which shows what a smaller engine paired with an advanced AWD system achieves. Passport buyers often understand that they’re accepting some compromise in fuel efficiency balancing cargo space, passenger comfort, and a more assertive driving experience than some competitors. See PASSPORT MPG across all years for more information.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.5L V6 in the Passport is a reliable and responsive engine, but driving mindfully helps optimize fuel economy. Avoid quick acceleration and keep a consistent speed when possible. The Passport’s nine-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, so let it do its job without pushing the pedal too hard.

Tire pressure is important. Check it regularly, ideally every few weeks, and make sure it matches the recommended PSI on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase friction, reducing fuel economy. Low rolling resistance tires can have a small effect over time.

Reduce how much you use accessories that draw power. Air conditioning, especially on high, puts a significant load on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. Only use those features when you need them, and consider opening windows or running the regular ventilation system when you can.

Regular maintenance is essential. Make sure the engine is tuned and fluids are at the right levels. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and consumes less fuel. Pay attention to oil changes and air filter replacements.

Reduce extra weight. Excessive cargo puts strain on the engine and lowers fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items, especially heavy ones that can meaningfully affect MPG. Remember to visit all Honda fuel economy data for more information.