21 MPG combined for the 2025 Honda Passport AWD 3.5L V6 is a reflection of the vehicle’s core mission: a rugged, capable, two-row adventure SUV built largely on truck underpinnings. This isn’t a demure crossover meekly ferrying children to soccer practice. This is a strong machine designed to tackle unpaved roads, haul gear, and confidently navigate inclement weather. Its fuel economy, while perhaps not class-leading in the broader mid-size SUV segment, is entirely fitting for a vehicle prioritizing durability, power, and genuine all-wheel-drive prowess over absolute efficiency.

City and highway performance

Looking at the 19 MPG city and 24 MPG highway figures reveals the Passport’s character. The 3.5-liter V6, paired with Honda’s nine-speed automatic transmission, delivers a linear, confident power delivery vital for merging onto fast-moving freeways or powering through soft terrain. The city figure of 19 MPG is typical for a 4,200-pound SUV with a substantial V6 and traditional automatic, especially one with a strong all-wheel-drive system continuously ready for action. Urban driving conditions, with their frequent stops and starts, are inherently less efficient for larger vehicles. The 24 MPG highway figure, however, demonstrates the benefits of that nine-speed automatic, allowing the V6 to cruise at lower RPMs, optimizing efficiency once a steady speed is achieved. Highway stints are where the Passport feels most at ease regarding fuel consumption, effortlessly devouring miles with a comfortable, composed ride. Those who regularly embark on longer road trips to trailheads or remote cabins will appreciate this balance.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,100 for the 2025 Honda Passport AWD 3.5L V6. This figure is derived from an assumption of 15,000 miles driven per year, split between city and highway, and at national average fuel prices. For many Passport owners, this estimated cost is a known quantity, a reasonable trade-off for the vehicle’s go-anywhere capability and Honda’s reputation for reliability. Individuals who choose a Passport are typically active, outdoor-oriented buyers who value the vehicle’s towing capacity, ample cargo space, and confident stance. They understand that equipping a vehicle for adventure, especially with a naturally aspirated V6 and a capable all-wheel-drive system, inherently comes with certain running costs. This $2,100 figure provides a clear, transparent baseline for budgeting their annual transportation expenses for PASSPORT MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

In real-world driving, the 2025 Passport will likely hover very close to its EPA ratings for most drivers. Honda engines are renowned for their efficiency, and the 3.5L V6 is no exception, delivering its power without excessive thirst. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, or consistently driving in mountainous terrain will naturally impact the city figure more significantly. Conversely, drivers who spend significant time on open highways at consistent speeds should see figures at or even slightly above the EPA’s 24 MPG highway rating. The key for prospective buyers is to understand the Passport’s intended use. It’s designed to be a reliable workhorse for those who embrace an active lifestyle. Its reliable chassis and torque-rich engine are built for purpose, and its fuel economy reflects that blend of utility and performance. For those seeking more insights into Honda’s fuel efficiency, explore all Honda fuel economy data.

How it compares

When placed against its direct competitors, the Passport’s 21 MPG combined holds its own, often besting or matching rivals that offer comparable levels of off-road readiness and V6 power. Consider the Subaru Ascent, a three-row SUV often cross-shopped for its AWD system; its 2.4L turbocharged flat-four engine manages 22 MPG combined (20 city/26 highway), a slight edge but with a different powertrain feel. The Toyota Highlander AWD with its 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder achieves 24 MPG combined (21 city/28 highway), but it prioritizes on-road refinement over the Passport’s more rugged demeanor. Comparing against other V6-powered, more traditionally rugged SUVs, the Kia Telluride AWD V6 gets 21 MPG combined (19 city/24 highway), directly matching the Passport. The Hyundai Palisade AWD V6 also returns 21 MPG combined (19 city/24 highway). The Passport’s fuel economy demonstrates it’s competitive within its specific adventurous niche, offering V6 power and genuine capability without falling significantly behind its peers. It’s an efficiency level that buyers in this segment, seeking reliability and off-road chops, find perfectly acceptable.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is important for the Passport. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the powerful 3.5L V6 to work harder, directly impacting both city and highway MPG. Check your tire pressure monthly, especially before longer trips.

Anticipate traffic and moderate your acceleration and braking. The Passport’s V6 has ample torque, but jackrabbit starts and sudden stops waste fuel. Smooth, gradual inputs allow the nine-speed transmission to operate more efficiently, particularly in urban environments.

Use the “ECON” mode on the Passport. This setting adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points, and climate control to prioritize fuel efficiency, making it ideal for routine commuting or highway cruising where maximum power isn’t constantly required.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight. Every extra pound the Passport’s engine has to move requires more fuel. Regularly clear out any heavy items from the cargo area that aren’t needed for your day-to-day driving to reduce the load on the powertrain.

Plan your routes to minimize idling and city traffic. Excessive idling, as well as stop-and-go driving, significantly erodes the Passport’s city MPG. Combining errands or choosing routes with smoother traffic flow can help keep your V6 operating in its more efficient ranges.