Honda Passport

Why the 2025 Honda Passport Might Be the Most Underrated SUV This Year

SUVs are everywhere. You’ve got compact crossovers pretending to be tough. You’ve got full-size tanks that cost more than a mortgage. But right in the sweet spot? That’s where the 2025 Honda Passport sits. And honestly, it doesn’t get the credit it deserves.

If you’re shopping for something that’s rugged but refined, modern but not flashy, the 2025 Passport should absolutely be on your list.

Let’s break down why.

Built for Real-World Driving — Not Just Spec Sheets

Honda isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel with the Passport, and that’s a good thing. They took what worked — solid V6 power, plenty of interior space, and Honda’s typical reliability — and just made it better for 2025.

You get a 3.5L V6 engine with 280 horsepower. Translation: plenty of punch when merging onto the highway or hauling a weekend load from Home Depot.

And with standard i-VTM4 all-wheel drive now across the board in 2025, it’s not just AWD when you need it — it’s AWD all the time, with torque vectoring and off-road capability built in.

TrailSport Trim Is Actually Legit

If you’re the type that actually takes your SUV off pavement once in a while — or at least likes to know you can — the 2025 Passport TrailSport is dialed in for that.

Honda didn’t just slap on a badge. They gave you all-terrain tires, a beefed-up suspension, real underbody skid plates, and interior tech designed for adventure.

It’s rugged enough to back up the look, but it still drives like a Honda on pavement.

Clean Interior That Doesn’t Try Too Hard

Some new SUVs are overdesigned to the point of being annoying. With the Passport, Honda keeps it simple. You get an easy-to-use 8-inch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and physical controls where they actually make sense.

Storage is improved too — the new center console has deeper compartments, and everything feels intuitive.

It’s not flashy, but it’s functional — and when you drive every day, that matters more.

Room for Everything You Actually Haul

The Passport gives you over 50 cubic feet of space behind the second row. Fold the seats and you’re looking at over 100 cubic feet. That’s enough for camping gear, home improvement supplies, or whatever your weekend throws at you.

There’s also a hidden storage compartment under the floor in the back. Toss in jumper cables, tools, or valuables — it keeps your stuff secure and out of the way.

Solid on the Road, Even Better in the Dirt

This SUV shares a platform with the Honda Ridgeline, so it has a little bit of truck DNA under the skin. You feel that in the way it rides. It’s composed, not floaty. It corners better than you’d expect. And the cabin is noticeably quiet, even on rougher surfaces.

It’s the kind of SUV that doesn’t complain when the road gets ugly, but still feels smooth enough to use as your daily driver.

Standard Safety That Doesn’t Drive You Crazy

Honda Sensing is standard on every 2025 Passport, and they’ve improved how it behaves. Adaptive cruise control is smoother. Lane keep assist isn’t overly aggressive. And blind spot monitoring actually works when you need it.

It’s safety tech that makes sense — not something that’s going to beep at you every time you shift lanes.

Trim Levels That Make It Easy to Choose

Honda didn’t go overboard with 10 different trims. You’ve got three to choose from:

  • EX-L – the entry trim that already feels premium
  • TrailSport – off-road capable with rugged touches
  • Elite – fully loaded with everything included

All come with AWD now, which used to be optional. That’s a big win in 2025.

Pricing That Makes Sense for What You Get

Starting in the mid $40K range, it’s not cheap — but it also holds its value like crazy. You’re getting a true midsize SUV with a V6, AWD, and a strong resale track record. Compared to other vehicles in this price range, the Passport gives you more real-world value and less gimmick.

Who This SUV Is Really For

This isn’t for people who want a 3-row family hauler. And it’s not for folks who want to flex in a luxury badge either.

It’s for people who need:

  • Two rows of serious space
  • Power that doesn’t feel underwhelming
  • A vehicle that can actually leave the pavement
  • A simple, functional layout that won’t annoy them over time

It’s for people who want an SUV that just works — without the noise and hype.

What I Personally Like Most

The AWD system is one of the most confidence-inspiring out there in this price range. The interior feels dialed in. The cargo space is just right. And honestly? I like that it’s not trying to be something it’s not.

It’s not a crossover pretending to be tough. And it’s not a truck trying to be luxury. It’s a damn good in-between.

What Could Be Better

There’s no hybrid yet. Gas mileage is okay, but not standout. Also, no third row — though that’s by design, not an oversight. If you need seating for 6 or 7, look at the Pilot.

Still, for a 2-row midsize SUV, it nails the formula.

The Bottom Line

The 2025 Honda Passport isn’t trying to be everything for everyone. It’s built for people who want utility, power, and space — without the fluff. If that sounds like you, there’s no reason not to drive one.

And the 2025 model just gives you more of what worked before, with a few smart upgrades that make everyday driving even better.

If you’re in the market, don’t sleep on it. Inventory is already moving, and certain trims are harder to come by the longer you wait.

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