2021 Honda Passport Sport: A Comprehensive Review

Nov 15, 2025 by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey there, car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2021 Honda Passport Sport, shall we? This mid-size SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. If you're in the market for a vehicle that blends practicality, adventure, and a touch of sporty flair, then you're in the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know about the Passport Sport, from its performance and features to its overall value proposition. Ready to explore? Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a detailed journey through the ins and outs of this popular SUV. We'll look at what makes it stand out from the crowd and why it might be the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Let's get started!

Performance and Handling: What's Under the Hood?

First things first, let's talk about what gets this beast moving. The 2021 Honda Passport Sport is equipped with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, churning out a healthy 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission, providing a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. Now, guys, you'll be happy to know that power delivery is brisk, making merging onto highways and overtaking slower vehicles a breeze. The Passport Sport comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD), which is great for everyday driving conditions. However, if you're planning on venturing off the beaten path or frequently driving in challenging weather, you might want to consider the available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The AWD system in the Passport is pretty sophisticated, constantly monitoring wheel slippage and distributing power to the wheels that need it most. This enhances traction and stability, giving you added confidence behind the wheel. The suspension is tuned to strike a balance between comfort and handling. It soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. At the same time, the Passport Sport feels composed and controlled through corners, offering a surprisingly athletic feel for an SUV of its size. The steering is nicely weighted, providing good feedback and making it easy to maneuver in both city and highway driving. Overall, the 2021 Honda Passport Sport delivers a well-rounded performance package that will satisfy a wide range of drivers. It's got the power you need, the handling you want, and the comfort you'll appreciate on longer journeys.

Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Power and Economy

Alright, let's chat about fuel economy. Nobody wants a gas guzzler, right? The 2021 Honda Passport Sport does a decent job of balancing power with fuel efficiency. The FWD models achieve an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, resulting in a combined rating of 22 mpg. The AWD models see a slight decrease in fuel economy, with ratings of 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 21 mpg. These numbers are pretty competitive for the mid-size SUV segment, especially considering the Passport's powerful V6 engine. Of course, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and other factors. However, the Passport Sport's fuel efficiency should be reasonable enough to keep your wallet happy without sacrificing the driving experience. So, you can enjoy the power and performance of the V6 engine without feeling like you're constantly emptying your gas tank. That's a win-win, isn't it?

Interior and Features: Comfort and Tech Combined

Now, let's step inside the 2021 Honda Passport Sport and take a look at the interior. Honda is known for its practical and well-designed interiors, and the Passport Sport is no exception. The cabin is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The materials are generally of good quality, and the fit and finish are excellent. The seats are supportive and offer good comfort, even on longer drives. The base Sport trim comes standard with cloth upholstery, which is durable and easy to maintain. Higher trims offer leather upholstery for a more premium feel. One of the standout features of the Passport Sport's interior is its generous cargo space. With the rear seats up, you get a cavernous 37.6 cubic feet of cargo room. Fold the rear seats down, and that expands to a massive 77.9 cubic feet. This makes the Passport Sport ideal for hauling groceries, luggage, or even outdoor gear. The infotainment system in the Passport Sport is user-friendly and packed with features. The base Sport trim comes with a 7-inch touchscreen display, while higher trims get an 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps and music. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and a six-speaker audio system. Other available features include a premium audio system, a navigation system, a sunroof, and heated front seats. The Passport Sport also comes standard with a host of advanced safety features, including: * Collision Mitigation Braking System * Road Departure Mitigation System * Adaptive Cruise Control * Lane Keeping Assist These features help to enhance safety and provide peace of mind on the road. The interior of the 2021 Honda Passport Sport is a well-designed and functional space that offers comfort, convenience, and a good dose of technology.

Infotainment and Technology: Staying Connected on the Go

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of the tech inside the 2021 Honda Passport Sport. As mentioned earlier, the infotainment system is a key highlight. The base model gets a 7-inch touchscreen, which is easy to navigate, but upgrading to the higher trims with the 8-inch screen is worth it for a more modern experience. Both versions are compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This means you can easily mirror your smartphone's display on the touchscreen, giving you access to your favorite apps, navigation, and music. This is a game-changer for those who rely on their phones for navigation or streaming services. The system also offers Bluetooth connectivity, so you can make hands-free calls and stream audio from your phone. You'll find a USB port for charging and connecting devices. Higher trims include more USB ports, which is fantastic if you have multiple devices that need charging. For audiophiles, the available premium audio system delivers a crisp and immersive listening experience. It's a noticeable upgrade over the standard six-speaker system. Honda also includes a suite of driver-assistance technologies. This includes things like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a collision mitigation braking system. These features can make long drives less tiring and help to prevent accidents. The tech in the 2021 Honda Passport Sport is well-integrated and user-friendly, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding the Right Fit

Alright, let's talk about the different trim levels and what they bring to the table. The 2021 Honda Passport Sport is typically available in three main trims: Sport, EX-L, and Touring. Each trim offers a different set of features and options, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. The Sport is the base trim, and it comes well-equipped with a good selection of standard features. You'll get things like the V6 engine, the nine-speed automatic transmission, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of advanced safety features. This is a great option if you're looking for a capable and well-rounded SUV without breaking the bank. The EX-L trim adds a few extra niceties, such as leather upholstery, a power moonroof, heated front seats, and a larger 8-inch touchscreen. It's a step up in terms of comfort and convenience. The Touring is the top-of-the-line trim, and it includes all the features of the EX-L, plus a premium audio system, a navigation system, front and rear parking sensors, and more. It's the most luxurious option in the Passport lineup. As for pricing, the base Sport trim typically starts at a very competitive price point, making it an excellent value for the money. The EX-L and Touring trims naturally come with a higher price tag, but they also offer a more premium experience. When considering the price, be sure to factor in the features and options that are most important to you. Think about what you really need and how much you're willing to spend. This will help you determine which trim level is the best fit.

Value Proposition: Is the Passport Sport Worth It?

So, is the 2021 Honda Passport Sport a good value? Absolutely, guys! The Passport Sport offers a compelling package of performance, practicality, and features at a competitive price point. When you compare it to other mid-size SUVs in its class, the Passport Sport holds its own. It offers a powerful V6 engine, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a user-friendly infotainment system. It also comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Passport Sport's resale value is also typically quite strong, which is another factor to consider when evaluating its value. Honda vehicles are known for their reliability and durability, and the Passport Sport is no exception. This means that you can expect it to hold its value well over time. The Passport Sport offers a great blend of everyday usability and adventure-ready capabilities. It's an excellent choice for families, commuters, and anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle. Overall, the 2021 Honda Passport Sport is a well-rounded and versatile SUV that offers excellent value for the money. It's a strong contender in its class and is definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a mid-size SUV.

Driving Experience: What It's Like Behind the Wheel

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty: what's it really like to drive the 2021 Honda Passport Sport? The driving experience is one of the Passport's strongest suits. The V6 engine provides plenty of punch, making acceleration effortless whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets. The nine-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and responsively, never feeling sluggish or hesitant. Steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you a good feel for the road and making the Passport surprisingly nimble for its size. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control. It soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. At the same time, it keeps the Passport feeling composed and controlled through corners, minimizing body roll and providing a sense of confidence. Visibility is excellent, with large windows and a well-placed driving position. This makes it easy to see the road ahead and monitor your surroundings. The Passport Sport feels confident and capable in various driving conditions. It handles well on the highway, is easy to maneuver in city traffic, and can tackle light off-road adventures with ease. The all-wheel-drive system, if equipped, further enhances this capability, providing added traction and stability in challenging weather conditions or on uneven terrain. The Passport is a pleasure to drive.

Safety Features: Keeping You and Your Passengers Safe

Safety is a top priority, and the 2021 Honda Passport Sport comes loaded with features to help keep you and your passengers safe. Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety technologies, is standard on all trims. This includes:

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): This system can detect potential frontal collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate the impact.
Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): This system helps to prevent the vehicle from drifting out of its lane. If the vehicle begins to leave the lane without a turn signal activated, the system provides steering assistance to help keep the vehicle in its lane.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): ACC maintains a set following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting the vehicle's speed to maintain that distance.
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): LKAS helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing steering assistance. Other standard safety features include: * Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control * Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) * Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) * Brake Assist * Multiple airbags (front, side, and side curtain) Available safety features include: * Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor * Front and Rear Parking Sensors These features provide an added layer of safety and can help to prevent accidents. The 2021 Honda Passport Sport has received high safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. You can drive with peace of mind knowing that the Passport Sport has been designed to protect you and your passengers.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Alright, let's weigh the pros and cons to give you a clearer picture of the 2021 Honda Passport Sport.

Pros:

Powerful V6 Engine: The 3.5-liter V6 provides strong acceleration and effortless highway cruising.
Spacious Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families and adventurers.
User-Friendly Infotainment System: Easy to use and comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Standard Safety Features: A comprehensive suite of safety technologies helps to keep you and your passengers safe.
Good Handling: The Passport Sport offers a surprisingly athletic feel for an SUV of its size.
Off-Road Capability: The Passport Sport, especially with AWD, can handle some light off-road adventures.
Reliability: Honda vehicles are known for their reliability, and the Passport Sport is expected to be no exception.

Cons:

Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the fuel economy could be better compared to some competitors.
Base Interior: The base Sport trim's interior, while functional, might not feel as premium as some rivals.
No Third-Row Seating: If you need to haul more than five passengers, the Passport Sport isn't for you.
Some Features Only on Higher Trims: Some desirable features are only available on the EX-L and Touring trims, which increases the price. Ultimately, whether the 2021 Honda Passport Sport is the right choice for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider the pros and cons carefully and weigh them against your own requirements. If you value a powerful engine, a spacious interior, and a good balance of comfort and handling, the Passport Sport is definitely worth considering.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the 2021 Honda Passport Sport?

So, after everything we've covered, should you buy the 2021 Honda Passport Sport? The answer, as always, depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, based on our comprehensive review, we can confidently say that the Passport Sport is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. It offers a compelling combination of performance, practicality, and features. The powerful V6 engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The spacious interior and generous cargo capacity make it ideal for families and adventurers. The user-friendly infotainment system and standard safety features add to the overall appeal. While the fuel economy could be better, and some features are only available on higher trims, these are minor drawbacks compared to the Passport Sport's many strengths. If you're looking for an SUV that's fun to drive, practical, and well-equipped, the 2021 Honda Passport Sport is definitely worth a test drive. Its overall value proposition makes it a solid choice in a competitive market. We recommend that you do your research, compare it to other vehicles in its class, and then make an informed decision based on your own individual needs. You won't be disappointed! Overall, the 2021 Honda Passport Sport is a great vehicle!