The 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport are two of the most popular midsize SUVs on the market. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and plenty of features. However, there are a few key differences between the two models that shoppers should be aware of before making a decision. Both the Pilot and Passport received an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal, indicating above-average reliability for the class. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Pilot and Passport both deliver comparable fuel economy figures, with the EPA estimating 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway for the Pilot and 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the Passport. Despite the similarity in space, the Pilot has a slight edge in legroom and headroom, making it a more comfortable choice for taller passengers.
In terms of performance, the Pilot offers a more powerful engine than the Passport. The Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, while the Passport’s 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 243 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. This difference in power gives the Pilot a slight edge in acceleration and towing capacity. The Passport is only available with a nine-speed automatic transmission, while the Pilot offers the choice of a nine-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. Both the Pilot and Passport come standard with a variety of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot also offers a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert as standard features, while these features are only available as options on the Passport.
Finally, the Pilot and Passport offer a similar range of features, but there are a few key differences. The Pilot comes standard with a sunroof, while the Passport does not. The Pilot also offers a rear-seat entertainment system as an option, while this feature is not available on the Passport. Additionally, the Pilot offers a wider range of customization options, including different wheel styles, exterior colors, and interior trim options. Overall, the Honda Pilot and Passport are both excellent choices for shoppers looking for a midsize SUV. The Pilot offers more power, space, and features, while the Passport is more fuel-efficient and affordable.
Comparing the Ruggedness and Off-Road Capabilities
Ruggedness and Off-Road Prowess
The 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport are both capable off-roaders, but the Passport has a slight edge in ruggedness. It features a more aggressive front bumper with a skid plate, and its ground clearance is slightly higher (8.1 inches vs. 7.9 inches). The Passport also comes standard with all-wheel drive, while the Pilot offers it as an option.
Both SUVs are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, but the Pilot’s engine produces slightly more horsepower (280 vs. 263). However, the Passport’s torque is slightly higher (252 lb-ft vs. 262 lb-ft). This gives the Passport a slight advantage in low-end power, which can be useful when climbing hills or towing a heavy load.
When it comes to off-road features, the Pilot and Passport both offer a variety of options. Both SUVs can be equipped with a locking rear differential, which helps to improve traction in slippery conditions. The Pilot also offers a hill descent control system, which helps to maintain a steady speed when descending steep hills.
Overall, the Honda Pilot and Passport are both capable off-roaders. However, the Passport has a slight edge in ruggedness and off-road prowess.
Key Off-Road Features Comparison
| Feature | Honda Pilot | Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Ground clearance | 7.9 inches | 8.1 inches |
| All-wheel drive | Optional | Standard |
| Locking rear differential | Optional | Optional |
| Hill descent control | Optional | Not available |
Space and Comfort: A Roomy Ride for Families
Cabin Space: Generous Proportions for All Passengers
The 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport offer ample cabin space for families. The Pilot, with its three rows of seating, can accommodate up to eight passengers, while the Passport offers five seats in two rows. Both SUVs boast spacious interiors, ensuring ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room for all occupants.
Cargo Capacity: Versatile Storage for All Your Belongings
In terms of cargo capacity, the Pilot reigns supreme. With the third row of seats folded down, it offers a cavernous 46.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The Passport, while having less overall cargo capacity, still provides a generous 41.2 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. Both SUVs feature numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin for added convenience.
Comfort Features: Enhancing the Driving Experience
The 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport prioritize comfort with a suite of features. Plush and supportive seats provide a comfortable ride, while dual-zone climate control ensures optimal temperature for both the driver and passengers. The Pilot’s rear-seat entertainment system keeps passengers entertained on long journeys. Additionally, both SUVs feature advanced noise-canceling technology, reducing road noise for a more peaceful cabin experience.
Performance and Handling: Power and Agility in Different Forms
Engine Performance
The 2025 Honda Pilot boasts a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway passing, making the Pilot a capable performer in various conditions. On the other hand, the 2025 Honda Passport features a smaller and more fuel-efficient 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that generates 243 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. While it may offer slightly less power, the Passport’s turbocharged engine provides impressive acceleration and torque when needed.
Agility and Ride Quality
Both the Pilot and Passport deliver poised handling thanks to their well-tuned suspensions. The Pilot exhibits a more comfortable ride quality, with its soft suspension absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively. In contrast, the Passport’s stiffer suspension provides better cornering stability and a more sporty feel, making it more agile on winding roads. Additionally, the Passport’s available adaptive dampers further enhance the ride and handling experience, allowing drivers to adjust the suspension firmness to suit their preference.
Towing Capacity and Off-Roading
If towing capacity is a priority, the Pilot surpasses the Passport with its impressive 5,000-pound towing limit. The Passport, with its smaller engine, offers a respectable 3,500-pound towing capacity. Both vehicles feature advanced traction control systems and all-wheel drive options for improved off-road performance. However, the Pilot’s slightly higher ground clearance and wider stance provide an advantage in rugged terrain situations.
| 2025 Honda Pilot | 2025 Honda Passport | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 | 2.0-liter turbocharged |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 243 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
Safety Features and Driver Assistance Technologies
Both the 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Front and rear automatic emergency braking are also standard, as are blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Pilot-Specific Safety Features
In addition to the standard safety features, the Pilot also offers the following optional features:
- Blind-spot assist
- Rear seat reminder
- Bird’s-eye view camera system
Passport-Specific Safety Features
The Passport also offers a few optional safety features that are not available on the Pilot, including:
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Rain-sensing wipers
Comparison of Key Safety Features
The following table compares the key safety features of the 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport:
| Feature | Pilot | Passport |
|—|—|—|
| Lane-keeping assist | Standard | Standard |
| Lane departure warning | Standard | Standard |
| Adaptive cruise control | Standard | Standard |
| Front and rear automatic emergency braking | Standard | Standard |
| Blind-spot monitoring | Standard | Standard |
| Rear cross-traffic alert | Standard | Standard |
| Blind-spot assist | Optional | Not available |
| Rear seat reminder | Optional | Not available |
| Bird’s-eye view camera system | Optional | Not available |
| Auto-dimming rearview mirror | Not available | Optional |
| Rain-sensing wipers | Not available | Optional |
Fuel Efficiency
When comparing fuel efficiency, the 2025 Honda Pilot edges out the Passport with its superior gas mileage. The Pilot’s base-level LX trim returns an impressive 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the Passport’s LX model delivers 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
The differences become even more pronounced when opting for the more powerful V6 engines. The Pilot’s V6-equipped Touring trim delivers 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Passport’s V6 Touring trim manages only 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Environmental Impact
In terms of environmental impact, both the 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport perform reasonably well. Both vehicles come equipped with standard features designed to reduce emissions, such as variable cylinder management and an Eco AssistTM system that optimizes fuel efficiency.
However, the Pilot has a slight edge over the Passport in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. The Pilot’s LX trim emits an estimated 260 g/mi of CO2, compared to 270 g/mi for the Passport’s LX trim. The Pilot’s V6 Touring trim emits 270 g/mi, while the Passport’s V6 Touring trim emits 280 g/mi.
Carbon Footprint and Environmental Considerations
Beyond fuel efficiency and emissions, consider other environmentally conscious features when choosing between the 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport. For example, the Pilot offers an optional hybrid powertrain that significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions.
Additionally, both vehicles are constructed using sustainable materials and incorporate processes that minimize environmental impact during production.
| Feature | Honda Pilot | Honda Passport |
|—|—|—|
| Fuel Efficiency (City/Highway) | 20/27 mpg | 19/24 mpg |
| CO2 Emissions (LX Trim) | 260 g/mi | 270 g/mi |
| CO2 Emissions (V6 Touring Trim) | 270 g/mi | 280 g/mi |
Technology and Connectivity: Advanced Features on the Go
Infotainment System:
Both the Pilot and Passport feature intuitive infotainment systems with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard. These systems provide seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation while on the road.
Digital Cockpit:
The Pilot offers an available 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, providing a customizable and user-friendly display of essential driving information.
Wireless Charging:
For added convenience, both the Pilot and Passport offer wireless charging pads, allowing you to charge your compatible devices without the hassle of cables.
HondaLink:
HondaLink is a connected-car platform that offers a range of services, including remote start, vehicle diagnostics, and emergency assistance. This feature provides peace of mind and enhanced connectivity, keeping you in touch with your vehicle even when you’re not behind the wheel.
Wi-Fi Hotspot:
Both vehicles feature Wi-Fi hotspots, allowing passengers to connect their devices to the internet for entertainment or work while on the go.
Advanced Safety Technologies:
The 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport come equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to enhance driver awareness and prevent accidents. These systems include features such as Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Collision Mitigation Braking.
| Feature | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2025 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 8-inch touchscreen standard, 10.2-inch touchscreen available | 8-inch touchscreen standard |
| Digital Cockpit | 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster available | Not available |
| Wireless Charging | Standard | Standard |
| HondaLink | Available | Available |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Available | Available |
| Honda Sensing | Standard | Standard |
Interior Design and Appointments: Comfort and Refinement
Personal Space and Comfort
Both the 2025 Pilot and Passport offer generous interior space for passengers and cargo. The Pilot’s longer wheelbase provides extra legroom in the third row, while the Passport’s taller stance gives more headroom. Both vehicles feature comfortable seating with supportive cushioning.
Material Quality and Appointments
The Pilot exudes luxury with high-quality materials throughout the cabin. Its soft-touch plastics, leather upholstery, and premium accents create an upscale ambiance. The Passport offers a more rugged interior with durable materials tailored for adventure-seekers.
Technology and Convenience
The Pilot and Passport both boast advanced infotainment systems with large touchscreens. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with a suite of driver-assistance features. Ambient lighting, heated seats, and a panoramic moonroof enhance comfort and convenience.
Cargo Space and Versatility
The Pilot offers an impressive 22 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats. It has a low cargo floor and a foldable second row for additional cargo capacity. The Passport offers 14.3 cubic feet behind the second row, ideal for daily errands or weekend getaways. It features a hands-free tailgate for easy access.
Second-Row Features
The Pilot’s second row includes a 60/40 split-bench seat with adjustable headrests and recline. The Passport’s second row offers captain’s chairs with armrests, providing additional comfort and privacy.
Third-Row Features
The Pilot’s third row offers 31.9 inches of legroom and a 60/40 split seat that can be folded flat into the floor. The Passport’s third row is smaller, offering 29.5 inches of legroom and a 50/50 split seat.
Table of Key Interior Features
| Feature | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2025 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 8 | 5 |
| Cargo Space (Behind Third Row) | 22 cubic feet | 14.3 cubic feet |
| Second-Row Seat | 60/40 split bench | Captain’s chairs |
| Third-Row Seat | 60/40 split fold-flat | 50/50 split fold-flat |
| Ambient Lighting | Yes | No |
| Heated Seats | Available | Standard (front and second row) |
| Panoramic Moonroof | Available | No |
Exterior Aesthetics: Bold Looks vs. Sophisticated Lines
Honda Pilot: Rugged and Muscular
The 2025 Honda Pilot exudes boldness with its towering stance, rugged grille, and aggressive-looking headlights. Its squared-off body lines and sharp angles give it a commanding presence on the road. The large wheels and prominent fenders project an air of strength and capability, hinting at its off-road capabilities.
Honda Passport: Sleek and Refined
In contrast, the 2025 Honda Passport adopts a more sophisticated and streamlined design. Its body features a sloping roofline that seamlessly flows into the rear end, creating a sleek and aerodynamic silhouette. The refined grille and elegant headlights add a touch of sophistication, giving the Passport a more urban and sophisticated appeal.
Dimensions:
| Honda Pilot | Honda Passport | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 200.4 inches | 190.5 inches |
| Width | 79.9 inches | 78.9 inches |
| Height | 71.5 inches | 67.3 inches |
Off-Road Capability:
While both vehicles offer all-wheel drive capabilities, the Pilot excels in rugged terrain due to its higher ground clearance and advanced off-road suspension system. The Passport, on the other hand, prioritizes on-road comfort with a more road-focused suspension setup.
Value for Money: Matching Features and Capabilities to Price
Initial Cost
When it comes to initial cost, the 2025 Honda Passport holds a slight advantage over the Pilot. The Passport’s base MSRP starts at around $35,000, while the Pilot’s starts at around $37,000. However, it’s important to note that these prices may vary depending on trim level and additional features.
Standard Features
Both the Passport and Pilot offer a wide range of standard features, including Honda Sensing safety suite, LED headlights, and alloy wheels. However, the Pilot offers a few additional standard features, such as a power liftgate and tri-zone climate control. These extra features add value to the Pilot, but it’s important to consider whether they’re worth the price premium.
Towing and Payload Capacity
For those who need to tow or haul heavy loads, the Pilot has a clear advantage over the Passport. The Pilot has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the Passport’s is 3,500 pounds. Additionally, the Pilot has a higher payload capacity, allowing it to carry more weight in the cabin.
Fuel Economy
In terms of fuel economy, the Passport slightly edges out the Pilot. The Passport’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, compared to the Pilot’s 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Seating and Cargo Space
The Pilot offers more seating capacity than the Passport, with seating for up to eight passengers compared to five. However, the Passport offers more cargo space than the Pilot, with 41.2 cubic feet behind the second row of seats compared to 16.5 cubic feet.
9. Resale Value
The Honda Pilot has consistently maintained excellent resale value, with high demand in the used car market. Its reputation for reliability, durability, and spaciousness contributes to its strong resale value. According to KBB, the Pilot typically retains over 60% of its original value after five years of ownership. This makes it a wise investment for those who plan to sell their vehicle down the road.
| Model | Base MSRP | Seating Capacity | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Honda Pilot | $37,000 | 8 | 5,000 lbs |
| 2025 Honda Passport | $35,000 | 5 | 3,500 lbs |
Which Vehicle Best Suits Your Lifestyle: Tailoring the Choice to Your Needs
Lifestyle Considerations
Do you frequently go on family road trips, indulge in outdoor activities, or require ample cargo space? Knowing your lifestyle preferences will help narrow down your choice.
Size
The Passport is more compact than the Pilot, making it suitable for navigating urban environments while the Pilot provides more room and seating for larger families.
Seating Capacity
If you prioritize seating capacity, the Pilot offers seating for up to 8 passengers, while the Passport comfortably accommodates 5.
Cargo Capacity
The Pilot’s larger size translates to greater cargo capacity. With all seats folded, it provides up to 109.2 cubic feet, while the Passport offers 77.7 cubic feet.
Towing and Payload
Both vehicles offer capable towing capabilities. The Pilot can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the Passport has a 5,000-pound towing capacity. Payload ratings are also quite similar.
Fuel Economy
If fuel efficiency is a priority, the Passport slightly edges out the Pilot with an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city compared to the Pilot’s 18 mpg.
Technology and Features
Both vehicles feature advanced technologies and amenities. The Pilot offers a larger infotainment screen, while the Passport boasts off-road-oriented features.
Reliability and Safety
The Pilot and Passport consistently receive high ratings for reliability and safety, ensuring peace of mind for your family.
Budget
The Passport is typically priced lower than the Pilot, making it more budget-friendly for some buyers. Consider your financial situation before making your choice.
Off-Roading Capabilities
The Passport TrailSport trim offers superior off-road capabilities with rugged tires, an enhanced suspension, and additional ground clearance.
2025 Honda Pilot vs Passport: A Comparative Analysis
The 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport are two highly anticipated SUVs that offer a range of features and capabilities. While both models share some similarities, there are also key differences to consider when choosing between them.
The Pilot is a three-row SUV that offers seating for up to eight passengers. It has a spacious interior with a generous amount of cargo space. The Passport is a two-row SUV that offers seating for up to five passengers. It has a smaller interior than the Pilot, but it offers more cargo space when the second row of seats is folded down.
Both the Pilot and Passport are available with a variety of engine options, including a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Pilot is also available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The Passport is not available with the turbocharged engine.
In terms of fuel economy, the Pilot and Passport are both rated at 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with the V6 engine. The Pilot with the turbocharged engine gets slightly better fuel economy, with ratings of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The Pilot and Passport both come with a variety of standard features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. The Pilot also comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard, while the Passport only offers these features as an option.
Ultimately, the best choice between the 2025 Honda Pilot and Passport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a three-row SUV with a spacious interior and plenty of cargo space, the Pilot is a good option. If you need a two-row SUV with more cargo space when the second row of seats is folded down, the Passport is a good choice.
People Also Ask
Which SUV is bigger, the Pilot or the Passport?
The Pilot is a three-row SUV with seating for up to eight passengers, while the Passport is a two-row SUV with seating for up to five passengers.
Which SUV has more cargo space, the Pilot or the Passport?
The Pilot has more cargo space than the Passport when all rows of seats are in use. However, the Passport has more cargo space than the Pilot when the second row of seats is folded down.
Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Pilot or the Passport?
The Pilot with the turbocharged engine has slightly better fuel economy than the Passport with the V6 engine. The Pilot with the V6 engine gets the same fuel economy as the Passport with the V6 engine.
Which SUV has more standard features, the Pilot or the Passport?
The Pilot comes with more standard features than the Passport, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Passport only offers these features as an option.
