Honda Passport vs. Honda CR-V: A Comprehensive Breakdown


in Model Info
Black Honda Passport

Honda Passport by Syntaxlord — CC-BY-SA-4.0

Honda is a manufacturer that often offers a lot of similar models with just a few differences. That’s great for consumers since it means you’ve got a wider selection of the type of car you’re looking for, but it can also be confusing. Looking at two similar models, like comparing the Honda Passport vs. Honda CR-V, can be frustrating if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for. 

This article is here to help. 

If you’re not sure what the core differences are between a Honda Passport and a Honda CR-V, we can help. We’ll outline the core differences between these two models, how they perform, and any features or benefits that stand out. 

That way, you can decide which vehicle is a good fit for you and which might not be a great match. 

Honda Passport vs. Honda CR-V General Overview

If you’re looking for a Honda SUV, both the Passport and the CR-V are incredibly popular models. They both offer 75+ cubic feet of cargo space and a suite of features and functions that make them great vehicles for people of all lifestyles. 

However, there are a few key similarities and differences that buyers should consider ahead of time. Here’s a quick overview of each model, looking at the latest release. 

The good news is that even if you aren’t looking at the most recent release, both of these vehicle lines are relatively consistent. While the features are a little different year to year, performance comparisons are similar between these two cars. So don’t be afraid to use this discussion to help decide on used Honda Passport vs. Honda CR-V too. 


BE CERTAIN YOU’RE GETTING THE BEST DEAL

CoPilot searches your area and lets you know if there’s a better deal on a similar vehicle nearby, so you’re always certain you got the best deal possible. The CoPilot app is the smartest way to buy a car. 


Honda Passport

The Passport is a great model if you’re looking for a little more room in your SUV but aren’t looking to drive a huge vehicle as a daily driver. Sized between the larger Pilot and the smaller CR-V, the Passport feels like a more mobile and maneuverable Pilot and a more heavy-duty CR-V. 

One important point of difference between the Honda Passport and the CR-V is that the Passport doesn’t handle quite as well. Its taller profile combined with larger wheels means that this vehicle has a higher center of balance. Experienced SUV drivers will have no trouble with this body design, but you don’t get the tight turning performance of a CR-V either. 

That said, the standard all-wheel-drive design means that the Passport is a little more reliable in weather conditions and works better as a towing or rough road vehicle at the basic trim level. 

Fully loaded with a touch-screen infotainment system, a suite of driver assisting sensors and alerts, and a 7-speaker audio system, the Passport is reasonably comfortable and fun to road trip in. 

However, this model isn’t currently available as a hybrid and doesn’t have the acceleration or maneuverability of a CR-V, despite a more powerful engine. 

Honda CR-V

The 2021 release of the Honda CR-V has continued a legacy of high performance at a great price. The turbocharged 4-cylinder isn’t the beefiest option out there, but you’ll still get great road performance. It accelerates quickly and smoothly and can handle steep inclines with relative ease. 

The interior of this model is also spacious and comfortable, with room for up to 4 passengers or up to 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space. A lot of that space comes from folding down the rear seats, though, so remember that you do have to choose between cargo and passengers to some extent with this model. 

The standard model for this release is a front-wheel drive, but you can also upgrade to all-wheel drive for a little extra. 

In terms of in-cabin features, the CR-V also delivers well. Equipped with a touchscreen, moonroof, 12 direction adjustable driver’s seat, blind-spot monitor, and more, even the basic trim level will feel comfortable and high-tech. Higher trim levels are available for things like an improved speaker system and even more internal features. 


THE BEST CARS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

Whether you’re squeezing into a tight campus parking spot or hauling ten loads of laundry back home, these best cars for college students will get you, your friends, and your stuff where you’re going.


Model Pros and Cons

If you’re looking for a quick comparison of these models, you’re in the right place. These pros and cons will help you dial in which model is right for you in a direct head-to-head lineup of the Honda Passport vs. Honda CR-V.

Honda Passport Pros and Cons

Pros: 

  • Larger towing capacity
  • Roomier interior
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Better for off-roading or all-weather performance 

Cons: 

  • Not as maneuverable
  • Lower fuel efficiency
  • Not available as a hybrid

Honda CR-V Pros and Cons

Pros: 

  • More maneuverable
  • Smaller profile often more comfortable for sedan drivers
  • More features and in-cabin options than the Passport
  • Better fuel efficiency
  • Choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive
  • More affordable
  • Hybrid model available

Cons: 

  • Slightly less heavy duty
  • Lower towing capacity

Which Honda Is Right For You Honda Passport vs. Honda CR-V

Trying to decide on a Honda Passport vs. a Honda CR-V can be a bit of a challenge. Both vehicles work well as a camping or adventure vehicle, as a family transport car, or just as a vehicle that offers a little more cargo room and versatility than smaller vehicles. 

When it comes to the Passport and the CR-V, though, there are really more differences than similarities. 

For instance, if you’re looking for a vehicle that can haul and work as a family vehicle, the Passport is probably more your speed. Its greater towing capacity makes it a better option for anyone who needs to haul much weight, while its interior comfort is more than good enough for family vacations. 

However, if you’re looking for a compact SUV that’s great for adventures and comfort but doesn’t have a lot of functionality you don’t need day-to-day, a CR-V might be the better option. Its more compact design makes it more maneuverable, while greater fuel efficiency makes the CR-V a more viable commuter vehicle. 


HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR BRAKES?

Unless you’re a mechanic or super-dedicated car enthusiast, you might not know much about the brakes on your car. How long do they typically last?​ How often should you replace your brakes​? We’ve got answers


Of course, you should also consider the price and what trim levels are available for both vehicles. Honda doesn’t really do custom vehicles, so you’re locked into the trim-level features and design, but sometimes getting the features you want most makes a big difference in the price of these two vehicles. 

Both the Honda Passport and the Honda CR-V can be great vehicles, even if the CR-V tends to be a little more popular. What really matters is which vehicle can do what you want it to do.



Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You

The CoPilot car shopping app is the easiest way to buy a car. Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area to make you a personalized list of the best car listings in your area.

Only looking for newer models? CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars. Only see cars five years or newer with low mileage — CoPilot Compare is the best way to find off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO cars.

The best part? CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. CoPilot doesn’t work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices — just the most info on the best cars. Check out our About Us page to see how CoPilot works.

trade-in