Comparing the Honda Passport vs Pilot
VERSATILE, CAPABLE SUVS FOR DIVERSE LIFESTYLES
The Honda Pilot and Honda Passport continue to stand out as two of the most versatile SUVs in Honda’s lineup, each designed to meet the needs of different drivers across the Hudson Valley. While they share a rugged foundation and Honda’s reputation for reliability, the Pilot and Passport take distinct approaches to space, comfort, and technology. That makes choosing between them an important decision for families, commuters, and weekend adventurers alike.
The 2025 Honda Pilot is Honda’s largest SUV, offering three rows of seating and a strong focus on family practicality. With flexible interior layouts, advanced driver‑assist features, and a balance of power and efficiency, it’s built to handle everything from daily errands in Middletown to long road trips down I‑84. Its blend of comfort and capability makes it a natural fit for households that need maximum versatility.
The 2026 Honda Passport, meanwhile, is a two‑row SUV that emphasizes modern design and adventure‑ready performance. With a bold exterior, spacious cabin, and advanced infotainment, it’s ideal for drivers who want a refined yet rugged vehicle for exploring destinations like Minnewaska State Park or navigating winter roads in Warwick. The Passport delivers upscale convenience while keeping a sporty edge.
In this article, we’ll compare the Honda Pilot vs Passport across pricing, exterior and interior design, performance, technology, and safety. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of which Honda SUV best fits your lifestyle in the Hudson Valley.
STARTING PRICE & OVERALL APPEAL OF THE
Honda Passport vs Pilot
| Category | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2026 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP* | $39,900 | $44,750 |
| Seating Capacity | 7–8 | 5 |
| Market Position | Family‑focused three‑row SUV with versatile trims from TrailSport to Black Edition | Adventure‑oriented two‑row SUV with TrailSport emphasis and Blackout packages |
| Overall Appeal | Spacious, flexible, strong towing, premium tech in upper trims | Rugged styling, off‑road capability, upscale TrailSport Elite features |
For families across Orange and Sullivan Counties, the Honda Pilot vs Honda Passport debate often comes down to everyday practicality versus weekend adventure.
The 2025 Honda Pilot, with seating for up to eight, is ideal for larger households heading to school drop‑offs in Monroe or group outings to LEGOLAND New York in Goshen. Its lower starting MSRP makes it appealing for buyers who want maximum space without stretching the budget.
By contrast, the 2026 Honda Passport positions itself as the rugged choice. With standard AWD and a five‑passenger layout, it’s perfect for couples or smaller families who enjoy hiking at Minnewaska State Park or tackling snowy drives through Warwick’s backroads.
The Passport’s TrailSport trims add confidence for off‑road excursions near Port Jervis or camping trips along the Delaware River. Meanwhile, the Pilot’s premium trims deliver upscale comfort for longer commutes into Newburgh or family road trips down I‑84 — however, the Pilot does also offer a TrailSport trim for those that want to balance family duties with adventure time. Whether you prioritize passenger capacity with the larger 3-row Pilot or adventurous styling with the smaller, 2-row Passport, both SUVs offer strong appeal, but the choice depends on how you balance daily routines with weekend escapes in the Hudson Valley.
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS OF THE
Honda Passport vs Pilot
| Category | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2026 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 199.9 in | 191.5 in |
| Width | 78.5 in | 79.4 in |
| Height | 70.9–72.0 in | 73.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in | 113.6 in |
| Ground Clearance | 7.3–8.3 in | 8.3 in |
When comparing the exterior dimensions of the Honda Pilot vs Honda Passport, the differences reflect how each SUV is designed for real-world use across Middletown, Warwick, Monroe, Newburgh, and Port Jervis.
The Pilot’s longer body and three-row layout make it a natural fit for families who need extra space when heading to weekend soccer games in Monroe or navigating busy parking lots near the Galleria at Crystal Run. Its slightly narrower stance also helps when squeezing into tighter suburban driveways.
The Passport, on the other hand, is shorter but wider, giving it a more planted feel on winding roads through Warwick or when tackling uneven terrain near Port Jervis. Its higher ground clearance makes it especially appealing for drivers who enjoy outdoor adventures, whether that’s camping along the Delaware River or exploring scenic routes toward Minnewaska State Park.
While the Pilot emphasizes maximum passenger and cargo capacity, the Passport’s dimensions lean toward agility and off-road confidence. For Hudson Valley drivers, the choice comes down to whether everyday family hauling or weekend exploration is the priority.
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS OF PASSENGER & CARGO SPACE
Honda Passport vs Pilot
| Category | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2026 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Number Of Rows | 3 | 2 |
| Seating Capacity | 7–8 | 5 |
| Passenger Volume | 158.4 cu ft | 115.4–119.1 cu ft |
| Headroom | Front: 40.5 in
2nd: 40.2 in 3rd: 39.3 in |
Front: 39.1 in
2nd: 39.6 in |
| Legroom | Front: 41.0 in
2nd : 40.8 in 3rd: 32.5 in |
Front: 41.1 in
2nd: 40.9 in |
| Cargo Space | Trunk: 18.6 cu ft
Behind 2nd Row: 48.5 cu ft Max: 87.0 cu ft |
Trunk: 44.0 cu ft
Max: 83.2 cu ft |
Looking at the interior dimensions of the Honda Pilot vs Honda Passport, the differences highlight how each SUV fits into daily life around Orange and Sullivan Counties.
The 2025 Honda Pilot’s three rows and up to eight seats make it a go-to choice for larger families who need space for kids, friends, and gear. Whether it’s hauling sports equipment to Monroe’s parks or loading up for a family trip down I‑84, the Pilot’s expansive passenger volume and flexible cargo space deliver confidence.
By contrast, the 2026 Honda Passport’s two-row layout is more tailored to couples or smaller families who value open cargo room over extra seating. With nearly 44 cubic feet behind the second row, it’s perfect for packing camping gear for a weekend along the Delaware River or stowing bikes for a ride near Warwick.
The Passport’s generous legroom also makes it comfortable for longer drives to Newburgh or Port Jervis, while the Pilot’s third row ensures no one gets left behind. Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you prioritize maximum passenger capacity or a more open cargo-friendly cabin for adventure.
PERFORMANCE & FUEL EFFICIENCY OF THE
Honda Passport vs Pilot
| Category | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2026 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | |
| Power Output | 285 HP
262 lb‑ft TQ |
|
| Transmission | 10‑Speed Automatic | |
| Drivetrain | FWD
AWD |
AWD |
| MPG Rating* |
19 City / 27 Hwy 19 City / 25 Hwy 18 City / 23 Hwy |
19 City / 25 Hwy 18 City / 23 Hwy |
| Towing Capacity* | 3,500 lbs (FWD)
5,000 lbs (AWD) |
5,000 lbs (all trims) |
Performance and fuel efficiency are key factors when deciding between the Honda Pilot vs Honda Passport, especially for drivers around Middletown and beyond.
Both SUVs share the same 3.5L V6 engine and 10‑speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth acceleration whether you’re merging onto I‑84 or navigating Route 17. The Pilot offers flexibility with front‑wheel drive for those who prioritize efficiency, while its AWD trims provide extra confidence in winter conditions common around Warwick and Newburgh.
The Passport, by contrast, comes standard with AWD, making it a natural fit for outdoor enthusiasts who head toward the Delaware River near Port Jervis or explore rugged trails in the Hudson Valley. Fuel economy is nearly identical, but the Pilot’s FWD option gives it a slight edge for commuters who rack up miles between Monroe and Middletown. When it comes to towing, both SUVs handle boats or trailers with ease, though the Pilot’s FWD trims are limited to 3,500 lbs* compared to the Passport’s consistent 5,000 lbs capacity*.
For local drivers, the choice depends on whether everyday efficiency or all‑weather, adventure‑ready performance is the bigger priority.
COMFORT, CONVENEIENCE & TECH OF THE
Honda Passport vs Pilot
| Category | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2026 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Material | Cloth
Leather Synthetic Leather |
Leather/Cloth
Synthetic Leather Full Leather |
| Infotainment | 7–9 in Touchscreen
Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto Bose Audio |
12.3 in Touchscreen
Google Built‑In Bose Premium Audio |
| Convenience | Hands‑Free Power Tailgate
Panoramic Moonroof Wireless Charger |
Hands‑Free Liftgate
Panoramic Sunroof Heated Steering Wheel |
| Climate | Tri‑Zone Automatic Climate Control | |
| Seating Comfort | Heated Front Seats
Ventilated Front Seats Heated Rear Seats |
|
| Driver Comfort | 10‑Way Power Driver Seat
Memory Settings Heated Steering Wheel |
|
| Interior Accents | Ambient LED Lighting
Premium Trim Accents Leather‑Wrapped Steering Wheel |
|
| Rear Passenger Amenities | Rear Entertainment System
USB Ports in All Rows 2nd Row Sunshades |
Rear USB Ports
2nd Row Sunshades TrailSport Rugged Interior Accents |
Note: Many Features In This Table Depend On Trim Level - Not All Are Standard Equipped
Comfort, convenience, and technology remain defining differences between the Honda Pilot and Honda Passport for Hudson Valley drivers.
The 2025 Honda Pilot continues to emphasize family practicality, pairing flexible seating materials with amenities that make everyday life easier. Heated and ventilated front seats, available heated second-row seating, and a rear entertainment system ensure passengers stay comfortable and entertained on longer trips down I‑84. With ambient LED lighting, multiple USB ports across all rows, and a panoramic moonroof, the Pilot creates a welcoming environment for families traveling between Middletown, Monroe, and Newburgh.
The 2026 Honda Passport, by contrast, leans into a more premium and adventure‑ready cabin. Its larger 12.3‑inch display with Google built‑in and Bose audio system delivers a modern tech experience, while heated and ventilated seating, a heated steering wheel, and ambient lighting elevate comfort during winter drives toward Minnewaska State Park or Port Jervis. Rugged TrailSport interior accents and a panoramic sunroof add personality and openness for weekend getaways.
Both SUVs feature tri‑zone climate control, keeping passengers comfortable in every season. For Hudson Valley drivers, the Pilot underscores family‑friendly versatility, while the Passport highlights upscale convenience and a refined, adventurous interior.
SAFETY FEATURES & DRIVER AIDS OF THE
Honda Passport vs Pilot
| Category | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2026 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Sensing® Suite | Standard Equipped:
Collision Mitigation Braking Road Departure Mitigation Adaptive Cruise Control Lane Keeping Assist |
|
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Standard | |
| Cross Traffic Monitor | Standard | |
| Parking Assistance | Surround‑View Camera | |
| Airbags | Front, Side, Curtain (Throughout All Rows) |
|
Safety is a top priority for drivers comparing the Honda Pilot vs Honda Passport, especially when navigating the varied roads of the Orange and Sullivan Counties.
Both SUVs come standard with the Honda Sensing suite, giving peace of mind during commutes on I‑84 or Route 17 with features like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Blind spot monitoring and cross traffic alerts are particularly useful in busy parking areas such as the Galleria at Crystal Run or downtown Newburgh, where visibility can be limited.
The Pilot’s three‑row curtain airbags provide added protection for larger families, while the Passport’s two‑row setup still ensures comprehensive coverage for smaller households. Parking assistance also sets them apart: the Pilot offers sensors and a surround‑view camera in higher trims, making parallel parking in Warwick’s historic district less stressful. The Passport’s TrailWatch system adds an extra layer of confidence for off‑road adventures near Port Jervis or camping trips along the Delaware River.
For Hudson Valley drivers, both models deliver advanced safety technology, but the Pilot emphasizes family coverage while the Passport leans into rugged driver aids for outdoor exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Honda Pilot vs Honda Passport
Which SUV Is Better For Families In Middletown?
The Honda Pilot is the clear choice for larger families thanks to its three rows of seating and capacity for up to eight passengers. It’s perfect for school runs in Monroe, weekend trips to LEGOLAND New York, or commuting into Newburgh with the whole family. The Honda Passport, with seating for five, is better suited for smaller households who prioritize cargo space and adventure‑ready features.
How Do The Honda Pilot vs Honda Passport Specs Compare?
Both SUVs share the same 3.5L V6 engine and 10‑speed automatic transmission, but the Pilot offers front‑wheel drive options for better fuel economy, while the Passport comes standard with all‑wheel drive. The Pilot emphasizes passenger volume and versatility, while the Passport delivers rugged ground clearance and off‑road confidence with TrailSport trims.
Which Model Has More Cargo Space?
The Honda Pilot provides up to 87 cubic feet of cargo room when the second and third rows are folded, making it ideal for family road trips or hauling gear across Warwick. The Honda Passport offers up to 83.2 cubic feet, with a wider, more open layout behind the second row that’s perfect for camping gear or bikes when heading toward Port Jervis.
Are Safety Features The Same On Both Models?
Yes. Both the Pilot and Passport come standard with the Honda Sensing suite, including collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist. The Pilot adds three‑row curtain airbags for larger families, while the Passport’s TrailWatch camera system enhances visibility during off‑road adventures in the Hudson Valley.
Which SUV Is Better For Winter Driving Around Newburgh?
The Honda Passport offers standard AWD across all trims, making it a strong choice for snowy commutes and rugged backroads. The Honda Pilot also offers AWD, but only on select trims. For families who want maximum seating and winter confidence, the Pilot’s Elite and TrailSport trims deliver both.
Does Middletown Honda Carry Both Models?
Yes. Middletown Honda proudly offers the full lineup of both the Honda Pilot and Honda Passport. Local drivers from Middletown, Warwick, Monroe, Newburgh, and Port Jervis can test drive each SUV to see which fits their lifestyle best. Our dealership also provides exclusive offers, certified Honda service, and financing tailored to Hudson Valley households.
Which Model Is More Affordable?
The Honda Pilot starts at $39,900 MSRP*, making it the more budget‑friendly option for families who need maximum seating. The Honda Passport starts at $44,750 MSRP*, reflecting its standard AWD and rugged positioning. Both models deliver excellent value, but the choice depends on whether you prioritize passenger capacity or adventure‑ready features.
Can I Tow With Either SUV?
Yes. The Honda Pilot can tow up to 5,000 lbs with AWD*, while the Passport offers 5,000 lbs across all trims*. This makes both SUVs capable of hauling boats, trailers, or campers for weekend trips along the Delaware River or Lake Minnewaska.
WHICH HONDA SUV IS RIGHT FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE?
Honda Passport vs Pilot
When you look at the Honda Pilot vs Honda Passport side by side, it’s clear that each SUV is designed to meet different needs for drivers in Middletown, Warwick, Monroe, Newburgh, and Port Jervis.
The Pilot shines as a family‑focused three‑row SUV, offering expansive passenger space, flexible cargo options, and trims that range from practical to premium. It’s the vehicle you take when heading to Monroe for youth sports, commuting daily into Newburgh, or loading up for a road trip down I‑84.
The Passport, on the other hand, is built for adventure. Its two‑row layout, standard AWD, and TrailSport trims make it perfect for exploring Warwick’s backroads, camping near Port Jervis, or enjoying scenic drives toward Minnewaska State Park.
Both models deliver strong towing, advanced safety features, and modern tech, but the Pilot emphasizes maximum family utility while the Passport leans into rugged style and off‑road confidence. For Hudson Valley drivers, the choice comes down to whether everyday family hauling or weekend adventure is the bigger priority — and Middletown Honda offers both, exclusively positioned to serve local households and explorers alike.
EXPERIENCE BOTH MODELS IN PERSON AT MIDDLETOWN HONDA
Serving Middletown, Warwick, Monroe, Newburgh & Port Jervis
At Middletown Honda, we’re proud to be the Hudson Valley’s trusted destination for both the Honda Pilot and Honda Passport. From our showroom in Middletown, we serve families and adventurers across Warwick, Monroe, Newburgh, and Port Jervis with a commitment to quality and care.
We know that choosing between the Honda Pilot vs Honda Passport comes down to lifestyle, and that’s why our team takes the time to walk you through every trim, feature, and option. Whether you need the spacious three‑row Pilot for school runs and family road trips, or the rugged Passport TrailSport for weekend escapes along the Delaware River, we’ve got you covered.
Our dealership offers exclusive local incentives, certified Honda service, and financing tailored to Hudson Valley drivers. At Middletown Honda, we don’t just sell vehicles—we build lasting relationships with our community, ensuring every driver leaves confident, supported, and ready for the road ahead.
How Else Can We Help?
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OEM HONDA DISCLAIMERS:
*MSRP: Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) excludes tax, license, registration, destination charge, and options. Dealer prices may vary.
*MPG: Based on EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
*Towing Capacity: Towing requires accessory towing equipment. See your Honda dealer for details. Towing capacity varies by trim and drivetrain. Always confirm accessories and load limits before towing.