The Honda Passport is a midsize sport utility vehicle produced by Honda in two distinct generations. The first generation was manufactured from 1994 to 2002 as a body-on-frame SUV based on the Isuzu Rodeo platform. Honda discontinued the model from 2003 through 2018, then reintroduced it in 2019 as a redesigned midsize crossover built on the Honda Pilot unibody platform. Production has continued through the 2026 model year.
This guide covers Honda Passport towing capacity by model year, including maximum trailer weight, drivetrain configurations, hitch class requirements, and tow package details. Towing specifications vary by engine type, drivetrain selection, and factory-installed equipment. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits protects the transmission, engine, and braking systems from overload.
The Honda Passport does not support fifth-wheel or gooseneck towing in any model year. All specifications apply to conventional ball-mount trailer towing only. Always verify figures using the owner’s manual or the driver’s door jamb certification label before towing any load.
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2026 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC (285 hp, 262 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (Second-Generation i-VTM4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to owner’s manual and certification label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,755 lbs (4,425 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard on select trims; optional on others |
The 2026 Honda Passport offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) across all seven trim levels when properly equipped. The 2026 model pairs the 3.5L V6 with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, replacing the prior 9-speed unit. All 2026 trims include Trailer Stability Assist and an integrated Tow driving mode as standard features.
2025 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC (280 hp, 262 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (i-VTM4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to owner’s manual and certification label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,755 lbs (4,425 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2025 Honda Passport is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) across all trims when the tow package is installed. The 2025 model uses a 9-speed automatic transmission and the standard i-VTM4 AWD system. No 2-wheel drive configuration was offered for the 2025 model year.
2024 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC (280 hp, 262 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (i-VTM4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to owner’s manual and certification label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,755 lbs (4,425 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2024 Honda Passport carries a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) on AWD-equipped models with a factory tow package. The standard towing configuration without a tow package is rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). The 2024 model is AWD-only, with no 2-wheel drive configuration available.
2023 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC (280 hp, 262 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (i-VTM4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to owner’s manual and certification label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,755 lbs (4,425 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2023 Honda Passport is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when equipped with the factory tow package. Starting with the 2023 model year, Honda made AWD standard across all Passport trims and eliminated the 2-wheel drive option. Towing capacity for models not fitted with the factory tow package is 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg).
2022 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC (280 hp, 262 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or AWD (i-VTM4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs AWD (2,268 kg) / 3,500 lbs 2WD (1,588 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs AWD (2,268 kg) / 3,500 lbs 2WD (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to owner’s manual and certification label |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,755 lbs AWD (4,425 kg) / 8,025 lbs 2WD (3,640 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs AWD (227 kg) / 350 lbs 2WD (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2022 Honda Passport reaches a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) on AWD models equipped with the factory tow package and ATF cooler. The 2022 model year introduced the TrailSport trim, which also carries the same 5,000 lb towing rating when equipped with AWD. 2-wheel drive models are limited to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg).
2021 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC (280 hp, 262 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or AWD (i-VTM4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs AWD (2,268 kg) / 3,500 lbs 2WD (1,588 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs AWD (2,268 kg) / 3,500 lbs 2WD (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,755 lbs AWD (4,425 kg) / 8,025 lbs 2WD (3,640 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs AWD (227 kg) / 350 lbs 2WD (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Honda Passport offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) on AWD trims with the tow package installed. The GCWR for the 2021 model is confirmed at 9,755 lbs (4,425 kg) for AWD and 8,025 lbs (3,640 kg) for 2WD configurations. AWD models require a dealer-installed ATF cooler to achieve the maximum 5,000 lb trailer weight rating.
2020 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC (280 hp, 262 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or AWD (i-VTM4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs AWD (2,268 kg) / 3,500 lbs 2WD (1,588 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs AWD (2,268 kg) / 3,500 lbs 2WD (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,755 lbs AWD (4,425 kg) / 8,025 lbs 2WD (3,640 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs AWD (227 kg) / 350 lbs 2WD (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Honda Passport AWD achieves a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when equipped with an ATF cooler and factory tow package. The 2WD 2020 Passport is rated at 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) maximum trailer weight. AWD and 2WD models show a significant GCWR difference of 1,730 lbs (785 kg), reflecting the greater drivetrain capability of the AWD system.
2019 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 SOHC i-VTEC (280 hp, 262 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or AWD (i-VTM4) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs AWD (2,268 kg) / 3,500 lbs 2WD (1,588 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs AWD (2,268 kg) / 3,500 lbs 2WD (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 9,755 lbs AWD (4,425 kg) / 8,025 lbs 2WD (3,640 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs AWD (227 kg) / 350 lbs 2WD (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Honda Passport was the first model year of the second-generation Passport and shares the same towing specifications as the 2020 and 2021 models. Maximum towing capacity reaches 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) on AWD models with ATF cooler and tow package, and 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) on 2WD trims. Owners of AWD 2019 Passport models should confirm ATF cooler installation before exceeding the 3,500 lb threshold.
2002 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.2L V6 DOHC (205 hp) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 8,700 lbs 2WD (3,946 kg) / 8,950 lbs 4WD (4,060 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2002 Honda Passport carries a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) regardless of drivetrain configuration. The first-generation Passport from 1998 through 2002 shared this uniform 4,500 lb towing limit. GCWR differs slightly between 2WD and 4WD models, with 4WD units rated 250 lbs higher at 8,950 lbs (4,060 kg).
2001 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.2L V6 DOHC (205 hp) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 8,700 lbs 2WD (3,946 kg) / 8,950 lbs 4WD (4,060 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2001 Honda Passport shares identical towing specifications with the 2002 model. Maximum trailer weight is rated at 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) for all configurations. Tongue weight should not exceed 450 lbs (204 kg) on a Class III receiver hitch.
2000 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.2L V6 DOHC (205 hp) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 8,700 lbs 2WD (3,946 kg) / 8,950 lbs 4WD (4,060 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2000 Honda Passport maintains the same 4,500 lb (2,041 kg) maximum towing capacity that applies to all 1998-2002 model years. The 3.2L DOHC V6 engine produced consistent output across this generation of the Passport. GCWR values for 2WD and 4WD remain at 8,700 lbs and 8,950 lbs respectively.
1999 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.2L V6 DOHC (205 hp) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 8,700 lbs 2WD (3,946 kg) / 8,950 lbs 4WD (4,060 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 1999 Honda Passport is rated at 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) maximum trailer weight across all configurations. The 1998 engine upgrade to a 3.2L DOHC V6 carried forward into the 1999 model year, and towing specifications remained unchanged. Tongue weight for this generation must not exceed 450 lbs (204 kg).
1998 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.2L V6 DOHC (205 hp) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 8,700 lbs 2WD (3,946 kg) / 8,950 lbs 4WD (4,060 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs (204 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 1998 Honda Passport received a mid-cycle engine refresh, replacing the SOHC V6 with a more powerful 3.2L DOHC unit. This updated engine produced approximately 205 hp and supported the same 4,500 lb (2,041 kg) maximum towing capacity as subsequent model years through 2002. The GCWR for 4WD trims is 8,950 lbs (4,060 kg).
1997 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.2L V6 SOHC (approx. 190 hp) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs with Class III hitch (2,041 kg) / 3,500 lbs with Class II hitch (1,588 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs with Class III hitch (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs Class III (204 kg) / 350 lbs Class II (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II or Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 1997 Honda Passport offers a towing capacity ranging from 3,500 lbs to 4,500 lbs (1,588 kg to 2,041 kg), with the difference determined entirely by hitch class. A Class III hitch is required to reach the maximum 4,500 lb (2,041 kg) trailer weight rating. Using a Class II hitch limits the 1997 Passport to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg).
1996 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.6L I4 (approx. 120 hp) or 3.2L V6 SOHC (approx. 175 hp) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs 3.2L V6 with Class III hitch (2,041 kg) / 3,500 lbs 3.2L V6 with Class II hitch (1,588 kg) / 2,000 lbs 2.6L I4 (907 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs 3.2L V6 (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs 3.2L Class III (204 kg) / 200 lbs 2.6L (91 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II or Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 1996 Honda Passport has the widest towing capacity range within the first generation, spanning from 2,000 lbs to 4,500 lbs (907 kg to 2,041 kg). The 2.6L 4-cylinder engine is limited to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) maximum trailer weight. Models with the 3.2L V6 and a Class III hitch reach the maximum 4,500 lb (2,041 kg) rating.
1995 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.6L I4 (approx. 120 hp) or 3.2L V6 SOHC (approx. 175 hp) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs 3.2L V6 with Class III hitch (2,041 kg) / 3,500 lbs 3.2L V6 with Class II hitch (1,588 kg) / 2,000 lbs 2.6L I4 (907 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs 3.2L V6 (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs 3.2L Class III (204 kg) / 200 lbs 2.6L (91 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II or Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 1995 Honda Passport shares towing specifications with the 1994 and 1996 model years. Engine selection is the primary towing capacity differentiator for this generation. Models with the 3.2L V6 and Class III hitch achieve the maximum 4,500 lb (2,041 kg) trailer weight rating, while the 2.6L I4 is capped at 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
1994 Honda Passport Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.6L I4 (approx. 120 hp) or 3.2L V6 SOHC (approx. 175 hp) |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs 3.2L V6 with Class III hitch (2,041 kg) / 3,500 lbs 3.2L V6 with Class II hitch (1,588 kg) / 2,000 lbs 2.6L I4 (907 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs 3.2L V6 (2,041 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Refer to certification label on driver’s door jamb |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Refer to owner’s manual |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 450 lbs 3.2L Class III (204 kg) / 200 lbs 2.6L (91 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class II or Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 1994 Honda Passport was the first model year of the nameplate in Honda’s North American lineup. It was mechanically shared with the Isuzu Rodeo and came with two engine choices. The 3.2L V6 with a Class III hitch delivers the maximum 4,500 lb (2,041 kg) towing capacity for this introductory year.
Towing Equipment and Setup Tips
Selecting the correct towing equipment for the Honda Passport is as important as knowing the towing capacity limit. Installing the wrong equipment or exceeding hitch class ratings can compromise vehicle control and cause mechanical damage.
Tow Package
The Honda Passport factory tow package includes a Class III trailer hitch receiver, a 7-pin wiring harness, a ball mount, a retaining pin, and a trailer hitch locking pin. Installing the factory tow package ensures that all components are rated to the same load limit. Using aftermarket components rated below the vehicle’s towing capacity creates a weak point in the system.
Trailer Brake Controller
Trailers exceeding 1,500 lbs benefit from an independent trailer brake controller. A brake controller activates the trailer’s electric brakes proportionally to the deceleration of the tow vehicle. This reduces stopping distances and reduces heat buildup in the Passport’s brake system.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
For loads approaching the upper towing limit, a weight-distributing hitch helps maintain level vehicle stance. Weight distribution transfers trailer tongue weight back to all axles, improving steering control and braking effectiveness. This type of hitch is particularly relevant for 2019-2022 Passport AWD models towing near 5,000 lbs.
Transmission Cooler (ATF Cooler)
On 2019 through 2021 Honda Passport AWD models, a dealer-installed ATF cooler was required to unlock the full 5,000 lb towing rating. From 2022 onward, the ATF cooler was included as standard on TrailSport and Elite trims. Operating an AWD Passport near its towing limit without an ATF cooler can result in transmission overheating on sustained grades.
Tire Load Ratings
Towing increases the load on all four tires. Verify that tire load ratings match or exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating for the loaded vehicle. Underinflated or underrated tires can fail under towing stress, particularly at highway speeds.
Trailer Sway Control
The 2023-2026 Honda Passport includes Trailer Stability Assist as a standard feature. This system detects trailer sway and applies selective braking to reduce oscillation. On 2019-2022 models, sway control depends on the availability of Honda Sensing and proper trailer load distribution.
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Setup Component | Normal Towing (under 3,500 lbs) | Heavy Towing (3,500 to 5,000 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Class | Class II or Class III | Class III (required) |
| Trailer Brakes | Optional | Recommended |
| Weight Distribution | Not required | Recommended near max limit |
| ATF Cooler | Not required | Required on 2019-2021 AWD |
| Tow Mode | Recommended | Required |
| Tire Inflation Check | Before each trip | Before each trip |
FAQs
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Honda Passport?
The maximum towing capacity of the Honda Passport is 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) for second-generation AWD models from 2019 through 2026 when equipped with a factory tow package. First-generation models from 1998 through 2002 with a 3.2L V6 and Class III hitch are rated at 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg). Towing capacity depends on drivetrain, engine, and installed equipment.
How much can a Honda Passport tow with a tow package?
A Honda Passport equipped with the factory tow package and AWD drivetrain can tow up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). On 2019-2021 AWD models, the factory ATF cooler is also required to reach the full 5,000 lb rating. 2WD models are limited to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) regardless of tow package installation.
Does AWD affect Honda Passport towing capacity?
Yes, drivetrain selection significantly affects Honda Passport towing capacity on 2019-2022 models. AWD trims are rated at 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) while 2WD trims are limited to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). From 2023 onward, Honda made AWD standard on all Passport trims, eliminating the 2WD towing capacity variable.
What trailer weight is safe for a Honda Passport?
The safe trailer weight for a Honda Passport is any value at or below the manufacturer-rated maximum for that specific year and drivetrain configuration. Honda recommends using premium fuel when towing loads exceeding 3,500 lbs on 2026 models. Staying at 80 to 90 percent of the maximum rated limit provides a safety margin for grades, headwinds, and braking distance.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Honda Passport?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required for loads within normal limits but is recommended when towing close to the maximum trailer weight rating of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). Weight distribution reduces rear axle sag and improves steering stability. Consult the owner’s manual for specific guidance on tongue weight thresholds that trigger weight distribution requirements.
What hitch class does the Honda Passport use?
The 2019-2026 Honda Passport uses a Class III trailer hitch for its maximum towing configuration. First-generation models (1994-1997) could use either a Class II hitch (3,500 lb limit) or Class III hitch (4,500 lb limit), with the higher class required to reach the maximum rating. Always match the hitch class to the intended trailer weight.
Conclusion
The Honda Passport has a towing capacity range of 2,000 lbs to 5,000 lbs (907 kg to 2,268 kg) across all production years, with the specific rating determined by model year, engine, drivetrain, and installed equipment. Second-generation AWD models from 2019 through 2026 represent the highest-rated configuration at 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg), while first-generation models peak at 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) with a 3.2L V6 and Class III hitch.
Engine configuration affects towing capacity primarily in the 1994-1996 model years, where the 2.6L 4-cylinder is restricted to 2,000 lbs (907 kg). From 1997 onward, hitch class and drivetrain type became the primary variables determining maximum trailer weight. For the 2019-2022 generation, AWD with ATF cooler is the only configuration that unlocks the 5,000 lb rating.
Installing a factory-matched tow package, using the correct hitch class, and staying within rated tongue weight limits are essential steps before towing with any Honda Passport. Always verify specifications using the owner’s manual or the door jamb certification label before towing heavy loads.
