The spy shots of the next-generation 2023 Honda Passport just came up, and it looks more rugged than before. The new SUV has been spotted undergoing testing in production-ready trim on public roads last week. At first glance, we noticed that it sports a slightly tweaked design that gives it a more rugged look. Like the famous Honda Ridgeline model, the Passport will borrow most of its design cues. On top of that, it should come with a more modern cabin that will host plenty of new gadgets.
Mechanically, the Passport is likely to use a proven 3.5-liter V-6 engine that is capable of producing 280-hp. Front-wheel drive is available as standard, while all-wheel drive is offered optionally.
Will Honda Redesign the Passport?
For next year, the 2023 Honda Passport will receive some mild tweaks in terms of styling. The refresh will include a more blunt front end, looking more closely to refreshed Ridgeline pickup. As far as we can see through camo, the new model will get taller, squared-off grille ditches with horizontal bars and attractive LED headlights. A new front bumper is noticed as well, and it gives the Passport a more square-jawed look.
In back, the new SUV will mostly remain unchanged. It features taillights that sport new lenses, a more massive bumper, and circular exhaust tips instead of the current oval-shaped outlets.
Cabin Layout and Features
We haven’t seen the interior yet, but we can expect a slightly tweaked cabin from what we heard. In general, the manufacturer will most likely update the infotainment interface with improved graphics and simpler icons. As before, the same seating layout remains, and the Passport can fit five passengers through two rows of seats. Interior storage space measures 77.9 cubic feet of cargo area, more than the Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Nissan Murano.
On the technology side, the base Sport trim should include an 8-inch touchscreen for Honda’s Display Audio infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Andriod Auto smartphone integration.
2023 Honda Passport Powertrain Specs
Like the previous model, the new 2023 Honda Passport uses the same unit. The current SUV comes with a 3.5-liter V-6 that produces a fantastic output of 280 horses. This engine is coupled with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, which should deliver a very smooth shifting.
Like before, the Honda Passport will send its power through the front-wheel-drive as standard, while all-wheel drive is available but only optionally. As for towing capacity, with this potent engine, the new Honda Passport should be capable of towing up to 3,500 lb.
2023 Honda Passport Debut Date and Price
The release date of the new 2023 Honda Passport is set for next year. Most likely that it will arrive before summer based on previous releases. We expect the pricing of the Honda Passport to begin in the low-$30,000 range and top out in the mid-$40,000 range.
Unlike previous model, the new Passport is well-appointed with standard features on every trim. Interestingly, the Passport is a better option in the resale value department than the models like Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe, Chevy Blazer, and Nissan Murano.