When it comes to midsize SUVs with a reputation for ruggedness and comfort, the 2025 Honda Passport and the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee are top contenders. Both are well-suited for adventurous drivers seeking off-road performance without sacrificing family-friendly features. But which one offers the best off-road value?
This breakdown compares power, comfort, and towing capacity—ideal for anyone torn between weekend trails and weekday errands.
Powertrain and Performance
Honda Passport 2025
- Engine: 3.5L V6
- Horsepower: 280 hp
- Drivetrain: Standard AWD in TrailSport trim
- Fuel Economy: ~19 city / 24 highway MPG
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
The Passport is tuned for a balanced drive. While it’s not a rock crawler, the TrailSport trim includes enhanced suspension tuning and standard AWD, making it capable on dirt trails, snow, and gravel roads.
Jeep Grand Cherokee 2025
- Base Engine: 3.6L V6
- Optional: 5.7L HEMI V8 or 4xe Plug-in Hybrid
- Horsepower: 293 hp (V6) / 375 hp (4xe)
- Drivetrain: RWD standard, multiple 4×4 systems optional
- Fuel Economy: Varies by engine—up to 56 MPGe on 4xe
The Grand Cherokee offers true off-road variants like the Trailhawk with air suspension, skid plates, and advanced terrain management. It’s far more capable on technical trails than the Passport.
Interior Comfort and Tech
Honda Passport
- Cabin: Spacious and wide, with adult-friendly rear seating
- Cargo: ~41.2 cu ft behind 2nd row
- Tech: 8-inch touchscreen, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, standard Honda Sensing safety suite
While utilitarian in design, the Passport feels like a roomy CR-V on steroids. The flat load floor and large cubbies are great for road trips with gear.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Cabin: Upscale and customizable (especially on Limited, Overland, Summit trims)
- Cargo: ~37.7 cu ft behind 2nd row
- Tech: Uconnect 5 with up to 10.1″ touchscreen, digital cluster, night vision (optional)
The Grand Cherokee excels in luxury and tech. Its interior rivals luxury SUVs, and there’s plenty of personalization in trims and finishes.
Towing Capacity
| Model | Max Towing (lbs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Passport 2025 | 5,000 | Only AWD models reach full capacity |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | 6,200 (V6) / 7,200 (V8) | 4xe hybrid can tow 6,000+ with proper equipment |
The Jeep wins hands-down in towing. For those hauling boats, trailers, or campers, it provides greater versatility—especially with its HEMI V8 option.
Off-Road Capability Comparison
| Feature | Passport TrailSport | Grand Cherokee Trailhawk (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| AWD/4×4 | i-VTM4 AWD (standard) | Quadra-Drive II 4WD w/ low range |
| Ground Clearance | ~8.1 inches | Adjustable air suspension (up to 11.3″) |
| Skid Plates | Front only | Full underbody armor |
| Terrain Modes | Normal, Snow, Mud, Sand | Rock, Snow, Mud/Sand, Auto, Sport |
For moderate off-roading, the Passport does the job. But if you want to push boundaries—think overlanding, trail crawling, or rocky climbs—the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is the real deal.
Pros and Cons
| Feature | Honda Passport | Jeep Grand Cherokee |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Ride Comfort | Smooth, spacious cabin | Softer in higher trims, especially Limited |
| ✅ Off-Road Readiness | TrailSport adds rugged flair | Trailhawk & Quadra-Drive are next-level |
| ✅ Fuel Efficiency | Better in V6 AWD trim | 4xe hybrid leads the class in MPG/MPGe |
| ✅ Cost | More affordable overall | Higher base price, especially in 4×4 trims |
| ❌ Towing | Max 5,000 lbs | Up to 7,200 lbs with V8 |
| ❌ Customization | Few trims, less variation | Multiple trims, hybrids, luxury options |
Final Verdict: Which Is Better for Off-Road Value?
- Choose the Honda Passport if you want a reliable, comfortable, light-off-roader that’s family-friendly and priced well under $45K.
- Choose the Jeep Grand Cherokee if you want off-road dominance, luxury, and towing strength, and are willing to pay for it (Just make sure you get a great warranty!!)