The 2026 Honda Passport introduces a bolder, more rugged look for Honda’s popular mid-size SUV, aiming to stand out as a serious off-roader in its segment. Although Honda isn’t typically known for rugged SUVs, the brand asserts that this Passport is its most capable SUV to date, particularly with its TrailSport edition. To live up to these claims, the TrailSport variant is equipped with off-road-focused features such as specially tuned suspension, durable all-terrain tires, reinforced recovery points, and skid plates for undercarriage protection.
Unlike some competitors that opt for smaller turbocharged engines or hybrid options, the Passport sticks with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, offering an old-school appeal to off-road enthusiasts. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 285 horsepower—an increase from the previous model.
The Passport’s redesign also leans heavily into a boxier, more aggressive style that clearly separates it from crossover aesthetics. With a resemblance to Honda’s classic Crossroad, the 2026 Passport features higher ground clearance, shorter front overhangs for improved approach angles, and bold “PASSPORT” branding on both the front and rear. This model is now wider, with a longer wheelbase, prominent fender flares, a new hood scoop, and standard 18-inch wheels with 31-inch tires.
Honda has broadened its accessory lineup for the Passport, catering to adventure lovers with options like rock sliders, roof racks, and aluminum scuff plates. As a nostalgic touch, a foldable picnic table reminiscent of earlier Honda SUVs also makes a return.
The TrailSport lineup, introduced in 2022, initially offered more visual upgrades than functional ones. However, the 2026 TrailSport and TrailSport Elite models address this with true off-road enhancements. These editions include functional skid plates that can support the vehicle’s full weight, General Grabber all-terrain tires, and a retuned off-road suspension. Bright orange recovery points, rated to handle twice the vehicle’s weight, add further practical value for off-roading. Honda’s all-wheel-drive system has been enhanced with a custom logic system and added trail cameras to aid drivers on challenging terrain.
Built with a focus on off-road capability, the Passport’s TrailSport variant benefits from increased rigidity, boasting a 72% improvement in front lateral rigidity and a 50% improvement in rear torsional stiffness, which also enhances the overall performance and ride quality across the Passport lineup.
Inside, the Passport combines durability with comfort. It offers more space than ever, with up to 83.5 cubic feet of cargo room behind the first row and a redesigned underfloor storage compartment. New ergonomic seats, a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel with elevation and trail data on the TrailSport, and an upgraded 12.3-inch central screen with Google app integration and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto enhance the driving experience. A Bose 12-speaker audio system is also available, along with 110V power outlets for the TrailSport version.
While Honda has yet to release specific pricing details, the Passport is expected to start in the mid-$40,000 range. It will be manufactured at Honda’s Lincoln, Alabama plant and is set to hit dealerships in early 2026.
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