Honda has introduced the 2026 Passport TrailSport, touting it as the most off-road capable SUV the company has produced to date. With a focus on rugged features, the new model includes an off-road-tuned suspension, an advanced all-wheel drive system, steel skid plates, heavy-duty recovery hooks, and all-terrain tires, making it suitable for more challenging terrains. Affordable, powerful, and well-equipped, Honda might be on to something with the Trailsport.
Honda’s assistant vice president of National Auto Sales, Jessika Laudermilk, described the updated Passport as an embodiment of “Honda rugged design and capability,” offering improved off-road performance alongside everyday comfort. The fourth-generation Passport is set to debut early next year, offered in three well-equipped and capable trim levels: RTL, TrailSport, and TrailSport Elite.
Powering the new Passport is a 285-horsepower, 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission—a first for this model. The powertrain has been fine-tuned to enhance performance, offering smoother shifts and increased responsiveness. Additionally, the Passport is equipped with the latest generation of Honda’s i-VTM4 torque vectoring all-wheel drive system. This improved version includes a stronger rear drive unit capable of handling 40% more torque, enhancing traction in challenging conditions.
Inside, the 2026 Passport offers increased rear legroom, expanded cargo space, and advanced technology features, including a 10.2-inch digital driver display and a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, alongside wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The front seats have also been updated with Honda’s Body Stabilizing technology, aimed at reducing fatigue on longer journeys.
The Passport’s interior design includes added adventure-focused features such as two-tier door bins, a larger center console bin, and a multi-use tray for holding smaller items. Honda has also introduced a range of accessories focused on overlanding, including a cargo roof platform, rock sliders, and a MOLLE storage system. A new cargo shelf that converts into a table—designed to seat four—is also part of the available accessory lineup.
In terms of design, the new Passport—designed at Honda’s Los Angeles studio—embodies a “backpack” theme, featuring a matte black rear roof section intended to resist damage from equipment like skis or fishing rods. Its wider stance, redesigned flared fenders, and 18-inch wheels give the vehicle a more aggressive off-road look. Notable features include LED taillights, a roof spoiler, and a longer wheelbase that improves handling and stability.
The TrailSport models offer additional rugged design elements such as a gloss black grille, amber daytime running lights, front and rear skid garnishes, and signature TrailSport badges. Equipped with higher-mounted fog lights for trail protection, these models also come with front and rear recovery points rated at twice the Passport’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). A trailer hitch with a 7-pin connector is standard, integrated with rear recovery points that add off-road resilience.
Interior upgrades on the TrailSport Elite trim include perforated leather seats, ventilated front seating, a heated steering wheel, rear climate controls, and a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system. Expanded cabin storage includes several multi-use trays, large door bins, and 10 cupholders capable of holding wide 32-ounce water bottles. The new Passport also boasts the most cargo room in its history, providing up to 83.5 cubic feet of storage behind the first row with the rear seats folded.
The Passport TrailSport is equipped with a new TrailWatch camera system, offering four different views—front, rear, side, and 360-degree—to assist drivers in navigating obstacles. This system automatically engages at low speeds in off-road conditions, providing added visibility in challenging terrain.
The Passport’s 2026 model also sees increased rigidity in its body and platform, with a 72% increase in front lateral rigidity and a 50% increase in rear torsion rigidity. This change aims to improve ride comfort, stability, and handling both on and off-road. The suspension system has been fortified with stronger suspension arms and retuned MacPherson struts, and the brake rotors have been enlarged for improved stopping power.
The fourth-generation Passport, including the TrailSport and TrailSport Elite trims, will be available early next year, with pricing expected to start in the mid-$40,000s.
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