While Honda has become known for its fully-capable and family-friendly SUV range that includes the CR-V, HR-V, and Pilot nameplates, it was the Passport that started it all for the Japanese brand who was entering a burgeoning SUV sector in the mid-’90s. Even though the Passport was discontinued in 2002 and replaced with the Pilot, Honda brought the model back in 2018 as a crossover, enduring increasing popularity since.
Introduced for 2022, the TrailSport trim gave the Passport a more rugged package, becoming a favorite of explorers and off-roaders alike. Now, Honda has unveiled its 2026 edition, claiming it to be its most rugged, off-road capable SUV ever.
Based on an Improved Passport to Begin With
Coming alongside their non-TrailSport Passport, the TrailSport runs on the same powertrain. This means a 3.5-liter V6 delivering 285hp and 262lb.ft of torque, mated with the Passport’s first-ever 10-speed automatic transmission, along with a 2nd-gen i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system.
Already boxier than its predecessor, the new Passport has an increased ground clearance, shorter front overhang for a higher approach angle, an increased dash-to-axle ratio despite the longer wheelbase (from 111.05” to 113.6”), and hidden exhaust tips for a higher departure angle as well. The revised front end of the SUV is given a long hood, aggressive hood scoop, stronger roof rails, flared fenders, and wider tracks, to go along with the 31-inch tires over 18-inch wheels.
TrailSport Upgrades
The TrailSport trim, however, leverages all these improvements for off-roading while adding some features of its own, such as an off-road tuned suspension, expanded all-wheel drive capabilities, optimized stabilizer bars, robust steel underbody skid plates, heavy-duty hi-vis orange recovery hooks, and exclusive General Grabber all-terrain tires. Essentially, every element is taken up a notch to improve off-road performance and comfort. And just for fun, the Passport’s new LED DRL light signature gets an exclusive amber option for the TrailSport trim.
The First-Ever TrailSport Elite Trim
If the standard TrailSport isn’t luxurious enough for you, you can have your cake and eat it too with the TrailSport Elite trim — the first-ever offered from Honda. This carries over all of the regular TrailSport features but adds luxe elements inside like perforated leather seating with piping, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, rear climate control, rear door shades, expanded ambient lighting, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system that’s been custom-engineered for the interior acoustics.
The Elite also boasts the brand-new TrailWatch camera system, featuring four exterior cameras (front, rear, side, and 360º) to improve how you handle driving over obstacles outside the car, even if you can’t see them in your natural line of sight. As an extreme example, if you’re approaching a steel slope, these cameras will let you know if you’re about to hit a giant boulder.
Spec Sheet
Model: Passport TrailSport and TrailSport Elite
Model Year: 2026
Engine: 3.5L V6
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Power: 285hp, 262lb.ft of torque
Pricing & Availability
While the standard 2026 Passport has an MSRP of $44,750, the TrailSport will tack on an extra $3,700, while the TrailSport Elite will tack on an extra $7,700. These vehicles should be rolling into dealerships this week. Head over to Honda’s website to learn more.
Recap
2026 Honda Passport TrailSport
Honda’s 2026 Passport comes in a TrailSport trim claiming to be the most rugged SUV the brand’s ever made, while the TrailSport Elite adds some luxurious interior comfort features, but for a price.
