2026 Honda Passport TrailSport: The Ultimate Off-Road Vehicle

In the world of mid-size SUVs, the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is the one to beat, combining rugged off-road capability with on-road comfort. This is Honda's answer to the drivers who want an adventure vehicle that meets their practical needs.

Design and Exterior

The 2026 Passport TrailSport looks bold and aggressive with a boxier body style. The front fascia features a gloss black grille with amber LED daytime running lights and a signature TrailSport element. Orange-painted recovery hooks add some color and show the vehicle is ready for off-road action.

TrailSport rides on 18-inch wheels with General Grabber all-terrain tires, co-developed with General Tire for maximum traction across all terrains. The 31-inch tires give more ground clearance for off-road capability. Steel skid plates provide additional underbody protection, proof of Honda's commitment to durability and functionality in extreme environments.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the bonnet is a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 285 horsepower, a slight bump over the previous model. Paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, replacing the 9-speed, for smoother gear shifts and better fuel efficiency. The standard i-VTM4 torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system distributes power for on-road and off-road traction.

The TrailSport's suspension has been tuned for off-road performance. Revised spring rates, retuned dampers with specific valving, and a thinner front anti-roll bar give better wheel articulation to navigate uneven terrain. This makes the TrailSport a great option for those who want to go beyond the beaten path.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the Passport TrailSport is a cabin designed for comfort and practicality. The interior features synthetic leather upholstery with orange contrast stitching, matching the TrailSport's adventurous spirit. A panoramic sunroof lets in natural light for a better driving experience. The dashboard features a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The infotainment system has Google Built-In and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration so everyone on board can stay connected. Physical controls for volume and climate are a thoughtful touch in a digital world.

Rear passengers get an extra 1.3 inches of legroom thanks to the longer wheelbase. The Passport has plenty of cargo space with 44 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. An underfloor storage compartment holds a temporary spare tire and for a full-size spare, Honda offers an option that mounts behind the rear seats.

Trim Levels and Prices

The 2026 Passport comes in three trims: RTL, TrailSport and TrailSport Elite. The base RTL starts at $42,600 with standard all-wheel drive, heated front seats and a suite of driver assist technologies. The TrailSport is priced at $49,900 and adds off-road features like all-terrain tires, steel skid plates and unique exterior styling.

For a more premium experience, the TrailSport Elite starts at $53,900 and includes a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and the TrailWatch camera system which provides multiple viewing angles to help navigate tough terrain. Optional packages like the $1,200 Blackout package allow for customization with darkened badges and black 18-inch wheels.

Fuel Economy and Towing Capacity

The TrailSport models get an EPA-estimated 20 mpg combined, 18 mpg city, and 24 mpg highway. This is a slight decrease from the base RTL trim due to the TrailSport's off-road features and equipment but still a good balance of performance and efficiency.

For towing the Passport TrailSport can tow up to 5,000 pounds making it suitable for trailers, boats, or recreational vehicles. Integrated recovery points and a heavy-duty trailer hitch prove Honda's focus on functionality and versatility.

Safety and Driver-Assist Features

Honda continues to prioritize safety with the 2026 Passport TrailSport featuring a host of advanced driver-assist technologies. Standard equipment includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and traffic-sign recognition. The blind-spot monitoring system has a wider range now for added awareness during lane changes.

The TrailSport Elite trim introduces the TrailWatch camera system which gives four different viewing angles to help drivers navigate off-road obstacles. This system activates at speeds up to 15 mph and provides real-time video of the terrain ahead and around the vehicle for added safety during low-speed maneuvering.

The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is proof that Honda can blend capability with comfort and tech. Its thoughtful design, off-road features, and many amenities make it a great choice for those who need a versatile SUV that can handle daily driving and off-road adventures.