The 2026 Honda Passport has been completely re-engineered for its fourth generation, embracing a boxier aesthetic, a more potent engine, and enhanced off-road capabilities. Arriving at dealerships early in 2025, the new Passport will be offered in three trims: RTL, TrailSport, and TrailSport Elite, with prices starting in the mid-$40,000 range.
Design and Capability: Embracing a Rugged Identity
The 2026 Passport is larger in every dimension compared to its predecessor. The wheelbase has been extended by 2.9 inches to match the Honda Pilot, and the SUV is 1.5 inches longer overall. It’s also grown 0.9 inches wider and taller. The track width has been increased by 1.2 inches in the front and 1.5 inches in the rear. These dimensional changes result in a more commanding presence. The design leans heavily into ruggedness, showcasing a bold grille, a long hood, a prominent hood vent (though it is not functional), and flared fenders. The matte black finish on the rear roof section, which Honda terms the “backpack” design, serves a practical purpose. It provides a durable surface for leaning items like skis and fishing poles against the car without causing damage.
Honda asserts that the new Passport TrailSport stands as their most off-road capable SUV yet. It comes equipped with features designed to conquer challenging terrain:
- Off-road-tuned suspension with revised spring rates, retuned dampers, and a thinner front anti-roll bar for better articulation
- The second generation of Honda’s i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system, featuring a rear drive unit capable of handling 40% more torque and responding 30% faster. This system can send 70% of the engine’s torque to the rear axle, with the capability of directing 100% of that torque to either the left or right rear wheel.
- Steel skid plates to shield the underbody
- Bright orange heavy-duty recovery hooks that are designed to break away safely in the event of a front collisionSpecially engineered General Grabber A/T Sport all-terrain tires, sized 275/60R-18 and standing 31 inches tall
Beyond these functional elements, the TrailSport makes a visual statement with a gloss black grille and exterior trim, amber daytime running lights, and orange-painted front tow hooks. The 18-inch wheels feature a design with a recessed rim and a sunken valve stem to protect them from damage off-road.
Powertrain: Strength and Efficiency
The 2026 Passport draws its power from a 3.5-liter V6 engine, now featuring a dual-overhead-cam setup. While it maintains the same displacement as the previous generation, this engine delivers 285 horsepower and boasts improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. It is paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, replacing the older nine-speed unit. This transmission has been specially tuned for the Passport. Paddle shifters are included for those who prefer a more hands-on driving experience. All-wheel drive is standard across all trims.
To cater to various driving conditions and preferences, the 2026 Passport offers seven selectable drive modes:
- Normal
- Sport
- Econ
- Snow
- Sand
- Tow (new for 2026)
- Trail
The Honda Passport has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Interior and Technology: Upgraded Comfort and Connectivity
The 2026 Passport receives a revamped interior, aligning with the design language of the Honda Pilot. The new dashboard has a simpler layout with clean horizontal lines, a useful storage shelf above the glovebox, and attractive trim that traces the dash and doors. The cabin materials have been noticeably upgraded, with leather-trimmed seats standard on the entry-level Passport and synthetic leather available on higher trims. Passenger and cargo space have also been expanded. The rear seats offer an additional 1.3 inches of legroom, and cargo space behind the second row has increased to 44 cubic feet. Folding the rear seats down expands the cargo area to 84 cubic feet. A larger underfloor bin now houses the temporary spare tire. For those seeking a touch of nostalgia, a full-size spare that mounts vertically behind the back seats is also available.
The technology offerings in the 2026 Passport have been modernized:
- A 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster
- A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a larger multi-use tray ahead of the shifter
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Google Built-In with voice assistant and access to various apps via Google Play
- Qi-compatible 15W wireless smartphone charger
- 5G-LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot capability with a complimentary 3-year unlimited data plan
The TrailSport Elite trim distinguishes itself with the inclusion of the new TrailWatch camera system. This system utilises four exterior cameras to provide four different angles, including front, rear, side, and 360-degree views. It also displays graphics showing the path of the front wheels, assisting drivers in navigating obstacles at low speeds.
Safety: A Comprehensive Approach
Safety is a priority in the 2026 Passport, evident in its comprehensive suite of features:
- An updated Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, featuring a new camera with a wider 90-degree field of view and wide-angle radar with a 120-degree field of view.
- Next-generation front passenger airbag designed to mitigate the risk of traumatic brain and neck injuries
- Improved front side airbags
- New driver and front-passenger knee airbags
- Enhanced blind spot information (BSI) with increased radar range
- Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) featuring more natural responses
- Rear Seatbelt Reminder and Rear Seat Reminder systems
- Hill Descent Control
- Honda Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure designed to improve crash compatibility with smaller vehicles and enhance occupant protection in oblique frontal collisions
Conclusion: The Passport to Adventure
The 2026 Honda Passport makes a bold statement in the midsize SUV segment. With its rugged design, enhanced off-road prowess, a more powerful yet efficient engine, a tech-laden and comfortable interior, and a focus on safety, it aims to appeal to adventure-seekers and families alike. It embodies Honda’s vision of the “ultimate Honda adventure SUV.
