Why the 2026 Honda Passport is Turning Heads in America
The 2026 Honda Passport isn’t just another midsize SUV—it’s Honda’s bold step into rugged territory, blending family-friendly comfort with genuine off-road grit. Launched in early 2025, this reimagined two-row beast promises to rival the likes of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner, all while keeping that reliable Honda DNA intact. With a starting price around $44,750, it’s aimed at US buyers craving adventure without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re hauling gear for a weekend trail run or shuttling kids to soccer practice, the Passport’s versatile design shines. In this in-depth review, we’ll dive into its specs, features, real-world performance, and what early owners are saying. Stick around for expert insights, pros/cons, and answers to your burning questions—because if you’re in the market for a midsize SUV, this could be your next ride.
What’s New for 2026: A Rugged Refresh That Delivers
Honda didn’t hold back with the 2026 Passport. This all-new model ditches the softer edges of its predecessor for a tougher, more capable profile, making it the brand’s most off-road-focused SUV yet.Key updates include:
- Enhanced Powertrain: A peppier 3.5-liter V6 engine pumping out 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Upgraded AWD System: Second-gen i-VTM4® torque-vectoring all-wheel drive with quicker response and better low-speed control for rocky trails.
- Off-Road Tech Boost: New TrailWatch™ camera system and Trail Info display showing pitch, roll, and elevation on the 10.2-inch digital cluster.
- Towing Prowess: Up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, perfect for trailers or boats.
These changes position the Passport as a serious contender in the off-road segment, especially with the TrailSport trim’s all-terrain tires and skid plates. Early buzz? It’s outselling expectations in states like Colorado and Utah, where rugged lifestyles rule.
Exterior Design: Boxy, Bold, and Built to Last
Gone are the days of bland crossovers—the 2026 Passport channels classic SUV vibes with its squared-off body, prominent wheel arches, and protective cladding. Measuring longer, wider, and taller than the 2025 model, it boasts a wider track for stability on uneven ground.
Standout Exterior Features
- Aggressive Front Fascia: LED headlights, fog lamps, and a beefy grille that screams adventure.
- Trail-Ready Wheels: 18-inch alloys with recessed valve stems to fend off rock dings; TrailSport gets 31-inch all-terrain rubber.
- Roof and Rails: Gloss-black rails handling up to 209 lbs of cargo, ideal for kayaks or bikes.
- Color Options: Eight hues, including bold Solar Silver Metallic and earthy Mountain Khaki Pearl.
Approach angle hits 23 degrees, with 8.3 inches of ground clearance—enough for moderate trails but not extreme rock-crawling.Owners rave about the durable bumpers and recovery hooks, calling it “Jeep-tough without the drama.”
Interior Comfort: Space, Tech, and Everyday Luxury
Step inside, and the Passport feels like a premium lounge on wheels. With seating for five, it prioritizes rear passenger space—41.7 inches of legroom beats many rivals. The cabin’s high-quality materials, like available leather and soft-touch surfaces, elevate it above entry-level SUVs.
Interior Highlights
- Seating and Storage: Heated/ventilated front buckets, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and 14 cupholders for family road trips.
- Infotainment Hub: 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Google built-in, and a 12-speaker Bose system on Elite trims.
- Climate Control: Tri-zone auto AC with humidity sensors and rear vents—crucial for hot US summers.
- Cargo Versatility: 41 cubic feet behind the seats, expanding to 77.7 with them folded; hands-free tailgate and 115V outlet for gadgets.
Quiet cabin thanks to acoustic glass and active noise cancellation? Check. It’s a hit with families, though some note the lack of a third row as a con for larger crews.
Performance and Efficiency: V6 Power Meets Real-World Smarts
Under the hood, the 3.5L V6 delivers smooth, responsive power—0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds, per early tests.Paired with the 10-speed auto and paddle shifters, it’s refined for highways yet gutsy for dirt roads. Seven drive modes (Normal, Sport, Trail, etc.) let you tailor the experience.
On-Road and Off-Road Breakdown
- Highway Cruising: 19 city/25 hwy MPG (FWD models); AWD drops it to 18/23. Not class-leading, but the torque-vectoring AWD shines in rain or snow.
- Off-Road Edge: TrailSport’s locking rear diff and hill descent control handle moderate trails like a champ—think Moab’s easier paths.
- Towing Test: Hauls 5,000 lbs effortlessly, with trailer sway control for peace of mind.
Reviewers praise the “pleasant power delivery” but ding the fuel thirst on long hauls.<grok:render card_id=”c5bf7a” card_type=”citation_card” type=”render_inline_citation”> 17</grok:render> For US drivers, it’s a balanced performer that won’t leave you stranded.
Safety Suite: Honda Sensing Takes It Up a Notch
Safety is Honda’s forte, and the 2026 Passport’s Honda Sensing® suite is no exception—standard across trims. It earned a predicted 5-star NHTSA rating in pre-launch tests.
Core Safety Features
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Low-speed follow for traffic jams.
- Lane Keeping Assist: With Traffic Jam Assist for subtle steering inputs.
- Collision Mitigation: Auto-braking for vehicles, peds, and cyclists.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Plus cross-traffic alert and rear side airbags.
- Driver Monitors: Attention alerts and traffic sign recognition.
The forward collision warning is “non-intrusive yet effective,” per Car and Driver.
For families, it’s a reassuring cocoon.
Tech and Features: Connected and Capable
The Passport packs segment-topping tech without overwhelming the driver. Wireless charging, USB-C ports galore, and a panoramic moonroof add flair.
Top Tech Picks
- Digital Cluster: 10.2-inch customizable display with off-road metrics.
- Audio Upgrade: 12-speaker Bose with active noise cancellation.
- Convenience Perks: Remote start, wireless charger, and HondaLink app for remote monitoring.
- TrailSport Exclusives: Skid plates, rock sliders, and a tailgate table for camp vibes.
It’s user-friendly, boosting engagement—many owners report loving the Google integration for seamless navigation.
Pricing and Trims: Value in Every Package
Starting at $44,750 (RTL), the Passport scales up to $52,450 for the TrailSport Elite—competitive for its class.Add $1,450 destination.
| Trim | MSRP (excl. dest.) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| RTL | $44,750 | V6, AWD, 12.3″ screen, Honda Sensing |
| TrailSport | $48,450 | Off-road susp., all-terrain tires, skid plates |
| Elite | $50,950 | Leather, Bose audio, ventilated seats |
| TrailSport Elite | $52,450 | Panoramic roof, wireless charger, premium wheels |
Leasing deals hover at $499/month—shop around for incentives in high-demand states.
Competitors: How the Passport Stacks Up
In the US midsize SUV arena, the Passport faces stiff competition. Here’s a quick showdown:
- vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee: More off-road cred, but thirstier (17/24 MPG) and pricier ($37K+).
- vs. Toyota 4Runner: Iconic reliability, but dated interior and lower towing (5,000 lbs tie).
- vs. Ford Edge: Cheaper ($40K start), but less rugged—no true AWD torque vectoring.
The Passport wins on value and Honda’s resale strength, though some wish for a hybrid option.
Fresh Insights: Trending Buzz and Real Owner Stories
Since hitting lots in February 2025, the 2026 Passport has sparked hot debates online. TrailSport trims are flying off shelves in adventure hotspots, with a 20% sales bump over 2025. Pros dominate: “Genuine off-road chops in a comfy package” (TFLcar). Owners on Reddit and Facebook gush over the V6’s smoothness and cabin quietness, with one calling it “the Pilot’s cooler little brother.”
Cons? Fuel economy lags hybrids (aim for premium gas for best results), and ground clearance could be taller for die-hards. Early glitches like battery woes popped up for a few, but Honda’s warranty covers them swiftly. Trending now: Pairing it with overlanding gear for fall tailgates—expect viral X posts from tailgaters.
Consumer Reports notes its “reserve power” makes merging a breeze, earning high marks for daily drivability. For US buyers eyeing electrification, Honda teases a hybrid variant by 2027—stay tuned.
FAQ: Your 2026 Honda Passport Questions Answered
Is the 2026 Honda Passport good for off-roading?
Absolutely—the TrailSport trim’s suspension, tires, and AWD make it capable on moderate trails, though it’s not a hardcore Wrangler rival.
What’s the fuel economy like?
Expect 19/25 MPG city/highway for base models; TrailSport dips to 18/23. Real-world? Around 21 combined for mixed driving.
How does it compare to the Honda Pilot?
The Passport is sleeker and more off-road focused, skipping the third row for better cargo space. Pilot’s for bigger families.
When can I test drive one?
Dealers have them now—book via Honda’s site. Fall 2025 colors are dropping soon.
Any reliability concerns?
Honda’s track record is stellar; early reviews show few issues beyond minor teething problems covered under warranty.
Is there a hybrid version?
Not yet, but Honda’s pushing electrification—watch for 2027 updates.
Got more Qs? Drop a comment below—we reply fast!
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2026 Honda Passport?
The 2026 Honda Passport nails the sweet spot for US adventurers: rugged enough for weekends away, refined for commutes. At under $50K loaded, it’s a smart pick over flashier foes, backed by Honda’s legendary durability. If off-road calls your name without family sacrifices, test drive one today—your next epic story starts here.
Ready to hit the trails? Share your Passport dreams in the comments or tag a friend eyeing an SUV upgrade. What’s your must-have feature?
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