The 2026 Honda Passport: A Rugged Redesign, Price And Specs Off-Road SUV
The 2026 Honda Passport has arrived with a bold new look and impressive upgrades, promising to dominate both the showroom floor and the rugged trails. Aimed at recapturing its position in the competitive midsize SUV market, the redesigned Passport boasts a tougher chassis, advanced technology, and striking aesthetics. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or someone who enjoys a comfortable drive with adventurous capability, the Passport’s redesign has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the details.
A Striking Exterior That Demands Attention
The new 2026 Honda Passport exterior styling makes a strong first impression. It’s a fusion of rugged utility and modern design, drawing inspiration from popular off-roaders like the Toyota 4Runner and Ford Bronco Sport. The upright, chunky lines and bold shapes exude confidence. At the front, a slim, simple grille and rectangular LED headlights provide a clean yet powerful look, striking the perfect balance between nostalgia and modernity.
Honda calls the design theme a “backpack look,” which is both practical and stylish. The scuff-resistant plastic trim along the edges of the roof and liftgate ensures that your adventure gear—from skis to fishing rods—can lean against the SUV without leaving a mark. This attention to detail highlights Honda’s focus on blending aesthetics with functionality.
Enhanced Performance for Every Terrain
Under the hood, the 2026 Honda Passport features a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 285 horsepower. This powerful engine is now paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous 9-speed. The result? Smoother performance and more responsive shifts. Peak torque of 262 lb-ft arrives at 5,000 RPM, giving the Passport plenty of power for both city drives and rugged trails.
Honda’s i-VTM4 torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system has been upgraded for faster responses and greater capability. With a 40% increase in rear torque capacity, the system ensures optimal grip on challenging terrains. Additionally, the Passport’s ground clearance has been increased to 8.3 inches, making it better equipped for off-road adventures. Standard all-terrain tires and seven drive modes, including Sport, Trail, and Tow, allow drivers to tailor the powertrain to their specific needs.
The chassis, built on Honda’s small light truck platform, has been significantly stiffened for improved handling and durability. TrailSport models receive unique suspension tuning and multiple skid plates to protect vital components during off-road excursions. Larger brake rotors, up by 1.2 inches, enhance stopping power, giving drivers more confidence on steep descents.
A Comfortable and High-Tech Interior
Inside, the 2026 Honda Passport cabin has been fully reimagined with an emphasis on simplicity, comfort, and quality. Power-adjustable and heated front seats come standard, ensuring a cozy ride in all conditions. The TrailSport trim includes synthetic leather upholstery that’s easy to clean and a panoramic sunroof that brings the outdoors inside. For those seeking ultimate luxury, the Elite trim offers perforated leather seating, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and ambient lighting.
Cargo and passenger space have also been improved. The Passport’s wheelbase has been stretched by 2.8 inches, providing an additional 1.3 inches of rear legroom. The wider track adds to the spacious feel, while the shorter front overhang improves the approach angle for off-road driving. When the rear seats are folded, the Passport offers a cavernous 83.5 cubic feet of cargo space, perfect for packing up gear for a long weekend.
Advanced Technology at Your Fingertips
Honda has packed the 2026 Passport with cutting-edge technology to enhance the driving experience. A 12.3-inch touchscreen, 54% larger than the previous model’s screen, serves as the command center for the latest infotainment system. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless smartphone charger, and a 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
For added convenience, Google services are integrated into the system, providing access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and more. A complimentary three-year unlimited data plan ensures you stay connected on the go. Audio and climate controls are intuitive, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation.
Safety Features for Peace of Mind
Safety remains a top priority for Honda, and the 2026 Honda Passport comes equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance features. These include:
- Automated Emergency Braking: Detects potential collisions and applies the brakes if necessary.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Enhances safety when reversing out of parking spaces.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Automatic High-Beam Headlights: Adjusts for optimal visibility without blinding oncoming traffic.
These features provide added confidence for drivers, whether navigating city streets or venturing into the wilderness.
Built for Adventure
The TrailSport trim is where the 2026 Passport truly shines for off-road enthusiasts. Standard all-terrain tires, a beefed-up suspension, and additional skid plates make it trail-ready right out of the showroom. The 275/60R18 General Grabber tires provide excellent grip, while the seven drive modes allow for precise control in varying conditions. Whether tackling muddy trails or climbing rocky inclines, the TrailSport delivers.
The Passport’s towing capacity remains at 5,000 pounds, making it ideal for hauling boats, trailers, or campers. This capability ensures that your adventures don’t stop where the road ends.
A Competitive Edge in a Crowded Market
The 2026 Honda Passport faces stiff competition from rivals like the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco Sport, and Jeep Grand Cherokee. However, Honda’s commitment to blending rugged capability with everyday practicality gives it a unique edge. The Passport is not just an SUV; it’s a versatile companion for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a balance between comfort and adventure.
2026 Honda Passport Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6, 285 HP |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Honda i-VTM4 Torque-Vectoring AWD |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM |
| Ground Clearance | 8.3 inches |
| Wheelbase | 111.0 inches (2.8 inches longer) |
| Track Width (Front/Rear) | +1.3 inches (Front), +1.5 inches (Rear) |
| Tires (TrailSport) | 275/60R18 All-Terrain |
| Drive Modes | 7 Modes (Including Trail and Tow) |
| Brakes | Larger rotors (+1.2 inches diameter) |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs |
| Cargo Space | Up to 83.5 cubic feet |
| Interior Features | Heated seats, power adjustments, leather options |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.2″ instrument panel, 12.3″ touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 5G LTE Wi-Fi, Wireless Charging |
| Safety Suite (Honda Sensing) | Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Emergency Braking |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Standard on TrailSport and Elite |
| Suspension (TrailSport) | Off-road tuned, skid plates included |
| Estimated Price | $45,000 – $51,000 |
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Honda Passport is set to hit dealerships in early 2025. While exact pricing hasn’t been announced, expect it to be competitive within its segment. With its array of features and capabilities, the Passport offers excellent value for those looking to invest in a midsize SUV that can handle it all.
The pricing for the 2026 Honda Passport is projected to range between $45,000 and $51,000, varying based on the chosen trim level and options. The lineup has been updated for 2026, introducing the RTL trim (replacing the EX-L) and the TrailSport Elite (replacing the Black Edition). While official pricing details are yet to be announced, Honda has indicated that the starting price will be in the “mid $40,000s.”
For those considering the new Passport, the TrailSport trim stands out with its standard trailer hitch and wiring, rugged styling elements, and upgraded suspension, making it a promising option despite the additional cost. Once official pricing is confirmed, we’ll provide further updates.
2026 Honda Passport Price and Trim Updates
| Trim/Feature | Details | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Base price expected to start in the mid $40,000s. | $45,000 |
| Top Trim Price | Higher trims with additional features estimated to go up to $51,000. | $51,000 |
| Trim Changes | RTL trim replaces the EX-L; TrailSport Elite replaces the Black Edition. | – |
| Highlighted Trim | TrailSport offers enhanced suspension, trailer hitch and wiring, and rugged styling. | Mid-to-high $40,000 range |
2026 Honda Passport: Trim Comparison
| Feature/Specification | Base Trim (RTL) | TrailSport | TrailSport Elite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range (Estimated) | $45,000 – $46,000 | $47,000 – $49,000 | $50,000 – $51,000 |
| Engine | 3.5L V6, 285 HP | 3.5L V6, 285 HP | 3.5L V6, 285 HP |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic | 10-Speed Automatic | 10-Speed Automatic |
| All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Suspension | Standard | Upgraded, tuned for off-road | Advanced suspension with off-road focus |
| Styling | Clean and simple | Rugged and bold | Premium rugged with exclusive accents |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Optional | Standard | Standard |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.2″ digital panel | 12.3″ touchscreen | 12.3″ touchscreen |
| Drive Modes | 5 Modes | 7 Modes (Including Trail and Tow) | 7 Modes (Including Trail and Tow) |
| Unique Features | Power Tailgate | Skid plates, all-terrain tires | Heated/ventilated seats, premium lighting |
The 2026 Honda Passport is a bold step forward for the brand. Its rugged design, enhanced performance, spacious interior, and advanced technology make it a compelling choice for a wide range of drivers. Whether you’re navigating urban streets or exploring unpaved trails, the Passport is built to meet your needs.
For those in the 35 to 50 age group who value versatility, reliability, and a touch of adventure, the Passport is worth considering. With its thoughtful upgrades and Honda’s reputation for quality, this SUV is ready to tackle whatever comes next. Stay tuned for test drives and detailed reviews as the 2026 Passport makes its debut!
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