2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Review: Pricey But Worth It?

Honda is raising the bar for adventure-ready sport utility vehicles with the 2026 Passport TrailSport. While the outgoing model leaned more toward suburbia than the backcountry, the latest version confidently steps into off-road territory. The visual upgrade is striking. Honda gives the Passport a bolder stance with a flatter front end, rectangular headlights, and retro-inspired orange daytime running lights. Details like a stamped tailgate and vertical tail lamps give it a rugged edge that was missing before.

The TrailSport rides on 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires that not only look the part but perform well when the pavement ends. Add to that a generous 8.3 inches of ground clearance, a 23.0-degree approach angle, and steel skid plates, and this mid-size SUV becomes more than just a weekend warrior. A new 10-speed automatic transmission works with the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine now making 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It may not have turbocharged punch, but throttle response is quick and predictable, especially when navigating tough terrain.

All-wheel drive is standard, and Honda’s torque vectoring system smartly sends power where it is needed most. Trail and Sand drive modes improve throttle tuning for better control in unpredictable conditions. Drivers who opt for the TrailSport Elite get added goodies like front- and side-view trail cameras and leather seats that are surprisingly comfortable, even on long off-road runs.

Inside, the Passport gets a clean and functional upgrade. A 12.3-inch center touchscreen and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster provide crisp visuals and helpful data like pitch, roll, and elevation. Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are standard, making it easy to stay connected.

While ride quality on pavement is stiffer than before, the trade-off is worth it for improved capability. Priced at $49,900 including destination, the TrailSport comes in well below similarly equipped competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland.

The new Passport TrailSport proves that Honda listened to what buyers really wanted: A good-looking, trail-ready SUV that can comfortably handle daily life, too. If the V6 had a little more low-end torque, it might be nearly perfect.