2026 Honda Passport
In an ever-growing market of midsize SUVs, the 2026 Honda Passport stands out by confidently straddling the line between rugged capability and refined comfort. Honda seems to understand this demand perfectly with the latest iteration of the Passport. Positioned neatly between the compact Honda CR-V and the larger, three-row Pilot, the 2026 Passport is designed for those who crave adventure without sacrificing daily drivability.
For the 2026 model year, Honda has sharpened the Passport’s design, updated its technology, and enhanced its off-road prowess — especially in the TrailSport trim, which continues to attract attention from outdoor enthusiasts. This model isn’t just a refresh; it’s a statement that Honda is committed to evolving with its drivers while staying true to its reputation for reliability and quality.
Exterior and Design Updates
The 2026 Honda Passport makes a bold first impression, thanks to a series of exterior updates that elevate its rugged yet refined personality. Honda has taken a thoughtful approach to the Passport’s design evolution, balancing aggressive styling with the sleek sophistication drivers have come to expect from the brand. The result is a more confident-looking SUV that’s ready for both the trails and the suburbs.
At the front, the Passport now sports a more prominent grille, featuring a wider stance and a textured mesh pattern that gives the vehicle a more muscular look. The redesigned LED headlights are sharper and slimmer, seamlessly integrated into the front fascia to create a modern, commanding presence. A re-sculpted hood adds to the vehicle's dynamic profile, hinting at the power that lies beneath it.
One of the highlights of the 2026 model year is the updated TrailSport edition. Honda continues to lean into the growing demand for adventure-ready SUVs, and the TrailSport delivers with its own exclusive design cues. An increased ride height and improved approach angles add functionality to the form.
A hands-free power tailgate is available on higher trims, offering added convenience for loading gear, groceries, or camping supplies. Whether you choose a more elegant finish or something bold that stands out on the trail, the 2026 Passport offers a visual personality that matches its purpose-driven design.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 2026 Passport is powered by Honda’s tried-and-true 3.5-liter V6 engine, a naturally aspirated powerhouse that produces an impressive 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. For drivers seeking off-road readiness or all-weather stability, the available i-VTM4® all-wheel drive system is a game changer. Unlike basic AWD setups, Honda’s torque-vectoring system intelligently distributes power not just between the front and rear wheels, but also between the left and right rear wheels. It’s a feature that adds both safety and excitement to your driving experience.
Complementing the AWD system is Honda’s Intelligent Traction Management, which allows the driver to select from multiple terrain modes—including Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand—at the push of a button. Each mode adjusts throttle response, transmission behavior, and torque distribution to optimize performance for the terrain beneath you.
Despite its robust engine, the Passport manages respectable fuel efficiency. Estimated mileage comes in at around 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for a vehicle of its size and power. For families and adventurers who want both capability and practicality, that balance is a significant win.
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Interior and Features
While the Passport has always been known for its spacious cabin, the 2026 model refines the formula with updated materials, smarter storage solutions, and a suite of convenience features designed to enhance every journey—short or long.
Honda has also prioritized storage and usability, which is evident in the Passport’s clever interior layout. The center console offers deep storage for larger items like tablets or purses, while multiple cup holders, door pockets, and hidden compartments ensure that smaller essentials stay organized and within reach. The rear seats feature a 60/40 split-folding function, making it easy to expand the already-generous cargo space for larger items like camping gear, sports equipment, or travel luggage.
Whether you’re hauling home improvement supplies or packing for a weekend getaway, the Passport adapts to your needs without missing a beat. Technology is another area where the 2026 Passport shines. This display is both responsive and easy to navigate, offering wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ as standard features.
For audiophiles, an available premium sound system ensures your music, podcasts, and phone calls sound crisp and clear no matter where you’re seated. Convenience features are plentiful as well. Ultimately, the interior of the 2026 Honda Passport is where form meets function.
Technology and Infotainment
Menus are logically arranged, icons are more intuitive, and touch response is quicker than ever. Whether you're navigating through music playlists, maps, or settings, the system responds with smartphone-like fluidity.
One of the most appreciated upgrades is the inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. A wireless charging pad located conveniently in the center console ensures your phone stays powered throughout the trip, while multiple USB-C ports—both in the front and rear—keep everyone’s devices charged and ready to go. Higher trims offer additional 115V outlets, ideal for powering laptops or outdoor gear on the go.
Drivers can choose what information to highlight—navigation directions, audio tracks, fuel economy, or driver-assist features—making it easy to stay informed without distraction. The design is crisp and modern, adding a touch of sophistication to the driving experience.
Music lovers will also appreciate the available premium audio system. In select trims, Honda includes a high-fidelity setup that delivers rich, immersive sound quality throughout the cabin. Whether you're listening to a podcast, or tuning into satellite radio, every sound is sharp and well-balanced.
Connectivity goes beyond entertainment, too. The 2026 Passport now offers over-the-air (OTA) software updates, which means your vehicle’s systems can be updated wirelessly—keeping features current and potentially adding new capabilities over time. This future-proof approach reflects Honda’s commitment to keeping the Passport relevant for years to come.
Additional smart features, like HondaLink®, allow drivers to access their vehicle remotely via smartphone. It’s the kind of thoughtful tech integration that turns everyday tasks into seamless experiences.
Safety and Driver Assistance
As drivers increasingly demand not just performance and comfort but also peace of mind behind the wheel, Honda delivers a vehicle that not only protects but actively works to prevent accidents before they happen.
At the heart of the Passport’s safety technology is the updated Honda Sensing® suite, which now comes standard on all trims. Together, these systems act as a second set of eyes on the road, helping drivers respond more effectively to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.
New for 2026 is an enhanced Blind Spot Information System (BSI), now featuring Rear Cross Traffic Braking, which goes beyond alerting the driver of cross traffic. This is particularly useful in tight parking lots or driveways with limited visibility. The multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines further improves safety when maneuvering in reverse.
The Passport also benefits from Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) and an Auto High-Beam Headlight system, helping drivers stay informed of changing road rules and improving nighttime visibility. These additions reflect Honda’s commitment to blending safety with driver awareness and convenience.
For those who opt for higher trims like the Elite or TrailSport, additional features become available, such as front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, and Low-Speed Braking Control. These features not only assist in tight spaces but also add a layer of confidence for new or cautious drivers.
The SUV is also equipped with a comprehensive set of airbags, including front, side, and side curtain airbags with rollover sensors. Though official safety ratings for the 2026 model are pending, the Passport’s predecessor earned high marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Trim Levels and Options
Whether you’re seeking a no-nonsense utility vehicle, a refined daily driver, or an off-road-ready adventure companion, Honda offers a Passport model that fits your needs. With thoughtfully packaged features and the right blend of technology, comfort, and capability, choosing the right trim is a matter of matching your lifestyle to the options available.
EX-L: The Well-Equipped Foundation
Starting off the lineup is the EX-L trim, which, despite being the base model, offers a generous array of features. You also get a power liftgate, blind spot monitoring, and the full Honda Sensing® suite of safety features. It's also available with either front-wheel drive or Honda's advanced all-wheel-drive system, allowing buyers to customize based on their geographic needs or driving style.
TrailSport: Rugged Style Meets Capability
Next in the lineup is the TrailSport trim, and it’s the go-to model for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. This trim includes standard all-wheel drive, off-road tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, and TrailSport-specific badging both inside and out.
Honda has made sure this isn’t just a styling package—it’s a trim that actually performs in the dirt, gravel, and snow. If your weekends are spent exploring trails, campsites, or back roads, the TrailSport has the grit and gear to keep up.
Elite: Comfort, Tech, and Premium Touches
At the top of the Passport range is the Elite trim, which offers the most luxurious and feature-rich experience. Designed for those who want every bell and whistle, the Elite includes ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and an enhanced premium audio system that provides crisp, immersive sound.
You'll also find a hands-free power liftgate, ambient interior lighting, integrated navigation, and additional driver-assist upgrades like front and rear parking sensors and a surround-view camera system. Standard all-wheel drive ensures the Elite doesn’t compromise capability for comfort.
The Elite trim is ideal for families, professionals, or anyone who appreciates upscale amenities in a versatile SUV package.
Optional Packages and Customization
In addition to the trim levels, Honda offers a variety of accessory packages and standalone options to personalize your Passport. These include:
- Utility Packages with roof rails, crossbars, and cargo organizers
- Towing Packages with wiring harnesses and Class III trailer hitches (Passport can tow up to 5,000 lbs)
- Style Packages with blacked-out accents, door visors, and wheel upgrades
Honda also offers a selection of exterior colors and interior material choices that allow you to further tailor the Passport to your taste—whether you prefer a bold, outdoorsy vibe or a more refined, urban look.
Choosing the Right Trim
If you're looking for a well-rounded family SUV, the EX-L is more than sufficient. Whatever your choice, the 2026 Honda Passport offers a trim that feels thoughtfully built—not just to meet expectations, but to exceed them.
Pricing and Availability
The base EX-L trim starts in the mid-$40,000 range, offering an impressive set of standard features that many competitors reserve for higher trims. This pricing makes it an attractive option for families and individuals seeking a capable SUV without having to compromise on comfort or technology. The availability of both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options means buyers can choose a Passport tailored to their budget and driving needs.
Moving up to the TrailSport trim, you can expect pricing to increase by a few thousand dollars—landing in the upper $40,000s to low $50,000s. This jump reflects the added off-road hardware, unique styling elements, and enhanced suspension tuning. At the top of the lineup, the Elite trim carries a price tag in the mid-to-upper $50,000 range. This premium version justifies its cost with luxury-oriented upgrades such as ventilated and heated seats, advanced driver assistance technologies, and premium audio systems.
Whether it’s adding a towing package, a protection kit, or upgraded wheels, these options offer flexibility and allow owners to personalize their vehicle to their lifestyle.
Availability and Release Timeline
Honda has confirmed that the 2026 Passport will be available at dealerships nationwide starting in the fall of 2025. Potential buyers should keep an eye out for local dealership promotions and Honda’s financing offers, which often include competitive lease deals and low-interest financing options. For those eager to get behind the wheel quickly, Honda’s certified pre-owned program may also offer gently used Passport models from previous years at attractive price points.
