Honda is gearing up for the debut of its highly anticipated 2026 Honda Passport and Passport TrailSport, marking a significant leap forward in the brand’s midsize SUV lineup. This fourth-generation Passport is expected to be the most capable off-road SUV in Honda’s history, particularly in the TrailSport variant, which promises to take ruggedness and adventure to the next level.
The all-new 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is set to make its official reveal this fall, with sales beginning early next year. This model has already been showcased in teaser images and videos, showing its impressive off-road prowess as it tackled the rough terrain of Moab, Utah, Michigan’s sandy dunes, and the Appalachian forests. In these previews, Honda emphasized the vehicle’s enhanced capability, especially in off-road conditions.
Power and Performance Upgrades
A major highlight of the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is its powertrain upgrade. Honda will equip the SUV with a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, building on the current model’s 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. The exact power increase has not been confirmed yet, but Honda assures that the new engine will deliver even more muscle. Paired with this enhanced engine is a new high-strength 10-speed automatic transmission, which replaces the previous nine-speed automatic, promising smoother and more capable driving, especially in off-road conditions.
Moreover, the Passport will benefit from Honda’s updated second-generation I-VTM4 Torque-Vectoring all-wheel drive system, which improves traction by sending power to individual rear wheels when needed. This feature is critical for off-road enthusiasts, as it ensures better handling on difficult terrains like rocks, sand, and mud.
Rugged Design and Off-Road Features
The exterior of the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport has undergone significant changes. The SUV adopts a boxier and more upright design compared to its predecessor, with a bold front fascia, large grille openings, and robust seven-spoke wheels. Teaser images have revealed the addition of amber daytime running lights, contributing to the vehicle’s distinctive look. The bodywork is designed to evoke a sense of strength and durability, making the TrailSport feel ready for any adventure.
The 2026 Passport TrailSport also features several off-road enhancements, including skid plates for added protection, lifted suspension, and all-terrain tires. These upgrades allow the SUV to handle challenging environments, as demonstrated in the teaser videos showing the TrailSport rock crawling, water fording, and navigating through sand pits. While the vehicle will remain front-wheel-drive-based, its traditional automatic transmission, rather than a CVT, is expected to make it a more competent off-roader than many of its competitors.
A Strong Legacy Continues
The Passport name first appeared in 1994 as a rugged, body-on-frame SUV developed in collaboration with Isuzu. The nameplate was revived in 2019 as a two-row, midsize crossover based on the Honda Pilot, offering a more family-friendly option. However, with the introduction of the TrailSport trim in 2022, Honda began restoring some of the Passport’s adventurous spirit. The 2026 model builds on that foundation, creating a more rugged and off-road-capable SUV than ever before.
Honda is also expected to revamp the interior of the Passport, modernizing the cabin with new technology and comfort features. Though details about the interior have yet to be revealed, the 2026 Passport TrailSport is expected to come equipped with the latest infotainment systems and advanced driver assistance technologies.
