5 Minutes
A Mid‑Size SUV That Appeals to Reason
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is a mid-size SUV designed around real-world utility rather than emotional flair. In a crowded segment where space, comfort, and versatility drive buying decisions, the Passport holds its own with thoughtful packaging, a refined cabin, and just enough off-road hardware to satisfy weekend adventurers.
Key Highlights
Roomy and Quiet Cabin
The new Passport impresses with abundant interior space. Seating for five is comfortable front to back, and Honda has clearly prioritized storage: cubbies, pockets, and cleverly placed compartments mean you can carry everyday clutter without compromise. Behind the rear seats the cargo area swallows 16 carry-on bags; fold the second row and the load bay expands to 83 cubic feet — only four cubic feet shy of the three-row Honda Pilot.
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view exterior photos Marc Urbano|Car and Driver view exterior photos Marc Urbano|Car and Driver
Composed Ride and Confident Handling
Steering is responsive and direct, and while the Passport won’t handle like a sports sedan, it strikes a pleasing balance between agility and comfort. The TrailSport model we tested recorded a peak lateral grip of 0.80 g — respectable for a family SUV with all‑terrain tires. The standard all-wheel-drive system includes a torque-vectoring rear differential to optimize traction, and Honda says overall body stiffness is up roughly 50 percent in places, which helps reduce flex over bumps and at highway speeds. Remarkably, the TrailSport remains quiet for an off-road–styled SUV, measuring about 68 dB in the cabin at 70 mph.
Those knobby tires are part of the TrailSport's off-road attitude. Increased ground clearance (now 8.3 inches), an improved approach angle, skid plates, and tow hooks give some credence to the rugged appearance.
LOWS: Calling it slow is overselling, a lot heavier than before, practical isn't exciting.
Powertrain and Performance
Honda equips the Passport with a 3.5-liter V6 that now uses a dual-cam configuration in place of the previous SOHC design. Peak output stands at 285 hp at 6100 rpm. The engine is tuned more for smooth, usable power than for high-rev excitement; it lacks the old VTEC‑style character but is efficient and predictable.
The tradeoff is weight. The TrailSport Elite we tested weighs about 4,782 lb — roughly 545 lb more than the previous Passport — and that mass tempers acceleration. Our 0–60 mph run came in 7.3 seconds, compared with 5.9 seconds for the prior model. Fuel economy is improved, though: real-world highway cruising returned about 25 mpg at 75 mph, roughly 2 mpg better than the former TrailSport.
Design and Practicality
Exterior touches on the TrailSport emphasize utility: chunky tires, higher ride height, skid protection, and visible recovery points. Inside, Honda continues to prioritize function — abundant storage, thoughtful ergonomics, and a family-friendly layout. The optional panoramic sunroof and other comfort features add weight but increase perceived refinement on models like the TrailSport Elite, which we tested at a sticker price of about $54,355.
Market Positioning and Comparisons
Honda positions the Passport between more urban-focused crossovers and larger three-row SUVs like the Pilot. Compared with rivals, the Passport emphasizes sensible utility, quiet refinement, and modest off-road capability rather than outright sportiness or luxury. It’s practical in the same way many successful mid-size SUVs are: not flashy, but dependable and well thought-out. Buyers who prioritized a quicker 0–60 time or a sporty driving character might look elsewhere, but those seeking cargo capacity, comfort, and a capable AWD system will find the Passport compelling.
Specifications Snapshot
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6
- Power: 285 hp at 6100 rpm
- Drivetrain: Standard all-wheel drive with torque-vectoring rear differential
- Ground clearance: 8.3 inches (TrailSport)
- Cargo capacity: 16 carry-on bags behind rear seats; 83 cu ft with rear row folded
- 0–60 mph: 7.3 seconds (TrailSport Elite test car)
- Highway fuel economy observed: ~25 mpg at 75 mph
- Measured cabin noise: ~68 dB at 70 mph
- Test vehicle price: ~$54,355 (TrailSport Elite)
Verdict
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is a clear-headed mid-size SUV that prioritizes practicality, packaging, and refinement. It’s not an emotional driver’s car, but it delivers a quiet, comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and modest off-road chops. For families and active buyers who value sensible capability and a well-executed interior, the Passport is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV market.
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