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2026 Honda Passport Passes Updated IIHS Moderate Overlap Test
Honda's fully redesigned 2026 Passport has completed crash testing with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and delivered a strong performance. As a mid-size crossover built on a clean-sheet redesign for 2026, the Passport scored extremely well in crashworthiness evaluations — including the IIHS's updated moderate overlap test, which the model passed with high marks.
Rear Occupant Protection and Restraints
A common weakness among many SUVs is rear-seat protection in offset crashes, but the new Passport shows low risk of injury for rear occupants in the IIHS moderate overlap scenario. The nonprofit also highlighted the rear passenger restraint system: lap and shoulder belts stayed in ideal positions during the impact, helping limit occupant movement and forces.
Other IIHS Results
Beyond the updated moderate overlap test, the Passport also performed exceptionally in the small overlap front crash evaluation and the updated side impact test. On crash avoidance and mitigation, IIHS praised the Passport's headlight performance and its front crash prevention system in vehicle‑against‑vehicle situations. The institute has not yet completed tests of the Passport's automatic emergency braking (AEB) for vehicle‑against‑pedestrian scenarios.
Child Safety and Seatbelt Systems
The IIHS also assessed child restraint compatibility and seatbelt reminders. The Passport earned the top G+ rating for the LATCH system's ease of use and a solid G for the seatbelt reminder performance — reflecting Honda's attention to practical family safety features.
Trim Lineup and Pricing
For 2026 the Passport's RTL trim — shown in the IIHS video — is offered in three variations: the base RTL, RTL Towing, and RTL Blackout. U.S. starting prices for these RTL variants are approximately $44,750, $45,450 and $45,950 respectively (destination and fees not included).
The TrailSport grade follows the RTL Blackout and is Honda's most off‑road–focused Passport to date. TrailSport itself comes in four distinct specifications, including Blackout, Elite and Elite Blackout. The standard TrailSport starts at roughly $48,450, while the TrailSport Elite Blackout is around $53,650.
Off‑Road Equipment and Capabilities
TrailSport models add off‑road hardware such as all‑terrain tires, skid plates, an off‑road‑tuned suspension, and recovery hooks. That said, Honda leaves the Passport with an 8.3‑inch ground clearance across many trims — a useful figure but one that trails some rivals (for example, Subaru's Wilderness models offer greater ground clearance).
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood the 2026 Passport consistently uses a 3.5‑liter naturally aspirated V6 paired with a 10‑speed automatic transmission. i‑VTM4 all‑wheel drive (Honda's torque‑vectoring AWD system) is standard, giving the Passport confident traction in wet, loose, or moderately rough terrain. The RTL Towing variant further emphasizes towing capability with hardware and tuning tailored to hauling.
On‑Road Dynamics
The combination of a refined V6, a broad 10‑speed gearbox and i‑VTM4 AWD results in smooth highway manners, responsive acceleration for a mid‑size crossover, and confidence when merging or overtaking. TrailSport's off‑road suspension tuning broadens the Passport's capability envelope without unduly compromising everyday ride comfort.
Design, Market Positioning and Comparisons
The redesigned 2026 Passport positions itself as a rugged, family‑friendly mid‑size crossover that bridges on‑road comfort and light‑to‑moderate off‑road capability. With strong IIHS safety ratings and practical features like an easy‑to‑use LATCH system, the Passport aims to appeal to buyers seeking a safe, capable SUV for family duties and outdoor adventures.
Compared to competitors, the Passport stands out for standard V6 power and torque‑vectoring AWD on every trim, but rivals may beat it in specific off‑road metrics such as ground clearance. Pricing is competitive for the segment, with TrailSport adding a clearly defined off‑road halo for buyers who want more trail capability.
Summary
The 2026 Honda Passport is a well‑rounded mid‑size crossover that aced key IIHS crash tests and delivers practical safety features for families. With a strong powertrain, standard i‑VTM4 AWD and a dedicated TrailSport off‑road trim, the Passport presents a compelling option for buyers who want a blend of everyday usability, towing capability and light off‑road skill.
Source: autoevolution
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