The 2023 Honda Passport TrailSport is a mid-size SUV built for off-road driving

The 2023 Honda Passport TrailSport is Honda's answer to serious off-road vehicles. It sits between Honda's smaller CR-V and larger Pilot, with a body-on-frame design that separates it from most other Honda SUVs. The TrailSport trim level specifically adds off-road equipment like all-terrain tires, skid plates, and a locking rear differential — features you won't find on the standard Passport.

This vehicle is designed for owners who plan to take their SUV onto unpaved roads, rocky terrain, and challenging trails. If you mostly drive on highways and city streets, the TrailSport's off-road features add cost without much practical benefit. But if you regularly visit national forests, desert areas, or mountain roads, the TrailSport's equipment makes a real difference in capability and durability.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2023 Passport TrailSport comes with all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and an electronic locking rear differential that standard Passport models do not include.
  • Engine power comes from a 3.5-liter V6 producing 280 horsepower, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
  • Ground clearance measures 8.6 inches, and the TrailSport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
  • The TrailSport trim costs more than the base Passport but less than fully loaded models, making it a middle-ground option for off-road enthusiasts.
  • Interior space seats five adults, with a cargo area of 76.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats when they fold flat.

Engine, transmission, and fuel economy

The 2023 Passport TrailSport uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that handles both highway driving and off-road conditions. Power goes to all four wheels through Honda's Real Time all-wheel-drive system, which automatically adjusts power distribution based on road conditions.

Fuel economy sits at approximately 18 miles per gallon in the city and 23 miles per gallon on the highway, according to EPA estimates. Real-world numbers vary depending on driving habits, terrain, and how much weight you carry. Off-road driving and towing will lower these figures noticeably. The fuel tank holds 19.5 gallons, giving you a driving range of roughly 350 to 450 miles per tank under normal conditions.

Off-road equipment that comes standard on the TrailSport

The TrailSport trim distinguishes itself through equipment specifically chosen for unpaved terrain. All-terrain tires replace the all-season rubber on lower trims, offering better grip on rocks, sand, and loose surfaces. Underbody skid plates protect the engine, transmission, and fuel tank from damage when driving over rough ground. An electronic locking rear differential allows you to lock the back wheels together for maximum traction when climbing or descending steep terrain.

The TrailSport also includes a multi-mode drive system with settings for different terrain types. Gravel mode adjusts traction control for loose surfaces, Snow mode optimizes power delivery for winter driving, and Sand mode raises the suspension slightly and adjusts throttle response for desert driving. These systems work together with the all-wheel-drive system to keep wheels turning even when conditions are difficult.

Interior layout and cargo space

The Passport TrailSport seats five people across two rows. The front seats are individually adjustable with power controls on higher trim levels. The second row has a 60/40 split, meaning you can fold one side flat while keeping the other upright, or fold both completely for maximum cargo room.

Behind the rear seats, you have 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space. With the rear seats folded, that expands to 153.6 cubic feet. The cargo area has tie-down points and a power liftgate on the TrailSport trim. The interior includes a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system as standard equipment.

Towing capacity and payload

The 2023 Passport TrailSport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the available towing package. This capacity assumes a properly rated hitch, trailer brakes, and correct weight distribution. Payload capacity — the weight you can carry in the truck bed or cargo area — maxes out at approximately 1,500 pounds depending on options and configuration.

If you plan to tow regularly, confirm your specific vehicle's capacity with the window sticker or owner's manual, as options like roof racks and additional passengers reduce available payload. Towing a trailer also reduces fuel economy by 10 to 15 percent compared to highway driving without a trailer.

Safety features and crash test ratings

The 2023 Passport TrailSport includes Honda Sensing, a suite of driver information features standard across the lineup. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. These systems use cameras and radar to monitor traffic and road conditions, alerting you to potential hazards or automatically explore brakes if a collision seems imminent.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) both conduct crash testing on the Passport. Check their websites directly for the most current ratings, as test results are updated periodically. The TrailSport's body-on-frame construction differs from unibody designs, which affects how crash energy is absorbed.

Comparing TrailSport to other Passport trims

Honda offers the Passport in multiple trim levels: Sport, EX-L, and TrailSport. The Sport is the base model with standard features but no off-road equipment. The EX-L adds luxury features like leather seats and a power moonroof but still lacks the TrailSport's specialized off-road gear. The TrailSport sits at a higher price point but includes all the terrain-focused equipment in one package rather than requiring multiple optional upgrades.

If you rarely venture onto unpaved roads, the EX-L or Sport may better match your needs and budget. If off-road capability is your priority, the TrailSport bundles the necessary equipment together rather than forcing you to order it separately. The choice depends on how you actually plan to use the vehicle and what features matter most to your driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between the Passport and the Pilot?

The Passport is smaller and lighter with a body-on-frame design optimized for off-road driving. The Pilot is larger, seats up to eight people, and is built on a unibody platform designed for on-road comfort. The Pilot offers more interior space and passenger capacity; the Passport offers better ground clearance and off-road capability.

Can the TrailSport handle serious rock crawling?

The TrailSport is capable on moderate trails with rocks, ruts, and steep grades. It's not designed for extreme rock crawling or high-speed off-road racing. The locking rear differential and skid plates help, but approach angles and departure angles are moderate compared to purpose-built off-road vehicles.

How does the electronic locking rear differential work?

When activated, it mechanically locks the rear wheels together so they spin at the same speed. This maximizes traction when one wheel loses grip. You control it through a button in the cabin and can engage or disengage it while driving, though it works best at low speeds on difficult terrain.

What kind of maintenance does the TrailSport require?

Standard maintenance follows Honda's schedule: oil changes every 10,000 miles, tire rotations, and fluid checks. Off-road driving increases wear on tires, brakes, and underbody components, so inspect these more frequently if you drive trails regularly. Skid plates protect major components but don't eliminate the need for careful driving.

Is the TrailSport good for winter driving?

Yes. All-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and the Snow mode setting make it capable in snow and ice. The higher ground clearance helps in deep snow. However, all-terrain tires are noisier on pavement than winter-specific tires, so consider seasonal tire changes if you live in a harsh winter climate.