The 2026 Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV built on a truck frame
The 2026 Honda Passport is Honda's three-row sport utility vehicle designed for both on-road driving and light off-road use. It shares its platform with the Honda Ridgeline pickup truck, which means it has a truck-based frame rather than a car-based one. This construction gives it a higher ground clearance and more towing capacity than Honda's other SUVs like the CR-V or Pilot.
The Passport seats up to eight people across three rows, though the third row is tight for adults on longer trips. Honda positions this vehicle between its smaller CR-V and its larger Pilot, targeting buyers who want SUV size with truck-like capability but don't need a full pickup bed.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Passport uses a truck frame and V6 engine, making it heavier and more capable off-road than Honda's car-based SUVs.
- It comes with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and the all-wheel drive version includes a multi-terrain drive mode for unpaved surfaces.
- Towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds, which is suitable for small trailers and jet skis but not large travel trailers.
- Fuel economy is lower than comparable car-based SUVs because of the truck platform and V6 engine, typically in the low-to-mid 20s miles per gallon.
- The 2026 model year includes updated infotainment technology and revised exterior styling compared to earlier Passport generations.
Engine, transmission, and performance specs
The 2026 Passport uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The V6 is the only engine option available—Honda does not offer a four-cylinder or hybrid version of the Passport.
Acceleration is moderate rather than quick. The Passport reaches 60 miles per hour from a stop in roughly 8 to 9 seconds, which is typical for a truck-based SUV of its size. The truck frame means the ride is firmer than a car-based SUV, and body roll in corners is more noticeable, but this trade-off gives the Passport better approach and departure angles for off-road driving.
Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds with the proper hitch setup. This is enough for small utility trailers, boat trailers, or recreational equipment, but not sufficient for large travel trailers that many families use for camping. The payload capacity—the weight you can carry in the cargo area—is around 1,500 pounds.
Fuel economy and real-world driving costs
The 2026 Passport with front-wheel drive is rated at approximately 21 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway by the EPA. The all-wheel drive version drops to roughly 20 city and 25 highway. These figures are lower than Honda's CR-V or Pilot because the truck platform is heavier and less aerodynamic.
At current fuel prices, a Passport driven 12,000 miles per year will cost between $1,400 and $1,800 annually in fuel, depending on your local gas prices and driving mix. This is a meaningful difference compared to a CR-V, which would cost roughly $200 to $300 less per year to fuel. Over five years of ownership, that difference adds up.
The Passport does not offer a hybrid option, so if fuel economy is your primary concern, Honda's Pilot or CR-V may be better choices. However, if you need the truck-based capability and towing power, the fuel cost is the trade-off you accept.
All-wheel drive, terrain modes, and off-road capability
The 2026 Passport comes standard with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available as an option and includes Honda's Real Time AWD system, which automatically sends power to the rear wheels when the front wheels lose traction. The all-wheel drive system does not include a low-range transfer case, so the Passport is not designed for serious rock crawling or extreme off-road use.
The all-wheel drive Passport includes a multi-terrain drive mode that adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points, and traction control for unpaved surfaces like dirt, gravel, and sand. This mode makes a noticeable difference on light trails and rough forest roads, but it is not a substitute for a true four-wheel drive system with low-range gearing.
Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, which is higher than most car-based SUVs but lower than full-size truck-based SUVs. The Passport's approach angle (the steepness it can climb without the front bumper hitting) is 27 degrees, and the departure angle is 26 degrees. These numbers mean the Passport can handle moderate off-road trails and rough camping roads, but not extreme terrain.
Interior space, seating, and cargo
The Passport seats up to eight people: two in front, three in the middle row, and three in the back. In practice, the third row is best suited for children or short trips because legroom is limited. If you regularly carry five or more adults, the middle row will feel cramped on longer drives.
Cargo space behind the third row is 10 cubic feet. With the third row folded, that expands to 47 cubic feet. With both the second and third rows folded, you get 94 cubic feet of total cargo space. This is comparable to the Pilot but less than full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe.
The 2026 model includes an updated infotainment system with a touchscreen display (size varies by trim level), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a standard backup camera. Higher trim levels add features like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a power liftgate.
Trim levels and pricing structure
The 2026 Passport is offered in multiple trim levels, typically starting with a base model and moving up through mid-range and premium options. Each trim level adds features like upgraded audio systems, leather seats, advanced safety technology, and convenience options. The specific trim names and pricing vary by model year and region, so you should check Honda's official website or contact a dealer for current pricing in your area.
The base model includes essential features like air conditioning, power windows, and basic infotainment. Mid-range trims add comfort features like heated seats and upgraded audio. Top-tier trims include luxury features like leather upholstery, panoramic sunroofs, and premium sound systems.
Optional packages allow you to add specific features without buying a higher trim level. Common options include all-wheel drive, roof racks, towing packages, and technology upgrades. Dealers can provide detailed pricing for each configuration.
Safety features and crash test ratings
The 2026 Passport includes standard safety features across all trim levels: multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and a backup camera. Higher trims add advanced driver information systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, and automatic emergency braking.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conduct crash tests on vehicles. You can find the 2026 Passport's specific ratings on their websites. These ratings test how well the vehicle protects occupants in frontal crashes, side crashes, and rollover scenarios. The truck-based design means the Passport may perform differently in some crash scenarios compared to car-based SUVs, so reviewing the actual test results is important if safety ratings are a key factor in your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 2026 Passport compare to the Honda Pilot?
The Pilot is larger, seats up to eight more comfortably, and uses a car-based platform that rides smoother on highways. The Passport is smaller, truck-based, and better for light off-road use and towing. Choose the Pilot if you prioritize passenger comfort and fuel economy; choose the Passport if you want truck-like capability and don't mind a firmer ride.
Can the Passport tow a travel trailer?
The 5,000-pound towing capacity limits you to small trailers. Most travel trailers weigh 4,000 to 8,000 pounds empty, so a small teardrop or lightweight trailer is possible, but not a typical family camping trailer. Check the specific trailer weight before purchasing.
Is the Passport good for serious off-roading?
The Passport handles light trails and rough forest roads well, especially with all-wheel drive and multi-terrain mode. It is not designed for rock crawling, deep water fording, or extreme terrain. If serious off-roading is your goal, a Jeep Wrangler or full-size truck-based SUV would be better choices.
What is the difference between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive on the 2026 Passport?
Front-wheel drive is standard and costs less. All-wheel drive adds the Real Time AWD system and multi-terrain drive mode, improving traction on unpaved surfaces and in snow. All-wheel drive reduces fuel economy slightly and adds several thousand dollars to the purchase price.
Does the 2026 Passport come with a hybrid option?
No. The Passport uses only the 3.5-liter V6 engine. If fuel economy is your top priority, the Honda CR-V or Pilot hybrid models offer better mileage, though they sacrifice the truck-based capability and towing power.