The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite is a mid-size SUV built for off-road driving

The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite is Honda's answer to drivers who want a vehicle that handles both highway driving and rough terrain. It sits between Honda's smaller CR-V and larger Pilot, with a body-on-frame design that gives it more ground clearance and towing capacity than unibody SUVs. The TrailSport Elite is the highest trim level available for the Passport line, meaning it comes with the most features and the highest price tag.

This model year represents a refresh of the Passport line, with updated styling, a redesigned interior, and new technology features. If you're considering this vehicle, you should understand what it offers, what it costs, and whether its capabilities match what you actually need to do.

Key Takeaways

  • The TrailSport Elite trim includes all-terrain tires, skid plates, all-wheel drive, and off-road-focused suspension tuning as standard equipment.
  • The 2026 model uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque.
  • Towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, and payload capacity is around 1,500 pounds depending on configuration.
  • The TrailSport Elite comes with a larger touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and Honda's latest driver information features as part of the premium trim.
  • Real-world fuel economy typically ranges from 19 to 22 miles per gallon depending on driving conditions and whether you use two-wheel or all-wheel drive.

Engine, transmission, and performance specs

The 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels through Honda's Real Time AWD system. The transmission can be shifted manually using paddle shifters if you want more control on steep descents or rocky terrain.

Off-road performance comes from a multi-mode terrain management system that adjusts throttle response, transmission behavior, and traction control based on the surface you're driving on. Modes include Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand. The suspension is tuned specifically for the TrailSport Elite, with a higher ride height than other Passport trims and all-terrain tires as standard. Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, which is competitive with other mid-size off-road SUVs but lower than full-size trucks.

Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds when the vehicle is properly equipped with a trailer package, and payload capacity is approximately 1,500 pounds. These numbers are respectable for the class but lower than full-size SUVs or trucks, so you should verify the specific configuration matches your needs before purchase.

Interior features and technology

The TrailSport Elite trim comes with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, which is larger than base Passport models. The system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through wireless connection, meaning you don't need to plug in a cable every time you drive. The interface is straightforward to navigate, though some drivers find the menu structure less intuitive than competitors' systems.

Seating is five-passenger capacity with a second row that slides and reclines to adjust legroom and cargo space. The front seats are heated and ventilated on the TrailSport Elite, and the steering wheel is also heated. Cargo space behind the rear seats is 39.3 cubic feet, which expands to 76.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This is adequate for camping gear or outdoor equipment but smaller than some competitors in the class.

The TrailSport Elite includes Honda's latest driver information features, which are grouped under the Honda Sensing suite. These include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. A 360-degree camera system helps with parking and low-speed maneuvering, particularly useful when navigating tight trails or parking in unfamiliar terrain.

Exterior design and off-road capability

The 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite has a more angular, aggressive exterior than previous model years, with a wider stance and more pronounced wheel arches. The front end features a larger grille and reshaped headlights that are now LED standard on this trim. The body is painted with a choice of colors, and the TrailSport Elite specifically includes all-terrain tires and skid plates as standard equipment to protect the undercarriage during off-road driving.

The vehicle sits on an independent double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, both tuned for the TrailSport Elite's off-road focus. Approach angle is 28 degrees, departure angle is 26 degrees, and breakover angle is 21 degrees — these numbers describe how steep an incline the vehicle can climb and how sharp an obstacle it can clear without scraping. For comparison, most crossovers have approach angles below 20 degrees, while full-size trucks often exceed 30 degrees.

The TrailSport Elite includes underbody skid plates that protect the engine, transmission, and fuel tank from rocks and obstacles. A locking rear differential is available as an option and improves traction when one rear wheel loses grip, though it is not standard on this trim.

Fuel economy and running costs

Real-world fuel economy for the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite typically ranges from 19 to 22 miles per gallon combined, depending on driving conditions and whether you use two-wheel or all-wheel drive. Highway driving yields better mileage than city driving, and using all-wheel drive reduces efficiency slightly compared to two-wheel drive. The EPA estimates vary by configuration, so you should check the window sticker for the specific model you're considering.

The vehicle requires regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. The fuel tank holds 19.5 gallons, giving a typical driving range of around 370 to 430 miles per tank depending on your driving habits. Maintenance intervals follow Honda's standard schedule: oil changes every 10,000 miles, transmission fluid checks at regular intervals, and tire rotation every 7,500 miles. All-terrain tires wear faster than highway tires, so budget for replacement sooner if you drive off-road frequently.

Pricing and trim comparison

The TrailSport Elite is the highest trim level for the 2026 Passport, positioned above the TrailSport and standard Passport models. Pricing varies by region and dealer, but the TrailSport Elite typically starts in the mid-$40,000 range before options and destination charges. Adding options like the locking rear differential, roof rails, or premium paint can increase the price by several thousand dollars.

The TrailSport trim below it removes some features like the heated and ventilated seats, the larger touchscreen, and some of the driver information technology, but retains the core off-road capability and all-terrain tires. The standard Passport trim is the entry point to the line and uses a smaller touchscreen and fewer premium features. If budget is a concern, the TrailSport trim often represents better value for off-road driving than the Elite, since the additional features on the Elite are comfort and convenience items rather than capability upgrades.

Reliability and warranty information

Honda's track record with the Passport line has been solid, with the previous generation earning good marks for reliability in owner surveys. The 2026 model year is new, so long-term reliability data is not yet available, but Honda's V6 engine and 10-speed transmission are proven designs used across multiple vehicle lines. Early owner reports should become available as the model year progresses.

The 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite comes with a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. A five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty covers the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. These are standard Honda warranty terms and are competitive with other manufacturers in the class. Extended warranties are available through Honda dealers if you want coverage beyond the standard terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite handle serious off-road trails?

The TrailSport Elite is designed for moderate off-road driving — rocky trails, forest roads, and uneven terrain. It is not a rock crawler or extreme off-road vehicle. The approach and departure angles are good for the class, and the all-terrain tires and skid plates provide real protection, but the independent suspension and unibody-adjacent design limit how extreme the terrain can be compared to full-size trucks or purpose-built off-road vehicles.

How does the 2026 Passport compare to the Toyota 4Runner or Jeep Wrangler?

The Passport is smaller and more fuel-efficient than the 4Runner but less capable off-road. The Wrangler is more focused on extreme off-road driving and has better approach angles, but the Passport offers more comfort and technology features. The choice depends on whether you prioritize off-road capability or daily driving comfort and features.

What is the difference between all-wheel drive and two-wheel drive on this model?

All-wheel drive is standard on the TrailSport Elite and sends power to all four wheels continuously. Two-wheel drive is not available on this trim level. All-wheel drive improves traction in snow and on slippery surfaces but reduces fuel economy slightly compared to two-wheel drive vehicles.

Does the TrailSport Elite come with a sunroof?

The 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite does not offer a sunroof as a standard or optional feature. Honda designed this model with a fixed roof to maintain structural rigidity for off-road driving. If a sunroof is important to you, you may need to consider other vehicles in the class.

What is the warranty on the battery and hybrid system?

The 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite is not a hybrid vehicle, so there is no hybrid battery warranty. It uses a conventional gasoline engine with a standard 12-volt battery covered under the basic three-year or 36,000-mile warranty.