The 2026 Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV built on a truck frame

The 2026 Honda Passport is Honda's body-on-frame SUV designed for off-road capability and towing. It sits between Honda's smaller CR-V crossover and larger Pilot three-row SUV. The Passport shares its platform with the Ridgeline pickup truck, which means it has a separate steel frame rather than the unibody construction used in most car-based SUVs.

This construction gives the Passport a higher ground clearance, more departure and approach angles for rough terrain, and a higher towing capacity than crossovers in its size class. The trade-off is that body-on-frame vehicles typically get lower fuel economy and ride less smoothly on highways than unibody SUVs.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2026 Passport uses a truck frame and is designed for off-road driving, not just highway commuting.
  • It seats five passengers and offers a power liftgate, all-wheel drive, and available intelligent traction management for different terrain types.
  • Towing capacity reaches 5,000 pounds, which is higher than most crossovers but lower than full-size trucks.
  • Fuel economy is estimated in the low to mid-20s miles per gallon depending on drivetrain and driving conditions.
  • The 2026 model year includes updated infotainment with a touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard features.

Engine options and fuel economy for 2026

The 2026 Passport comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This is the same engine used in the Ridgeline and Pilot. A 10-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models.

Front-wheel drive is the base configuration, but all-wheel drive is available. The EPA estimates fuel economy at approximately 21 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway for front-wheel-drive models, with all-wheel-drive versions slightly lower. Real-world mileage varies based on driving habits, terrain, and load.

Interior space and seating configuration

The Passport seats five people across two rows. The front seats are individually adjustable, and the rear bench seat folds flat to expand cargo space. Behind the rear seats, you get 28 cubic feet of cargo room with the seats up, expanding to 76 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Standard features include a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trim levels add leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The cabin is designed with more rugged materials than the Pilot, reflecting the Passport's off-road focus.

Off-road capability and terrain management

The Passport's truck-based platform gives it advantages over crossovers when driving on unpaved surfaces. It has a 9.0-inch ground clearance, a 28-degree approach angle, and a 25-degree departure angle—measurements that describe how steep an incline the vehicle can climb or descend without scraping its bumpers.

Available Intelligent Traction Management lets you select different driving modes: Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand. Each mode adjusts throttle response, transmission shifting, and traction control to match the terrain. All-wheel drive with a locking rear differential is available on higher trims, providing additional traction when needed.

Towing and payload capacity

The 2026 Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is sufficient for small trailers, jet skis, or light recreational equipment, but falls short of what full-size trucks can handle. Payload capacity—the weight you can carry in the bed or cabin—is approximately 1,500 pounds depending on configuration.

If you regularly tow heavy loads or need to carry substantial cargo, a full-size truck like the Ridgeline or an F-150 would be more appropriate. The Passport is designed for occasional towing and light hauling rather than heavy-duty work.

Safety features and crash test ratings

The 2026 Passport includes Honda Sensing, a suite of driver information features standard on all trims. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping information, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. A rearview camera and rear parking sensors are standard, with a 360-degree camera available on higher trims.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conduct independent crash testing. Check their websites directly for the most current 2026 Passport ratings, as test results are released throughout the model year and vary by test type.

Trim levels and pricing structure

The 2026 Passport is offered in TrailSport, EX-L, and Touring trims. TrailSport is the entry-level model and includes all-terrain tires and skid plates designed for off-road use. EX-L adds leather seating and upgraded comfort features. Touring is the top trim with the most technology and luxury appointments.

Pricing varies by trim, drivetrain, and options. Front-wheel-drive models start lower than all-wheel-drive versions. Visit Honda's official website or contact local dealers for current pricing on the specific configuration you're interested in, as prices change based on market conditions and incentives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Passport compare to the Honda Pilot?

The Pilot is a three-row crossover with more passenger and cargo space, better fuel economy, and a smoother highway ride. The Passport is a two-row truck-based SUV with better off-road capability and higher towing capacity. Choose the Pilot for family hauling; choose the Passport if you plan to drive on unpaved terrain.

Can the Passport handle serious off-roading?

The Passport is designed for light to moderate off-road use—dirt roads, forest service roads, and rocky terrain. It is not built for extreme rock crawling or deep water fording. If you need serious rock-crawling capability, a Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner would be better choices.

What is the difference between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive?

Front-wheel drive sends power to the front wheels only and costs less. All-wheel drive distributes power to all four wheels and improves traction in snow, mud, and loose terrain. All-wheel drive reduces fuel economy slightly but is worth the cost if you drive in winter conditions or on unpaved roads regularly.

Does the 2026 Passport have a third row?

No. The Passport seats five people in two rows. If you need a third row for occasional extra passengers, the Honda Pilot offers three rows and seats up to eight people, though it sacrifices some off-road capability.

What warranty does Honda provide on the 2026 Passport?

Honda's standard warranty covers the vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles for basic coverage, and five years or 60,000 miles for powertrain coverage. Extended warranties are available through Honda dealers. Review the warranty details with your dealer before purchase.