The 2026 Honda Passport RTL is the mid-range trim with standard all-wheel drive and tech features

The 2026 Honda Passport RTL sits between the base Sport trim and the higher Trailsport trim. It comes standard with all-wheel drive, an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a backup camera, and Honda Sensing safety features including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping information. The RTL adds comfort and convenience over the Sport without the off-road enhancements or premium materials of the Trailsport.

This trim appeals to buyers who want a capable midsize SUV with modern conveniences but don't need the specialized off-road gear or luxury finishes. The RTL pricing falls in the middle of the Passport lineup, making it a common choice for buyers balancing features and cost.

Key Takeaways

  • The RTL comes standard with all-wheel drive, which the base Sport trim does not offer.
  • An 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration and Honda Sensing safety suite are included as standard equipment.
  • The RTL does not include the all-terrain tires, skid plates, or terrain management system found on the Trailsport.
  • Interior materials are cloth upholstery and standard trim pieces, not the leather or upgraded finishes of higher trims.
  • Fuel economy and engine output are identical across all 2026 Passport trims — the differences are features and materials, not performance.

Engine, transmission, and fuel economy across all trims

Every 2026 Passport, including the RTL, uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. A 9-speed automatic transmission is standard. The engine and drivetrain do not change between Sport, RTL, and Trailsport trims.

EPA fuel economy estimates for the RTL with all-wheel drive are approximately 21 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway, though real-world results vary based on driving habits and conditions. Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds across all trims.

Standard safety and driver information features on the RTL

The RTL includes Honda Sensing, a suite of driver information technologies standard on all 2026 Passports. This package includes adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping information, and road departure mitigation. A backup camera is also standard, and the system displays the camera feed on the 8-inch touchscreen.

The RTL does not include blind-spot monitoring or rear cross-traffic alert as standard, though these may be available through packages or upgrades. Eight airbags are standard across the lineup.

Interior space, seating, and cargo capacity

The RTL seats five passengers across two rows. Front seats are cloth upholstery with manual adjustment on the driver's side (power adjustment is not standard on the RTL). The rear seats fold flat to expand cargo space.

Cargo space behind the rear seats measures 39.3 cubic feet. With the rear seats folded, total cargo volume is 76.5 cubic feet. The RTL does not include a power liftgate as standard, though one may be available as an option.

Technology and infotainment on the RTL

The 8-inch touchscreen is the centerpiece of the RTL's tech package. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone integration, allowing you to use navigation, messaging, and audio apps from your phone through the vehicle's display. The system includes six speakers and an AM/FM radio.

A USB port and 12-volt power outlet are standard in the front. Wireless charging is not included on the RTL trim. Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls and audio streaming is standard.

Exterior features and all-wheel drive system

The RTL comes standard with all-wheel drive, a key difference from the base Sport trim. The all-wheel drive system is Honda's Real Time AWD, which can send power to the rear wheels when needed for traction. It is not a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a transfer case or low-range gearing.

The RTL rides on 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires. It does not include all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, or the terrain management system found on the Trailsport. Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, and approach and departure angles are designed for light off-road use but not extreme terrain.

How the RTL compares to Sport and Trailsport trims

The Sport is the base trim and does not include all-wheel drive — it comes with front-wheel drive only. The Sport also has a smaller 7-inch touchscreen without smartphone integration. The RTL's 8-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus standard all-wheel drive, are the main upgrades over the Sport.

The Trailsport is the highest trim and adds all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, a terrain management system with multiple driving modes, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and a power liftgate. The Trailsport is priced significantly higher than the RTL and is designed for more serious off-road use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the RTL have all-wheel drive?

Yes. The RTL comes standard with Honda's Real Time all-wheel drive system. The base Sport trim does not include all-wheel drive — it is front-wheel drive only. All-wheel drive is standard on both the RTL and Trailsport.

Can I add leather seats or a power liftgate to the RTL?

Availability of packages and individual options varies by model year and dealer. Contact a Honda dealer with the specific vehicle identification number or trim you are considering to learn what upgrades are available for the RTL.

Is the RTL good for off-roading?

The RTL is capable of light off-road use with its all-wheel drive and 8.6 inches of ground clearance. It does not include the all-terrain tires, skid plates, or terrain management system of the Trailsport, which is the trim designed for more serious off-road driving.

What is the difference between the RTL and Trailsport?

The Trailsport adds all-terrain tires, underbody protection, a terrain management system, leather seats, power seat adjustment, and a power liftgate. The Trailsport is priced higher and is built for more demanding off-road conditions. The RTL is the mid-range option with standard all-wheel drive and modern conveniences.

Does the RTL include a sunroof?

A sunroof is not standard on the RTL. Availability of a sunroof as an option or through a package depends on the specific model year and dealer inventory. Check with Honda dealers for current options on the 2026 model year.