What the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport offers

The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is a mid-size SUV built on a truck frame, designed to handle both highway driving and unpaved terrain without the size or fuel consumption of a full-size truck. It sits between Honda's CR-V (car-based, more fuel-efficient) and larger body-on-frame SUVs, offering a middle ground for buyers who want genuine off-road capability but still need to fit in a standard garage and navigate city streets comfortably.

The TrailSport trim is Honda's off-road-focused variant, adding all-terrain tires, all-wheel drive as standard, skid plates, and a locking rear differential compared to the base Passport. It comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The real question for buyers is whether those off-road features justify the price premium over the standard Passport, and whether the vehicle's compromises—modest interior space, higher fuel consumption than crossovers, truck-like ride quality—fit your actual driving needs.

Key Takeaways

  • The TrailSport trim adds a locking rear differential, all-terrain tires, and skid plates that make a real difference on rocky terrain, but these features cost significantly more than the base Passport.
  • The 3.5-liter V6 delivers strong acceleration and towing capacity (5,000 pounds), but fuel economy sits around 19 to 21 miles per gallon depending on driving conditions, which is lower than comparable crossovers.
  • The truck-based frame provides a stiffer, more connected ride on rough ground but translates to more cabin noise and a bouncier feel on highways compared to car-based SUVs.
  • Interior space is tight for a vehicle this size—the back seat is cramped for adults on long trips, and cargo room is modest without folding the rear seats.
  • The TrailSport justifies its cost primarily for buyers who regularly drive unpaved roads or need genuine rock-crawling capability; for highway-only driving, a crossover or base Passport makes more financial sense.

Engine performance and fuel economy

The 2026 Passport TrailSport uses a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 that produces 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. In real-world driving, this engine feels adequate rather than quick—acceleration from a stop is smooth but not brisk, and highway merging requires planning rather than when ready power. The nine-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly in normal driving but can hunt between gears on steep grades, which is a minor annoyance if you tow frequently.

Fuel economy is a trade-off you accept when choosing a truck-based SUV. The EPA estimates the TrailSport at 19 miles per gallon in the city and 21 on the highway, with a combined rating around 20 miles per gallon. Real-world numbers vary based on terrain and driving style—highway driving at steady speeds may reach 22 miles per gallon, while stop-and-go city driving or towing can drop to 17 or lower. If you drive mostly paved roads, a Honda CR-V or similar crossover will save you several hundred dollars per year in fuel costs.

Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds, which handles small trailers, jet skis, or motorcycles but falls short if you need to move a full-size boat or horse trailer. The V6 feels strained when towing at highway speeds on hills, and the truck-based suspension can bounce noticeably when pulling a loaded trailer.

Off-road capability and terrain handling

The TrailSport trim's locking rear differential is the feature that separates it from the base Passport on technical terrain. When engaged, it forces both rear wheels to turn at the same speed, which prevents wheel spin when one tire loses traction—essential for rock crawling, deep sand, or steep hillsides. On moderate trails, all-wheel drive alone handles most obstacles, but the locker makes the difference on genuinely difficult terrain where a standard SUV would get stuck.

The all-terrain tires fitted to the TrailSport have more aggressive tread than highway tires, providing better grip on loose surfaces and rocks. They are noisier on pavement and wear faster than standard tires, which is a cost to factor in over the vehicle's life. Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, adequate for most trails but not exceptional—larger rocks or deep ruts can still catch the undercarriage.

The skid plates protect the engine, transmission, and fuel tank from rocks and debris, a genuine safeguard if you drive regularly on rough terrain. Without them, a sharp rock can puncture a fuel line or damage the transmission pan, leading to expensive repairs. On paved roads only, skid plates add weight and slightly reduce fuel economy without providing any benefit.

The truck-based frame and independent double-wishbone front suspension deliver a connected, responsive feel on uneven ground—you can feel the terrain through the steering wheel and seat, which helps you navigate obstacles precisely. On highways, this same stiffness translates to a bouncier, noisier ride compared to car-based SUVs, and bumps transmit more directly into the cabin.

Interior space and comfort

The Passport's interior is functional but cramped for a vehicle with a 112-inch wheelbase. The back seat is genuinely tight for adults on trips longer than an hour—legroom is adequate for children or shorter passengers, but taller adults will feel the squeeze. The rear doors open at a wide angle, which helps with entry and exit, but the seat cushion is firm and the headroom is limited.

Cargo space behind the rear seats is 28 cubic feet, which fits groceries and small luggage but feels small compared to crossovers in the same price range. Folding the rear seats expands this to 76 cubic feet, enough for a small camping setup or several large suitcases. The cargo floor is high, making it awkward to load heavy items, and there is no power liftgate on any trim.

The cabin is noticeably noisier than crossovers, particularly on highways—wind noise, tire noise, and engine sound all penetrate the cabin more readily. Sound insulation is adequate but not premium. Climate control is automatic on the TrailSport, and the dual-zone system works well, though the vents can feel weak on very hot days.

Technology and infotainment

The 2026 Passport TrailSport comes with an 8-inch touchscreen running Honda's infotainment system, which is straightforward but not cutting-edge. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which means you can use your phone for navigation and music rather than relying on the built-in system. The interface is responsive and menus are logical, though the graphics look dated compared to newer systems from other manufacturers.

A backup camera is standard, and a 360-degree camera system is available, which is genuinely useful when navigating tight trails or parking in confined spaces. Bluetooth connectivity is reliable, and the system pairs quickly with phones. Voice controls work adequately for basic functions like calling and music selection but struggle with complex commands.

The TrailSport does not include a premium audio system as standard—the base system is adequate for casual listening but lacks the clarity and power of available upgrades. Navigation is available but not standard, and many buyers prefer to use their phone's GPS instead.

Safety features and crash test results

The 2026 Passport earned a four-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with five stars in the side-crash test and four stars in frontal and rollover tests. These scores are respectable but not exceptional—some competitors score higher. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not published a full rating for the current generation, so independent crash test data is limited.

Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping information, and adaptive cruise control. These systems work well in normal driving but can be overly sensitive on winding roads, occasionally triggering false alerts. You can disable them individually, which is useful if the sensitivity becomes annoying. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available but not standard on the TrailSport.

The truck-based design means a higher seating position, which improves visibility compared to crossovers. However, the Passport's boxy shape creates larger blind spots on the sides, and the rear window is small, making backing up more difficult without the 360-degree camera.

Pricing and value comparison

The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport starts around $48,000 to $50,000 before options and destination charges, though prices vary by region and dealer. Adding popular options like the 360-degree camera, premium audio, and navigation can push the total to $52,000 or higher. This places it in direct competition with the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, Toyota 4Runner, and Chevrolet Blazer, each with different strengths.

Compared to the base Passport (around $43,000), the TrailSport adds approximately $5,000 to $7,000 in cost for the locking differential, all-terrain tires, and skid plates. If you drive mostly paved roads, that premium is difficult to justify—you are paying for capability you will not use. If you regularly drive unpaved terrain, the TrailSport's features provide genuine value and prevent damage that would otherwise require expensive repairs.

Resale value for Passports is solid but not exceptional—they hold approximately 55 to 60 percent of their original value after five years, which is typical for mid-size SUVs. The TrailSport trim may hold value slightly better among buyers seeking off-road capability, but the difference is modest.

Who should buy the TrailSport, and who should look elsewhere

The TrailSport makes sense for buyers who regularly drive unpaved roads—whether that is weekend trail exploration, ranch property access, or remote camping. If you tow occasionally and want a vehicle that can handle rough terrain without damage, the locking differential and skid plates justify their cost. The truck-based frame and all-terrain tires are genuine assets in these situations, not luxury features.

The TrailSport is a poor fit for buyers whose driving is entirely or almost entirely on paved roads. In that scenario, a Honda CR-V or similar crossover delivers better fuel economy, more interior space, a quieter cabin, and a smoother ride—all for less money. The Jeep Wrangler is a stronger choice if you want a vehicle that looks more distinctive or prioritize extreme off-road capability, though it sacrifices interior comfort and fuel economy even more than the Passport.

The base Passport is worth considering if you want the truck-based platform and V6 engine but do not need the TrailSport's off-road features. You sacrifice the locking differential and all-terrain tires, but you save money and can add those features later if your driving patterns change.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Passport TrailSport compare to the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited?

The Wrangler is more capable on extreme terrain and has a stronger off-road reputation, but it is noisier, less comfortable on highways, and has worse fuel economy. The Passport is quieter, more refined, and better for mixed highway and trail driving. The Wrangler is the better choice if rock crawling is your priority; the Passport wins if you want a vehicle that is equally comfortable on pavement and dirt.

Can the Passport TrailSport handle snow and ice as well as a crossover?

Yes, the all-wheel drive system and all-terrain tires perform well in snow, and the higher ground clearance helps in deep snow. However, the truck-based suspension is stiffer and less forgiving on icy roads, and the higher center of gravity makes it slightly more prone to sliding. For winter driving on paved roads, a crossover with winter tires is marginally safer, but the difference is small.

What is the real-world towing experience like?

Towing up to 5,000 pounds is manageable on flat terrain and gentle grades, but the V6 feels strained on steep hills or at highway speeds with a full load. The truck-based suspension bounces noticeably when towing, and you will notice wind noise and engine strain. If you tow regularly or pull heavy loads, a larger truck or the Toyota 4Runner (which has a more powerful engine) is a better choice.

Is the TrailSport worth the extra cost over the base Passport?

Only if you drive unpaved roads regularly. The locking differential and skid plates are genuine safety features for off-road driving, but they add weight and cost on paved roads. If your driving is 90 percent highway, save the money and buy the base model or a crossover instead.

How reliable is the Passport TrailSport?

Honda's V6 engine and nine-speed transmission have a solid track record, and the truck-based platform is proven. Long-term reliability data for the current generation is still accumulating, but early reports show no widespread issues. Maintenance costs are moderate, and parts availability is good through Honda dealers.