What the 2026 Honda Passport Offers

The 2026 Honda Passport is a body-on-frame SUV built on the same platform as the Ridgeline pickup truck, designed for owners who want serious off-road ability without the truck bed. It seats five, comes standard with all-wheel drive, and uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Honda positions it as a bridge between the smaller CR-V and the larger Pilot, targeting buyers who plan to use their vehicle on unpaved terrain but still want a closed cargo area.

The 2026 model year brings a redesigned interior with an updated infotainment system, revised exterior styling, and some changes to the standard and available features. The Passport competes directly with the Jeep Wrangler (four-door), Toyota 4Runner, and Chevrolet Blazer, though each takes a different approach to the off-road SUV segment.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2026 Passport uses a body-on-frame construction and standard all-wheel drive, making it capable on rough terrain while remaining street-legal and relatively fuel-efficient for its class.
  • Real-world fuel economy sits around 19 to 21 mpg combined depending on driving conditions, which is typical for vehicles in this weight and power category but not exceptional.
  • The interior redesign adds a larger touchscreen and revised materials, though some controls remain less intuitive than competitors like the Wrangler or 4Runner.
  • Ground clearance, approach and departure angles, and available all-terrain tires make the Passport genuinely capable off-road, but it is not a rock-crawler like the Wrangler.
  • Pricing for 2026 starts around $48,000 for the base TrailSport trim and climbs to roughly $58,000 for the top Trailsport Elite, before options and destination charges.

Engine, Transmission, and Real-World Performance

The 3.5-liter V6 is the only engine available. It produces adequate power for highway merging and moderate towing, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The nine-speed automatic handles both highway cruising and low-speed off-road work, though some owners report it can be slow to downshift during aggressive acceleration. There is no manual transmission option, and no hybrid or turbocharged variant is offered for 2026.

Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes roughly 7.5 to 8 seconds depending on conditions and load. That is not quick by modern standards, but it is adequate for most driving. The engine is known for reliability across Honda's lineup, and maintenance costs are generally moderate compared to some competitors.

Fuel economy estimates from the EPA are 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined for two-wheel-drive models (not available in 2026), and 18 city, 23 highway, 20 combined for all-wheel-drive versions. Real-world numbers tend to fall slightly below EPA estimates, particularly if you spend time in stop-and-go traffic or towing. Off-road driving and idling at campsites will lower economy further.

Off-Road Capability and Suspension

The Passport's frame-based construction and standard all-wheel-drive system give it genuine off-road credentials. Ground clearance is 8.6 inches, approach angle is 28 degrees, and departure angle is 26 degrees — numbers that matter when you are navigating rocky terrain or steep descents. The independent double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension are tuned for both highway comfort and trail work, though they are not as extreme as a Wrangler's setup.

Honda offers all-terrain tires as an option, which make a noticeable difference on loose surfaces compared to the standard all-season tires. The Passport also includes an available Intelligent Traction Management system with multiple terrain modes (Snow, Mud, Sand, and Rock), which adjusts throttle response, transmission behavior, and traction control for different surfaces. In practice, these modes work well for moderate off-road driving but are not a substitute for driver skill or proper technique.

The vehicle is not designed for extreme rock crawling or high-speed desert running. It excels on forest service roads, mild to moderate trails, and beach driving. If you plan to tackle serious obstacles or spend significant time in extreme terrain, the Wrangler or 4Runner may be better choices.

Interior Design and Technology

The 2026 redesign brings a 10.2-inch touchscreen (up from 8 inches) with a revised user interface that is more responsive than the previous generation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the system supports wireless connectivity on higher trims. The layout is cleaner than before, with physical buttons for climate control and audio volume, which most owners prefer over touch-sensitive controls.

Seating is comfortable for five adults on short trips, though the third row is tight for anyone over six feet tall or for long journeys. Cargo space behind the rear seats is 28 cubic feet, expanding to 76 cubic feet with the rear seats folded — useful for gear but not cavernous. The interior materials are a mix of hard plastics and cloth or leather depending on trim level, which is appropriate for an off-road vehicle but less refined than the Pilot or CR-V.

Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping information, and adaptive cruise control. The Passport earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA in the previous generation, and 2026 models are expected to perform similarly, though official ratings were not yet published at the time of this review.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2026 Passport comes in three main trims: TrailSport, TrailSport EX, and TrailSport Elite. Base TrailSport pricing starts near $48,000 before destination charges and options. The EX trim adds features like a power liftgate, heated seats, and a larger touchscreen, with pricing around $52,000. The Elite trim tops out near $58,000 and includes leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and additional convenience features.

Options include all-terrain tires, roof rails, a roof basket, and various protection packages. Destination charges add roughly $1,300 to the final price. These prices are competitive with the Wrangler Unlimited and less expensive than a 4Runner, though higher than a base Blazer.

Reliability and Maintenance Costs

Honda has a strong reputation for reliability, and the Passport benefits from proven components shared with the Ridgeline and Pilot. The V6 engine and nine-speed transmission have logged millions of miles with few widespread issues reported. Routine maintenance — oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks — is straightforward and costs are moderate.

Brake service, tire replacement, and suspension work are typical for any SUV in this class. Parts availability is good, and repair shops familiar with Honda products are common. Long-term ownership costs are generally lower than comparable Jeep or Toyota models, though this can vary by region and specific repair needs.

The 2026 model year is too new for long-term reliability data, but the previous generation (2019–2025) showed no major design flaws or recall patterns that would suggest problems ahead.

How It Compares to Competitors

The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is more capable off-road and offers removable doors and roof panels, but it is louder on the highway, less fuel-efficient, and has a smaller interior. The Toyota 4Runner is larger, more expensive, and more capable in extreme terrain, but it is also heavier and less refined on pavement. The Chevrolet Blazer is newer, more stylish, and less expensive, but it is not body-on-frame and offers less off-road ability.

The Passport occupies a middle ground: more off-road ready than a Blazer, more street-friendly than a Wrangler, and less expensive than a 4Runner. If your priority is balanced capability for both highway and moderate trail use, the Passport is a strong choice. If you prioritize extreme off-road performance or maximum luxury, look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2026 Passport have a third row of seats?

Yes, it seats five with a third row, but the third row is tight and best suited for children or short trips. Adults will find legroom limited, and headroom is constrained. If you regularly carry five adults, the larger Pilot is a better choice.

Can I tow a trailer with the Passport?

Yes, the maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the available towing package. That is enough for a small utility trailer or jet ski, but not for a large travel trailer or boat. Check the owner's manual for specific requirements and hitch ratings.

What is the difference between the TrailSport trims?

TrailSport is the base model with standard features and cloth seats. TrailSport EX adds a power liftgate, heated seats, and a larger touchscreen. TrailSport Elite includes leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and premium audio. All three have the same engine, suspension, and off-road capability.

How does the Passport handle snow and ice?

The standard all-wheel-drive system and available winter tires make the Passport competent in snow, though it is not as capable as a Wrangler with specialized tires. The Intelligent Traction Management system includes a Snow mode that helps on slippery surfaces. For serious winter driving, winter tires are strongly recommended.

Is the Passport worth the price compared to a used 4Runner?

A used 4Runner may offer more off-road capability and durability, but it will likely have higher mileage, unknown maintenance history, and potentially higher repair costs. A new Passport comes with a warranty, known condition, and better fuel economy. The choice depends on your budget, intended use, and tolerance for older vehicles.