Honda was out to show the world that the 2026 Passport could be the rugged trailbusting CUV that it was always meant to be. The 2026 model promised to correct some key flaws that dogged the previous model and also do better at the fine art of trailbusting. Based on what the company chose to reveal today, we think that Honda might finally be on to something with the 2026 Passport.
Rugged styling makes Passport pop
The outgoing Passport had a problem standing out in traffic. While the TrailSPort had extra amounts of trim differences to drive home the trail-seeking mission, it still wasn’t enough to make the Passport rise above rivals like the Ford Bronco Sport. The 2026 model aims to fix this and actually takes some subtle pages from the Ford’s playbook with designers transforming the Passport into a far chunkier-looking offering with more slab-sided details and a reworked front end with new headlights, a reworked front grille, and a tweaked lower bumper with a faux hood vent in the leading edge of the hood. Amber-hued lead lights are also standard on both the TrailSport and its more luxurious cousin the TrailSport Elite.
The SUV also has a shorter front overhang and TrailSport models get steel skidplates and a matte black treatment for the rear of the roof. While this might seem like a styling faux pax at first glance, Honda confirmed that it’s intentional and was meant to allow owners to learn equipment on it without fear of damaging the paintwork. TrailSport models also get 18-inch wheels that are shod with General Grabber all-terrain tires with the rubber actually being co-developed by the two companies specifically for the Passport TrailSport. Other Passport models will get tamer wheel and tire choices but we’ll give Honda a nod for keeping an eye on the finer details.
Passport interior gets more luxury and tech
Slip inside the 2026 Passport and you’ll be rewarded with a cabin that has also been treated to its fair share of upgrades. The increased wheelbase helped give rear passengers an extra inch in rear legroom while the dashboard now comes with a 12.4-inch infotainment system which is 54% larger than what you got in the old model. The screen is accompanied by a slightly smaller but still digital 10.2-inch digital driver’s display. The bigger infotainment system gets Google’s Built-In system and comes with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ten cupholders are also along for the ride with six of them being big enough to store large 32 oz water bottles.
Trim appointments depend on model with RTL models getting leather-trimmed upholstery while the TrailSport swaps it out for synthetic leather appointments and orange contrast stitching. Moving up to the Elite version of the TrailSport gets you perforated leather seats with cooling capability, rear window shades, rear climate control, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.
V6 soldiers on
Initial rumors suggested that the 2026 Passport would possibly get a new turbocharged four-cylinder especially after teaser images confirming the hood scoop were revealed. However, Honda confirmed that this isn’t the plan and the 2026 model will solider on with its naturally aspirated V6. Power does go up by 5 hp to 285 hp with the old 262 lb-ft of torque being retained. However, the biggest change is in the transmission with the old nine-speed automatic being replaced by a 10-speed automatic with the extra gear being meant to help improve fuel economy.
Honda’s i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system continues to be standard and it also retains its nifty torque-vectoring feature too. The suspension is stronger than before with cast-iron knuckles and a new multi-link rear suspension helps improve its trail prowess while also contributing to the Passport’s 5,000 lb towing rating. The 2026 Honda Passport will make its way to dealerships next year with Honda offering it in three flavors, RTL and the two TrailSports. Honda is not ready to reveal final pricing as of yet but look for the rugged SUV to start in the $40,000 range.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.