The 2026 Honda Passport claims it’s ready to take on rugged SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner, but can Honda’s refreshed crossover really compete in that league? Known more for smooth road manners than serious off-roading, Honda is positioning the new Passport as an adventure-ready SUV. But does it truly have what it takes?
Styling and Power: Just Surface-Level Changes?
Honda’s giving the Passport a “muscular” new look with a longer hood, hood scoop, and rugged 18-inch wheels. But while it looks the part, it’s still a unibody platform—not exactly the go-to build for hardcore off-road vehicles. Under the hood, we have a 3.5-liter V6 with a slight power boost to 285 hp, but it’s essentially the same engine in the Pilot, just “tuned” for off-road. Even with Honda’s updated AWD, it’s hard to see this taking on true off-road systems.
TrailSport Trims: Genuine Off-Roading or Just a Look?
The Passport’s “off-road” trims, the TrailSport and TrailSport Elite, feature spring adjustments, skid plates, and exclusive paint colors, but it feels like Honda focused on aesthetics over actual rugged functionality. Take the orange recovery hooks—yes, they look cool, but they’re made to “break away” in a collision, not exactly a rugged endorsement.
Fancy Features: Useful or Just for Show?
TrailSport Elite brings some flashy tech, like the TrailWatch camera that kicks in under 15 mph and a 12-speaker Bose system, but it seems excessive for an SUV that’s trying to balance luxury with off-road capability. The Passport has premium touches like ventilated seats and a leather-trimmed interior, but are these what off-roaders actually need?
Adventure Design or Just “Adventure-Inspired?”
Honda’s “backpack-inspired” design choices include blacked-out roof rails, a durable rear roof section, and hidden antenna, but it feels more style than substance. Will the new matte finish survive the trails, or is it mostly about showroom appeal? Honda’s blend of rugged and luxury might look appealing, but one has to wonder if they’ve prioritized looks over true durability.
Inside: Practical Enough for the Trails?
Honda’s loaded the Passport with tech—a 10.2-inch digital display, 12.3-inch touchscreen, and Google integration—making it feel more like a tech haven than an adventure rig. While it’s got storage-friendly features like two-tier door bins and USB-C ports, does it actually stand up to the utilitarian needs of an outdoor adventure vehicle?
Cargo Space: Still Missing the Mark
Cargo space is slightly improved, with 83.5 cubic feet when seats are folded. But compared to competitors, it’s just adequate. Sure, the underfloor storage holds a spare, but there’s little about the new layout that screams rugged efficiency.
Accessories: Essential or Just Extra?
Honda’s touting a ton of Passport add-ons, from rock sliders to a roof platform and black wheels, but how many of these are truly off-road essentials vs. “adventure-inspired” add-ons? At a starting price in the mid-$40k range, shouldn’t some of these already come standard?
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Honda Passport certainly looks the part, but whether it’s built for serious off-roading is debatable. Honda’s tried to blend rugged design with road-friendly features, leaving the Passport somewhere between adventure-ready and comfortable crossover. It’s a solid option for light adventurers, but if you’re looking for true off-road capability, it may not deliver.
Want the Best Deal?
If the Honda Passport sounds right for you, don’t settle for high prices. Head to Quotes.EverymanDriver.com to get real-time dealer pricing on new and used cars in your area. This free tool helps thousands of users save money daily—why pay more when you can potentially save hundreds or even thousands? Check it out and get the deal you deserve.
