The modern Honda Passport has been around since the 2019 model year, but the 2026 model is an all-new, fully redesigned version of this impressive midsize SUV. Already a good overall SUV, the 2026 Honda Passport re-imagines what this vehicle can be, with a greater focus on adventure and heading off-road. I’ve seen some new generations launch with minor changes that feel more like a small update; what Honda is doing with the Passport is quite impressive, however, and showcases what an all-new version should be. If you’re trying to decide between getting a 2025 model and waiting for the revamped 2026 Passport, then I’m here to help. Today, I’m going to take you through what the 2026 version offers to give you a good sense of whether or not it is the right one for you.
Enhanced Performance and Engineering
Honestly, there’s a lot to like about how Honda has updated the 2026 Passport, but I feel that the engine and performance are a great place to start. The all-new Passport features an appropriately new and more powerful 3.5L V6 engine that delivers 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. While that’s not groundbreaking power, it’s plenty for an SUV this size and more than enough to make driving the new Passport quite enjoyable. Even better, this engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission tuned exclusively for the Passport—the first time this model has had a 10-speed automatic. Plus, paddle shifters are standard to provide drivers with enhanced control when they want it.
Every 2026 Passport comes with the second generation of Honda’s torque vectoring i-VTM4 all-wheel drive (AWD) system. This is important for a couple of reasons, not the least of which is that it goes along with the renewed focus on off-road performance for the all-new Passport. The new and enhanced AWD system features a better rear drive unit designed to handle 40% more torque and provide a 30% faster response when engaged, which is perfect for the unpredictable conditions found on the trail. Of course, this also works great for dealing with wet and slippery roads due to weather; the Passport even offers seven selectable drive modes to adjust traction and performance, including Snow, Sand, and Trail modes for off-road capability.
The driving philosophy behind the development of the all-new 2026 Passport was to create something more adventurous and ready to hit the trail. The model features a longer wheelbase, extended by nearly three inches, and a track that is more than an inch wider than last year’s model. Honda has also slapped a new suspension on this thing with re-tuned MacPherson struts, a new multilink rear suspension, and forged steel suspension arms to ensure it is sturdy while also keeping you comfortable inside. The 2026 Passport has larger front brake rotors and calipers for improved heat resistance, which is perfect both on the road and on the trail. There’s now a standard Hill Descent Control system for better handling and control while going downhill, plus the Passport can tow up to 5,000 lbs behind it.
A Better Interior Than Last Year’s Model
As you might expect, the interior has also been completely redesigned for the 2026 Passport, providing more space and a comfortable overall design. The cabin looks nice with a clean, modern aesthetic; the second row gained more than an inch of extra legroom. An inch might not sound like much, but all of us with long legs know just what a difference even an extra inch of space can make when we’re packed in a vehicle on a long road trip. This redesign helps the Passport gain more interior cargo space than ever before, with 44 cu.ft. of rear cargo volume and 83.5 cu.ft. of total cargo room behind the front seats. The cargo area is also wider than before, which lets it more easily accommodate items like golf bags, luggage, and supplies for a weekend (or longer) of camping.
The tech features inside the 2026 Honda Passport have also been upgraded and enhanced for its new generation, providing some impressive amenities for drivers. Up front, we find a standard 10.2-inch digital instrument display paired with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display that’s 54% larger than last year’s screen. Other standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, Google built-in, and a wireless charging pad. All of this comes together nicely to create an interior that is quite welcoming, and you’ll find some extra features such as off-road data like elevation, pitch, and roll in the TrailSport trims. Even more available features depend on which trim level you’re looking at, so let’s check those out.
Three Trim Levels to Choose From
Honda offers three trim levels for the all-new 2026 Passport, and all three of them are focused on off-road performance. If you’re not interested in hitting the trail every weekend, then the standard RTL trim is probably the one you’ll want to consider. Along with the features I already mentioned, the RTL comes with a black front grille and other black details on the outside, with 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-season tires. Leather upholstery and a power tailgate are standard for an upscale feel. Plus, you get comfortable seating with new Body Stabilizing front seats designed to help reduce fatigue on long trips.
For serious adventures, the TrailSport trim is where you want to start, providing enhanced capabilities and features inside and out. The TrailSport has LED fog lights that are mounted higher in the front fascia, along with 18-inch wheels wrapped in new 31-inch General Grabber all-terrain tires developed exclusively for the new Passport TrailSport. These tires give you enhanced traction and grip in sand, mud, snow, and other tricky terrain. Inside, you’ll find synthetic leather upholstery that looks great and is easy to keep clean, plus a sliding panoramic sunroof for a gorgeous view of the sky overhead.
The TrailSport Elite trim is designed to deliver off-road capability along with a more sophisticated interior and some upgraded features. For example, it also has the 31-inch all-terrain tires, thick steel skid plates, and off-road suspension found on the standard TrailSport. Beyond that, the TrailSport Elite comes with Honda’s new TrailWatch camera system that uses four exterior cameras to give you an enhanced view of the area around your vehicle from inside the cabin. You’ll also find perforated leather seating in the TrailSport Elite, a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system with Centerpoint technology, and enhanced interior ambient lighting.
Is the 2026 Passport Worth Waiting For?
As you can see, there’s a lot to like about the 2026 Passport, and it’s clear that Honda has delivered on the idea of a midsize SUV with a greater focus on off-road capability and outdoor performance. Whether these new features and updates are worth waiting for depends entirely on what you want from your next ride. If you want something that you can take out on the trail and that will get you to campsites off the beaten path, then the updated 2026 TrailSport trims could definitely be worth it. For daily driving, even the enhanced interior of the standard RTL trim is nicely appointed and could make your time on the road better. There’s no MSRP currently available, but Honda says it is aiming for the “mid-$40,000s” to start. For comparison, the 2025 Passport currently starts at $42,400. If you can hold off for the 2026 model and the expected price fits your budget, then I’d say it’s worth waiting for.
