2026 Honda Passport

What's New for 2026

The 2026 Honda Passport is an entirely new vehicle. Redesigned from the ground up on a new body-on-frame architecture, the third-generation Passport abandons its crossover roots in favor of a genuinely rugged midsize SUV positioned to compete directly with the Toyota 4Runner and Ford Bronco. Every trim now comes standard with i-VTM4 all-wheel drive, and the lineup has been restructured around RTL and TrailSport branding—there are no more EX-L or Sport trims. The 3.5-liter V6 returns with a slight bump to 285 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic. Towing capacity jumps to 5,000 pounds, ground clearance measures 8.3 inches, and dedicated off-road features including Trail Torque Logic and seven drive modes signal Honda's serious intent to capture adventure-oriented buyers. Starting price is $44,950 for the RTL.

Overview

The 2026 Honda Passport represents the most significant reinvention of any Honda model in recent memory. Starting at $44,950 for the base RTL and topping out at $53,850 for the TrailSport Elite Blackout, the Passport now occupies a distinct position in Honda's lineup as a proper midsize SUV built for capability rather than just commuting. Seven trims span the range, with the first three (RTL, RTL Towing, RTL Blackout) serving as the more road-focused options and the four TrailSport variants pushing further into off-road territory.

All trims share the same 3.5-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 262 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm, channeled through a 10-speed automatic transmission to Honda's second-generation i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system. At 191.5 inches long on a 113.6-inch wheelbase, the Passport is sized to compete directly with the segment's most capable entries. Cargo volume measures 44.0 cubic feet behind the second row and expands to 83.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Curb weight starts at approximately 4,478 pounds.

EPA fuel economy ratings are 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined for standard trims, dropping to 18/23/20 for TrailSport models with all-terrain tires. The 18.5-gallon fuel tank running on regular unleaded provides a real-world range of approximately 390 miles. Towing capacity is rated at 5,000 pounds across all trims—a significant improvement over the previous generation. Competitors include the Toyota 4Runner (from approximately $42,000), Jeep Grand Cherokee (from around $40,000), and Ford Bronco (from roughly $38,000). The Passport's combination of Honda reliability, V6 power, and genuine off-road capability makes it a compelling alternative to the established players.

Driving Experience

The redesigned Passport's on-road manners are surprisingly refined given its off-road aspirations. The 285-horsepower V6 delivers strong, linear acceleration that feels effortless whether merging onto highways or climbing mountain grades. The 10-speed automatic shifts smoothly and responds quickly to throttle inputs, and Honda's rev-matching capability on downshifts adds a layer of polish that body-on-frame SUVs rarely exhibit. The power advantage over turbocharged four-cylinder competitors is immediately apparent—there's no waiting for boost, and the engine pulls confidently across the entire rev range.

The MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension strike a commendable balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. Highway ride quality is composed and controlled, absorbing expansion joints and road imperfections without the excessive body motion that plagues some rugged SUVs. The electric power steering provides reasonable feedback and accurate turn-in response, and the 38.9-foot turning diameter is manageable for a vehicle of this size. Ground clearance of 8.3 inches, combined with approach and departure angles of 23.0 and 27.1 degrees, gives the Passport genuine trail capability that the previous generation simply couldn't match.

The second-generation i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system is notably more sophisticated than before, featuring Trail Torque Logic that can direct torque to individual rear wheels for improved traction on loose surfaces. Seven drive modes—Normal, Econ, Sport, Snow, Tow, Trail, and Sand—adjust throttle response, transmission behavior, and torque distribution. The 5,000-pound towing capacity represents a significant jump, and the Passport handles trailer loads with confidence thanks to the V6's broad power band and the 10-speed's intelligent gear selection. Braking from the 13.8-inch ventilated front and 13.0-inch solid rear discs is progressive and confidence-inspiring.

Interior, Comfort & Technology

The Passport's interior reflects its more rugged positioning without sacrificing the quality Honda buyers expect. The dashboard layout is clean and purposeful, with materials that feel durable enough for outdoor adventures while maintaining appropriate refinement for daily commuting. Soft-touch surfaces cover the upper dashboard and door panels, with rubberized accents in high-use areas that resist scratching and clean easily.

Two rows of seating accommodate five passengers comfortably. Front occupants enjoy 41.1 inches of legroom and 40.5 inches of headroom, while rear passengers get 40.9 inches of legroom and 40.7 inches of headroom—generous figures that make long trips comfortable for all occupants. Passenger volume measures 119.1 cubic feet, and the elevated seating position provides commanding outward visibility.

Cargo capacity is competitive at 44.0 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 83.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded (104.6 cubic feet to the ceiling). The cargo floor is flat when the seats are down, simplifying the loading of bulky items like camping gear or sports equipment. The infotainment system uses a touchscreen running Honda's latest software with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Physical climate controls remain below the screen, and Honda Sensing driver-assist features are standard across the lineup. Higher trims add wireless charging, a Bose premium audio system, and a head-up display.

Trim Levels & Pricing

All prices listed are MSRP before destination charges of approximately $1,345. Every 2026 Passport comes standard with Honda's i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system—there is no front-wheel-drive option. The seven-trim lineup may seem complex, but the Blackout variants are essentially cosmetic packages that add dark exterior styling to their base counterparts.

Safety

Every 2026 Passport comes standard with Honda Sensing, which includes collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, and traffic sign recognition. The blind-spot information system with lane change assist and cross-traffic monitor is standard across the lineup. TrailSport and higher trims add traffic jam assist for semi-autonomous driving in stop-and-go conditions.

The Passport's body structure incorporates Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) design, complemented by a comprehensive airbag system including advanced front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, and driver's and front passenger's knee airbags. The elevated driving position and relatively thin roof pillars provide good outward visibility, reducing blind spots during parking and lane-change maneuvers.

For comprehensive crash test ratings, visit nhtsa.gov and iihs.org.

Warranty & Ownership Costs

Ownership costs are reasonable for a midsize SUV with genuine off-road capability. Annual fuel costs run approximately $2,100 based on 12,000 miles at the 21 combined MPG rating, and all trims use regular unleaded fuel—a meaningful cost advantage over competitors that require or recommend premium. Insurance costs typically range from $1,500–$2,200 annually. Honda's maintenance schedule is straightforward, and the naturally aspirated V6 avoids the turbo-related service complexities of some competitors. Tire replacement costs vary significantly by trim—budget $800–$1,100 for standard all-season tires or $1,000–$1,400 for the all-terrain rubber on TrailSport models.

Frequently Asked Questions