Yahoo Autos 2026 Honda Passport Revealed, Complete With Big Off-Road Intentions
With the ever-growing popularity of off-road-oriented models here in the States, it's no surprise to see automakers scrambling to roll out new vehicles, trim levels and option packs aimed at tapping into that market to be come potential profit machines. Honda's new 2026 Passport is the latest to make a play for this crowd — at least, in its off-road-oriented TrailSport trims. Packing revised fascias, underbody armor and a trick all-wheel drive setup, Honda promises the new SUV is the brand’s most capable yet.
The 2026 Honda Passport lineup includes three trim levels: RTL, TrailSport and TrailSport Elite. Every model will come equipped with the same 3.5-liter V-6 engine, which Honda says is good for 285 hp. That motor comes mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, which has been specifically re-tuned for application in this machine.
The new model year also brings the second generation of Honda’s vectoring i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system. Revisions to the system include a new rear drive unit that can hanlde 40 percent more torque, and now responds to requests 30 percent faster than before. The powertrain is bolstered by seven drive modes: Normal, Sport, Econ, Snow, Sand, Tow and Trail.
The 2026 Honda Pilot was designed by the brand’s California studio, and its American influence is easy to spot. The proportions are more traditional SUV than we typically see from Honda, with a commanding dash-to-axle ratio and a more pronounced C-pillar. The dark graphic work behind the C-pillar helps sell the rugged look, while the front overhang has been greatly reduced to aid in improving approach angle. The truck also now features a 2.7-inch-longer wheelbase, bringing added stability and interior volume for occupants. Rear legroom is up by 1.3-inches, for example.
It’s a handsome machine, especially in the kitted-up TrailSport and TrailSport Elite trims. The off-road models pick up additional elements like amber lights, orange recovery hooks in both bumpers, and underbody skid protection.
Every Passport also comes equipped with trim-specific 18-inch wheels and 31-inch General Grabber all-terrain tires developed specifically for the SUV. Buyers will have a chance to further customize the look of their truck with help from Honda’s accessories catalog, which has been enhanced with off-roading and overlanding in mind. Offerings include items like rock sliders and bash plates, a cargo roof platform, MOLLE storage solutions, and a wide assortment of wheels.
The interior of the Passport is much cleaner than its predecessor, with the central 12.3-inch infotainment screen no longer perched atop the dash. The whole layout is now more horizontally oriented than before, removing much of the visual clutter of the outgoing interior. The climate control still retain hard buttons below the center stack, which flows nicely to the shifter and trackpad area. (The orange accents on the TrailSport models are also a nice touch, bringing a bit of the Ford Raptor playbook to the Honda lineup.)
The front seats seem well-tailored for off-road use, owing to their focus on body stabilization. Elite models will get a bespoke TrailWatch camera setup in the infotainment, which places virtual tracks down on the screen to help guide the vehicle over obstacles ahead. Other highlights for the range-topper include a 12-speaker Bose stereo, heated and ventilated front seats, and leather trim throughout. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported by the SUV’s Google Built-In operating system.
Honda hasn’t shared specific pricing information for the new Passport lineup just yet. That said, the automaker did say we can expect pricing to start in the mid-$40,000 range. Deliveries are expected to begin early next year, so don’t expect to wait long before the order books officially open. It may not have the hardware that some hardcore SUVs are packing these days, but we’re excited to see what an off-road focused Honda could be like.
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