The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite is a midsize SUV that promises to blend rugged off-road capability with the comfort and tech needed for daily driving. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling muddy trails, this two-row SUV aims to deliver versatility with style. After exploring its features and performance, here’s a detailed review to help you decide if this is the right vehicle for your adventures.
A Bold New Look for the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite
Eye-Catching Exterior Design
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite stands out with a redesigned exterior that’s both rugged and refined. Its boxy shape is 2.4 inches longer and 0.8 inches wider than the previous model, giving it a muscular, truck-like stance. The front grille proudly displays an embossed “PASSPORT” logo, paired with piano black accents and vibrant orange tow hooks that scream adventure-readiness. Available colors like Sunset Orange and Ash Green Metallic add a playful yet bold vibe, while the Elite trim elevates the look with glossy B-pillars and patterned door trim.
The 18-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in beefy 31-inch General Grabber A/T Sport tires, fill out the wheel wells perfectly, enhancing the SUV’s tough aesthetic. At the rear, vertically oriented taillights and a stamped “PASSPORT” on the tailgate pay homage to the first-generation Honda Pilot, adding a touch of nostalgia to this modern design. Whether parked at a trailhead or a grocery store, the Passport TrailSport Elite turns heads with its purposeful style.
A Comfortable and Spacious Interior
Premium Cabin with Practical Touches
Step inside the TrailSport Elite, and you’re greeted by a spacious, upscale interior that balances luxury with functionality. The cabin features perforated leather seats with orange contrast stitching and TrailSport logos embossed on the headrests, creating a premium yet adventure-ready vibe. The dashboard is clean and modern, dominated by a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in apps, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A 10.2-inch digital driver’s display adds a high-tech feel, making it easy to access key information on the go.
The Passport’s larger dimensions translate to impressive passenger and cargo space. Rear-seat legroom has increased by 1.3 inches, and the flat floor ensures comfort for middle-seat passengers, making it ideal for family road trips. Behind the second row, you get 44 cubic feet of cargo space—enough for camping gear or sports equipment. Fold the seats down, and you have up to 83.2 cubic feet, capable of fitting two mountain bikes with their front wheels removed. Practical features like a panoramic sunroof, tri-zone climate control, and an optional cargo-bay table (a sturdy, fold-out design) make this SUV versatile for both daily errands and weekend getaways.
However, some minor ergonomic quirks exist. The glove box feels a bit flimsy, and the center gear shift can collect debris, which might annoy meticulous owners. Despite these small flaws, the cabin’s quietness—thanks to active noise cancellation and acoustic glass on the Elite trim—creates a serene environment, even with the rugged all-terrain tires.
Performance: Ready for Trails and Roads
Powerful V6 and Smooth Transmission
Under the hood, the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque—a slight boost from its predecessor. Paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission (up from the older nine-speed), it offers smoother shifts and quicker responses. While the 0-60 mph sprint takes about 7.2 seconds, the added 500 pounds of weight makes it feel less sprightly than some turbocharged rivals. Still, the V6 provides ample power for most driving scenarios.
The i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system is a highlight, capable of sending up to 70% of torque to the rear and 100% to a single rear wheel for superior grip. During a test drive in Puerto Rico, the Passport tackled mud, ruts, sand, and steep inclines with confidence, even three-wheeling over obstacles without needing a locking differential. This makes it a capable choice for moderate off-roading.
Off-Road Capability
The TrailSport Elite is built for adventure, with 8.3 inches of ground clearance and a 23.0-degree approach angle. Steel skid plates protect the undercarriage, while hill descent control (adjustable from 2-12 mph) ensures safe navigation on steep slopes. The exclusive TrailWatch camera system, with forward and 360-degree views, displays tire paths and potential hazards, making technical trails approachable even for novice off-roaders. Trail and Sand drive modes optimize traction for loose surfaces, giving you confidence in challenging conditions.
On-Road Refinement
On pavement, the Passport TrailSport Elite feels composed and comfortable. The steering is precise, and the ride is smooth, with minimal road noise despite the all-terrain tires. However, the off-road-tuned suspension and chunkier tires can make speed bumps feel harsher than expected. Fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway), which is respectable but lags behind hybrid competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Safety
Modern Tech for Connectivity
The TrailSport Elite is packed with technology to keep you connected and entertained. The 12.3-inch touchscreen is intuitive, supporting Google Built-in apps, wireless charging, and a premium Bose 12-speaker audio system for crisp sound. The TrailWatch camera system is a standout, especially for off-roading, as it helps you navigate tight trails with confidence. The 10.2-inch digital driver’s display is customizable, showing everything from navigation to off-road stats.
Comprehensive Safety Features
Safety is a priority, with the Honda Sensing suite included as standard. This includes adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. While crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS are still pending, the Passport’s robust safety tech positions it as a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment. Whether you’re weaving through city traffic or cruising on the highway, these features provide peace of mind.
Driving Experience: Adventure with Everyday Usability
On-Road Impressions
The Passport TrailSport Elite drives like a refined SUV, with a quiet cabin and smooth handling that make it a great daily driver. The V6 engine feels strong at lower elevations, though it may lose some pep at higher altitudes compared to turbocharged competitors like the Toyota 4Runner. The 10-speed transmission shifts seamlessly, and the i-VTM4 system ensures excellent traction in wet or slippery conditions.
Off-Road Confidence
Off-road, the Passport surprises with its capability for a unibody SUV. It’s not designed to compete with hardcore off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, but it handles moderate trails with ease. The TrailWatch cameras and hill descent control make it accessible for beginners, while the all-terrain tires and skid plates provide the durability needed for rocky or muddy paths. Whether you’re exploring a forest trail or a sandy beach, the Passport feels ready for the challenge.
Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite starts at $53,900, with fully loaded models reaching around $54,355 (including a $1,450 destination charge). This price puts it in direct competition with off-road-focused SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road, Ford Bronco Badlands, and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, which offer more hardcore capability. For buyers seeking value, the base RTL trim ($46,200) or standard TrailSport ($49,900) provide many of the same features at a lower cost, though they lack the Elite’s premium tech and styling.
The TrailSport Elite’s blend of off-road capability, upscale interior, and modern tech justifies its price for those who want a versatile SUV that can handle both trails and daily commutes. However, the lack of a hybrid powertrain and slightly lower fuel economy may deter eco-conscious buyers. If you’re considering this SUV, visit a local dealer like Smail Honda in Greensburg, PA, for a test drive to see if it fits your lifestyle.
Pros and Cons of the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite
Pros
- Striking, rugged design with premium details
- Spacious and upscale interior with versatile cargo space
- Impressive off-road capability with TrailWatch cameras and i-VTM4 AWD
- Smooth V6 engine and refined 10-speed transmission
- Advanced safety and tech features for connectivity and peace of mind
Cons
- Higher price point compared to hardcore off-road competitors
- No hybrid powertrain option
- Minor ergonomic issues, like a flimsy glove box
- Fuel economy lags behind hybrid SUVs
- Limited availability at launch
Who Should Buy the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite?
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite is perfect for buyers who want a midsize SUV that can handle weekend adventures without sacrificing daily comfort. It’s ideal for families who need space and versatility, outdoor enthusiasts who tackle moderate trails, and drivers who value a premium interior with modern tech. If you’re looking for a hardcore off-roader or a fuel-efficient hybrid, you might consider alternatives like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. But for those who want a stylish, capable, and comfortable SUV, the Passport TrailSport Elite hits the mark.
A Versatile SUV for Adventure and Comfort
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite is a well-rounded midsize SUV that blends rugged capability with refined comfort. Its bold design, spacious cabin, and advanced tech make it a strong contender in its class, while its off-road features ensure it’s ready for adventure. Though it’s pricier than some competitors and lacks a hybrid option, its versatility and style make it a compelling choice for drivers who want it all. Ready to experience it yourself? Schedule a test drive at your local Honda dealer and see how the Passport TrailSport Elite fits into your life.
