As the market becomes saturated with ruggedly styled off-road versions of family-friendly crossovers, the 2025 Honda Passport TrailSport distinguishes itself by delivering genuine off-road prowess. Honda has fortified its family-oriented vehicle with enhanced capabilities suited for traversing easy to moderate trails, demonstrating a commitment to practical adventure.
A Closer Look at the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport
Equipped with Honda’s advanced i-VTM4 all-wheel drive (AWD) system, the Passport TrailSport stands out in several key performance areas. The vehicle features a robust non-turbocharged V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, surpassing its predecessor with an additional 5 horsepower. Moreover, the introduction of a 10-speed automatic transmission enhances driving dynamics compared to the previous model’s 9-speed, making it more responsive on both road and off-road surfaces.
Reasons to Embrace the New Passport TrailSport
Adventurous Aesthetics and Functionality:
Honda has not only embraced an adventurous image with bold 275/60R18 General Grabber all-terrain tires and striking black 18-inch wheels but has also made them functional. Underpinning this rugged exterior are aluminum skid plates that safeguard vital components underneath. Additionally, the Passport’s 8.1 inches of ground clearance is complemented by an optional dealer-installed slider package, which can be critical in preventing damage from obstacles on the trail.
Impressive Powertrain:
The refined 3.5-liter V6 engine, while largely a carryover, showcases Honda’s commitment to performance improvement. Enhanced gearing and transmission updates promise a more enjoyable driving experience, though official EPA fuel economy ratings are still pending. However, expectations suggest that the new Passport may match or exceed the previous model’s efficiency of 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The Passport TrailSport offers a spacious interior, adorned with TrailSport-specific badging and improved tech features. Comfortable seating with stylish orange accents ensures an inviting environment, with ample headroom and cargo space—44 cubic feet behind the back seats and up to 83.5 cubic feet when those seats are stowed. Cutting-edge technology includes a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, alongside a second-generation Trail Watch camera system that enhances trail navigation.
Competitive Pricing Structure
Honda plans to offer the 2026 Passport in three trims: RTL, TrailSport, and TrailSport Elite, with prices likely starting in the mid-$40,000 range—an appealing prospect for those seeking value in the rugged crossover segment.
Versatility for Adventurers
Attuned to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, the Passport TrailSport features functional design elements, such as storage solutions in the cargo area and a roof rack suited for rooftop tents. For those nostalgic for Honda’s past utility-oriented designs, an optional folding table hidden into the cargo floor is a clever nod to the brand’s history.
Superior All-Wheel Drive System
Honda’s i-VTM4 AWD system is recognized among the class’s elite for its mechanical advantages over conventional systems reliant solely on braking control. This AWD features a faster response time with six selectable drive modes tailored for diverse driving conditions, enhancing capability on both trails and daily commutes.
Considerations Before Buying
Appearance Resemblance:
Critics may note that the Passport’s design bears a striking resemblance to the Bronco Sport, which could be a double-edged sword for branding. While it’s far from unattractive, the similarity might raise eyebrows among consumers.
No Hybrid Option:
Despite the appeal of the V6 engine, the absence of a hybrid variant could deter eco-conscious buyers seeking fuel efficiency, particularly in an age where hybrid options are increasingly desirable.
Moderate Ground Clearance:
With only 8.1 inches of ground clearance, the Passport might struggle with particularly challenging off-road obstacles. While crucial skid plates add protection, enhancing ground clearance could address this concern for serious off-road adventurers.
Conclusion
Certainly, room for improvement exists, yet the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport achieves a commendable balance between daily utility and rugged capability. As it heads to showrooms in early 2025, the Passport represents Honda’s best crossover offering yet, leaving enthusiasts eager to see how the brand will refine its other models in the future.
Source:www.autoblog.com
