The Honda Passport is a five-seat midsize SUV aimed at drivers who want more space and trail capability than a compact crossover without moving to a three-row vehicle. For 2026, it combines a 285-hp V6, standard all-wheel drive, a 10-speed automatic, up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, and more serious off-road hardware on TrailSport models.
The main question is simple: does its extra capability justify a starting price of $44,950? The answer is yes for shoppers who value V6 power, cargo flexibility, standard AWD, and weekend-trail ability. Buyers focused mainly on fuel economy or lower purchase cost have stronger alternatives. For a closer look at this, see Tesla Model.
| Key fact | 2026 model |
| Starting MSRP | $44,950 |
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 285 hp |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Standard i-VTM4 AWD |
| Maximum towing capacity | 5,000 lb |
| RTL fuel economy | 19 city / 25 highway mpg |
| TrailSport fuel economy | 18 city / 23 highway mpg |
| Seating | Five |
Pricing, drivetrain, towing, and fuel-economy figures are based on Honda’s current 2026 specifications. Passport Specs and What They Mean on the Road
What’s New?
Every main Honda Passport 2026 model uses a 3.5-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower. Honda pairs it with a 10-speed automatic and its second-generation i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system. Seven drive modes include Normal, Econ, Sport, Snow, Tow, Trail, and Sand. This setup gives the Honda Passport a different character from smaller turbocharged or hybrid crossovers. There is no need to choose an engine upgrade to get full power or AWD capability.
Independent testing also points to a strong balance between daily comfort and rugged use. MotorTrend recorded a 7.1-second 0–60 mph run in an RTL and 7.7 seconds in a TrailSport. Reviewers praised its quiet ride and trail ability, although the transmission can sometimes feel hesitant when choosing a gear. For those comparing powertrains across the market, AutoVyra’s TurboMax engine guide is another useful look at how modern SUV and truck engines balance output, towing, and everyday drivability.
2026 Honda Passport Trims Compared
Honda currently lists several packages, but three core versions make the buying decision easiest to understand.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Best suited to | Key additions |
| RTL | $44,950 | Daily driving and road trips | AWD, heated seats, 12.3-inch touchscreen, Google built-in |
| TrailSport | $48,650 | Outdoor use and rough roads | All-terrain tires, skid plates, off-road suspension, recovery hooks |
| TrailSport Elite | $52,650 | Capability plus premium features | TrailWatch cameras, Bose audio, ventilated front seats |
Honda also offers Towing and Blackout configurations around these trims. Prices shown are Honda’s current advertised starting MSRPs and can change with destination charges, accessories, or later model-year updates. The sensible everyday choice
RTL makes the strongest case for drivers who spend most of their time on pavement. You still get the 285-hp engine, AWD, heated front seats, wireless phone charging, Google built-in, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Posts the lineup’s better fuel-economy rating at 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Pros
- Lowest entry price
- Full V6 power and standard AWD
- Strong standard technology
- Better mileage than TrailSport models
Cons
- Fewer dedicated off-road components
- Expensive compared with many compact SUVs
- No hybrid powertrain
TrailSport: The Best Fit For Adventure-Focused Buyers
TrailSport costs $48,650 and adds hardware that matters once pavement ends. The Honda Passport TrailSport comes equipped with all-terrain tires, an off-road-tuned suspension, skid plates, high-visibility recovery hooks, and a heated wiper zone, making it much more than an appearance package. Recent comparison testing by Road & Track placed the TrailSport Elite ahead of the Subaru Outback Wilderness and Hyundai Santa Fe XRT for its combination of traction, protection, stability, and road comfort.
- Useful off-road hardware
- Standard V6 and AWD
- 5,000-pound towing capacity
- Comfortable enough for normal daily use
Cons
- Lower 18/23 mpg rating
- Higher price
- All-terrain tires may be unnecessary for pavement-only drivers
TrailSport Elite: Capability With More Comfort
TrailSport Elite starts at $52,650. Its biggest upgrades include the second-generation TrailWatch camera system, heated and ventilated front seats, Bose premium audio, and rear-door sunshades. It’s for those who want the TrailSport hardware but do not want to give up premium equipment.
For shoppers who enjoy broader SUV comparisons, AutoVyra’s 2026 fuel-efficient SUV guide shows that very different priorities can change the best purchase. A vehicle designed around trail use, towing, and V6 power will not compete with hybrids on fuel consumption.
Fuel Economy: The Clear Trade-Off
Efficiency is one of the biggest reasons not to buy this SUV.
Honda rates the RTL at 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. TrailSport models fall to 18 city and 23 highway. Numbers are reasonable for a V6-powered AWD vehicle, but buyers now have many hybrids that use far less fuel.
The Passport currently has no hybrid option, a drawback also highlighted by independent reviewers. Consider your use before dismissing the V6. A driver who tows, visits trailheads, carries outdoor equipment, or wants naturally aspirated power may accept the fuel bill. A commuter covering high annual mileage may not.
How It Compares With Other SUVs?
Car and Driver praised the redesigned model for blending stronger off-road capability with a comfortable cabin and useful cargo space. Its main drawbacks are the relatively high price and fuel economy that trails more efficient rivals.
| Buyer priority | Honda Passport fit | Alternative to consider |
| Trail capability with everyday comfort | Strong choice, especially in TrailSport trim | Subaru Outback Wilderness |
| Fuel efficiency | Below average for the segment | Honda CR-V Hybrid or another hybrid SUV |
| Three-row seating | Not available | Honda Pilot |
| V6 power and towing capability | Strong | Other midsize V6-powered SUVs |
| Premium features with rugged hardware | TrailSport Elite is the best fit | Premium off-road-oriented crossovers |
The Passport stands out most for buyers who want a comfortable two-row SUV with V6 power and useful off-road hardware. Shoppers focused on fuel economy or third-row seating will likely find a better match elsewhere. AutoVyra’s Automobile section is useful for comparing engines, SUVs, performance models, and buying considerations across different brands.
Is It Worth the Price?
For the right Driver, yes. The Honda Passport stands out because it combines a V6 engine, standard AWD, five-seat practicality, 5,000-pound towing capacity, and available trail-ready equipment without requiring a move to a truck-based SUV.
RTL is our pick for most buyers, as it keeps the core powertrain and technology while avoiding the higher cost and lower fuel economy associated with the off-road-focused equipment. Choose TrailSport when you regularly drive forest roads, snowy routes, campsites, or rough access roads.
TrailSport Elite makes the most sense when its camera system and comfort features matter enough to justify passing $52,000 before options. Buyers who rarely leave pavement should compare more efficient crossovers before deciding.
What to Check Before You Buy?
- A test drive should focus on your own use rather than the longest feature list.
- Check rear-seat room with the people who normally ride with you. Bring measurements for strollers, camping equipment, bikes, or other bulky cargo.
- Test the transmission at city speeds and during highway merging. Then compare the exact trim’s fuel rating and price.
- Finally, compare insurance quotes before signing. Purchase price is only one part of the ownership cost.
Conclusion
For the right Driver, yes. The Honda Passport stands out because it combines a V6 engine, standard AWD, five-seat practicality, 5,000-pound towing capacity, and available trail-ready equipment without requiring a move to a truck-based SUV.
RTL is our pick for most buyers, as it keeps the core powertrain and technology while avoiding the higher cost and lower fuel economy associated with the off-road-focused equipment.RTL is the smart choice for road-focused buyers. TrailSport earns its premium for people who will use the added hardware. TrailSport Elite is for buyers who want both rugged equipment and a richer cabin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, especially if you want standard AWD, V6 power, five-seat practicality, towing capability, and occasional off-road use. A hybrid crossover makes more sense when fuel economy is your top priority.
Honda currently lists the RTL from $44,950, TrailSport from $48,650, and TrailSport Elite from $52,650.
Yes. The 2026 lineup uses a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 285 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
No hybrid version is currently listed for the 2026 lineup. Buyers focused on mileage should compare hybrid crossovers before purchasing. SEO metadata
