2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Review: When you think of rugged midsize SUVs, names like the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Ford Bronco probably pop into your head first. But Honda wants in on that adventure lifestyle, and the new 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is making a strong case. After spending a few weeks behind the wheel of a Sunset Orange tester, I’ve got plenty of first impressions—and let’s just say, it surprised me in more ways than one.
Rugged Looks Without the Overkill
At first glance, the Passport TrailSport gives off major Land Rover Defender vibes boxy, lifted, and adventure-ready. But in person, it’s softer and more refined than the photos suggest. Honda nailed the balance between rugged and classy. It has 18-inch all-terrain wheels, embossed badging, and orange DRLs that stand out, but it doesn’t scream “try-hard” the way some SUVs do. Think outdoorsy, but not mall-crawler fake tough.
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Interior Built for Real Life
Honda clearly raided the Pilot’s playbook here—and that’s a good thing. You get 10 oversized cupholders (yes, they fit giant Hydro Flasks and Stanley cups), tons of storage cubbies, and a dashboard that prioritizes functionality over flashy design. The front seats are insanely comfortable—arguably the best in any Honda—and the second row earns high praise from passengers too.
Google-based infotainment makes navigation and voice commands a breeze, though Apple CarPlay still handles the tunes. Visibility is excellent all around, which makes parking and highway driving way less stressful.
On the Road: Smooth but Strong
Its 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 285 horsepower making it perfect for daily use in the US. It has enough power on the highway to merge or pass with assurance, yet it is smooth and never jerky around town. It’s a comfortable ride for road trips or city errands if you get acclimated to the suspension which initially feels almost too soft.
Although the transmission changes smoothly there is one small issue: when braking, it can become a little awkward. Being fussy is clear, but it’s not a deal breaker.
Quirks and Features That Stand Out
Here are some things I’ve loved (and a few I haven’t) during my first few weeks:
- ✅ Fantastic visibility in every direction
- ✅ Super-sharp, customizable digital gauge cluster
- ✅ Loud but effective ventilated seats
- ✅ Awesome hidden trunk cubbies for gear
- ✅ Orange DRLs that give it real personality
- ❌ Climate control’s lowest fan speed is still way too strong
- ❌ Auto high beams feel random at times
- ❌ No physical garage door opener button—why, Honda?
- ❌ Engine shuts off everything when you hit the stop button (even music)
Final Thought
One of the most useful and well-rounded midsize SUVs in America is the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport. It’s comfy without being mushy, tough without being annoying, and full of well-considered elements that genuinely make sense in daily life.
This might be one of the best investments for both weekend adventurers and families if Honda can prevent the little inconveniences from overpowering the positive features.
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