2026 Honda Passport Trail Sport unveiled for the first time
Honda engineers were spotted testing a prototype of the new Passport, which will be launched next year as a 2026 model.
The prototype is for the rugged TrailSport model, as indicated by the amber daytime running lights, a TrailSport-specific feature Honda announced in July.
The prototype also sports 275/60 General Grabber All-Terrain Sport tires wrapped around 18-inch wheels. This is considerably wider than the tires on the current Passport TrailSport model and wider than the tires on the 2023 Pilot TrailSport.
Off-road reliability is enhanced by the short rear overhang and the routing of the exhaust pipe to account for the departure angle. Also not to be missed are the chunky roof rails that further emphasize the ruggedness of the vehicle. Honda promises that the new Passport Trail Sport will be the brand's most capable SUV ever.
Concurrent with the July announcement, Honda released several teaser photos showing the planned grille design for the Passport TrailSport and a more rugged, squared-off front end destined for all models in the redesigned Passport lineup The company has released a new teaser photo of the PassSport. Spy shots also show a taller, squared-off rear cargo hold.
Interior shots show a separate infotainment screen sitting above the traditional hood and center stack for the instrument cluster.
The car should be supported by Honda's Global Light Truck platform, which is used in the Pilot as well as the Acura MDX. This platform is stiffer than the one it replaces and this should translate into better dynamics.
Unique tuning for the Passport Trail Sport should be utilized for sway bars, spring rates, and damper valves, as is the case for the Pilot Trail Sport. The minimum ground clearance should also be higher than normal.
It is not clear what will fit under the hood, but the Pilot will be powered by a 285-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. This same setup will likely be used in the redesigned Passport lineup.
Stay tuned for updates as development progresses.
