2026 Honda Passport First Drive Review: The 4Runner for Everyday Drivers

      A brief experience with the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport left me quite impressed. I appreciated its design from the moment it was unveiled last year, and it appears even more appealing (and larger) in person. It handles well and comes equipped with a nice array of features. Its off-road capabilities exceed expectations, and more importantly, the technologies that aid it in navigating tough terrain are also beneficial on slippery roads—a feature not common to every 4×4.

      I tested the new Passport TS on uneven paved roads, rugged dirt trails, climbed over dirt mounds, and made a quick jaunt through deeper sand on a beach in Puerto Rico. Like any other off-roader, the Passport’s tires play a crucial role in its capabilities. The durable, knobby 31-inch General Grabber tires help it grip soft surfaces and maintain forward momentum on muddy ground. Additionally, it boasts an impressive traction control system and a power-distributing powertrain that simplify navigating rough conditions. This enhancement significantly boosts the performance of this relatively low-sitting SUV, and since it operates continuously in the background, drivers enjoy its benefits each time they use the vehicle.

      You’re looking at a mid-sized five-seat SUV that merges a blend of modern and traditional elements. The interior finishes and materials are of upper-middle-class quality—not luxurious but certainly respectable and comfortable. Like most contemporary crossovers, it features unibody construction with independent suspension. However, its non-turbo, non-hybrid V6 engine aligns with a simpler, more serviceable design, typically translating to reliability and low ownership costs.

      Prices for TrailSport models range from $50,000 to $55,000, with the base non-TrailSport RTL slightly lower. While substantial, these figures reflect solid value based on current market observations. The TrailSport's color choices alone—Sunset Orange and Ash Green Metallic—are compelling reasons to consider upgrading.

      It provides two rows of seating, not three, but the rear passenger space is sufficiently roomy for adults or two large child seats. Furthermore, the cargo area is quite spacious. Two couples could easily embark on a trip in this vehicle, and the expansive panoramic roof adds to the cabin’s airy feel when opened.

      I appreciate the Passport’s large sunroof and quality of interior materials. Honda excels in offering sturdy plastics and soft surfaces across its interiors where other brands have fallen short. Although the Elite model includes ventilated seating, I preferred the aesthetic of the cloth in the standard TrailSport.

      According to Honda, the 3.5-liter DOHC engine produces 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, which transfers to the road via a 10-speed automatic transmission (which can be paddle-shifted) and full-time all-wheel drive. While it lacks a dedicated low-range or differential lock, it does feature Honda’s Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4)—a mechanical torque-vectoring system that combines power distribution and braking to optimize traction.

      The towing capacity of 5,000 pounds is suitable for small watercraft, dirt bikes, small camper trailers, UTVs, or compact utility trailers, but generally not suitable for horses, larger boats, or other vehicles.

      The cockpit of the new Passport offers excellent visibility, comfortable seats, and a fairly conventional interface, making it a pleasant environment. I’d prefer analog gauges over a digital display, but Honda's current arrangement is straightforward and aesthetically pleasing. Features like a progressive elevation gauge and various gauge layouts add a touch of personalization. The infotainment screen is wide yet unobtrusive, providing ample information while maintaining visibility. Climate controls are conveniently arranged in a row of large buttons, making them easy to access without distraction.

      The camera displays of the Passport gain added utility from tire line overlays, showcasing features like the elevation gauge in the center cluster.

      Driving in urban settings is generally unremarkable yet acceptable. For those seeking an emotional connection or engaging steering, an older model might be preferable. Acceleration and braking felt adequate; during my time driving through Puerto Rican neighborhoods, I struggled to notice significant differences among the driving modes. The engine performs adequately in stop-and-go situations, without feeling overly truck-like, thanks to its relatively low ride height and well-engineered chassis.

      Noise, vibration, and harshness were surprisingly limited. Despite the TrailSport’s General Grabber all-terrain tires and its boxy shape, it effectively muffled road and wind noise with the windows closed. Honda has implemented active noise-canceling features that help diminish unwanted engine sounds, enhancing the overall experience. I didn’t even realize this until I reviewed the specifications after driving. The higher TrailSport Elite models also benefit from added sound insulation.

      With the windows down (the rear ones fully retract into the doors) and the large sunroof open, the Passport remains relatively quiet at around 45 mph. This is a notable advantage; many new cars suffer from excessive wind noise when driving with the windows down, and having a vehicle that reduces buffeting