A daily-driving review of the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport shows it’s a compelling SUV that blends comfort, capability, and personality—but it's not without its trade-offs.
The 2026 TrailSport is an offer-ready daily driver that confidently handles hustle-and-bustle commutes and can attack weekend trails—not as rugged as a body-on-frame SUV, but markedly more capable than most crossovers.
If you want:
…then the new Passport TrailSport is a perfect daily SUV.
But if your top priority is nimble cornering on twisty roads or tall drivers seeking high seating feel, consider test-driving to ensure the ride aligns with your taste—local chatter points to a slightly firmer, heavier feel in the 2026 model
Let me know if you'd like comparisons with similar SUVs (Outback, 4Runner, Bronco Sport), seating/driver fit evaluations, pricing breakdowns, or feature deep dives!
Daily Driving & Comfort
- Ride quality is refined and comfortable: Daily commutes are cushioned thanks to improved rear torsion rigidity, quieter cabin, and suspension tuned for everyday use
- Accommodating interior: Spacious cabin with 1.3″ more rear legroom than before and functional storage areas .
- Ergonomics mixed: Most drivers find seats excellent—heated, adjustable, comfortable—but some suction toward quirky layouts (push-button shifter, center console debris trap, taller steering wheel) .
Performance & Fuel Economy
- 3.5L V6 + 10-speed auto + enhanced AWD: 285 hp/262 lb-ft, with torque-vectoring i‑VTM4 system sending up to 70% rear torque, 100% to one wheel
- Fuel economy: Expect a modest 20 mpg combined (18 city, 23 highway) due to heavier all‑terrain tires
Off-road & Trail Capability
- TrailSport hardware: 18″ wheels w/ 31″ General Grabber ATs, steel skid plates, tow/recovery hooks front and rear, TrailWatch cameras + Hill Descent Control & drive modes
- Capable on moderate trails: Impressive rock handling and traction in field testing and Moab trails .
- TrailWatch clarity: Cameras provide precise wheel placement in tight spots, with driver confidence in muddy/slick terrain .
Pros & Cons Summary
 Pros |  Cons |
|---|---|
| Smooth ride, refined interior | Heavier feel in corners |
| Strong V6 performance off the line | Styling is polarizing; steering wheel/pedal feel unconventional |
| Excellent off-road capability for an unibody SUV | Ground clearance (~8.3″) limits serious trails |
| Tech-rich cabin: Google‑built UI, robust infotainment | Jury’s still out on long-term reliability of newer tech |
Daily Driver Verdict
The 2026 TrailSport is an offer-ready daily driver that confidently handles hustle-and-bustle commutes and can attack weekend trails—not as rugged as a body-on-frame SUV, but markedly more capable than most crossovers.
If you want:
- A smooth, quiet ride with good tech and comfort,
- Occasional off-road ability without sacrificing on-road manners,
…then the new Passport TrailSport is a perfect daily SUV.
But if your top priority is nimble cornering on twisty roads or tall drivers seeking high seating feel, consider test-driving to ensure the ride aligns with your taste—local chatter points to a slightly firmer, heavier feel in the 2026 model
Let me know if you'd like comparisons with similar SUVs (Outback, 4Runner, Bronco Sport), seating/driver fit evaluations, pricing breakdowns, or feature deep dives!