It’s been a while since the last installment of our Honda Passport TrailSport long-term series. But, considering it has been the dead of winter around the Midwest, and I already covered winter driving earlier this year, it’s been, well, basically the same since then. Fortunately, it’s now early April, and we’ve enjoyed a few days of nice weather recently—even hitting the 70s during an unexpected warm weekend. So, I did what any reasonable person would do: I went off-roading.
With ample sunshine and pleasant temperatures on our side, I loaded up both kids and all the essential gear (tow strap, air gauge, flag, gloves, tools, etc.) and made my way to the off-road park. Despite having the Passport for almost seven months at that stage, I hadn’t gone off-roading until now. I had saved that for the end of my experience in case anything went wrong. And since I wasn’t present for the initial media drive of this vehicle—that honor went to Andrew Collins—this was also my very first time taking the new Passport off-road. I had off-roaded in the older generation, but not this one. I was really looking forward to it, given my previous experience with the surprisingly capable Pilot TrailSport.
If you’d like to catch up on prior editions before diving into the latest update, here are the shortcuts:
The Basics
In case you aren’t very familiar with the Passport’s specifications, here are the key details: the 3.5-liter V6 generates 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque and is coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Honda’s second-gen Intelligent Variable Torque Management four-wheel-drive system distributes power to all four wheels, while Trail Torque Logic equipped with Snow, Trail, and Sand modes adjusts power, torque, and slip parameters based on trail conditions.
The TrailSport variant delivers 8.3 inches of ground clearance, underbody shielding, and rugged 31-inch General Grabber all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels. Approach and departure angles measure 23° and 23.1°, respectively. It features a front MacPherson strut configuration and a multi-link setup at the rear with tuning specific to the trim. Additional features include Hill-Start Assist and Hill-Descent Control, along with surround-view cameras (including a front-facing camera) for assistance both on and off the trail.
Off-Roading
TrailSport is a significant enhancement that goes beyond mere aesthetics. No, it doesn’t convert a Honda SUV into a Wrangler or a Defender, and yes, it serves as a major selling point for Honda to attract “adventure enthusiasts,” but to claim it’s entirely surface-level would be misleading. Even if the hardware upgrades may not seem overly aggressive (although the suspension and tire modifications alone significantly contribute to its performance), it’s the tuning and synchronization that substantially enhance the Passport’s off-road capabilities.
Having frequented this off-road park in Northwest Indiana for over a decade, I’m quite familiar with the trails, having driven numerous vehicles there over the years. Given that the ground was quite dry and there were few patches of snow or mud, I opted for the same trail I had previously navigated with a Lexus GX550 and a Defender 90. A bit ambitious, but there are plenty of easier paths to switch to along the way if needed.
The first aspect that impressed me was the suspension’s adaptability. As I’ve noted in my reviews, the suspension can feel somewhat soft and bouncy on the road, particularly when speeding through town, but on cratered, uneven trails, the Passport felt entirely in its element. Wheel articulation at low and moderate speeds was impressive, and the General Grabbers handled well during climbs and descents. I primarily used the Trail driving mode, which allowed for ample wheel slip on loose dirt surfaces, while maintaining smooth throttle response on inclines.
After climbing up a rocky creek bed with approximately a foot of water, I positioned myself for a steep and challenging ascent featuring a large boulder jutting out to the left near the apex, while some gnarled tree roots protruded from the right side. Having tackled this before, the key is to keep the vehicle as far left as possible, close to the dirt wall, but not to the extent that it slides to the right from excessive sideways lean. If that occurs, you’ll need two replacement doors from the car resting against the roots and rocks. To navigate this with minimal risk and anxiety, you have to maintain a steady pace despite the steep incline and the need to steer. If you want to increase the excitement, you can creep up slowly and truly experience how the suspension, tires, and terrain software perform. You can also hear the loose dirt being crunched beneath the tires. It’s an exhilarating sensation.
I ascended quite cautiously, even opting to pause at the most crucial juncture, largely because the Passport felt so stable. My assistant (a.k.a my son) snapped some photos, but keep in mind, none of these challenges appear as daunting in pictures as they do in reality. I can assure you, this was no minor test.
Pleased with its performance, I continued on the same trail, plunging into some genuinely deep ruts that scrutinized the Passport’s ground clearance. The 8.3 inches of ground clearance felt adequate, and one doesn’t always desire more than that in a daily street-driven vehicle. It actually aligns with a Jeep Grand Cherokee and is 0.5 inches greater than a Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend. A Defender with standard suspension offers 9 inches. However, when venturing onto trails primarily frequented by vehicles boasting 11+ inches of clearance, you will experience some scraping and dragging the undercarriage. I had confidence in the Passport’s underbody protection, and even after a few significant thumps, I never lost traction, got stuck, or caused any damage.
After a few medium-speed passes through the sand, I made my way toward the quarry section of the park, known for its highly technical trails, predominantly comprised of rock. I anticipated this would be a challenge for the Passport due to its height, but proceeded anyway.
Next, I found myself with the front left and rear right wheels raised, with the SUV precariously balanced on a rock outcrop. It felt unsettling from inside, but the Passport never seemed to be pushed to its limits. The brakes consistently clamped the tires intermittently while I gradually maneuvered my way back to level ground. In fact, that was the main takeaway of the day: despite facing challenges that no typical owner would usually encounter, it maintained its composure. It retained that signature cool demeanor characteristic of Honda.
The next challenge put the SUV’s approach and departure angles to the test. Although I had to retreat from a more aggressive angle because I didn’t want to risk damaging the front bumper, this alternative would likely drag the rear. I found myself once again in an awkward driving position, my body pressed against the door from the rock incline. With my son guiding me, I inched forward while attempting to find the best line on the rocks. Suddenly, the midsection of the vehicle clipped the ground, but I had enough momentum to keep moving forward. Then, the trailer hitch began to drag, yet I persevered until I was able to fully emerge from the hole. Phew.
Throughout this experience, we enjoyed music, had the seat warmers on, and benefited from a clear view of the trail courtesy of the numerous cameras. It might not rival the sophisticated Defender I off-roaded for days in Saudi Arabia earlier this year, but it became clear that this mainstream SUV could truly excel off-road. I was not surprised. Not even a little bit.
Verdict
Nobody, and I mean absolutely no one, will subject their Passport, purchased with their hard-earned money, to the types of situations I did. Not because people lack a sense of adventure, but because 99.9% of these will serve as daily drivers, and those who seek a trail-capable vehicle will opt for something different. Still, it’s reassuring to understand how capable it is with absolutely no modifications.
After 12,000 miles on the road, those 10 or so off-road miles enhanced my appreciation for the long-term Passport even more. It’s a remarkably versatile and competent SUV that never fails to impress. If there was one drawback that day, it was the fact that I couldn’t entirely silence the parking sensor warning sound, though I could mute them once they activated.
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### 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Long-Term Off-Road Performance Review
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport has drawn attention for its rugged performance and off-road capabilities. Crafted for adventure lovers, this midsize SUV merges Honda’s reliability with premium enhancements suited for off-road driving. This long-term evaluation examines the Passport TrailSport’s abilities across various terrains, its durability, and overall user satisfaction.
#### Engine and Performance
The 2026 Passport TrailSport is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that offers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain delivers smooth acceleration and agile handling. The all-wheel-drive system, incorporating Honda’s Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4), boosts traction on slippery surfaces and uneven landscapes.
Throughout the extended testing period, the Passport TrailSport showcased noteworthy off-road capabilities. Its 8.1 inches of ground clearance and approach and departure angles of 21.4 and 24.4 degrees, respectively, allow it to tackle obstacles with confidence. The vehicle’s off-road driving modes, such as Sand, Mud, and Snow, enhance its performance based on the terrain, offering a secure driving experience.
#### Suspension and Handling
The TrailSport edition features a specially tuned suspension system that harmonizes comfort and capability. The front strut and rear multi-link suspension provide stability over rugged terrain while effectively absorbing impacts. Long-term users have noted that the Passport TrailSport handles rocky trails and deep ruts without sacrificing ride quality.
Moreover, the vehicle’s wider track and all-terrain tires improve grip and stability, rendering it suitable for varying off-road environments. Feedback from long-term drivers suggests that the Passport remains steady during demanding maneuvers, fostering confidence in its handling.
#### Interior and Comfort
Inside, the 2026 Passport TrailSport boasts a roomy and practical cabin, designed for both comfort and functionality. High-quality materials and an intuitive layout contribute to a pleasurable driving experience. The seats offer substantial support, ensuring comfort on lengthy trips, whether on or off conventional roads.
The generous cargo space is another notable feature, offering up to 77.9 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate this versatility, as it provides ample storage for gear and equipment. The use of weather-resistant materials further enhances the interior’s durability, making it ideal for muddy or sandy adventures.
#### Technology and Safety Features
The Passport TrailSport comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced technology and safety features. The infotainment system boasts an 8-inch touchscreen, alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, ensuring connectivity while on the move. Long-term users have lauded the user-friendly interface and responsive operation of the system.
Safety features such as Honda Sensing—including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking—offer peace of mind during off-road trips. The strong safety ratings further solidify the Passport’s standing as a trustworthy family vehicle.
#### Fuel Efficiency
While off-road capability is a priority, fuel efficiency remains an important consideration for long-term owners. The Passport TrailSport achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Though not the most fuel-efficient in its category, the balance of power and economy is largely seen as acceptable given its capabilities.
#### Conclusion
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport is recognized as a reliable and adept off-road SUV. Its powerful engine, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and well-calibrated suspension establish it as a formidable competitor in the off-road arena. Long-term users value its spacious interior, advanced technology, and safety features, making it a flexible choice for both daily commutes and adventurous outings.
In summary, the Passport TrailSport is an admirable option for those in search of a midsize SUV that excels in off-road performance while retaining Honda’s renowned reliability and comfort.
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