Honda Passport TrailSport is receiving a host of major enhancements, featuring increased ride height, more pronounced fender flares, and charming amber running lights positioned above the grille. Honda is determined to take a chunk out of the Toyota 4Runner’s market share with this model—now it’s nearly as elevated as a standard Wrangler.
The new Passport TrailSport boasts 9.65 inches of ground clearance, while a base Wrangler measures 9.7 inches, which averages out. Also, automakers often measure their clearance specifications at different points—so we’ll need to wait until the initial test drive to pull out the tape measure and determine the actual dimensions. The key takeaway is: TrailSport is adopting a more truck-like appearance.
It’s amusing how Toyota maintained the “default middle-class aspirational adventure SUV” territory for ages with the ladder-frame V6 4Runner. Then it transitioned to turbo and hybrid powertrains, becoming markedly pricier while appearing less appealing. Honda jumped in with the new-for-2025 Passport and effectively created its version of the 4Runner, which, in my view, is an improvement.
The new 4Runner has an attractive design from certain angles, but the Passport offers greater comfort and superior driving dynamics. Although the sixth-generation 4Runner has a larger aftermarket presence and more extreme off-road capabilities, the Passport TrailSport can perform nearly all the same tasks, albeit at a more leisurely pace.
The 2027 Passport’s exterior design remains unchanged, but this facelift introduces a new lower front fascia along with the fenders I previously mentioned. The Blackout Package continues to be an option, giving you black wheels and bumpers. The updated running lights have become two rectangular fixtures located in the hood scoop area. I appreciate that Honda’s designers opted for this look instead of the three-dot arrangement you find on Ford Raptors. Currently, the Passport appears as aggressive as it can be without veering into absurdity. It might be edging into silly territory already.
Honda mentioned that “28 suspension and related chassis components have been reworked, redesigned, or are entirely new for the 2027 Passport TrailSport.” This includes springs, dampers, control arms, stabilizer bars, and knuckles. “The front driveshafts and front subframe were also reengineered to accommodate the increased ride height and wheel travel,” the company remarked. It appears the OEM tires remain the same General Grabber AT Sports in a size of 275/60R18 (approximately 31-inch diameter) carried over from the previous TrailSport.
According to the company, these modifications lead to a 1.38-inch boost in ground clearance (that’s quite substantial), elevating the clearance figure to 9.65 inches. As I noted before, a base Jeep Wrangler has 9.7 (a Wrangler Rubicon features 10.8). Honda specifically identified the Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road, Subaru Outback Wilderness, and Ford Bronco Sport Badlands Sasquatch (Bronco Sport, not the larger Bronco) in its press release as rivals that currently offer less clearance than the Passport TrailSport.
Honda provided a table to illustrate how the new ride height has enhanced specifications compared to the outgoing model.
| Capability | 2027 Passport TrailSport | 2026 Passport TrailSport | Performance Increase |
| Ground Clearance | 9.65 inches | 8.27 inches | +1.38 inches |
| Approach Angle | 25 degrees | 23 degrees | +2 degrees |
| Departure Angle | 25 degrees | 23 degrees | +2 degrees |
| Breakover Angle | 23 degrees | 20 degrees | +3 degrees |
If you already own a Passport TrailSport, it seems plausible, albeit quite impractical, to transfer all those parts yourself. Essentially, it’s a matter of bolted components, rather than a fundamental redesign of the chassis.
Honda has also extended some features from the TrailSport Elite, including the heated steering wheel and TrailWatch 360-degree camera system, to the standard TrailSport model. There have been no announcements about the non-TrailSport 2027 Passport yet, but it’s likely it will remain part of the lineup.
The pricing for the 2027 Passport is yet to be announced. Currently, there are four versions of the Passport TrailSport available (regular, Blackout, Elite, and Elite Blackout … reminiscent of video game difficulty settings related to joining a fraternity). The base 2026 TrailSport starts around $50,000 with destination charges, while the fully equipped version reaches about $60,000.
Honda enhancing the TrailSport model while keeping the base Passport unchanged would be a smart strategy at this point. It could capitalize on the premium model’s appeal while attracting a larger customer base by maintaining a lower entry price.
I anticipate a notable price increase for this updated 2027 model; likely at least a few thousand more—but expect to find them at dealerships shortly. The current-generation Passport is produced in Alabama, alongside the Ridgeline pickup and Odyssey minivan.
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**2027 Honda Passport TrailSport Features Ground Clearance Comparable to Jeep Wrangler**
The 2027 Honda Passport TrailSport is poised to create a significant impact in the midsize SUV sector, especially amongst off-road fans. One of its key features is its remarkable ground clearance, comparable to that of the legendary Jeep Wrangler. This article explores the specifications and attributes that make the Passport TrailSport a strong competitor in the off-road arena.
**Ground Clearance and Off-Road Capability**
The 2027 Honda Passport TrailSport showcases a ground clearance of around 8.1 inches, placing it alongside the Jeep Wrangler, renowned for its tough off-road performance. This elevated position allows the Passport TrailSport to maneuver across difficult terrains, like rocky trails, deep ruts, and uneven ground, with ease. The increased ground clearance not only enhances approach and departure angles but also reduces the likelihood of underbody damage during off-road excursions.
**All-Terrain Features**
Alongside its impressive ground clearance, the Passport TrailSport is furnished with a range of all-terrain features aimed at boosting its off-road prowess. These consist of:
– **All-Wheel Drive System**: The Passport TrailSport is equipped with a cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system that maximizes traction on various surfaces, ensuring stability and control on wet pavements or loose gravel.
– **Terrain Management System**: This feature empowers drivers to choose distinct driving modes suited for specific environments, including mud, sand, or snow, thereby enhancing the vehicle’s flexibility to different conditions.
– **Skid Plates**: To safeguard crucial components from potential harm while navigating rough landscapes, the TrailSport is outfitted with sturdy skid plates designed to protect the undercarriage.
**Suspension and Handling**
The suspension setup of the 2027 Honda Passport TrailSport has been finely tuned for off-road ability. With upgraded shocks and springs, the vehicle delivers enhanced articulation and stability over uneven terrain. This configuration not only improves comfort during off-road excursions but also provides a smooth ride on highways and urban roads.
**Interior and Technology**
While the Passport TrailSport excels in its off-road expertise, it does not sacrifice comfort and technology. The interior is crafted with durability in mind, featuring water-resistant materials and surfaces that are easy to clean. The vehicle comes with the latest infotainment technology, including a touchscreen display, smartphone connectivity, and advanced safety features, ensuring connectivity and security for both drivers and passengers.
**Conclusion**
The 2027 Honda Passport TrailSport distinguishes itself in the midsize SUV marketplace with its ground clearance and off-road capabilities rivaling those of the Jeep Wrangler. With its combination of rugged features, state-of-the-art technology, and a comfortable interior, the Passport TrailSport is set to appeal to adventure enthusiasts in search of a versatile vehicle that can manage both daily drives and off-road adventures. As Honda continues to innovate, the Passport TrailSport exemplifies the brand’s dedication to delivering capable and dependable SUVs for a wide array of drivers.
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