Introduction
The 2026 Honda Passport redesign marks a significant milestone in the automotive industry, as it represents a major update to one of Honda’s most popular and versatile SUVs. The Passport has consistently ranked among the top-selling midsize SUVs in the United States, and its redesign is expected to further enhance its appeal to consumers.
The current Honda Passport is known for its rugged exterior, spacious interior, and capable off-road performance. It competes with other popular midsize SUVs such as the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Blazer. The 2026 redesign is expected to build upon the Passport’s strengths while also introducing several new features and improvements.
Exterior Design
The 2026 Honda Passport will feature a redesigned exterior that is both more aggressive and aerodynamic than the current model. The front end will be dominated by a new grille that is flanked by sleek LED headlights. The side profile will be more muscular, with pronounced wheel arches and a sloping roofline. The rear end will feature new taillights and a more aggressive bumper.
Interior Design
The interior of the 2026 Honda Passport will be completely redesigned, with a focus on comfort, convenience, and technology. The dashboard will be redesigned with a new infotainment system that is larger and more user-friendly than the current model. The seats will be more supportive and comfortable, and there will be more storage space throughout the cabin.
Powertrain
The 2026 Honda Passport will be powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine will be paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. The Passport will also be available with a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. The hybrid powertrain will produce a combined 240 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque.
Safety
The 2026 Honda Passport will come standard with a variety of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Passport will also be available with a blind spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.
Release Date and Pricing
The 2026 Honda Passport is expected to go on sale in late 2025. Pricing has not yet been announced, but it is expected to be similar to the current model, which starts at around $33,000.
Interior Design
The 2026 Honda Passport receives a complete interior redesign, featuring premium materials, advanced technologies, and enhanced comfort. The cabin is spacious and versatile, with seating configurations and storage options designed to meet the needs of active families.
The dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system, flanked by physical controls for essential functions. The instrument cluster is fully digital, providing a customizable display of vehicle information. The center console features a wireless charging pad, multiple USB ports, and ample storage space.
Materials and Colors
The 2026 Passport’s interior boasts high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces, genuine leather upholstery, and wood trim. The color palette is refreshed with new options, including a rich burgundy and a light gray that creates a modern and sophisticated ambiance.
Seating and Storage
The Passport offers comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The front seats are power-adjustable and heated, with available ventilation. The second row provides ample legroom and headroom, and the seats can be folded down to expand cargo space. Storage options are abundant throughout the cabin, including door pockets, cupholders, and a large center console bin.
Infotainment and Technology
The 2026 Passport’s infotainment system is powered by Honda’s latest software, providing seamless connectivity and entertainment features. The touchscreen is intuitive to use and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system also includes a premium audio system, navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Performance and Handling
The 2026 Honda Passport offers two engine options. The base engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The available engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 272 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission.
Both engines offer improved fuel efficiency over the previous-generation Passport. The V6 engine gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The Passport also features a new torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system that improves handling and stability. The system can send up to 70% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels, and it can also apply brake pressure to the inside rear wheel when cornering, which helps to reduce understeer.
In addition to the new torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, the Passport also features a new independent rear suspension that improves ride quality and handling. The suspension is designed to reduce body roll and improve stability, especially when driving on rough roads.
Off-Road Capabilities
The 2026 Honda Passport is also more capable off-road than the previous-generation model. The new Passport features a new Trail Mode that optimizes the vehicle’s settings for off-road driving. Trail Mode adjusts the throttle response, transmission shift points, and all-wheel-drive system to provide the best possible traction and control in off-road conditions.
The Passport also features a new hill descent control system that helps to maintain a safe speed when driving down steep hills. The system uses the vehicle’s brakes to control the speed of the vehicle, and it can also be used to hold the vehicle in place on a steep incline.
Technology and Safety Features
The 2026 Honda Passport offers a suite of cutting-edge technology and safety features that elevate the driving experience and protect occupants. These features enhance convenience, connectivity, and peace of mind behind the wheel.
Advanced safety systems like Honda Sensing 360° provide a comprehensive array of driver-assist technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert further enhance situational awareness, reducing the risk of collisions.
Connectivity and Infotainment
The Passport’s infotainment system seamlessly integrates with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The large touchscreen display offers intuitive navigation, music streaming, and voice control, keeping drivers connected and entertained while on the go. The premium audio system delivers immersive sound, ensuring an enjoyable listening experience for all passengers.
Driver-Assist Systems
Honda Sensing 360° employs a combination of sensors and cameras to provide comprehensive driver assistance. Adaptive cruise control maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, while lane-keeping assist gently guides the Passport within its lane. Automatic emergency braking detects imminent collisions and applies brakes to mitigate or prevent impact.
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Honda Passport is expected to carry a starting price in the mid-$30,000 range. This represents a slight increase over the current model, which starts at $32,090. However, the new Passport is expected to offer more standard features and a more powerful engine, so the price increase is likely justified.
The 2026 Honda Passport is expected to go on sale in the fall of 2025. It will be available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The Passport will compete with other midsize SUVs such as the Toyota Highlander, the Ford Edge, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Target Audience and Competition
The 2026 Honda Passport targets adventure-seeking families and individuals who value versatility, capability, and a touch of luxury. It competes in the mid-size SUV segment, where rivals include the Toyota Highlander, Chevrolet Blazer, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The Passport stands out with its rugged design, spacious interior, and advanced technology features. Its off-road capabilities, with available all-wheel drive and terrain management system, make it suitable for exploring trails and tackling various terrains. Additionally, its premium cabin, with upscale materials and comfortable seating, ensures a refined driving experience.
Key Competitors
- Toyota Highlander: A well-rounded SUV with a spacious interior, hybrid powertrain option, and a reputation for reliability.
- Chevrolet Blazer: A stylish SUV with a sporty design, powerful engine options, and a comfortable interior.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: A legendary SUV with excellent off-road capabilities, a luxurious interior, and a range of powerful engine options.
Despite the strong competition, the Passport’s combination of ruggedness, versatility, and premium features positions it as a compelling choice for buyers seeking an adventure-ready SUV without sacrificing comfort or refinement.
FAQ Section
When is the expected release date of the 2026 Honda Passport?
Honda has not yet announced an official release date for the 2026 Passport, but it is anticipated to arrive in dealerships sometime in the second half of 2025.
What are the key competitors to the 2026 Honda Passport?
The 2026 Honda Passport will face competition from established rivals such as the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder, and Kia Telluride. It will also compete with newer entrants like the Hyundai Palisade and Volkswagen Atlas.
What is the estimated price range for the 2026 Honda Passport?
Honda has not yet released official pricing information for the 2026 Passport, but it is expected to be priced competitively within the mid-size SUV segment. The current model starts at around $35,000, so the redesigned Passport is likely to fall within a similar range.
What new features can we expect in the 2026 Honda Passport?
The 2026 Honda Passport is expected to feature a host of new features, including an updated infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, and a suite of advanced driver-assist technologies. It may also offer a hybrid powertrain option for improved fuel efficiency.