When Honda first introduced its TrailSport trim, it was clear that they wanted to enter the competitive world of off-road vehicles. But while the idea was good, the execution felt a little underwhelming. Sure, the TrailSport had a few upgrades like chunkier all-terrain tires, brightly painted recovery points, and some extra cladding around the fenders, but it didn’t quite scream “off-road beast.” Many enthusiasts saw it as more of an “off-road cosplay” rather than a true contender for serious terrain. You weren’t going to tackle Moab with a 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport.
However, fast forward to the 2026 Passport TrailSport, and things seem to be taking a serious turn. Honda’s latest updates suggest that this model might actually live up to its rugged reputation. So, is the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport finally ready to join the ranks of real off-roaders? Let’s dive in.
A New Look and More Power
Honda has been slowly releasing sneak peeks of the 2026 Passport TrailSport, and from what we’ve seen so far, it’s looking promising.
One of the most noticeable changes is the fresh new design. Honda teased a new look a few months back, featuring amber daytime running lights, which will give the vehicle a distinctive look out on the trail. There’s also a hood scoop that should help the engine breathe better during those demanding off-road adventures.
Speaking of the engine, this is where things get really exciting. The 2026 Passport TrailSport will feature an updated 3.5-liter V6 engine. It’s an upgrade from the previous version, which already delivered 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
With this new model, we could potentially see the Passport pushing out 300 horsepower or more. But it’s not just about the raw horsepower – increasing the torque would make a world of difference when tackling challenging off-road conditions. Higher torque means easier trail runs, especially in tougher environments like sand or steep inclines.
Transmission and AWD: A New Level of Capability
In addition to the engine upgrades, Honda is also moving from a 9-speed transmission to a 10-speed for the 2026 Passport TrailSport. While some may argue that eight gears are the magic number in today’s transmissions, this new 10-speed setup should still offer improved efficiency and smoother shifts. And don’t worry – it’s not a CVT, so you can breathe easy on that front.
Another major upgrade comes in the form of Honda’s all-wheel-drive system. The 2026 TrailSport will be equipped with the second generation of Honda’s i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system, which is designed to move torque from front to rear and even from side to side on the rear axle.
What’s impressive here is that up to 70% of the available torque can be sent to the rear axle, and of that, 100% can be sent to the left or right as needed. This flexibility will be a game-changer for off-road driving.
The system is also paired with various drive modes that will adjust the vehicle’s torque split, throttle response, and gear shift points depending on the terrain. Whether you’re driving on soft sand, muddy trails, or rocky inclines, the TrailSport’s advanced traction control system will ensure you get just the right amount of wheel slip to keep moving forward.
Plus, for improved on-road performance, it can slightly overdrive the rear axle compared to the front, helping with better cornering and handling.
Tested and Proven on the Trail
Honda isn’t just making bold claims about the 2026 Passport TrailSport’s off-road capabilities – they’ve been putting it to the test. The updated TrailSport has been spotted on various terrains, including forest trails, sand dunes, and even the rugged landscapes of Moab.
This is significant because Moab is often seen as one of the ultimate proving grounds for off-road vehicles. If Honda is testing the TrailSport there, it’s a good sign that they’re serious about making this a capable off-roader.
But there’s still more we need to know. For example, how much ground clearance will the new TrailSport have? What kind of underbody protection will it offer for rocky trails? And, of course, what will the final power figures look like? These are questions that off-road enthusiasts are eagerly waiting to have answered.
Honda’s Commitment to TrailSport
It’s been interesting to watch Honda evolve its TrailSport brand. Initially, it seemed like more of a cosmetic upgrade rather than a true off-road package. But with the 2026 Passport TrailSport, Honda appears to be leveling up in a big way.
The improvements in power, drivetrain, and off-road capability suggest that the TrailSport name is becoming more than just a marketing label – it’s becoming a legitimate off-road contender.
As Honda continues to push the boundaries with the Passport TrailSport, we can expect to see these upgrades trickle down to other models in the TrailSport lineup. The 2026 Passport TrailSport could be just the beginning of a new era for Honda’s off-road vehicles.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport looks like it might be the real deal. With its new engine, improved transmission, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and proven testing on challenging terrains, this model could finally fulfill the off-road promise that enthusiasts have been waiting for. If you’ve been holding out for a Honda SUV that can truly tackle the trails, the 2026 Passport TrailSport might just be worth the wait.
Stay tuned as more details are revealed, and keep an eye on Honda’s growing TrailSport lineup. If this is any indication of what’s to come, we’re in for some exciting times in the world of off-road SUVs.
