The Japanese brand’s SUV was highlighted for its more robust design, its spacious interior, its V6 engine and a proposition combining off-road capabilities and everyday comfort.
The new Honda Passport 2026 was selected as one of the “ Best New Cars of 2026 ” by the trade publication Autotrader, which recommended both the standard version of the SUV and the Passport TrailSport configuration. This distinction confirms the good dynamics of the model, which is gaining ground in the two-row SUV segment in the United States.
According to Autotrader’s evaluation, the Passport stood out in a very competitive market thanks to a more square and robust design, while offering a functional, spacious interior suitable for everyday use, without giving up a more adventurous spirit.
Editor Allyson Harwood particularly praised the balance between style and practicality. According to her, the interior of the model stands out for its elegance, comfort and modularity, while being perfectly suited to everyday life. Editor-in-Chief Matt Degen, for his part, highlighted the new Passport’s more muscular appearance, user-friendly drive, presence of safety technologies and retention of the V6 engine, a package that also makes it ideal for travel and outdoor activities.
The fourth generation of the Honda Passport has shown strong sales performance since its launch. According to Honda, the model achieved monthly sales records and had its best year in 2025, with growth of almost 70%. The TrailSport version accounted for around 80% of the sales mix, reflecting strong demand for more adventurous SUVs.
Produced in the United States with locally and internationally sourced components, the 2026 Honda Passport is offered in three main versions: RTL, TrailSport and the new TrailSport Elite. All are equipped as standard with a V6 engine and the i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring, one of the technical highlights of the model.
Honda also claims that the new Passport TrailSport is the most capable off-road SUV the brand has ever produced. This version receives an off-road optimized suspension, an upgraded all-wheel drive system, steel skid plates, orange reinforced recovery points and specially developed all-terrain tires.
At the top of the range, the TrailSport Elite version adds finishing and comfort equipment, such as the TrailWatch camera system, perforated leather seats and a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, to combine off-road capability and refinement.
To compile the list of the best new cars of 2026, Autotrader’s editorial team said it tested and evaluated hundreds of new or restyled models, selecting those offering the most innovation and value for consumers.
Source and images: Autotrader | Honda. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
