The Japanese brand’s SUV was highlighted for its more rugged design, spacious cabin, V6 engine, and a concept that combines off-road capability with everyday comfort.
The new Honda Passport 2026 has been selected as one of the “Best New Cars of 2026” by the specialized publication Autotrader, which recommended both the standard version of the SUV and the Passport TrailSport configuration. The recognition reinforces the strong momentum of the model, which has been gaining ground in the two-row SUV segment in the United States.
According to Autotrader’s evaluation, the Passport stood out in a highly competitive market by adopting a more squared and rugged design, while also offering a functional, spacious interior tailored for daily use without sacrificing a more adventurous character.
Senior editor Allyson Harwood especially praised the balance between style and practicality. She noted that the interior stands out for being elegant, comfortable, and easy to reconfigure, while also being well-suited for everyday life. Senior editor Matt Degen highlighted the new Passport’s more muscular stance, user-friendly driving dynamics, the presence of safety technologies, and the retention of the V6 engine—features that, according to him, also make it well-suited for travel and outdoor use.
The fourth generation of the Honda Passport has been posting strong commercial performance since its launch. According to Honda, the model has reached monthly sales records and achieved its best year in 2025, with nearly 70% growth. The TrailSport version accounted for about 80% of the sales mix, indicating strong demand for more adventure-oriented SUVs.
Produced in the United States with both local and global components, the 2026 Honda Passport is offered in three main trims: RTL, TrailSport, and the new TrailSport Elite. All versions come standard with a V6 engine and the i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring, one of the model’s key technical highlights.
Honda also states that the new Passport TrailSport is the most off-road-capable SUV the brand has ever produced. This version features off-road-tuned suspension, an enhanced all-wheel-drive system, steel skid plates, reinforced orange recovery points, and all-terrain tires specifically developed for the vehicle’s purpose.
At the top of the lineup, the TrailSport Elite adds premium comfort and finish features, such as the TrailWatch camera system, perforated leather seats, and a Bose premium audio system with 12 speakers, aiming to combine off-road capability with a more refined package.
For the selection of the best new cars of 2026, Autotrader’s editorial team stated that it tested and evaluated hundreds of new or redesigned models, choosing those that deliver the highest levels of innovation and value to consumers.
Source and images: Autotrader | Honda. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
