2026 Honda Passport Performance Explained at Jeremy Hodge Honda of Ardmore

The redesigned Honda Passport arrives for the 2026 model year with a stronger focus on capability, power, and all-terrain confidence. This 2026 Honda Passport is one of the most compelling options in the midsize SUV category. The team at Jeremy Hodge Honda of Ardmore is breaking down the engine, powertrain, and drivetrain, trail capability, towing, fuel economy, and off-road equipment of the 2026 Passport so buyers in Ardmore can see how it fits their lifestyle.

If you’re searching for a capable SUV that blends rugged ability with everyday comfort, the latest Passport deserves attention.

The Role of the Passport in the Honda Lineup

Within the modern Honda lineup, the Passport fills an important space between compact crossovers and larger family SUVs. It’s designed for drivers who want a vehicle that feels more adventurous than a Honda CR-V or Honda HR-V but doesn’t require the larger footprint of a Honda Pilot.

Here’s how it fits among other Honda vehicles:

• Honda HR-V: Subcompact crossover focused on efficiency
• Honda CR-V: Compact SUV known for practicality
• Honda Passport: Rugged two-row midsize SUV built for adventure
• Honda Pilot: Three-row family SUV with more seating
• Honda Prologue: All-electric SUV
• Honda Ridgeline: Adventure-ready pickup

Sedans like the Honda Civic and Honda Accord remain excellent daily drivers, but the Passport is the go-to choice for drivers who want more trail capability, cargo flexibility, and towing strength.

New for 2026: A More Adventure-Ready Passport

The Passport enters the new model year with a design philosophy centered on rugged capability. Honda engineers focused on improving both off-road durability and everyday driving comfort.

Key highlights new for 2026 include:

• Expanded Passport TrailSport lineup
• Updated off-road tuned suspension
• Advanced drive modes, including tow mode and trail mode
• Improved road equipment for rough terrain
• Updated technology and advanced driver assistance systems

The result is an SUV that performs confidently on both pavement and remote trails.

Engine and Powertrain Performance

At the core of the Passport’s performance is a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. This proven engine continues to power the Passport lineup with smooth acceleration and strong towing ability.

Key engine specifications include:

• Horsepower: 285 horsepower
• Torque: 262 lb-ft
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: i-VTM4® all-wheel drive

This liter V6 engine provides strong low-end torque and smooth power delivery, making it ideal for everything from highway passing to off-road climbing.

The Passport’s powertrain also includes advanced engine technologies such as:

• Direct fuel injection
• Variable valve timing
• Variable Cylinder Management
• Idle-stop technology

Together, these systems help balance fuel efficiency with performance. The Passport achieves up to an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, depending on configuration.

Intelligent AWD and Drivetrain Capability

A big part of the Passport’s road capability comes from its advanced AWD system.

The second-generation i-VTM4 all-wheel drive drivetrain actively distributes torque between the front and rear wheels. It can even send power side-to-side between rear wheels for improved traction.

Benefits of this system include:

• Better grip on loose terrain
• Improved handling on wet pavement
• Increased stability while towing
• Confident driving in snow and mud

Drive Modes for Any Terrain

The Passport’s intelligent drive mode selector helps drivers adapt to changing road conditions.

Available drive modes include:

• Normal Mode: balanced everyday performance
• Econ Mode: improved fuel efficiency
• Sport Mode: quicker throttle response
• Snow Mode: better winter traction
• Tow Mode: optimized towing control
• Trail Mode: improved off-road traction
• Sand Mode: better performance on loose surfaces

These drive modes enhance road readiness, making the Passport a versatile SUV for Oklahoma’s diverse landscapes.

Passport TrailSport: Built for the Trail

The Honda Passport TrailSport trim is where the Passport’s off-road personality shines.

The Passport TrailSport adds features specifically designed for outdoor adventure, including:

• All-terrain tires
• Off-road tuned suspension
• Skid plates for underbody protection
• High-visibility recovery hooks
• Trail-focused drive modes

These upgrades give the Passport stronger trail capability than many traditional crossover SUVs.

Compared to rivals like the Chevy Blazer or Hyundai Santa Fe, the Passport TrailSport leans further toward adventure readiness.

Suspension, Steering, and Handling

Performance isn’t just about engine power. Suspension tuning and steering feel also shape how a vehicle drives.

The Passport features:

• MacPherson strut front suspension
• Multi-link rear suspension
• Electric power-assisted steering
• Agile Handling Assist

Together, these systems create a driving experience that feels controlled on winding roads yet comfortable on long highway trips.

Even on uneven surfaces, the SUV maintains excellent stability.

Towing Capability and Utility

A major advantage of the Passport over many crossover SUVs is its towing strength.

The Passport can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

This makes it capable of hauling:

• Small campers
• Utility trailers
• Boats
• Outdoor gear

The SUV also includes a Class III trailer hitch and trailer stability assist to help maintain control while towing.

For weekend adventures around Oklahoma lakes or state parks, this capability is a huge advantage.

Passport vs Popular SUV Competitors

Buyers often compare the Passport with other adventure-focused SUVs.

• Toyota 4Runner: The Toyota 4Runner is known for serious off-road strength, but it uses older body-on-frame construction. The Passport offers smoother daily driving while still providing impressive trail ability.
• Chevy Blazer: The Chevy Blazer emphasizes sporty styling. The Passport prioritizes real trail capability and towing strength.
• Hyundai Santa Fe: The Hyundai Santa Fe is comfortable but less focused on rugged terrain. The Passport TrailSport adds more off-road equipment.
• Jeep Wrangler: The Jeep Wrangler is unmatched for hardcore rock crawling, but it sacrifices on-road comfort. The Passport offers a better balance of trail ability and everyday usability.

Why the Passport Stands Out

The Passport succeeds because it balances multiple strengths.

Drivers get:

• Powerful V6 engine performance
• Advanced AWD drivetrain
• Real trail capability
• Excellent cargo space
• Strong towing ability
• Modern safety features

Few Honda SUVs combine all of these elements in one package.

Find the 2026 Honda Passport at Jeremy Hodge Honda of Ardmore

The 2026 Honda Passport is built for drivers who want adventure without sacrificing everyday comfort. With strong V6 power, intelligent AWD capability, and off-road-ready TrailSport models, it stands out in the midsize SUV class.

If you’re ready to experience the performance and capability of the new Passport, visit Jeremy Hodge Honda of Ardmore in Ardmore, OK. Our team can help you search vehicles, explore the available Honda Passport trim levels, and schedule a test drive today.

Stop by our dealership or browse our inventory online to find the Passport model that fits your next adventure.

*Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.

* All fuel economy mpg listings in the content above are EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary.