All-new Honda Passport undergoing intense off-road testing across US

HONDA's all-new 2026 Passport TrailSport has been spotted in action as engineers push the rugged SUV to its limits on some of the toughest trails across the United States. With an upgraded powertrain and advanced off-road capabilities, the Passport TrailSport is being put through a series of grueling tests from the rocky terrain of Moab, Utah, to the sandy dunes of western Michigan and the challenging mud trails of Appalachia. These tests are part of Honda's intensive validation process to ensure the vehicle is ready to handle the most extreme conditions.

The 2026 Passport TrailSport, which Honda touts as the most adventure-ready and capable model in its SUV lineup, features a powerful new 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine. This engine is paired with a robust 10-speed automatic transmission designed for smooth and responsive shifting, even in demanding environments. The SUV is also equipped with Honda's i-VTM4 torque vectoring all-wheel drive system as standard feature, providing best-in-class handling by actively distributing torque between the front and rear wheels, as well as independently to each rear wheel for superior traction.

Built with adventure in mind, the Passport TrailSport offers enhanced ground clearance and reinforced skid plates for improved durability on rough terrain. To maximize control and stability, it also boasts an advanced suspension system, allowing it to handle rocky trails, steep inclines, and uneven surfaces with ease. This model also includes Honda's Intelligent Traction Management system, which allows drivers to select between different terrain modes — including Snow, Mud, and Sand — at the push of a button, optimizing performance for various off-road conditions.
Honda's engineers have also put significant effort into ensuring the TrailSport's exterior design reflects its rugged capabilities. The Passport TrailSport sports a bold new look with a more aggressive front grille, wider fender flares, and durable all-terrain tires. In addition, the SUV features upgraded LED lighting for better visibility on the trails, as well as blacked-out trim elements and exclusive TrailSport badging that set it apart from other models in the lineup.

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