New Honda Passport Wins GearJunkie Adventure Vehicle of the Year

The 2026 Honda Passport earned the GearJunkie Adventure Vehicle of the Year award because it fixes a long-standing buyer problem. Many adventure-focused SUVs force drivers to accept harsh ride quality, complex drivetrains, or poor daily usability. Honda rebuilt the Passport to deliver off-road capability, predictable on-road behavior, and long-term reliability in a single package.

This recognition reflects execution, not branding. GearJunkie tested the Passport across pavement, dirt, snow, and uneven trails. Editors praised how the vehicle remains composed at highway speeds while retaining traction and control when surfaces deteriorate. That balance defines why the Passport now ranks among the most credible two-row adventure SUVs on sale.

Image

Why the GearJunkie Award Influences Buying Decisions

GearJunkie evaluates vehicles under conditions that mirror real ownership. Editors assess traction systems, suspension compliance, visibility, and ease of use without relying on laboratory metrics alone. Vehicles that rely on image or extreme specs often struggle under this approach.

For buyers, this award reduces perceived downside risk. Independent testing confirms that the Passport performs as expected without requiring expert-level off-road skill. That reassurance directly impacts decision-making, as buyers avoid the regret associated with choosing a vehicle that later feels underprepared or uncomfortable.

A Ground-Up Redesign Focused on Real Terrain

Honda did not apply a cosmetic refresh. Engineers reworked the Passport’s architecture to support wider tracks, revised suspension geometry, and reinforced underbody protection. These changes increase stability on uneven terrain while improving straight-line confidence on highways.

Functional updates include:

• Shorter front and rear overhangs for better trail clearance
• Wider stance to reduce body roll and improve lateral grip
• Reinforced mounting points for skid plates and recovery hardware

Each change supports measurable performance rather than visual impact.

Image

TrailSport Defines the Passport’s Core Identity

The Honda Passport TrailSport represents the majority of sales, and buyer behavior explains why. This trim delivers tangible off-road equipment without pushing price or complexity into specialty territory.

TrailSport equipment includes:

• Off-road tuned suspension with increased rebound control
• Steel underbody skid plates protecting the engine and fuel system
• All-terrain tires engineered for gravel, snow, and packed dirt
• High-visibility steel recovery points rated for vehicle extraction
• Advanced i-VTM4 all-wheel drive torque distribution

Honda calibrated the AWD system to shift torque laterally and rearward before wheelspin begins. This proactive approach improves momentum on loose surfaces and reduces driver input during climbs.

TrailSport Elite Adds Confidence Through Visibility and Comfort

The TrailSport Elite trim builds on the same mechanical foundation while adding technology that supports decision-making in constrained environments. The TrailWatch camera system improves placement accuracy when cresting hills or navigating narrow trails.

Additional features include:

• Multi-angle exterior cameras for obstacle awareness
• Leather seating with reinforced bolstering
• Premium audio designed to maintain clarity at highway speeds

These additions increase confidence during solo travel and long-distance driving.

Powertrain Simplicity Supports Reliability and Control

Honda retained a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, a deliberate choice rooted in predictability and durability. Turbocharged engines introduce lag and heat under sustained load. The Passport avoids both issues.

Powertrain specifications:

• 285 horsepower V6
• 10-speed automatic transmission with decisive shift logic
• Standard all-wheel drive across the lineup

Throttle response remains linear at low speeds, which improves control during technical driving. The transmission holds gears under load, reducing unnecessary shifting on grades.

On-Road Comfort Remains a Priority

Adventure capability means little if daily driving suffers. Honda tuned the Passport to manage long commutes and highway travel without fatigue.

On pavement, drivers benefit from:

• Controlled body motion during lane changes
• Low cabin noise at cruising speeds
• Stable steering feedback with predictable weighting

This tuning allows owners to use the Passport as a primary vehicle rather than a weekend-only tool.

Interior Design Prioritizes Use Over Ornament

The Passport cabin favors durability and usability. Materials resist abrasion and moisture, while controls remain tactile and easy to locate without visual distraction.

Interior advantages include:

• Wide-opening rear liftgate for gear loading
• Flat-folding rear seats creating a continuous cargo floor
• Large center console storage for recovery gear and tools

The layout supports both daily errands and extended trips.