Honda’s Most Off-Road-Ready SUV Is About to Get Even More Capable

From its added body protection and chunkier tires to its all-wheel-drive setup and trick TrailWatch tech, the Passport TrailSport brings a lot to the table (even a literal option for one) if you’re looking to make your first tracks beyond the pavement.

It’s proven to be an incredibly popular formula. Even though Honda proudly asserts the TrailSport as its most off-road-capable SUV, the trim accounts for 80 percent of Passport sales.

Honda

Now, word has it that Honda is preparing to renew its Passport with changes that will give the TrailsSport even greater travel freedom.

A more aggressive Passport

The confirmation comes in the form of a report from Automotive News. Alongside talk of an Accord update, insiders told the outlet a little about the Passport refresh scheduled for later this year. 

Honda

According to the sources, Honda will be giving the SUV “more testosterone” in the pursuit of making it a “little more masculine” for the 2027 model year.

How exactly that will affect the look of the boxy fourth-generation Passport has yet to be seen, but it shouldn’t be too jarring. The fourth-generation already brought a dramatic change compared to its predecessor. 

The report also states that the updates will give the front and rear of the SUV a more “aggressive stance,” so the design could be headed for a harder, more Toyota-like edge.

Honda

On a more concrete note, the report confirmed the TrailSport will benefit from some choice suspension updates. Along with an extra inch of ground clearance over the current 8.3-inch figure, it’s set to get some other tweaks to the ride.

Embracing the off-road vibes 

As such, even though the current 3.5-liter V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission setup will remain in place, the forthcoming Passport TrailSport update is something to be excited about.

That’s because, if Honda’s previous concepts are anything to go by, the nameplate has still more adventurous aspirations to realize. Put another way, this update is likely just the start, a sign of where the Trail(Sport) is headed. 

Honda

For instance, in preparation for SEMA last year, Honda put together an awesome Passport HRC Concept outfitted with all sorts of off-road-ready accouterments. 

Along with an even more pronounced 2.4-inch lift, it brought a full-size spare carrier, a roof rack, some auxiliary lighting and a custom bumper, among other upgrades.

In looks and spirit, then, it was a transformation that turned the TrailSport into even more of an alternative for would-be 4Runner owners. After all, even if most aren’t actually in regular need of the off-road capability, the impression of utility has its draw.

Honda

Towards that end, let’s not forget that Honda has since announced it will offer Passport upgrades through a new partnered accessories program. In addition to making the SUV more capable from the factory, it’s also ensuring it’s easy for buyers to dress it up. 

More to come

As of this writing, Honda hasn’t confirmed a debut for the 2027 Passport TrailSport. However, according to the report, the updates are scheduled to arrive later this year.

Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

Related Topics