2027 Honda Passport TrailSport Gears Up For Off-RoadingForbesGreg Migliore, ContributorUpdatedWed, September 9, 2026 at 1:22 PM UTCAdd us on Google2027 Honda Passport TrailSportHondaTaking the fight directly to the Toyota 4Runner, Subaru Outback—and perhaps someday Jeeps—Honda unveiled the 2027 Passport TrailSport on Wednesday with a more capable off-road-tuned suspension and beefier looks to match.The changes to the TrailSport trim highlight the 2027 Passport updates, and the new model goes on sale this month. The fourth-generation of the midsize SUV launched last year.Honda's updates to its strong-selling ute underscore the significance automakers are placing on consumers who see themselves as outdoorsy adventure-seekers, whether or not their vehicles ever leave the pavement.AdvertisementAdvertisementIf they do, the 2027 Passport TrailSport now offers 9.65 inches of ground clearance, an increase of 1.38 inches over the 2026 model. Honda says it re-engineered 70% of the TrailSport's suspension components, including dampers, springs, control arms and stabilizer bars. The SUV also has greater approach, departure and breakover angles which fortify the vehicle's ability to go over objects off-road. The chassis upgrades also result in better steering and handling, Honda says.All TrailSport models now come standard with Honda's TrailWatch camera, which helps drivers better maneuver off-road with four different views of the vehicle's surroundings. TrailSport owners also have access to the Honda Trail Experience app, which launched this summer, offering trail information and video sharing.Honda topped the TrailSport's upgrades with more prominent fender flares, a new front fascia and amber LED lights to set off the hood scoops. Honda also revised the TrailSport's Black Out Package to add black fascias.Honda designed the Passport at its California studios and builds it in Alabama. Some models are also exported to Japan.What do the 2027 Honda Passport TrailSport's Changes Mean?2027 Honda Passport TrailSportIt's a quick update to a vehicle that launched last year and was pretty well-received. The Passport is one of Honda's top sellers and it is on track to have its best year ever. But, 80% of the Passport's volume comes from the TrailSport trims, which are the mid-to-upper-lever models. It makes sense Honda would invest in that end of the lineup, where there's more customer demand and profits to be made.AdvertisementAdvertisementAutomakers have been trying to capture more of these lifestyle customers for years, adding versions like Subaru's Wilderness trim, Hyundai's XRT, Ford's Tremor and GMC's AT4. They typically follow a similar formula: larger tires, suspension upgrades and more rugged design to make consumers feel like they're driving an off-road rig.My Take on the 2027 Honda Passport TrailSport2027 Honda Passport TrailSportThis off-road lifestyle segment is great for everyday drivers who like the look of a tough truck or SUV, but don't want to live with the compromises that come with driving a Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco or Toyota 4Runner.The importance of this segment is reflected in Honda's improvements to the TrailSport. It's fairly unusual for a company to deliver an update so quickly after launch—and one focused so directly on the suspension—an area many buyers take for granted.That said, the TrailSport looked the part for 2026, and I told anyone who asked me for advice that the Passport TrailSport was the best blend of a daily driver and capable off-roader. In the picture below you can see the Passport I drove to Michigan's Upper Peninsula, a mostly raw, uncut place, where I took it down some dirt paths. Much of the drive, however, was straight up Interstate 75 from metro Detroit, and the Passport was excellent at both parts of the trip.2026 Honda Passport TrailSport in Cedarville, Michigan.But the Honda didn't have any real off-road chops. It still doesn't have locking differentials, skid plates, winches or any of the other assorted things Jeeps and their ilk have for venturing into the woods or the desert. Of course, most people buying a Passport don't need those things. Now the TrailSport should be a little more capable on dusty roads and in the wilderness. This is a smart update, and I can't wait to drive it.This article was originally published on Forbes.com
