The hype continues to build for the 2026 Honda Passport Trailsport, with freshly released and heavily curated “spy shots” showcasing the SUV’s rugged capabilities in the challenging terrain of Moab, Utah. The mid-size SUV, set to debut next year, is shaping up to be a direct competitor to the Toyota 4Runner, at least in its off-road-focused TrailSport trim.

The latest images reveal significant design updates, including a boxier body and more upright front and rear ends compared to the current model. A flat hood and large grille openings emphasize the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport’s more aggressive stance, while sturdy-looking seven-spoke wheels suggest serious off-road capability.

Under the hood, Honda has stated the forthcoming SUV will benefit from a more powerful version of its 3.5-liter V6 engine, expected to deliver more punch than the current 280-hp unit. The 2026 Passport TrailSport will also benefit from a new 10-speed automatic transmission, replacing the outgoing nine-speed. Power will be sent through Honda’s i-VTM4 torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, ensuring the SUV can handle diverse and demanding environments.

Honda has been testing the Passport TrailSport in a variety of harsh conditions, from Moab’s rocky desert landscape (shown here) to the sand dunes of western Michigan and the forested trails of Appalachia. This rigorous testing signals that Honda is serious about positioning the Passport TrailSport as a top-tier off-roader.

The 2026 Passport and TrailSport models are set to be officially unveiled this fall, with sales expected to begin in early 2025.