Written byWith the right combination of power, interior room, and reliability, the Honda Passport has long ruled the hearts of midsize SUV buyers. This prompts the question for buyers; is the 2026 Honda Passport better than the 2025 version, or should you pocket your cash?
It would appear that Honda has strategically refined the powertrain, technology, and even the off-road capabilities of the 2026 Passport. The 2025 Honda Passport already boasts solid performance from its 280-horsepower V6 and i-VTM4® all-wheel drive layout. However, a possible 2026 model could use the same basics for improved efficiency and safety, plus a hybrid setup. Pricing is another consideration. Reflecting on the complete list of features, the 2025 Passport starts at around $42,000, but the 2026 model could be priced higher.
In this Honda SUV comparison, we are going to compare the 2026 Honda Passport to the 2025 Honda Passport to break down all the differences in performance, features, and pricing between the two SUV models. Is it worth the wait for the new version, or is the 2025 model still a better buy? Let’s find out.
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Engine & Performance
The 2026 Honda Passport carries over the 3.5-liter V6 engine, which provides 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque like it does for the 2025 model. That said, Honda did revise the engine mapping for smoother power delivery and more responsive throttle response.
A standard front-wheel-drive (FWD) system is standard on both models, and the available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system featuring Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4®) helps maximize traction on unpaved roads. New for the 2026 Passport is a minorly modified AWD calibration that improves mud, snow, and sand performance.
The consumer 0-60 mph time hovers in the 6.5 to 7.0-second range, providing decent, if not sprightly, thrust on your average midsizers. The Passport’s off-road prowess remains strong, with 8.1 inches of ground clearance and an intelligent AWD system that dynamically reallocates torque. Towing capacity doesn’t change, with both models related to towing up to 5,000 pounds. Therefore, these models are still well-equipped to tow trailers, boats, or small campers.
Winner: 2026 Honda Passport
The new 2026 Honda Passport is a little more determined on the performance and reliability front than its predecessor, the 2025 Honda Passport, thanks to reduced in-gear response time from the new model’s honed drivetrain calibrations. If you want a more refined and competent Passport, find yourself a 2026 example. However, the 2025 Passport is still a suitable replacement if you are a budget-oriented buyer.
Fuel Efficiency & Driving Dynamics
The 2026 Honda Passport is set to benefit from minor gains in fuel economy over the 2025 model, maybe even enhanced by some new engine refinements, plus the availability of a new 10-speed automatic transmission. Honda Passport MPG for 2025 is an EPA-estimated 19 city/24 highway/21 combined. Should Honda use new fuel-saving technologies—such as cylinder deactivation or advanced stop-start capabilities—the 2026 model could be slightly more efficient.
Regarding driving dynamics, both models feature a rugged suspension setup that leaps to keep them off-road-capable without leaving your spine in tremors on the highway. Honda could also smooth out the 2026 Passport’s ride with new dampers or tweaked steering to give it a more composed ride. The all-wheel-drive system is still a highlight, with a bite in all conditions.
Winner: 2026 Honda Passport
It’ll be the clear choice if the updated 2026 Honda Passport manages significant MPG improvements and pays off with a more comfortable ride. However, as long as the fuel economy doesn’t change too much, the more disappointing model of 2025 may end up being the better value, particularly with some discounts.
Interior & Comfort
The Honda Passport interior the balances comfort, space, and technology, and the 2026 Passport gets an even more significant upgrade in the latest model. So, while the 2025 and 2026 Honda Passport are still roomy inside and carry upscale materials, the newest model optimizes the experience with a more modern design.
- Seating Materials & Passenger Comfort: The 2025 Passport is generous with leather-trimmed seats, a nice combination of durability and luxury. On the other hand, the 2026 Passport gets upgraded materials, especially in the TrailSport trim, for comfort and capability on the rough stuff. Both models come with heated, ventilated front seats and power-adjustable front seats for a comfortable driving experience.
- Cargo Space & Practicality: The 2025 Honda Passport has generous cabin space, providing ample cargo room for luggage and gear on long trips. For 2026, Passport practicality is bolstered by a rearranged cargo zone with better underfloor bins and rear seats that now fold flat.
- Infotainment System & Tech Upgrades: The 2025 model now receives an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Add a 12.3-inch touchscreen (with Google Built-In), wireless smartphone compatibility, and a thoroughly improved and easier-to-use interface, and the 2026 Passport looks pretty tech-savvy by comparison.
- Climate Control & Cabin Experience: Both models get zone automatic climate control. For 2026, the Passport adds a heated steering wheel and an available panoramic sunroof to amp up the luxury factor.
Winner: 2026 Honda Passport
Though the Passport puts out a tour force, it is an even more complete vehicle with its larger infotainment screen, improved storage solutions, and better comfort features, making it the right choice for families or road trips.
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Technology & Features
Standard on every 2025 Honda Passport will be an 8-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. An upgraded 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and 8-speaker premium audio system are available on the Elite trim for the ultimate sound experience.
Then, for 2026, Honda takes it further by offering a new, standard 9-inch infotainment screen with quick response times and a new layout. For a better listening experience, the 12-speaker Bose premium audio system is now standard with the Passport Elite trim. Some convenient features include wireless charging, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and a more advanced voice recognition system.
Both the 2025 and 2026 Passport come standard with Honda Sensing, Honda’s suite of advanced safety and driver-assist technology, which includes:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
The 2026 Honda Passport, however, offers Traffic Jam Assist and a better blind-spot monitoring system that can now detect vehicles entering the lane in front of you when you’re on the highway. Thus, those moments while passing other cars on the freeway are safer than ever.
Both models also offer Hondalink remote smart connectivity, which allows owners to lock/unlock the vehicle, view fuel levels, and find the car via smartphone. The 2026 Passport Elite receives a digital key enabling users to start and unlock the vehicle using a smartphone.
Winner: 2026 Honda Passport
The 2026 Honda Passport offers the best tech for the dollar with its larger infotainment screen, upgraded premium audio, Traffic Jam Assist, and digital key feature.
Pricing & Value for Money
The 2025 Honda Passport’s base MSRP in EX-L form is approximately $42,000, though the 2026 Passport will likely start at around $43,500. The higher trim levels will likely follow suit, with the 2026 version getting a $1,500–$2,000 markup based on equipment for those like the TrailSport and Elite.
So, is the 2026 Honda Passport worth the extra bucks? Buyers wanting the newest model might consider the additional cost worth it for the updated tech, refreshed styling, and potential powertrain revisions. However, the 2025 Passport should be the better value if they are minor, especially with such dealer incentives.
However, from a depreciation cost perspective, both models are expected to have high depreciation rates, given that Honda SUVs tend to have substantial resale value. On the other hand, the Passport could win in terms of long-term ownership costs if the 2025 model doesn’t come with any significant mechanical upgrades.
Winner: 2025 or 2026 Honda Passport?
Of course, if the 2026 Passport is an entire significant upgrade, it may be worth the higher price point. However, the 2025 Honda Passport is still better if the updates are scarce, providing nearly the same performance for less.
Final Word: Which One Should You Purchase?
The 2025 Honda Passport already had more than a few things going for it, and Honda builds on those strengths with slight tweaks to performance, efficiency, and technology for the 2026 model. The same 3.5L V6 with 280 hp is fitted to both, but tuning improvements for the 2026 Passport may offer enhanced responsiveness. The fuel economy is still estimated at 19 MPG for city / 24 MPG highways for AWD variants.
For features, the 2026 Passport should include a new, more sophisticated infotainment system, perhaps increased driver-assist technology, and potentially some design changes. For the latest tech and refreshed styling, the 2026 model is the better buy. However, the 2025 Passport offers nearly the same performance and features at what will likely be a lower price, an excellent value for practical buyers in the market for a midsize SUV.
Overall Winner: 2026 Honda Passport
While pricing need not be radically different, the 2026 Passport is ultimately the better long-term buy thanks to its potential for tech upgrades and other upgrades across the board. However, it is still a solid pick if you score a great deal on the 2025 model.
