Honda has taken the wraps off its redesigned 2026 Passport, showcasing a more rugged and capable mid-size SUV aimed at adventure-seeking buyers. Despite its potential to compete with models like the Mazda CX-70 and Jeep Grand Cherokee, Honda Australia has confirmed the new Passport will not be joining the local lineup.
Key Features and Upgrades:
Redesigned Exterior:
- Bold, brawny styling departing from the previous generation
- Increased dimensions: 190.6 inches long, 73.1 inches tall, 79.5 inches wide
- Extended 113.8-inch wheelbase for improved ride comfort and stability
Enhanced Powertrain:
- 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine generating 285 hp at 6,100 rpm
- Slight power increase from the previous 280 hp
- New 10-speed automatic transmission replacing the older 9-speed gearbox
Improved Off-Road Capabilities:
- Second-generation i-VTM4 torque vectoring all-wheel drive system
- Up to 70% of torque can be sent to rear wheels
- Increased ground clearance of 8.4 inches
- TrailWatch system with four camera views for off-road navigation
Interior and Technology:
- Larger cargo capacity, now the largest in Passport history
- Flat-folding rear seats for versatile storage options
- 10.2-inch digital instrument console
- 12.3-inch color touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support
- 5G-LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot capability
Trim Levels:
- Base RTL variant
- Mid-tier TrailSport
- Top-of-the-line TrailSport Elite
Safety Features:
- Enhanced Honda Sensing® safety suite
- Includes automated emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control
Market Positioning and Availability:
The 2026 Passport is positioned to compete with popular mid-size SUVs like the Mazda CX-70, Toyota Highlander, and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. It's scheduled to hit U.S. dealerships in early 2025, with production continuing at Honda's plant in Lincoln, Alabama.
Despite its impressive features and potential appeal, Honda Australia has cited factors such as production limitations and market positioning as reasons for not bringing the model to local shores. This decision leaves a noticeable gap in Honda's Australian SUV lineup, particularly as competitors continue to offer models in this segment.
The absence of the Passport in Australia aligns with Honda's recent strategy in the market. Since 2021, Honda Australia has undergone significant changes, including dealership closures, a shift to an agency model, and a focus on higher-priced, well-equipped models. This approach has led to reduced sales volumes but potentially higher profit margins per unit sold.
Industry Impact and Future Implications:
The redesigned Passport represents Honda's commitment to the mid-size SUV segment in key markets like North America. Its enhanced off-road capabilities and tech-forward features demonstrate the brand's response to growing consumer demand for versatile, adventure-ready vehicles.
For the Australian market, the absence of the Passport highlights the ongoing challenges global automakers face in balancing product strategies across different regions. It also underscores the competitive nature of the Australian automotive landscape, where brands must carefully consider which models to import and how to position them.
As the mid-size SUV market continues to evolve globally, Honda's decision to keep the new Passport out of Australia may prompt discussions about the brand's long-term strategy in the country and whether future models might be better suited to fill this gap in their lineup.
While Australian Honda enthusiasts may be disappointed by the absence of the 2026 Passport, the model's unveiling showcases the brand's global direction in the competitive mid-size SUV segment. As market demands and consumer preferences continue to shift, it remains to be seen how Honda will address this gap in its Australian lineup and respond to the growing appetite for capable, tech-savvy SUVs in the local market.
