Next-Gen Passport to Be Honda’s Most Capable SUV Ever
The Honda Passport is currently being outsold 2-to-1 by the larger, three-row Pilot despite the two SUVs sharing the same platform and engine. For 2024, the company hoped to make it more attractive with improved off-road performance, updated styling and a more versatile interior, but Canadian sales through the first half of the year are only up 4 percent.
Does the Passport have a future? Well, yes. A second generation is in the works and expected to debut early next year as a 2026 model. Not only that, but the redesigned Passport Trailsport is already hailed by Honda as its most adventurous and most capable SUV ever.
- Also: 2024 Honda Passport: A Capable SUV Overshadowed by Siblings, Rivals
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Whatever that means is not clear. Are we going to talk about the same type of off-roader as the Ford Bronco or Toyota 4Runner? That would be a pleasant surprise. In the meantime, the automaker is promising “a truly rugged design, authentic off-road capability, next-level versatility and innovative features.”
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A pair of images were released as a teaser. The one above hints at a radically transformed design, with bold “PASSPORT” lettering front and centre in a dual-section, geometrically styled grille. The new amber-coloured daytime running lights will be exclusive to the TrailSport model. Excited yet?
Is the Element Coming Back?
Speaking of Honda, Car and Driver recently unearthed a patent filing in the U.S. that brings back memories of the quirky Element crossover. Remember that one? Despite being discontinued after the 2011 model year, we bet you do.
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The patent application was filed in 2022 but published only in late June of this year. It shows an Element-like SUV with roof and rear hatch extensions expanding the available enclosed space—perfect for camping and overlanding. Similar to the late Element, the vehicle has rear-hinged half-doors allowing access to the second row.
Of course, a patent filing doesn’t mean a production model is a sure thing. Would Honda executives really consider bringing back the Element in a lineup that now includes the HR-V and the aforementioned Passport? We highly doubt it. Sure enough, though, adventure is on their mind.