Honda has unveiled the fourth generation of its Passport TrailSport off-road SUV, which is debuting for the 2026 model year.

The automaker calls the all-new TrailSport its most off-road capable SUV ever. It features rugged features such as an off-road tuned suspension, improved all-wheel-drive capabilities, steel skit plates, heavy-duty recovery hooks painted in bright orange, and specially engineered all-terrain tires.

“The all-new and completely redesigned Passport TrailSport embodies fun, toughness and adventure, redefining Honda’s rugged design and capability by combining new styling and increased off-road performance,” said Emile Korkor, assistant vice president, Honda Canada, in a news release. “The Passport TrailSport is our latest halo, off-road vehicle that doesn’t compromise everyday comfort and control with its new, rugged design and substantially enhanced capabilities.”

The Passport TrailSport is powered by an all-aluminum 3.5-litre V6 engine with 285 hp and 262 lb.-ft. of torque connected to the wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity is 2,267 kilograms (5,000 pounds).

Honda says the high-strength transmission has been tuned for the Passport, and its second-generation vectoring i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system now has a stronger rear drive unit with 40 per cent more torque capability and 30 per cent faster response, helping to optimize traction in all scenarios.

The SUV was developed with the concept of “Born Wild,” intended to be adventure-ready. It’s boxy with robust C-pillars, strong roof rails, flared fenders, a wide track. The vehicle rides on 18-inch wheels with 31-inch tires.

The new SUV is an inch wider than the outgoing model and the inside gets improved rear seat legroom over the previous model, as well as increased cargo space.

On the tech side, the Passport TrailSport gets a 10.2-inch digital driver display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and front body stabilizing seats to help reduce fatigue on long drivers. There’s also an available 12-speaker Bose sound system.

Drivers can select from seven drive modes, for various situations, such as towing or going out on the trails.

Standard features include hill descent control, the Honda Sensing system with a new wide-view camera and radar, driver and front-passenger knee airbags and a front passenger airbag design to reduce potential for traumatic brain and neck injuries.

The vehicle is built at Honda’s auto plant in Lincoln, Alabama.

It will be available in early 2025 in two trim levels, TrailSport and TrailSport Touring.