Honda
Passport vs Pilot
Specifications

THE ULTIMATE COMPARISON OF TWO OFF‑ROAD CAPABLE SUVS

Honda’s TrailSport editions have long been celebrated for combining robust performance with specialized off‑road capabilities. The 2026 Passport TrailSport has earned accolades for its aggressive exterior, nimble 5‑seat layout, and uncompromising off‑road agility. Equally noteworthy, however, is the 2025 Pilot TrailSport—which, despite offering a more spacious 7‑seat arrangement, is engineered with a trail‑ready spirit that doesn’t sacrifice its off‑road prowess. Both vehicles feature the same high‐performance 3.5‑liter V6 engine, advanced transmission, and integrated drive modes designed to optimize everything from snowy roads to sandy tracks.

Below, we dive deeply into five key topics: Market Positioning & Price Comparison, Performance & Efficiency, Dimensions & Space, Features & Styling, and Consumer Utility & Intended Use Cases.

This guide will help you find which model—rugged agility or family‑friendly versatility—resonates with your lifestyle.

LET’S TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE
2026 HONDA PASSPORT TRAILSPORT VS. 2025 HONDA PILOT TRAILSPORT

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Ps. Photos May Contain Trims Other Than What We’re Discussing

MARKET POSITIONING & PRICE COMPARISON

TL;DR:

Though neither model is branded as “luxury,” their TrailSport trims incorporate premium features and technologies that position them as top contenders in the off‑road SUV market. They are competitively priced—with the Passport starting at $48,450 MSRP* and the Pilot at $49,400 MSRP*—offering buyers robust off-road performance, advanced safety, and refined technology regardless of their seating needs.

OVERVIEW OF THE TRAILSPORT PERSONALITY:

The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport and the 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport both embrace off-road prowess within Honda’s SUV lineup, but they cater to slightly different drivers in terms of size, layout, and versatility.
 

The Passport TrailSport starts at an MSRP of $48,450* and is best described as a rugged, off-road-focused midsize SUV with a 5-seat configuration. Its leaner, more agile frame makes it particularly well-suited for navigating narrow trails and tighter terrain, giving solo explorers or small adventure crews a more nimble option without sacrificing capability. Enhancements like underbody skid plates, specialized suspension tuning, and upgraded drive modes are available through off-road packages, bolstering its go-anywhere credentials and aligning it with trail-ready rivals like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco Sport—but with a more refined edge.
 

By contrast, the Pilot TrailSport, priced slightly higher with a starting MSRP of $49,400*, extends its utility through a larger, 7-seat layout. This full-size SUV is tailored for families or groups who want to bring more along for the journey, combining roomy interior comfort with serious off-road credibility. It offers connectivity and convenience packages that enhance both comfort and capability—ideal for extended road trips or adventurous weekends. With competitors like the Toyota Highlander Trail Edition and Ford Explorer in its sights, the Pilot TrailSport distinguishes itself by delivering a balanced blend of size, tech, and trail-readiness.
 

Both TrailSport models are backed by Honda’s standard maintenance program—which includes one year or 12,000 miles of coverage—and an extended tune-up interval close to 100,000 miles, reflecting the brand’s confidence in long-term reliability. Whether you’re eyeing the agile, adventure-ready Passport or the spacious and sturdy Pilot, each offers a distinct value proposition. The Passport maximizes off-road capability in a more compact package, while the Pilot gives families a no-compromise option for comfort, tech, and terrain—all with Honda’s trusted engineering at the core.

TL;DR:

The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport and the 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport are mechanically identical under the hood:

• Both powered by a 3.5L V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
• Each comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the same versatile drive modes, and a 5,000-pound towing capacity*.
• Fuel efficiency is also the same, rated at 18 MPG city and 23 MPG highway*.
• The key differences lie not in performance, but in size and seating – more on that below.

IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS

When it comes to what’s under the hood, the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport and 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport are evenly matched. Both SUVs are equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a solid 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 262 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. Whether you’re climbing rocky trails or cruising on the highway, this powertrain provides the right balance of strength and smoothness for most everyday and adventurous driving scenarios.
 

Backing that engine is a 10-speed automatic transmission complete with paddle shifters, giving drivers the ability to manually shift gears when desired. This transmission setup is designed for smooth acceleration and improved control—especially useful when towing or tackling uneven terrain.
 

Speaking of versatility, both SUVs come with a robust suite of drive modes: Normal, ECON, Sport, Snow, Tow, Trail, and Sand. These modes allow the vehicle to adapt to different driving environments by adjusting throttle response, transmission mapping, and traction control settings. Whether you’re navigating snow-covered roads or dusty backcountry paths, both the Passport and Pilot can tailor their performance to suit the conditions.
 

Towing capacity is another shared strength, with both models capable of hauling up to 5,000 pounds*. This makes either SUV a practical choice for bringing along trailers, small boats, or camping gear—particularly useful for active families or outdoor enthusiasts.
 

Despite their off-road orientation, both models offer respectable fuel efficiency for their class. The EPA-estimated 18 MPG city and 23 MPG highway ratings*, combined with an 18.5-gallon fuel tank, ensure a solid driving range whether you’re exploring remote trails or commuting around town.
 

In summary, the mechanical specs are a draw—there’s no difference between the Passport TrailSport and the Pilot TrailSport when it comes to engine, transmission, drive modes, fuel economy, or towing.
 

What Separates Them Is Form & Function:
 

✔︎ The Passport TrailSport is the more compact of the two, featuring two rows of seating for five. This smaller footprint makes it easier to maneuver through narrow off-road paths while still providing rugged capability.

✔︎ The Pilot TrailSport, with three rows and seating for seven, is the better option for larger families or groups who want room to stretch out—without giving up on trail-tackling features.

Ultimately, your choice depends on how many people and how much gear you plan to bring along. Both deliver trail-tested toughness, but the Passport prioritizes agility, while the Pilot adds flexibility and interior space into the mix.

TL;DR:

While both models share off-road ground clearance and similar curb weights:

• The Pilot is longer and roomier – making it a better fit for families or those needing three rows.
• The Passport, being shorter and slightly wider, is more maneuverable while still offering generous cargo behind the second row.

✔︎ Choose the Passport for maneuverability and simplicity, especially for solo adventurers or couples.
✔︎ Choose the Pilot for larger families or multi-passenger versatility, especially if three rows and expanded cargo options are essential.

IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS

When comparing dimensions and interior practicality between the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport and the 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport, the core difference comes down to size and passenger accommodations—both inside and out.
 

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS & PRESENCE

The Pilot TrailSport stretches to 200.2 inches in length, making it the larger of the two, whereas the Passport TrailSport measures 191.5 inches. Despite being shorter, the Passport is actually wider at 79.4 inches compared to the Pilot’s 78.5 inches, giving it a broader, more planted appearance on trails or pavement. Height-wise, the Passport also sits a bit taller at 73.1 inches, versus 72.0 inches on the Pilot.
 

Both SUVs ride on a nearly identical wheelbase—113.6 inches for the Passport and 113.8 inches for the Pilot—resulting in comparable stability and road comfort. Ground clearance is also equal across both models, offering 8.3 inches (unladen), ideal for mild to moderate off-road excursions.
 

However, the Passport sports a wider front and rear track (68.0 / 68.2 inches) than the Pilot (67.2 / 67.4 inches), which could offer slightly better lateral stability on uneven surfaces. Surprisingly, the curb weights are nearly identical, with the Passport weighing in at 4,676 lbs and the Pilot just slightly heavier at 4,685 lbs.
 

INTERIOR SPACE & SEATING

Inside, the most significant divergence appears in seating capacity and passenger volume. The Passport seats five, with a total passenger volume of 115.4 cubic feet—spacious for a two-row SUV. Meanwhile, the Pilot accommodates seven passengers, boasting a generous 154.9 cubic feet of passenger volume spread across three rows.
 

CARGO CAPACITY

Cargo volume is a deciding factor for buyers needing flexible storage:
 

• Behind the second row, the Passport offers 44.0 cu ft, while the Pilot expands this to 48.5 or 59.5 cu ft depending on seat configuration.
• When the second row is folded, the Passport provides up to 83.8 cu ft (standard) or 104.6 cu ft (max). The Pilot again edges ahead with 87.0 cu ft standard and a maximum of 113.7 cu ft.
• The Pilot also includes third-row cargo specs: 18.6 to 21.8 cu ft available behind the third row, which the Passport does not offer due to its two-row design.

THE APPEAL OF EACH MODEL

✔︎ If you’re looking for a nimble off-road SUV with solid cargo utility, the Passport TrailSport is a great choice. It’s slightly more compact, wider for stability, and still offers competitive storage capacity with the second row folded.
✔︎ On the other hand, the Pilot TrailSport is the go-to for families or adventure groups needing maximum passenger and cargo space. Its three-row layout and superior interior volume provide more flexibility for road trips, camping gear, or sports equipment—without compromising rugged trail capability.

TL;DR:

Both SUVs offer strong infotainment, safety, and comfort features.

✔︎ The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport delivers a rugged, driver-focused experience with trail-ready exterior elements, advanced in-cabin tech, and a bold 5-seat design ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

✔︎ The 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport blends its off-road capability with greater interior flexibility, enhanced family conveniences, and refined styling inside and out.

IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS

EXTERIOR STYLING

Both SUVs sport 18” Shark Gray alloy wheels and all-terrain tires, though the Passport’s wider 275/60R18 tires suggest a more aggressive trail stance compared to the Pilot’s 265/60R18 tires. The Passport adds rugged flair with black roof rails, black lug nuts, and heated wipers, giving it a tough, outdoorsy appearance. The Pilot, while equally off-road capable, leans more into sleekness with gloss black roof rails, integrated LED headlights, and refined accent touches that give it a more upscale vibe. Both include panoramic moonroofs, though the Pilot offers a one-touch function for added ease.
 

INTERIOR DESIGN

Inside, the Passport TrailSport caters to the adventurous driver with a 5-seat layout and durable materials. It features a mix of leatherette and cloth seating with unique TrailSport orange stitching, along with modern tech like a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen—clearly aimed at modern explorers who value function and a rugged aesthetic.
 

The Pilot TrailSport, on the other hand, offers a roomier 7-seat cabin built for group adventures. Its premium synthetic leather seats balance durability with a more refined finish, and its ergonomics support long-distance comfort. While the Pilot’s digital features are slightly more modest—with a 7-inch driver display and a 9-inch central touchscreen—the cabin layout is geared toward family functionality and everyday livability.
 

INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY

Both models include wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, but the Passport TrailSport stands out with built-in Google integration, offering three years of unlimited in-vehicle app data—a rare bonus in this class. The Passport also provides Bluetooth streaming, USB-C ports, a 115-volt outlet, and a 245-watt, 9-speaker audio system.
 

The Pilot TrailSport, however, responds with additional family-focused features like a 15-watt wireless phone charger, USB-C/USB-A ports, an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot, and CabinTalk®, Honda’s clever in-car PA system. These extras enhance rear-seat communication and connectivity, especially for families on long road trips.
 

SAFETY & DRIVER ASSISTANCE

Both the Passport and Pilot TrailSport trims come equipped with the Honda Sensing® suite, which includes critical features such as Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control. The Passport takes it further with more visibility-enhancing features like Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Monitoring, Traffic Jam Assist, and a Cross Traffic Monitor—making it trail-confident and urban-safe.
 

Meanwhile, the Pilot TrailSport echoes these with nearly identical features and adds an Auto High-Beam Headlight system and a Multi-View Camera System, which helps drivers navigate tight spots and off-road obstacles with better perspective.
 

ADDITIONAL CONVENIENCES

Convenience features are abundant in both models, though they reflect slightly different priorities. The Passport TrailSport is packed with practical everyday touches like remote engine start, illuminated steering wheel controls, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and push-button start, in addition to tri-zone climate control and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold—perfect for stop-and-go trail crawling or traffic.
 

The Pilot TrailSport offers elevated tech for the whole cabin, including Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock, programmable power tailgate, and rear-seat connectivity features. Its climate system includes humidity management, ensuring greater comfort for all three rows, especially during long summer drives or mountain outings.

The real-world utility of an SUV depends on how well it aligns with your lifestyle—and both TrailSport models are designed to excel off‑road, whether you’re a solo adventurer or traveling with a full crew. While the Passport TrailSport’s focused 5‑seat setup channels every bit of space into athletic performance on tough terrain, the Pilot TrailSport offers an expanded cabin that handles both rough trails and extended group journeys.
 

CONSUMER UTILITY & USE CASES COMPARISON TABLE