20 MPG combined is the headline figure for the 2026 Honda Passport AWD Trailsport 3.5L 6-cyl. This number immediately frames this vehicle not as an efficiency champion but as a purpose-built, rugged, adventure-oriented mid-size SUV. This vehicle is designed for those who prioritize capability, ground clearance, and an inherently tough disposition over squeezing out every last drop of fuel. The Trailsport variant, in particular, further accentuates this mission with its off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and distinct aesthetic. All of these contribute to its character and, by extension, its fuel consumption profile. The buyer of this Passport understands that true capability comes with certain concessions. For them, 20 MPG is a perfectly acceptable trade-off for the peace of mind that comes with Honda’s proven V6 power and strong AWD system.

City and highway performance

Looking at the Passport Trailsport’s fuel economy, we see a split of 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure of 18 MPG reflects the inherent challenge of moving a nearly 4,300-pound vehicle (give or take a few pounds for Trailsport-specific gear) from a standstill repeatedly. The 3.5-liter V6, while modern and equipped with Honda’s VTEC technology, still needs to work to overcome inertia. Stop-and-go traffic, often combined with the automatic (S10) transmission’s shifts, naturally leads to higher fuel consumption. Conversely, the 23 MPG highway rating is respectable for its class and powertrain. This reflects the efficiency of the 10-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to run at lower RPMs at cruising speeds, optimizing fuel use over longer distances. The aerodynamic profile, while not sleek, is functional, and the engine’s ability to maintain momentum without excessive revving contributes significantly to this highway number. This is where the Passport shines for the weekend warrior heading to the trailhead or a distant campsite, where the journey itself is part of the adventure.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2026 Honda Passport AWD Trailsport 3.5L 6-cyl at precisely $2,200. This figure is derived assuming 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a combination of city and highway travel reflecting the vehicle’s 20 MPG combined rating, and based on national average fuel prices. It serves as a transparent benchmark, allowing prospective buyers to budget for fuel expenses. While $2,200 annually isn’t insignificant, it aligns with expectations for a V6-powered, AWD mid-size SUV with aspirations beyond the pavement. This cost is a direct consequence of the vehicle’s design and intended use, it’s the price of admission for genuine capability and the confident, commanding driving experience the Passport Trailsport provides. For those who need or desire the utility and off-road prowess of this specific Passport, this annual fuel outlay is simply a line item in their overall budget, not a deal-breaker.

Real-world expectations

In the real world, the 20 MPG combined figure for the Passport Trailsport is a realistic expectation, provided driving conditions and habits are typical. Drivers who frequently engage in aggressive acceleration, constant high-speed cruising, or tow heavy loads will likely see figures dip below this EPA estimate. Conversely, those with a lighter foot, who use cruise control on highways, and minimize sudden braking, might find themselves routinely hitting or even slightly exceeding the highway rating. The Trailsport’s specific all-terrain tires, often designed for grip and durability rather than rolling resistance, can also subtly impact fuel economy, usually to the tune of a fractional MPG point. The powerful V6 engine, while a joy for merging and passing, will readily consume fuel if pushed. Understanding that the Passport Trailsport is not engineered for outright efficiency, but for strong performance and adventure, helps set appropriate real-world expectations for its fuel consumption. Drivers buying this vehicle are generally not hyper-mileing, they’re buying it for its inherent capability and the confidence it provides, especially when the pavement ends.

How it compares

Comparing the 2026 Honda Passport AWD Trailsport’s 20 MPG combined with its direct competitors reveals its positioning within the segment. Take the Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road, a perennial rival in the rugged SUV space. With its older 4.0L V6, the 4Runner typically manages around 17 MPG combined (16 city/19 highway), putting the Passport Trailsport at a slight but noticeable advantage. Another competitor, the Subaru Outback Wilderness, while smaller and built on a car platform, offers 23 MPG combined from its turbocharged 2.4L flat-four. However, the Outback Wilderness doesn’t offer the sheer cargo volume or the traditional SUV feel of the Passport, nor its strong towing capacity. Stepping up to a larger vehicle like the Kia Telluride AWD, which offers 21 MPG combined (20 city/26 highway) from its V6, shows a slightly better balance, but the Telluride focuses more on family luxury than dedicated off-road readiness. Buyers considering the Passport Trailsport against these options often prioritize Honda’s reputation for reliability, the Passport’s refined V6 character, and its specific blend of comfort, utility, and off-road capability over class-leading efficiency. For a broader view of Honda’s efficiency across their lineup, you can explore all Honda fuel economy data, or narrow down to PASSPORT MPG across all years for a historical perspective.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is important for fuel economy. Since the Passport Trailsport comes with more aggressive all-terrain tires, regularly checking and adjusting them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure can make a noticeable difference in reducing rolling resistance and thereby improving MPG.

Although the 3.5L V6 engine offers ample power, adopting a smooth and consistent driving style will prevent unnecessary fuel consumption. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, anticipate traffic, and try to maintain a steady speed, particularly on highway stretches where the 10-speed automatic can optimize gear selection.

The Passport Trailsport, like any SUV, benefits from shedding excess weight. Regularly remove any unnecessary cargo from the vehicle, as every extra pound the engine has to move requires more fuel, especially in stop-and-go city driving.

Use cruise control whenever appropriate on highways. This helps maintain a constant speed, preventing surges in power demand that can reduce fuel efficiency. The 10-speed transmission works best when allowed to maintain a steady state.