Honda's redesigned Passport SUV, launched for the 2026 model year, is experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity. Following in the footsteps of the Pilot, the new Passport has shed its softer edges for a more angular, robust design, a stylistic shift that has clearly resonated with consumers and propelled its sales figures significantly upward.
The success of the Passport is particularly evident in its sales performance through September, with 41,450 units sold, representing an impressive 74.8% increase over the same period last year. A key factor in this growth is the strong preference for the TrailSport variant, which emphasizes off-road capability and accounts for 80% of all Passport purchases. This indicates a clear market demand for rugged SUVs, even as the Passport continues to trail behind competitors like the Toyota 4Runner in overall sales volume, though the 4Runner's sales have declined this year. Despite profiling similarly, the Passport and 4Runner diverge in their powertrain philosophies; Honda retains a naturally aspirated V-6 engine, while Toyota incorporates turbocharged four-cylinders and hybrid options, along with distinct interior design approaches.
Despite the Passport's notable rise, it's not Honda's fastest-growing model this year. That distinction belongs to the Prologue EV, which has seen sales jump by almost 158%, surpassing its total sales for the entire previous year. Overall, the Honda and Acura brands combined have experienced a modest 3.9% increase in sales through September, delivering approximately 41,000 more vehicles to customers than during the corresponding period last year.
The automotive industry is in constant evolution, driven by innovation and consumer preferences. Honda's recent success with the Passport and Prologue EV demonstrates the importance of adapting to market trends and offering vehicles that meet diverse customer needs, from rugged adventure to sustainable mobility. These achievements highlight a commitment to progress and an optimistic outlook for the future of transportation.