What is the approach angle of the Honda Passport TrailSport?

The approach angle of the Honda Passport TrailSport is approximately 20 degrees. Official figures from Honda aren’t always published for every trim, so the value you’ll see commonly comes from reviews and the interpretation of available specs, and it can vary with tire size and suspension setup.

Why the approach angle matters in practice

The approach angle tells you how steep a slope the front of the vehicle can approach without the bumper hitting the ground. For a mid-size SUV designed to blend on-road comfort with light off-road capability, a higher approach angle usually means better ability to tackle modest inclines, rocky ledges, and uneven terrain without undercarriage contact. The TrailSport variant of the Passport emphasizes off-road readiness, so its angle is a key practical metric for buyers considering trail driving.

TrailSport design and the numbers you need to know

Honda does not publish an official, one-number approach angle for the Passport TrailSport in most consumer specs. What is widely cited comes from indirect measurements and the vehicle’s design changes compared with the standard Passport. The TrailSport’s upgraded front bumper, protective underbody features, and any increased ground clearance contribute to a more favorable approach angle relative to the base model.

Before the list, this paragraph explains the sources and how the angle is typically assessed in reviews and spec breakdowns.

• Official data: Honda does not routinely publish a single approach-angle figure for the TrailSport in press materials or the owner's manual.


• Estimated value: Reviewers and automotive outlets commonly report around 20 degrees as the practical approach angle for the TrailSport, with minor variation depending on tires and ride height.


• Influencing factors: Front bumper geometry, ground clearance, and the size/type of tires can affect the measured approach angle by a few degrees in real-world use.

In practice, you should treat the TrailSport’s approach angle as a solid improvement over the non-TrailSport Passport, typically around 20 degrees, while not intending it for extreme rock-crawling scenarios.

Practical implications for off-road use

For light to moderate off-road trails, the TrailSport can handle approach obstacles more readily than the base trim, thanks to its design adaptations and higher clearance. However, drivers venturing into challenging terrain should still assess each slope, rock, or obstacle on a case-by-case basis, and be mindful of tire size, air pressure, and speed to avoid undercarriage contact.

Summary

The Honda Passport TrailSport is commonly cited as having an approximate approach angle of 20 degrees, though Honda does not publish an exact figure in standard specifications. The angle is influenced by front-end design, ground clearance, and tire choice, and it reflects the model’s balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. For buyers prioritizing trail readiness, the TrailSport offers a meaningful improvement over the base Passport, with a practical, road-tested angle that supports light off-roading rather than extreme terrain.

What are the specs of the Honda Passport TrailSport?

The Honda Passport TrailSport features a 3.5L V6 engine with 285 horsepower, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and standard i-VTM4 all-wheel drive. It has an off-road focused design with durable hardware like recovery hooks and a trailer hitch, a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, and a ground clearance of 8.3 inches. The TrailSport trim also includes specific interior and exterior styling cues for 2026, like a redesigned front fascia, rugged fenders, and an adventure-focused interior with specific stitching and lighting.
 
Powertrain and performance

• Engine: 3.5L V6 24-Valve DOHC Dual VTC
• Horsepower: 285 hp @ 6,100 rpm
• Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
• Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic with Shift-By-Wire and paddle shifters
• Drivetrain: Automatic Full-Time All-Wheel Drive (i-VTM4)
• Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs 

Off-road and exterior features

• Ground Clearance: 8.3 inches
• Wheels: 18-inch wheels
• Tires: TrailSport has a more rugged exterior with specialized tires, fenders, and an aggressive stance.
• Hardware: Features heavy-duty recovery hooks and a trailer hitch.
• Lighting: Includes LED headlamps and fog lights.
• Roof Rails: Reinforced roof rails for carrying cargo.
• Exhaust: Sporty dual exhaust finishers. 

Interior and technology

• Infotainment: Honda Display Audio system 
• Audio: 215-watt audio system with 7 speakers (4-speaker for 2022 models) 
• Connectivity: Wireless phone charger and USB charging ports 
• Convenience: All-season floor mats with TrailSport logo, illuminated beverage holders, and amber ambient LED lighting. 
• Materials: Leather-wrapped steering wheel with orange stitching. 

Dimensions and weight

• Wheelbase: 113.6 inches (2026 model)
• Curb Weight: 4,229 lbs (2024 model)
• Cargo Capacity: 44.0 cu.ft. behind rear seats, 83.2 cu.ft. maximum
• Turning Circle: 38.9 ft.
• Angle of Departure: 24.3 degrees 

What is the approach angle of the Pilot TrailSport?

Approach/Breakover/Departure Angles (TrailSport): 19.8° / 19.6° / 19.0°

What year Honda Passport to stay away from?

The years to potentially avoid for a Honda Passport are the first-generation models (pre-2002, which were rebadged Isuzu Rodeos) and the initial model year of the second generation, 2019. While other years may have minor recalls or software issues, the pre-2002 models have a history of significant issues like frame and suspension problems, and the 2019 model is often cited as the year to avoid to bypass early-production bugs. 
Pre-2002 models

• Recall history: These models, based on the Isuzu Rodeo, are known to have issues including frame corrosion and suspension problems that led to recalls.
• Safety concerns: The recall for excessive corrosion of rear suspension lower link brackets could lead to poor handling and a higher crash risk. 

2019 model year 

• "First year production" rule: Following a general rule of thumb for new model releases, it is often best to avoid the first model year of a new generation to allow the manufacturer to work out bugs. 
• Owner reports: Some owners report this as a year to avoid, though others have reported no issues. 

Other years to consider

• 2020 and later: Many owners have reported good experiences with 2020 models and later, though it's important to check for any recalls on specific vehicles. 
• Recalls: Be aware that multiple recalls have affected different years of the current generation Passport (like 2023 and 2024). Before purchasing any used Passport, use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check for and complete all outstanding recalls at a Honda dealership. 
• Minor issues: Some model years may have minor issues like infotainment system glitches, which are often resolved with software updates. 

What is the most common problem with the Honda Passport?

The most common problems with the Honda Passport include infotainment system malfunctions, such as the display going blank and speakers crackling, and issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, which can include delayed or harsh acceleration. Other frequent complaints involve body hardware issues like a rear hatch that won't open and occasional electrical problems with features like the fuel filler pipe or air bags.
 
Infotainment and electrical issues 

• Display screen and audio: The infotainment screen may go blank, and speakers can crackle or pop. 
• Fuel system: Some models have had issues with a faulty fuel filler pipe, leading to fuel leaks. 
• Body and interior: Common problems include a rear hatch button that breaks, a gas smell inside the vehicle, and fading or peeling paint. 

Transmission problems 

• 9-speed transmission: Some owners report delayed, harsh, or erratic shifting with the 9-speed transmission, particularly in models from 2019-2022. 
• Engine and related systems:
  • Varnish buildup: This can cause a ticking noise from the engine. 
  • Oil in spark plug tubes: This can lead to misfires. 
  • Timing belt: Newer models have a timing belt that requires replacement, which is an expensive but necessary maintenance item to prevent engine failure. 

Other potential problems

• Steering: Some 2023 models have been recalled for a risk of steering loss due to a loose ball joint. 
• Brakes: Some reports mention premature brake wear and issues with the ABS light coming on. 
• Vibration: Some owners have experienced vibration, particularly at highway speeds.