What is the difference between a Honda Passport EX L and TrailSport?
In brief, the TrailSport is the adventure-ready, off-road–leaning version of the Honda Passport, while the EX-L prioritizes upscale comfort and everyday practicality. Both share the Passport’s core engine and safety tech, but differ in exterior styling, hardware, and interior emphasis.
For readers weighing these two trims, this explainer breaks down how they diverge across exterior design, capability, interior feel and technology, and pricing, with notes on what to expect in current model years and regions.
Exterior design and off-road capability
Before listing the concrete differences, note that the TrailSport is tuned and styled to look and perform more confidently off the pavement compared with the EX-L. The following points summarize the main contrasts.
- Exterior styling: TrailSport features rugged styling cues, exclusive badging, and darker trim elements that signal its off-road focus.
- Wheels and tires: TrailSport comes with wheels paired to more capable all-terrain tires, while the EX-L uses a more road-oriented wheel/tire setup.
- Suspension and ground clearance: TrailSport employs a more off-road–tuned suspension and higher ride height to improve approach/departure angles and ground clearance; EX-L aims for a smoother, pavement-oriented ride.
- Underbody protection: TrailSport adds protective plates and guards for exposed underbody components, which are not typically included on the EX-L.
- Practical enhancements: TrailSport emphasizes outdoor or cargo-ready features that support active use, whereas EX-L emphasizes luxury-oriented details and comfort.
In short, the TrailSport is designed to look and feel more capable when the pavement ends, while the EX-L centers on luxury and everyday usability.
Interior, comfort, and technology
Inside, both trims share the Passport’s modern tech and safety suite, but the destination of each cabin differs: one leans toward rugged durability, the other toward premium comfort and convenience.
- Seating and materials: EX-L typically features leather-trim seating with a premium feel, while TrailSport uses more rugged interior accents and materials suited to outdoor use.
- Comfort amenities: EX-L often includes a higher level of interior refinement and a memory-function driver’s seat in many years; TrailSport prioritizes durable surfaces and practical touches for active lifestyles.
- Infotainment and connectivity: Both trims offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; availability of built-in navigation and screen size can vary by year and packages, so check the current spec sheet.
- Safety and driver aids: Honda Sensing is standard on both trims, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking.
- Storage and practicality: TrailSport interiors are tuned for easier cleaning and cargo versatility for outdoor gear, while EX-L emphasizes a premium, comfortable cabin with ample storage for daily use.
Overall, EX-L emphasizes a premium, comfortable interior, whereas TrailSport favors rugged materials and practicality suited to outdoor adventures, with tech that remains solid on both.
Pricing, availability, and value
Prices vary by year and market, but the TrailSport generally carries a premium over the EX-L due to its enhanced hardware and off-road orientation. Expect higher starting MSRPs for the TrailSport, with both trims sharingHonda’s V6 engine, nine-speed automatic transmission, and a broad set of safety features. Verify the exact pricing for your region and the model year you’re considering with a local dealer or Honda’s official site.
For buyers deciding between the two, the choice often comes down to intended use: EX-L for luxury and everyday comfort, TrailSport for off-road capability and rugged utility.
Summary
The Honda Passport EX-L and TrailSport serve different priorities within the same family. The TrailSport offers rugged styling, off-road-ready hardware, and durable interior touches geared toward outdoor use, while the EX-L delivers a more luxurious cabin, premium materials, and comfort-focused features for daily driving. Both share the same core powertrain and safety technology, with the key decision being whether you value off-road capability or refined everyday comfort.
