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2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite vs. TrailSport Elite Blackout: What Changes?

Honda Passport TrailSport Elite and TrailSport Elite Blackout Trims in Longview, WA - Stirling Honda

Honda has made the distinction between the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite and TrailSport Elite Blackout refreshingly easy to understand. Mechanically, technologically, and in terms of cabin equipment, these 2 versions of the redesigned Passport are essentially identical. The Blackout model changes the exterior treatment, not the hardware beneath it. For Longview, WA drivers, that means the decision can be made largely on appearance without worrying that choosing one sacrifices the capability or equipment of the other.

The Mechanical Package Is Identical

Both models use Honda's 3.5L DOHC V6, producing 285 hp and 262 lbs. ft. of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Second-generation i-VTM4® AWD with Trail Torque Logic is standard, as are an off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, steel skid plates, high-visibility recovery hooks, and an integrated Class III trailer hitch with harness. Properly equipped, either Passport provides up to 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity. More importantly, there is no mechanical upgrade hidden behind the Blackout designation. The engine, transmission, AWD system, suspension, tires, and towing hardware remain the same.

TrailSport Hardware Goes Beyond Cosmetic Off-Road Styling

Both versions provide 8.3 inches of ground clearance and 7 drive modes: Normal, ECON, Sport, Snow, Sand, Tow, and Trail. Hill Descent Control is standard, while the second-generation i-VTM4® AWD system can manage torque across changing surfaces. This is supported by physical protection from the steel skid plates and recovery equipment should conditions become more demanding. EPA-estimated fuel economy is also identical at 18 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined, further demonstrating that the Blackout package changes neither gearing nor mechanical specification.

Both Cabins Receive the Same Premium Equipment

TrailSport Elite and TrailSport Elite Blackout share perforated leather-trimmed seating with contrast stitching and accents, heated and ventilated front seats, integrated rear door sunshades, a panoramic moonroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a hands-free power tailgate with Walk Away Close. Their technology specifications match as well, including a 12.3-inch color touchscreen, 10.2-inch digital instrument display, Bose premium audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Autoâ„¢ compatibility, wireless phone charging, Google built-in, and Wi-Fi® hotspot capability. There is no interior equipment penalty for preferring the standard TrailSport Elite exterior.

TrailWatchâ„¢ Adds Visibility Where It Counts

The Multiview Camera System with second-generation TrailWatchâ„¢ is fitted to both models. Its additional camera views can help reveal obstacles around the Passport when driving off pavement, where judging wheel placement from the driver's seat becomes more difficult. This is a good example of technology complementing mechanical capability instead of attempting to substitute for it. Both trims receive the same system, so once again there is no functional distinction between them.

Driver-Assistance Equipment Remains Consistent

Honda Sensing® technology is standard on both trims, including the Collision Mitigation Braking Systemâ„¢, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Lane Keeping Assist System. Blind Spot Information with Lane Change Assist, Cross Traffic Monitor, parking sensors, Trailer Stability Assist, and Rollover Mitigation are also included. Buyers therefore gain no additional safety or driver-assistance technology by moving from TrailSport Elite to TrailSport Elite Blackout.

Blackout Means Exactly What the Name Suggests

The TrailSport Elite Blackout distinguishes itself with 18-inch black alloy wheels, HPDâ„¢ center caps, and black Honda badges. Crucially, those wheels don't signal different suspension geometry, tires, or off-road capability. This is a factory appearance treatment applied to the same underlying TrailSport Elite specification. Buyers who like darker exterior detailing can have it directly from Honda, while those who prefer the regular TrailSport Elite appearance retain precisely the same 285 hp, AWD hardware, ground clearance, towing capability, technology, and premium cabin equipment.

Compare Both Passport Models at Stirling Honda

Choosing between these 2 Passport trims is unusually straightforward: decide which exterior treatment you prefer. Visit Stirling Honda in Longview to compare the 2026 Passport TrailSport Elite and TrailSport Elite Blackout side by side and see how the different wheels and badging alter the overall appearance. Schedule a test drive to experience the V6 powertrain, i-VTM4® AWD system, and TrailSport hardware shared by both models.

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New Honda SUVs in Longview, WA - Stirling Honda

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New Honda Sedans in Longview, WA - Stirling Honda

What Are The Best Honda Sedans to Buy?

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