2026 Honda Passport TrailSport vs. Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Off-Road Capability Test
What do the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite, 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter, and 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve all have in common? They are three capable midsize SUVs geared for off-road adventure, but they have different strengths. This guide compares them in detail to help you find the right one for you.
Power and Performance Specifications
Here's how each compares:
| Passport TrailSport Elite | Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter | Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve | |
| Engine | 3.5-liter V-6 | 2.4-liter turbo | 3.6-liter V-6 |
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 323 hp | 293 hp |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | Part-time 4WD | 4WD |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,800 lbs | 6,200 lbs |
The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite is perhaps the most well-rounded off-road SUV, thanks to its 10-speed automatic that offers smooth, confident road manners and competent trail performance. While the Toyota and Jeep both have a more powerful engine and greater towing, the Passport provides better ride comfort, softer suspension, and improved steering.
Ground Clearance and Approach Angles
Here's how they compare:
| Passport TrailSport Elite | Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter | Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve | |
| Ground Clearance | 8.3 inches | 10.1 inches | 8.4 inches |
| Approach Angle | 23 degrees | 33.8 degrees | 28.2 degrees |
The 4Runner's body-on-frame design offers superior articulation for rocky and uneven terrain, while the Passport's unibody design is less rugged but performs well on moderate trails. Jeep's air suspension provides an advantage on variable terrains by adjusting ride height as you go.
4WD Systems and Traction Technology
Passport uses Honda's i-VTM4 AWD with seven drive modes (Snow, Sport, Tow, Trail) on all trims. The 4Runner has part-time 4WD with Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control for low-speed off-road control, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee features Quadra-Drive II (full-time 4WD) with electronic limited-slip differential and Quadra-Trac II. Honda's torque-vectoring system works electronically. It sends more power to the wheel that needs it, keeping the vehicle stable when taking sharp corners or driving on slippery surfaces.
Technology and Driver Assistance Features
Passport has a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a wireless phone charger, and a TrailWatch camera system with front and side views. Safety tech includes a road departure mitigation system and adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow. 4Runner offers up to a 14-inch touchscreen, plus Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver aids, but no integrated smart assistants. The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with luxury tech like a 10.1-inch screen and surround-view cameras. Overall, Honda's tech focuses on being user-friendly and improving trail navigation, whereas Jeep has the latest innovation, and Toyota focuses on safety essentials.
Fuel Economy and Practical Adventure Considerations
Here's how they compare:
- Passport: 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway
- 4Runner: 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway
Which Off-Road SUV Wins the Trail Test?
Adventure buyers should consider their off-roading frequency and preferences: choose the 4Runner for rugged terrain, Passport for balanced capability and daily drivability, and Jeep for luxury plus moderate adventure. Want to experience the Passport for yourself? Visit Bisbee Honda of Danville to test drive today.