This Upgraded Honda Passport Concept Actually Looks Pretty Tough

The latest Honda Passport is already a significant upgrade over its predecessor. When I drove the TrailSport model through the mountains of Puerto Rico, it proved to be capable, comfortable, and thoroughly impressive all-around. For this year’s SEMA show, Honda is taking its rugged crossover even further.

Honda Racing (HRC) gave the Passport major upgrades to both its exterior and performance. The ruggedized crossover features a matte Thermal Orange paint job with a contrasting black roof and custom wheels, along with redesigned bumpers that improve approach and departure angles.

Additional lighting—including fog lights, side camp lights, a rooftop light bar, ditch lights, and rear chase lights—boosts visibility on the trail. HRC also added an 8,000-pound winch and an integrated air compressor, making this Passport ready for serious off-road adventures.

The aluminum skid plates have been extended for extra underbody protection—now shielding the center bearing, prop shaft, and rear drive unit—while new front and rear dampers pair with a custom exhaust system. The Passport also rides higher thanks to a 60-millimeter (about 2.4-inch) suspension lift, and the tires feature a one-inch wider diameter than stock.

HRC didn’t stop with the exterior. Inside, the cabin gets blue Alcantara inserts, HRC badging, and new accessory mounting panels throughout. It’s unlikely we’ll see a TrailSport this extreme in Honda showrooms anytime soon—but it’s a build worth dreaming about.

And Honda isn’t done yet. At this year’s SEMA show, the automaker is also showing off a rally-ready Civic concept, the Integra Type S HRC concept, and a selection of race cars and trophy trucks.