Reliability is one of the key factors consumers look for when purchasing their next car. Performance, luxury, and technology are all important, but none of them matter much if you spend more time at the dealership than on the road. Manufacturers like Toyota and Subaru have long been strong performers when it comes to durability, but with many manufacturers introducing new versions of popular models in recent years, there have been big changes to reliability ratings for 2026.
To find out which model took first place based on real owner reviews, we used predicted reliability data from Consumer Reports (CR). It is a reliable source because it maintains strict independence, buys all tested vehicles and rejects all corporate advertising. The results below come from owner comments covering 17 potential trouble spots. All other vehicle data came from the respective manufacturers.
The Honda Passport 2026
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CR Predicted Reliability Score: 97/100
And the winner for 2026 is the Honda Passport. Bucking the trend of new models dropping their reliability ratings during the first year or two, the newly redesigned Passport has come out on top, far surpassing its predecessor in overall reliability and moving straight into the top spot, not just in its class, but across all segments.
The Passport name was originally used on a range of body-on-frame SUVs from the 1990s, but was discontinued in favor of the larger Pilot. It returned in 2019, sharing its basic design with the three-row Pilot SUV, but with a shorter body and only two rows of seats. The formula proved popular and the Passport underwent a complete redesign in 2026, gaining a beefier chassis and suspension and an off-road-biased Trailsport trim that makes the most of these updates.
The outgoing model was a solid performer overall, but later year models suffered from nine-speed automatic transmission problems, electronic failures, and were subject to several recalls. The latest redesign has retained the stout 3.5-liter V6, but a new infotainment system, an improved 10-speed automatic transmission, and several other detailed changes have rectified the previous model’s problems.
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Honda Passport model year |
CR predicted reliability score out of 100 |
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2022 |
83 |
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2023 |
35 |
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2024 |
50 |
|
2025 |
33 |
|
2026 |
97 |
Owners of the new model commented positively on the driving experience and the new interior was praised for its spacious cargo space and spacious rear seats. The basic 3.5-liter V6 engine design has been around since 1999, but there have been major updates and changes over the years. Most owners have logged many miles without problems, but there have been some reliability issues in the past.
The latest version of this engine is markedly different from previous models, ditching the VTEC setup for dual overhead cams and a more advanced continuous cam timing system. This updated engine now makes 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque and is a smooth and willing power unit, although city fuel economy is not a particular strong point.
However, this development of older, more proven technologies is partly why the Passport scored so highly in predicted reliability. Unlike other manufacturers, Honda has not adopted a smaller displacement turbocharged engine for this model, and that is much better.
Passport vs. Rivals:
toyota
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Make and model |
CR predicted reliability score out of 100 |
|
Toyota Corona Signia |
77 |
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Chevrolet Blazer |
47 |
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Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport |
43 |
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Nissan Murano |
41 |
|
Mazda CX-70 |
32 |
Taking a look at a selection of mid-size SUVs from other manufacturers shows just how right Honda is with the Passport formula. The Toyota Crown Signia was launched in 2025 and offers excellent fuel efficiency and a very luxurious interior. However, despite using several proven Toyota technologies under the skin, its score of 77/100 is well below the Passport’s result. That said, it’s still commendable and much better than what the rest of the field has achieved.
While the Chevrolet Blazer offers a sporty drive and has the option of a naturally aspirated four-cylinder turbocharged V6, it had issues with build quality and electronic issues in the car, resulting in a low reliability score of 47/100. Models like the luxurious new Mazda CX-70 fared much worse, and this was partly due to the introduction of new, unproven technology and drivetrain software issues.
kirk bell
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The Honda Passport certainly isn’t the most advanced, fastest, best-handling or most luxurious SUV in its class, but it offers just the right mix of space, capability and practicality that buyers in this segment are looking for. This should certainly help sales volumes in the short term, but it’s the overall reliability that will keep it popular with buyers for years to come. If you are looking for a very capable and durable SUV, then the Honda Passport should be at the top of your list.
This story was originally published by Autoblog on May 29, 2026, where he first appeared in the Characteristics section. Add Autoblog as Preferred source by clicking here.
