In 2024, the Honda CR-V secured its place as the fifth best-selling vehicle in the United States—an impressive achievement considering it did so without offering a rugged, adventure-focused trim level that many competitors have embraced. For the 2026 model year, however, that’s changing. Honda is enhancing its lineup by bringing its TrailSport branding to its most popular vehicle: the CR-V. This addition aims to attract buyers looking for a more off-road-capable appearance without compromising the vehicle’s well-known practicality and efficiency.
While the TrailSport trim has previously been seen on models like the Honda Passport, 2026 marks the first time it will be available on the CR-V—and exclusively on the CR-V Hybrid. Interestingly, this also makes it the first TrailSport variant to feature a hybrid powertrain. As Honda continues to expand its electrified offerings, with hybrid and electric vehicles now making up about 30 percent of its total sales, it's likely that hybrid TrailSport models will become a growing trend in the brand’s future.
The CR-V TrailSport stands out from the rest of the lineup with a number of visual and functional upgrades aimed at giving it a tougher, more adventurous look. Both the front and rear lower bumper trims have been reshaped to resemble functional skid plates, lending the SUV a more off-road-ready appearance. Orange accents adorn the TrailSport badges, while gloss black treatments enhance the door handles, window trim, and rear spoiler. Buyers can also opt for a distinctive Ash Green metallic paint color, previously seen on the Passport TrailSport.
To further emphasize its outdoor-oriented appeal, the CR-V TrailSport comes equipped with 18-inch Shark Gray alloy wheels, designed with recessed valve stems to protect them from damage during light off-road excursions. These wheels are wrapped in Continental CrossContact ATR all-terrain tires, which add grip on loose surfaces. However, unlike the Passport TrailSport, the CR-V variant does not benefit from upgraded suspension or real skid plates—suggesting it’s more about style than serious off-road performance.
Under the hood, the CR-V TrailSport shares the same 204-horsepower twin-motor hybrid system found in other CR-V Hybrid models. Inside, it features TrailSport-branded headrests, rugged rubber floor mats, and unique amber ambient lighting in areas like the cupholders, overhead console, and footwells to create a signature atmosphere.
All 2026 CR-V models will now come standard with at least a 9-inch touchscreen—an upgrade from the previous 7-inch unit—alongside wireless phone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TrailSport trim further enhances comfort and convenience by including a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, a moonroof, a power tailgate, and the premium 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster typically reserved for higher-end trims like the EX-L.
The 2026 Honda CR-V, including the new TrailSport Hybrid, is expected to arrive in dealerships this spring. While official pricing hasn’t yet been announced, it’s likely that more details will be released in the coming weeks as the launch date draws closer.