Explore the New 2026 Honda HR-V in LA: Tech-Savvy Upgrades

5 Blog Highlights The 2027 Honda Passport is starting to arrive at Honda dealerships, with the Passport RTL starting at $45,195 MSRP before destination and handling. The 2027 Passport TrailSport gets a completely reengineered suspension with 9.65 inches of ground clearance, an increase of 1.38 inches over the 2026 TrailSport. TrailSport models gain tougher styling with amber LED hood scoop lights, larger-looking fender flares, and a redesigned lower front fascia. TrailWatch™ and a heated steering wheel are now standard on Passport TrailSport, bringing features that were previously limited to TrailSport Elite. Drivers shopping for a 2027 Honda Passport in Los Angeles, CA can follow availability at Honda of Downtown Los Angeles while exploring current Passport inventory and related Passport information. The 2027 Honda Passport Is Reaching New Heights Honda has already taken its rugged Passport SUV to the next level. The refreshed 2027 Honda Passport is beginning to arrive at dealerships, and the biggest changes are focused on the adventure-ready Passport TrailSport and TrailSport Elite models. Honda has added more ground clearance, redesigned key suspension parts, upgraded exterior styling, and made useful TrailSport features standard. For drivers in Los Angeles, CA and across SoCal, those updates make the Passport even more interesting. The Passport can handle everyday city driving, freeway commutes, family trips, and weekend adventures outside Los Angeles. TrailSport models take that formula further for drivers who want to explore dirt roads, campgrounds, mountain routes, and other places where extra ground clearance can make a real difference. Honda of Downtown Los Angeles already has extensive Passport content for local shoppers, including information on the previous-generation 2026 Honda Passport and current Honda Passport inventory in Los Angeles. Now there is even more Passport capability to talk about. 2027 Passport TrailSport Gets a Major Suspension Upgrade The biggest change for 2027 is underneath the SUV. Honda completely reengineered the suspension on the Passport TrailSport and TrailSport Elite rather than simply installing taller springs. The result is 9.65 inches of ground clearance, which is 1.38 inches more than the 2026 Passport TrailSport. Honda says the redesigned suspension improves: Ground clearance Suspension articulation Approach angle Departure angle Breakover angle Off-road ride quality On-road handling and ride characteristics That added height gives SoCal drivers more room underneath the SUV when exploring uneven roads and trails. Honda lists the following changes compared with the 2026 TrailSport: Ground clearance: 9.65 inches, up from 8.27 inches Approach angle: 25 degrees, up from 23 degrees Departure angle: 25 degrees, up from 23 degrees Breakover angle: 23 degrees, up from 20 degrees Honda says these improvements make the 2027 Passport TrailSport and TrailSport Elite its most off-road-capable SUVs ever. For Southern California drivers, that added capability can come in handy on weekend trips to the mountains, desert, campsites, and other destinations outside the city. Tougher New Styling for the 2027 Passport TrailSport The higher ride height is not the only thing that makes the new Passport TrailSport look tougher. Honda updated several exterior details for 2027. New styling features include: More pronounced front and rear fender flares A darker, reshaped lower front fascia Two amber LED hood scoop lights Passport’s distinctive amber daytime running lights Updated Blackout Package appearance Those new hood scoop lights give TrailSport models an easy-to-recognize look, especially when combined with the lifted stance and wider-looking fenders. The available Blackout Package also gets more aggressive for 2027. Honda says it now includes new black front and rear fascia treatments to match the package’s black 18-inch alloy wheels and Honda badges. For shoppers who want a Passport that looks ready for an adventure before it even leaves Downtown LA, the 2027 TrailSport makes a strong visual statement. TrailWatch™ Is Now Standard on Passport TrailSport Honda also gave the regular TrailSport more equipment for 2027. The TrailWatch™ camera system is now standard on Passport TrailSport. This feature was previously exclusive to the higher TrailSport Elite trim. TrailWatch™ can help drivers see areas around the vehicle that may be difficult to view from behind the wheel. That can be useful when navigating: Rocks Ruts Narrow trails Uneven terrain Tight parking situations The heated steering wheel also moves from TrailSport Elite to the standard equipment list on TrailSport for 2027. That might not matter much during a warm summer day in Los Angeles, but it can be a welcome feature on early-morning trips to Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, or other colder SoCal destinations. Smoke Blue Pearl Joins the Passport Color Lineup Honda is also updating the Passport color selection. For 2027, Smoke Blue Pearl joins the Passport lineup and replaces Obsidian Blue Pearl. The new color is available across Passport trims. Honda first introduced Smoke Blue Pearl on the 2026 Pilot, and it now gives Passport shoppers another rugged-looking exterior choice. Combined with the available Blackout Package, buyers have even more ways to give their Passport TrailSport a distinct look. V6 Power and i-VTM4® AWD Remain Standard Even with all the TrailSport upgrades, the Passport keeps the powertrain setup that helped define the current generation. Honda says the refreshed 2027 Passport lineup continues with standard V6 power and its torque-vectoring i-VTM4® all-wheel-drive system. The Passport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which Honda builds at its Alabama manufacturing facility. The 2027 Passport itself is also built exclusively at Honda’s Alabama Auto Plant using domestic and globally sourced parts. That combination makes the Passport ready for: Los Angeles freeway driving Mountain roads Camping trips Dirt and gravel roads Beach weekends Towing and outdoor recreation The current Passport generation has also been a strong seller for Honda. TrailSport models have represented more than 80% of Passport sales, showing how many buyers are choosing the more rugged versions. 2027 Honda Passport Price and Trim Levels Honda has also released pricing for the 2027 Passport lineup. The 2027 Honda Passport RTL starts at $45,195 MSRP, not including a $1,595 destination and handling charge. The 2027 Passport TrailSport starts at $49,995 MSRP before destination. Honda lists the lineup as: Passport RTL: $45,195 MSRP Passport RTL Towing: $45,895 MSRP Passport TrailSport: $49,995 MSRP Passport TrailSport Blackout: $51,495 MSRP Passport TrailSport Elite: $53,695 MSRP Passport TrailSport Elite Blackout: $55,195 MSRP All of these trims come with standard AWD. The TrailSport and TrailSport Elite are the models that receive the major lifted-suspension upgrades for 2027. Built for Daily LA Driving and SoCal Adventure One reason the Passport makes sense in Southern California is that it does not need to be an off-road-only SUV. It still needs to work Monday through Friday. That means handling: Stop-and-go Downtown LA traffic The 10, 110, 101, and 405 Grocery runs and family errands Airport trips Commuting Parking garages Then, when the weekend comes, a Passport TrailSport can head farther outside the city. Honda specifically designed the reengineered 2027 suspension to improve off-road capability while maintaining the on-road ride and handling drivers expect from the Passport. That balance is what makes the Passport different from an SUV built only around hardcore trail use. Passport Already Has a Strong Track Record The 2027 improvements build on a Passport generation that has already received plenty of attention. Honda of Downtown Los Angeles has covered the Passport in several previous articles. Families can read about the Passport in the dealership’s Honda Accord, HR-V, Passport and Odyssey family vehicle awards blog, which highlights the Passport’s mix of room and outdoor capability. The dealership has also covered the Passport as one of Honda’s recommended vehicles for younger drivers in its Safe Choices for Teen Drivers article. And for shoppers who want to see what is currently available, Honda of Downtown Los Angeles maintains a dedicated Honda Passport for sale in Los Angeles inventory page. Shop for a 2027 Honda Passport in Los Angeles, CA Honda announced on September 29, 2026 that the refreshed 2027 Passport had started arriving at Honda dealerships. Availability will vary by dealership and trim. If you are interested in a 2027 Honda Passport in Los Angeles, Honda of Downtown Los Angeles is a great place to follow local availability. The new Passport gives SoCal shoppers plenty to look forward to: Standard V6 power Standard i-VTM4® AWD Rugged TrailSport and TrailSport Elite models 9.65 inches of TrailSport ground clearance Improved off-road angles Standard TrailWatch™ on TrailSport Standard heated steering wheel on TrailSport New Smoke Blue Pearl paint Tougher exterior styling Available Blackout Package The 2027 Honda Passport TrailSport builds on an already rugged SUV and adds the capability many outdoor-focused drivers have been asking for. Whether your week is spent driving through Downtown Los Angeles or your weekend takes you far beyond the pavement, the latest Passport is designed to handle both. Visit Honda of Downtown Los Angeles to learn more about the 2027 Honda Passport, ask about incoming availability, and explore current Honda Passport offers in Los Angeles, CA. Honda of Downtown Los Angeles – LA’s Favorite Honda Dealer

5 Blog Highlights Google Gemini is now available in eligible Honda vehicles with Google built-in, adding a more natural and conversational hands-free assistant. Select Honda Civic, Accord, Prelude, CR-V, Prologue, Passport, and Pilot models can receive the Gemini upgrade. Drivers can use voice commands to get directions, make calls, send messages, play music, and control certain vehicle settings. The upgrade is available to thousands of Honda vehicles already on the road, not only newly purchased models. Drivers in Los Angeles, CA, and across SoCal can explore Honda vehicles with Google built-in at Honda of Downtown Los Angeles. A Smarter Voice Assistant Is Coming to Honda Vehicles Honda is making its connected vehicles even smarter. Honda recently announced that Google Gemini, an AI-powered voice assistant, is being added to eligible Honda vehicles equipped with Google built-in. Gemini replaces or upgrades the current Google Assistant experience. It is designed to understand more natural speech, follow longer conversations, and help drivers complete tasks without needing to use exact voice commands. The upgrade applies to select: Honda Civic models Honda Accord models Honda Prelude models Honda CR-V models Honda Prologue models Honda Passport models Honda Pilot models Honda says Gemini is becoming available in thousands of Honda vehicles with Google built-in. That means some current owners may gain access through an update instead of needing to purchase a new vehicle. For drivers in Los Angeles, CA, this technology can make everyday trips easier. Whether you are trying to avoid traffic on the 10, find a restaurant in Downtown LA, or send a message while keeping your hands on the wheel, Gemini is built to offer a more natural hands-free experience. What Is Google Gemini in a Honda? Google Gemini is a more conversational AI assistant that works through the vehicle’s Google built-in system. Drivers can start the assistant by: Saying, “Hey Google” Tapping the microphone or Gemini symbol on the screen Pressing and holding the voice-command button on the steering wheel Unlike older voice systems that often require a very specific phrase, Gemini is designed to understand normal conversation. You can ask detailed questions. You can also ask follow-up questions without starting over each time. Google says Gemini can follow a conversation and understand questions that are more complex than basic voice commands. For example, a driver could ask: “Find a coffee shop near my route.” “Which one has the best reviews?” “Navigate to the closest one.” Gemini can understand that each new question relates to the first request. That can make it easier to get useful information while staying focused on the road. What Can Honda Drivers Do with Google Gemini? Gemini works with compatible Google apps, vehicle features, and connected services. Depending on the Honda model, trim, setup, and data connection, drivers may be able to use Gemini to: Get driving directions Search for places along a route Make phone calls Send or reply to messages Play music or podcasts Adjust certain climate settings Control compatible vehicle features Ask questions and plan activities Google says drivers can use Gemini or Google Assistant for navigation, calls, music, messages, and certain vehicle controls without needing to open those apps by hand. For example, a driver might say: “Set the temperature to 70 degrees.” “Turn on my seat heater.” “Play my driving playlist.” “Call home.” “Send a message saying I’m stuck in traffic.” With Gemini, drivers may also be able to use more natural phrases, such as, “It’s hot in here,” instead of giving a direct climate-control command. Feature availability varies by vehicle. A Helpful Upgrade for Los Angeles Traffic Hands-free technology is especially useful for driving in Los Angeles. LA drivers often deal with: Stop-and-go freeway traffic Unexpected road closures Long commute times Crowded city streets Last-minute changes to a route Google Maps is already a major part of Google built-in. Gemini adds another layer by making it easier to ask for directions and information in normal language. A driver heading from Downtown LA to Santa Monica could ask for the fastest route. They could then ask whether there is a charging station, coffee shop, or restaurant along the way. Google built-in includes access to Google Maps and Google Play, along with Gemini or Google Assistant in compatible vehicles. This means drivers can access many connected features directly through the vehicle instead of depending only on a phone projection system. Some features require an active internet connection, vehicle data plan, phone hotspot, Google Account, or Bluetooth connection. Compatibility can also vary by model, language, and region. Which Honda Models Offer Google Built-In? Honda has expanded Google built-in across several popular cars and SUVs. The Gemini announcement includes select versions of the: Honda Civic Honda Accord Honda Prelude Honda CR-V Honda Prologue Honda Passport Honda Pilot Not every trim or model year includes Google built-in, so shoppers should review the equipment list for the exact vehicle they are considering. Honda first introduced Google built-in to the Accord lineup. It later expanded the technology to more vehicles, including the Prologue and other Honda cars and SUVs. At Honda of Downtown Los Angeles, shoppers can compare models and trims to find a Honda with the connected features they want. The dealership’s live 2026 Honda models blog already highlights available Google built-in across select Accord, Civic, and CR-V trims. Google Gemini in the Honda Accord Gray 2026 Honda Accord Front side hero view parked. The Honda Accord was the first Honda model in the United States to offer Google built-in. Google built-in has been available on select Accord trims with features such as: Google Maps Google Assistant Google Play Connected navigation Voice-controlled functions Gemini builds on that foundation by making the assistant more conversational. The Accord can be a strong match for Los Angeles drivers who want a comfortable sedan for commuting, family trips, and longer SoCal drives. Honda of Downtown Los Angeles has also featured the Accord in its 2026 Honda models now available in Los Angeles blog. Google Gemini in Honda SUVs Several Honda SUVs are included in the Gemini rollout. These include select CR-V, Prologue, Passport, and Pilot models with Google built-in. That gives Honda SUV shoppers access to smarter voice technology across different sizes and driving needs. Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V is a practical choice for commuting, family use, and weekend trips. Select trims offer Google built-in, allowing drivers to use compatible Google apps directly through the vehicle display. Drivers interested in Honda hybrids can also read the dealership’s New Hybrid Honda Models for Sale in Los Angeles guide, which includes the CR-V Hybrid, Accord Hybrid, Civic Hybrid, and Prelude Hybrid. Shop new Honda CR-V specials in Los Angeles! Honda Prologue The Prologue is Honda’s all-electric SUV and was one of the first Honda SUVs to include Google built-in. Honda announced that the Prologue would offer Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant directly through the vehicle’s infotainment system. Eligible Prologue models can now gain access to Gemini as part of the updated experience. Shop new Honda Prologue specials in Los Angeles! Honda Passport The Honda Passport combines everyday comfort with rugged SUV capability. Select Passport models with Google built-in are included in the Gemini rollout. Shoppers can also explore the dealership’s existing Passport content and local inventory through the Honda of Downtown Los Angeles. Shop new Honda Passport specials in Los Angeles! Honda Pilot The three-row Honda Pilot is another model included in the announcement. The dealership’s live 2026 Honda Pilot for sale in Los Angeles blog highlights its large touchscreen, family-friendly cabin, and modern technology. Gemini can make those connected features even easier to use through natural voice requests. Shop new Honda Pilot specials in Los Angeles! How Do Honda Owners Get Google Gemini? Google says the switch from Google Assistant to Gemini is optional for eligible vehicles. Drivers may see an on-screen invitation asking whether they want to use Gemini. Eligible owners can also check manually by opening: Settings Google Google Assistant Switch to use Gemini Drivers can switch back to Google Assistant later through the vehicle settings if they choose. To use Gemini, drivers may need: An eligible Honda with Google built-in A compatible language setting A personal Google Account An internet or data connection for online functions Bluetooth and notification access for calls or messages Drivers should complete setup while the vehicle is parked. Shop Honda Vehicles with Google Built-In in Los Angeles Google Gemini adds another useful feature to Honda’s growing lineup of connected cars and SUVs. It can help drivers: Speak more naturally Ask follow-up questions Get directions Find nearby places Send messages Make calls Control certain vehicle functions For drivers around Downtown LA, Los Angeles, CA, and across Southern California, these features can make a busy drive feel simpler and more connected. Honda of Downtown Los Angeles has live content covering many of the models included in the Gemini announcement, including: 2026 Honda models available in Downtown Los Angeles New hybrid Honda models for sale in Los Angeles 2026 Honda Pilot now for sale in Los Angeles 2026 Honda Prelude Hybrid now for sale in Los Angeles Visit Honda of Downtown Los Angeles to compare Honda Civic, Accord, CR-V, Prologue, Passport, Pilot, and Prelude models with the technology and features that fit your SoCal lifestyle. Google built-in, Google Gemini, connected apps, vehicle controls, and other features vary by model, trim, model year, region, language, subscription, and data connection. Some features require setup. Always confirm vehicle equipment and compatibility before purchase. Honda of Downtown Los Angeles – LA’s Favorite Honda Dealer

5 Blog Highlights The all-new 2026 Honda Passport was recommended as a new vehicle for teen drivers by IIHS and Consumer Reports. Used Honda Civic models from 2014–2025 and used Honda Accord sedan models from 2013–2025 were also recommended for teen drivers. Honda says early use of Honda Sensing® means more than 10 million Honda vehicles in the U.S. offer its suite of safety and driver-assist features. For families in Los Angeles, CA and across SoCal, this gives you strong options whether you want a new SUV or a used sedan for a teen driver. At Honda of Downtown Los Angeles, shoppers can explore the new Honda Passport, used Honda Civic, and used Honda Accord all in one place. Big Safety News for Los Angeles Families If you are helping a teen driver choose the right vehicle, Honda just gave families another big reason to pay attention. According to a new Honda press release, IIHS and Consumer Reports recommended three Honda models for teen drivers: the all-new 2026 Honda Passport as a new-vehicle pick, plus used Honda Civic and used Honda Accord models as smart used-vehicle choices. That matters for families in Los Angeles, CA because teen-driver shopping usually comes down to a few big priorities: Safety Value Reliability Easy everyday driving Features that help support better driving habits Honda checks those boxes in a big way, and this latest recognition makes the Passport, Civic, and Accord even easier to recommend for families across Downtown LA and the greater SoCal area. Which Honda Models Were Recommended for Teen Drivers? Honda says the recommended models include: 2026 Honda Passport as a recommended new vehicle for teen drivers Used Honda Civic coupes and sedans from model years 2014–2025 Used Honda Accord sedans from model years 2013–2025, including hybrids from 2014 forward That gives families a nice range of choices. Some shoppers want a brand-new SUV with today’s latest safety tech. Others want an affordable used car that still brings a strong reputation for crash protection, reliability, and easy ownership. Honda gives you both paths. Why the 2026 Honda Passport Makes Sense for Teen Drivers The all-new 2026 Honda Passport was the Honda new-vehicle pick named in this teen-driver recommendation. Honda says Passport was included because of its strong safety story, including advanced safety tech and top crash-test performance. Honda’s recent IIHS safety release says the 2026 Passport earned TOP SAFETY PICK+, the highest IIHS safety accolade. For parents, that is a big deal. For teen drivers, the Passport offers a lot to like: Higher ride height for better visibility SUV space for school, sports, and weekend trips Modern driver-assist tech Honda reputation for long-term dependability And for families in Los Angeles, the Passport also fits real life well. It works for: School drop-offs Busy freeway driving Weekend trips around SoCal Carrying gear, backpacks, and sports equipment Honda of Downtown Los Angeles already has live Passport content on the site, including a Passport shopping page and a previous blog about the all-new Passport for LA drivers. That makes this teen-driver safety news a natural follow-up for local shoppers. Used Honda Civic: A Smart Teen Car for Los Angeles 2023 Honda Civic Sedan The used Honda Civic remains one of the best-known choices for first-time drivers, and Honda says 2014–2025 Civic models were recommended by IIHS and Consumer Reports for teen drivers. That range matters because it gives families a lot of flexibility on price, mileage, features, and trim level. The Civic makes sense for teen drivers because it is: Easy to park Easy to drive Efficient for daily commuting Widely trusted for reliability Available in many model years and price points For life in Los Angeles, CA, those strengths matter even more. A Civic is a great fit for: Getting to class Part-time jobs City driving Commuting across town Saving money on fuel and ownership costs Honda of Downtown Los Angeles has a dedicated used Honda Civic for sale in Los Angeles page, and the dealership’s used-car blog already highlights its broad used inventory and helpful used-car shopping process. Used Honda Accord: More Room, More Comfort, Still Teen-Friendly 2023 Honda Accord. Honda also says used Honda Accord sedans from 2013–2025 were recommended for teen drivers, including hybrid versions from 2014 forward. The Accord is a great option for families who want something a little larger than a Civic. Why some parents may prefer a used Accord for a teen: More passenger room More trunk space Comfortable highway ride Strong reputation for safety and reliability Available across a wide range of used model years For SoCal families, the Accord can be a great teen vehicle for longer commutes, shared family use, or drivers who want a midsize sedan that still feels easy to live with every day. Honda of Downtown Los Angeles also has a dedicated used Honda Accord for sale in Los Angeles page, which makes it easy for local shoppers to browse real inventory while keeping this blog connected to live site pages. Honda Sensing® Helps Strengthen the Honda Story One of the most important parts of Honda’s press release is the role of Honda Sensing®. Honda says that because it began applying Honda Sensing® early, more than 10 million Honda vehicles in the U.S. now offer this suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. That matters for teen drivers because families often want extra support features that can help reduce risk and improve awareness on the road. Depending on model year and trim, Honda Sensing® can include features like: Collision Mitigation Braking System™ Road Departure Mitigation Lane Keeping Assist System Adaptive Cruise Control For parents, features like these can add peace of mind. For teen drivers, they can help create a better margin for error while they build experience behind the wheel. Why This News Matters in Los Angeles and SoCal Teen-driver shopping in Los Angeles can feel complicated. Families here often need a vehicle that is safe, affordable, and easy to drive in real-world conditions like: Heavy traffic Freeway merging Tight parking Long commutes Busy intersections That is why this Honda recognition matters. It gives local shoppers a clearer path. If you want new, the 2026 Honda Passport is a strong SUV option. If you want used, the Honda Civic and Honda Accord give you two proven sedan choices with many model years to consider. And because Honda of Downtown Los Angeles carries both new Honda vehicles and used Honda inventory, families can compare multiple options in one place instead of starting over at different stores. Final Thoughts Honda’s latest teen-driver recognition is easy to understand: it gives families three smart choices at different budget levels. The 2026 Honda Passport stands out as a strong new choice for parents who want a modern SUV with top safety credibility. The used Honda Civic and used Honda Accord stand out as trusted used choices for families who want more flexibility on price while still focusing on safety and reliability. For families in Los Angeles, CA and across SoCal, that is very good news. If you are shopping for a teen driver, Honda of Downtown Los Angeles is a great place to start comparing your options in person. Honda of Downtown Los Angeles – LA’s Favorite Honda Dealer