McGrath Honda Of St. Charles - Which SUV offers better real-world AWD capability around Naperville, IL — 2026 Honda Passport or 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE?
You’re not the only one asking this. When shoppers compare midsize SUVs for school runs, trailheads, and weekend getaways, AWD capability becomes a deciding factor. Two clear front-runners emerge: the rugged, two-row 2026 Honda Passport and the boldly styled, three-row 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE. Both serve as confident family vehicles, but their AWD philosophies and supporting features diverge in meaningful ways—differences that matter when pavement gives way to gravel, or when you need clean traction pulling away from a rain-slicked side street.
Below, we break down each model’s approach to traction, trail-readiness, and daily drivability so you can choose with confidence. Along the way, we’ll connect the dots for drivers who split time between errands, weekend soccer gear, and occasional escapes to forest preserves and state parks. If your question centers on which one feels more planted and predictable when the road turns unpredictable, you’re in the right place.
AWD systems compared: i-VTM4® vs. HTRAC
Honda’s Second-Generation i-VTM4® AWD system is the Passport’s calling card. It actively distributes torque front-to-rear and side-to-side across the rear axle to help rotate the vehicle through turns and settle the chassis over uneven surfaces. You notice this most on gravel or wet leaves, where the Passport feels unflustered and easy to place. Hyundai’s HTRAC AWD is also designed for changing conditions, and it works impressively for on-road confidence and light trails. The distinction shows up in how the AWD behaves at low speeds and on mixed traction. The Passport’s system pushes power where it’s needed without drama; HTRAC does a solid job but relies more on wheel-speed differences and braking to manage slip, which can feel different when the surface gets knobby or rutted.
If you’re comparing test-drive notes, look for how the back end follows the front end through a loose, off-camber turn and how the SUV responds mid-corner if you add a touch more throttle than intended. The Passport’s torque-vectoring character helps the rear stay engaged without scrubbing wide, which promotes confidence in the driver’s seat.
Trail hardware and visibility that matter
AWD isn’t the whole story—chassis tuning and visibility are critical. The Passport backs up i-VTM4® with an available Off-Road Tuned Suspension that keeps the body calm over corrugations and mild whoops. Better still, available TrailWatch™ adds camera views at low speeds to help you see rocks, ruts, and drop-offs near the wheels. That’s a meaningful advantage when you’re inching along a narrow path or backing toward a boat launch with neighbors waiting their turn.
SANTA FE XRT brings additional ground clearance and all-terrain tires—excellent on gravel and firmly within the “adventure-lite” lane. On higher trims, features like Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor are great for parking and lane changes, and they add confidence in tight spaces. Still, TrailWatch™ is designed for the kinds of low-speed, off-highway moments that many families encounter but few SUVs truly address. If your weekends include trailheads or unpaved driveways, that visibility difference is tangible.
Packaging: two rows vs. three rows
The Passport’s two-row layout means your cargo area is ready without folding an extra set of seats. That’s practical convenience—mountain bikes, coolers, or flat-pack furniture fit without a Tetris session. For many households, quick-load flexibility is more valuable than occasional third-row seating. The SANTA FE’s standard third row is a big win if you regularly carry extra passengers, and the cabin tech is sophisticated across the board. Both interiors feel modern; the distinction is simplicity and space vs. seating capacity. Choose according to your routine and who’s riding along.
For trail-curious families, the Passport’s accessory ecosystem helps tailor the SUV to your gear. HPD™ Rock Sliders, an accessory Front Scuff Plate, MOLLE Panel Set, and a Tailgate Table Shelf support real-world use without a trip to the aftermarket. That’s a clean, warranty-minded way to get set up for bikes, fishing gear, or campouts.
On-road manners and everyday confidence
On suburban boulevards and tollway commutes, both SUVs feel settled and quiet. The SANTA FE’s turbocharged engine is punchy and pairs with a responsive transmission, while the Passport’s powertrain tuning complements its AWD character—smooth pull from low speeds, composed acceleration at highway merges, and relaxed cruising. If you’re often loaded with cargo or gear, the Passport’s calm, torque-forward feel is a highlight. Families who want an upscale, tech-rich three-row cockpit will like the SANTA FE’s additional seating and luxurious touches on upper trims.
Quick decision guide
Here’s a structured way to align each SUV with your needs.
- Frequent gravel, trailheads, or unpaved drives: Passport’s i-VTM4® traction and available Off-Road Tuned Suspension plus TrailWatch™ are hard to beat.
- Regularly need seven seats: SANTA FE’s standard third row and high-end creature comforts make it the practical pick.
- Want an easy path to adventure-ready gear: Passport’s HPD™ Rock Sliders, Front Scuff Plate, MOLLE panels, and Tailgate Table Shelf streamline setup.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is the Passport’s AWD always active like a traditional 4WD?
i-VTM4® is a smart, on-demand AWD system that can proactively distribute torque before wheelspin, including side-to-side at the rear axle, for natural-feeling traction in changing conditions.
Does SANTA FE’s HTRAC handle winter and rain well?
Yes—HTRAC is effective for wet and slippery roads and, in trims like XRT, performs well on gravel and light trails. It prioritizes confident on-road stability, which many drivers appreciate.
Which feels more prepared for repeated off-pavement use?
The Passport. Its torque-vectoring AWD, available Off-Road Tuned Suspension, and TrailWatch™ visibility give it a deeper bench of trail-focused tools—plus accessories to protect and organize your gear.
For shoppers who want a confident, do-more SUV, the Passport brings hardware and tech that pay off beyond the pavement—without sacrificing day-to-day comfort. One visit to McGrath Honda Of St. Charles is usually all it takes to feel the difference in how the Passport puts down power and keeps its cool. We’re serving Naperville, Aurora, and Schaumburg, ready to help you compare trims and set up a route that mirrors your routine so you can make the call with clarity.