Jody Suzuki Recognized as 2026 Automotive News Rising Star for Honda SUV Leadership

Torrance, Calif. – Honda senior vehicle product planner Jody Suzuki has been named a 2026 Automotive News Rising Star, recognizing her leadership in shaping the automaker’s growing lineup of rugged, adventure-oriented SUVs.

Suzuki was recognized for her pivotal role in the development of the all-new 2026 Honda Passport and Passport TrailSport, which achieved record U.S. sales in 2025. Her work has helped reinforce Honda’s focus on combining everyday practicality with enhanced off-road capability.

As the product planning lead for the new Passport and the refreshed 2026 Honda Pilot, Suzuki took a hands-on approach to understanding the needs of adventure-focused customers. She began participating in off-road expeditions herself, gaining firsthand experience that helped her better understand the challenges and expectations faced by owners seeking greater capability from their vehicles.

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That real-world perspective played a key role in the development of the 2026 Passport TrailSport, which has become one of the most capable off-road SUVs in Honda’s lineup. The model earned its first Car and Driver 10Best award, while U.S. Passport sales increased by nearly 70%. TrailSport models accounted for more than 80% of total Passport sales, underscoring strong consumer interest in the adventure-oriented variant.

Suzuki’s career with Honda began in 2010 at American Honda Finance Corporation, where she gained valuable insight into customer purchasing behavior and dealership finance operations. In 2017, she moved to American Honda Motor Co., Inc., joining the product planning team with a focus on accessories.

Her experience across finance and product planning has helped shape a customer-driven approach to vehicle development, allowing her to translate real-world customer needs into products designed to deliver greater capability, confidence and versatility.

The annual Automotive News Rising Star program recognizes emerging automotive industry leaders under the age of 45 who demonstrate exceptional talent, innovation and commitment to addressing key challenges facing the industry.

Suzuki is among 18 professionals recognized in the 2026 class, representing a broad range of automotive disciplines, including executive leadership, engineering, mobility, purchasing and design.