Honda Ridgeline Review: The Unconventional Truck That Gets a Lot Right

Overview

The Honda Ridgeline is a unique offering in the crowded pickup truck market, standing out with its unibody construction and a focus on comfort and utility over brute strength. Designed for the modern driver who needs versatility without sacrificing daily drivability, the Ridgeline is a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess and innovative thinking.

Honda Ridgeline

Base Price: $39,900
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Drivetrain: AWD
Horsepower: 280 HP
Torque: 262 Nm
Battery: N/A
Make: Honda
Model: Ridgeline
Segment: Midsize Pickup Truck

Pros

• + Comfortable and car-like ride quality
• + Innovative features like in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate
• + Spacious and well-appointed interior

Cons

• – Less towing capacity compared to traditional trucks
• – Some might find the styling too unconventional
• – Limited off-road capability

What’s New

• ✓ Updated infotainment system with improved interface
• ✓ New exterior color options for 2023
• ✓ Enhanced safety features including more standard driver-assist technologies

Exterior Design

The Honda Ridgeline has always been a departure from the traditional pickup truck design, and the latest iteration continues this trend. Its sleek, aerodynamic profile is more reminiscent of a crossover than a rugged truck, which can be polarizing for some truck enthusiasts. Up front, the bold grille and angular headlights give it a distinct look, while the sculpted sides add a touch of sophistication. The overall design focuses on functionality without sacrificing style, making it one of the more visually appealing options in its class.

One of the standout features of the Ridgeline’s exterior is its innovative dual-action tailgate, which can open traditionally or swing out to the side, providing easier access to the bed and making loading and unloading cargo a breeze. The in-bed trunk, cleverly integrated into the truck bed, offers additional secure storage for tools, gear, or even drinks for a tailgate party. Overall, the Ridgeline manages to balance form and function, making it a practical choice for those who value versatility.

Interior & Technology

Step inside the Honda Ridgeline, and you’re immediately greeted by a spacious, comfortable cabin that feels more like an SUV than a truck. The high-quality materials and thoughtful layout create an inviting atmosphere, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seating is supportive, and the rear seats can fold up to accommodate larger items, further emphasizing the Ridgeline’s practicality.
Also Read: Nissan GT-R Nismo Review: A Supercar That Has Stood the Test of Time.

Honda has equipped the Ridgeline with a host of modern technology features, making it a competitive choice against other vehicles in its segment. The infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring a large touchscreen display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. This allows drivers to easily access their favorite apps and navigation tools while on the go. Additionally, the available premium audio system provides a rich sound experience, making long drives more enjoyable.

Tech Highlights

• ✓ 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• ✓ Standard Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies
• ✓ Wireless phone charging capability

Performance & Powertrain

Under the hood, the Honda Ridgeline is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, which provides responsive shifts and contributes to the truck’s overall refined driving experience. The Ridgeline is available with either front-wheel drive or Honda’s capable all-wheel-drive system, ensuring good traction in various driving conditions.

While the Ridgeline’s towing capacity is rated at a respectable 5,000 pounds, it’s important to note that this figure is lower than many traditional body-on-frame competitors. However, for most users who are not reliant on maximizing towing capacity, the Ridgeline’s performance is more than sufficient for everyday tasks such as hauling camping gear or a small boat. The unibody construction also lends itself to a comfortable ride, with less body roll and a more car-like handling experience than traditional pickups.

Driving Impressions

Driving the Honda Ridgeline is a refreshing experience, especially for those used to the more rugged feel of traditional trucks. The ride quality is exceptionally smooth, with the suspension adeptly absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. This makes it an excellent choice for daily commuting as well as weekend adventures. The steering is light and responsive, providing good feedback without feeling disconnected from the road.

On the highway, the Ridgeline is quiet and composed, making long journeys enjoyable. The V6 engine provides adequate power for merging and passing, and the 10-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly. While the Ridgeline may not be the go-to choice for serious off-road enthusiasts, it handles light trails and unpaved roads with confidence, especially when equipped with the all-wheel-drive system.

Safety & Efficiency

Safety is a strong suit for the Honda Ridgeline, which comes equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety features as standard across all trims. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation. These technologies work together to enhance overall safety and provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

In terms of efficiency, the Ridgeline is competitive for a midsize truck, offering an EPA rating of around 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. This makes it one of the more fuel-efficient options in its class, appealing to those who want to minimize fuel costs without compromising on utility.

Trims & Pricing

Verdict

The Honda Ridgeline is an unconventional choice in the pickup truck market, but it excels in areas that matter most to everyday users: comfort, technology, and practicality. With its unique design, thoughtful features, and impressive driving experience, it’s a solid option for those who need a versatile truck without the traditional capabilities.
Also Read: Nissan GT-R Nismo Review: A Supercar That Has Stood the Test of Time.

Torque Feed’s Verdict: The Honda Ridgeline redefines what a pickup truck can be, offering a blend of comfort and utility that is hard to beat in its segment.