Discover Why the Latest Honda Ridgeline Stands Out in the Market
The latest Honda Ridgeline blends truck utility with crossover comfort, featuring a versatile cargo bed, advanced technology, and a refined ride. Ideal for daily driving, it excels in interior space and safety, though it’s less suitable for off-road or heavy towing needs. With multiple trims and innovative features, the Ridgeline appeals to drivers seeking a practical and comfortable midsize pickup.
The newest Honda Ridgeline offers a versatile mix of features, seamlessly blending qualities of midsize trucks and crossover SUVs. Its standout feature is a unique cargo area consisting of an underfloor storage compartment and a compact but wide truck bed. Built with a unibody design, this pickup prioritizes on-road comfort and towing ability over traditional off-road prowess, while displaying some truck-like aesthetic elements. Read on to explore more about Honda's latest offering:
Honda Company Overview
Headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is a global manufacturer specializing in automobiles, motorcycles, and power equipment. Its best-selling models in many markets include the Accord, Civic, Pilot, and the premium Acura lineup.
Engine and Driving Dynamics
Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, the Ridgeline comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. It offers quick throttle response with smooth engine performance. Compared to rivals with leaf-sprung, solid-axle setups, the Ridgeline’s coil-sprung independent rear suspension provides a superior ride quality, minimizing bumps and body lean during cornering. The electric steering feels well-calibrated for everyday driving.
Regarding towing, the Ridgeline has a maximum capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is lower than some competitors like the Chevy Colorado and Ford Ranger by about 2,000-2,500 pounds. Its payload capacity hovers around 1,600 pounds, comparable to similar trucks.
Interior and Cargo Capacity
The Ridgeline’s interior sets itself apart with exceptional comfort and practicality. The cab features durable plastic at lower dash levels, but the overall materials are of high quality. Rear passenger space is the most spacious among its segment peers. Front seats can fold down, and the low-profile center console enhances accessibility. Its cargo bed measures 5.3 feet in length, matching other midsize trucks, with a volume of 34 cubic feet. Notably, it can carry a full sheet of 4x8-foot material flat on the bed thanks to a 50-inch space between the wheel wells.
Infotainment and Connectivity
All models feature an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with improved usability thanks to a physical volume knob and clear icons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. Some trims offer an in-bed audio system, perfect for tailgate parties.
Available Trims
The Ridgeline is designed for drivers seeking comfort and fuel efficiency. It offers four trims, starting with the base Sport at $39,435. Upgrades include the RTL, RTL-E, and the Black Edition, with the latter offering premium features like heated front seats, leather upholstery, and power-adjustable front seats.
Safety Ratings and Features
The Ridgeline earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with perfect scores in frontal and side crash tests and four stars for rollover. The IIHS rated it as Acceptable in small overlap frontal crash tests, with good scores elsewhere. However, it may not suit those needing heavy off-road or towing capabilities, as it’s more tailored for everyday comfort and practicality.
