The Honda Ridgeline was first introduced in 2005 and has evolved into one of the most distinctive midsize trucks on the market due to its unibody construction (a single-piece body and frame design) instead of the traditional body-on-frame design used in most pickup trucks. This results in a smoother, more comfortable ride, but the Ridgeline is still able to perform the tasks expected from a truck, such as towing and carrying heavy loads.
Engine and Performance: The latest Honda Ridgeline is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing around 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD) comes standard, while front-wheel drive (FWD) is available on certain trims. The truck can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it capable of hauling trailers, boats, or small campers.
Fuel Efficiency: The Ridgeline is known for offering competitive fuel efficiency for a midsize truck. The EPA estimates that the Honda Ridgeline achieves around 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the AWD version. The FWD model offers slightly better fuel economy at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Interior and Comfort: The Ridgeline is recognized for its comfort and spacious interior, offering a well-appointed cabin that feels more like an SUV than a traditional truck. It seats up to five people with ample space for passengers in both the front and rear seats. The truck features high-quality materials, a user-friendly infotainment system, and plenty of tech options such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a large touchscreen display. The rear seats are also designed to fold up, providing additional interior cargo space when needed.
Innovative Features: One of the standout features of the Honda Ridgeline is its in-bed trunk—a lockable storage compartment located within the bed of the truck. It offers a unique and practical solution for storing tools, equipment, or even ice and drinks for tailgating. Additionally, the Ridgeline offers a dual-action tailgate, which can open downward like a traditional tailgate or swing out to the side for easier access to the bed.
The Honda Ridgeline comes equipped with a variety of safety features, ensuring that both drivers and passengers are well-protected. Honda's commitment to safety is evident in the Ridgeline, with the inclusion of several advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) as standard.
Honda Sensing Suite: The Honda Sensing suite of safety features comes standard on most trims of the Ridgeline and includes:
Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Detects potential collisions with the vehicle ahead and applies the brakes if needed to prevent or reduce the severity of a collision.
Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane without signaling and can provide steering assistance to keep the vehicle in its lane.
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Provides steering input to help keep the truck in its lane.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, making highway driving more relaxed and convenient.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Warns the driver of an impending collision with a vehicle ahead.
Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR): Displays road signs such as speed limits and stop signs on the vehicle's display.
Other Safety Features:
Blind Spot Monitoring System: Alerts the driver when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Warns the driver of approaching vehicles from the side when reversing out of parking spaces.
Multiple Airbags: The Ridgeline is equipped with front, side, and curtain airbags, providing comprehensive protection for passengers.
Rearview Camera and Parking Sensors: The truck includes a rearview camera to assist with backing up and parking, along with parking sensors that detect obstacles.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents the wheels from locking during emergency braking, helping to maintain control of the vehicle.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle during slippery conditions or when making sharp turns.
While the Honda Ridgeline is marketed primarily as a family and lifestyle vehicle, it also has practical commercial applications due to its unique blend of truck utility and SUV-like comfort.
Fleet Use: The Ridgeline is suitable for businesses that need a truck that can handle light-duty tasks while providing comfort for employees or clients. Its car-like ride quality and spacious interior make it an attractive option for companies in the service industry or those needing a multi-purpose vehicle for transporting employees, equipment, or tools.
Rental Fleets: The Ridgeline is a popular choice for rental car agencies, especially in regions where customers want the versatility of a pickup truck but prefer a smoother driving experience. It is particularly popular in areas where customers need a truck for outdoor activities, home improvement projects, or light towing.
Transport and Delivery Services: The truck's bed and towing capacity make it a practical option for businesses that need to transport goods, equipment, or materials. Whether for small deliveries, landscaping services, or contracting work, the Ridgeline offers the capability to handle commercial tasks while still offering the comfort of an SUV for the driver.
Outdoor or Utility Services: Due to its rugged capabilities and innovative features like the in-bed trunk, the Ridgeline is a great option for outdoor service businesses, such as those involved in landscaping, construction, or outdoor events. The truck's ability to carry tools, equipment, and other gear while still offering comfort makes it an excellent choice for professionals in these fields.
The Honda Ridgeline is available in several regions, though its availability is primarily focused on markets where pickup trucks are popular.
North America: The Honda Ridgeline is most widely available in the U.S. and Canada, where it competes in the midsize pickup truck segment against competitors like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Ford Ranger. The Ridgeline has carved out a niche for itself due to its car-like driving experience, innovative features, and practical capabilities for everyday use and light-duty work.
Asia: The Ridgeline is not widely available in most Asian markets, as pickup trucks are less commonly sold in many regions compared to larger SUVs or compact sedans. However, the truck is available in Japan, where it serves as an option for those seeking a versatile and family-friendly pickup.
Europe: The Honda Ridgeline is not available in most European markets, where smaller cars and SUVs are more common. The European market generally favors compact and midsize SUVs over larger pickups due to higher fuel costs and stricter environmental regulations.
Other Markets: The Ridgeline is sold in limited markets in Latin America, the Middle East, and other regions where pickup trucks are in demand for both commercial and recreational use. However, its availability varies depending on local demand and government regulations regarding vehicle size, emissions, and fuel efficiency.