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- Highs Spacious and well-appointed cabin, superb ride and handling, lots of innovative features.
- Lows Lags behind rivals in towing capacity, only one bed length, frustrating infotainment system.
- Verdict The Ridgeline blends crossover comfort with pickup-truck capability in a neat mid-size package.
Overview
Named one of our 10Best Trucks/SUVs, the unconventional Honda Ridgeline combines a car-like ride, truck capability, and innovative features. The Ridgeline’s one-size-fits-all body style benefits passengers with its spacious and comfortable cabin. A trick cargo box incorporates a dual-action tailgate, an in-bed trunk, and an available unique audio system for parking-lot parties. Subdued styling and a laundry list of optional safety technology separate the Ridgeline from the rest, but it’s already in a class of its own.
What's New for 2017?
All new for 2017, the updated Ridgeline uses car-style unibody construction and independent rear suspension, resulting in a smooth and controlled ride. The last-generation Ridgeline was nearly sales-proof. The 2017 model has been dialed back to a traditional trucky look; its proportions have grown to improve passenger and cargo space; and it’s been engineered to be one of the most fuel-efficient mid-size pickups on the road.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- RT: $30,450
- RTS: $32,490
- Sport: $33,990
- RTL: $34,755
- Black Edition: $43,945
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Honda thinks Ridgeline owners will be happy with a single powertrain choice, and fortunately, it’s a good one. The 280-hp 3.5-liter V-6 makes 262 pound-feet of torque with its six-speed automatic. The engine feels smooth, and throttle response is especially receptive when you call for hard acceleration. It can do everything its rivals can, except when it comes to towing. An untraditional pickup in many ways, the Ridgeline surprises from behind the wheel. It makes buzzing around town or zipping down a backroad a breeze. Its coil-sprung independent rear suspension contributes to a car-like ride quality not available with the leaf-sprung, solid-axle setups used by the competition. Body lean in corners is minimal, and small bumps are barely noticeable.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Ridgeline’s interior is tops in its class in terms of practicality and comfort. Expertly laid out and extremely functional, the cabin also claims the most spacious rear seat. Starting with the RTL, interiors are trimmed in leather and have power-adjustable driver's and passenger’s seats. Class-exclusive automatic tri-zone climate control is standard on the RTS trim and above. Inventive cargo solutions, such as an in-bed trunk, an extra-wide cargo floor, and several interior storage devices, differentiate the Honda from its more pedestrian rivals. The Ridgeline offers only one bed length, 5.3 feet, which lines up with competitors’ short beds.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Ridgeline’s standard infotainment system is a 5.0-inch non-touch display with Bluetooth connectivity, a charging port, and a seven-speaker stereo. The available 8.0-inch touchscreen HondaLink infotainment system is the Honda's weak link. It’s hard to control, the features are frustrating to use, and it’s not very responsive. The top trims are pumped up with a 540-watt audio system with eight speakers, as well as an innovative truck-bed audio system that will liven up any tailgate party. It uses actuators that vibrate the cargo box, turning it into a huge speaker.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Honda Ridgeline’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.