The Ridgeline won the Truck of the Year Award from Motortrend in 2006 because of the out of the box thinking that really make this new truck great. The Ridgeline is far from a standard work truck and this is not what Honda had intended to build. The Ridgline does offer an all wheel drive system that allows for a constant 4 wheel drive performance, unfortunately this also equates to a substantial loss in the mileage department. The ridgeline is a also a little behind the leader of the pack in towing capability, the low tow weight limits may affect some, but the target buyer for the Ridgeline is not a person looking for a hard working truck, but those who are looking for a vehicle that offers car like handling and has a very flexible storage solution for moving some big objects from time to time.
This compact sized truck may be overpriced, but it does bring the quality and craftsmanship that Honda has become known for, to a real truck. The Ridgeline has to fixing to do, but offers a strong package right out of the gate.
The Range
Bodystyle: Truck
Engines: 3.5L V-6
Transmissions: 5-speed automatic
Models: RT, RTS, RTL, RTL with Navigation
What's New
The Ridgeline has received no major upgrades since a revision in 2009 and remains unchanged for 2011. Honda is rumored to be considering canceling the Ridgeline after this year.
Exterior
Unibody construction a short bed with sloping walls means the Ridgeline has a look all its own. Features like the drop down/swing out tailgate, lockable in-bed trunk, and power folding mirrors also make it unique.
Interior
The roomy interior is loaded with standard Honda features though and instrumentation the styling has a decidedly rugged twist. Gear changes are come via Honda's only column shifter. Navigation is only available with RTL models.
Performance & Handling
The Ridgeline powertrain consists of a 250-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 linked to a 5-speed automatic transmission powering all four wheels via Honda's Variable Torque Management (VTM) system. Unibody construction and independent suspension means the Ridgeline drives like car. Too bad it also hauls like one: maximum payload and towing capacities of 1100 pounds and 5000 pounds are useful, but below the competition.
Safety
Three point seat belts are standard for all passengers as is traction/stability control. Outboard passengers have side curtain airbags, while the driver and front passenger have dual stage front and front side airbags.
EPA Fuel Economy
15 mpg city/20 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Car like handling
- Flexible storage options
You Won't Like
- V-6 power, V-8 fuel economy
- Limited towing/payload capacity
Sum Up
Solid, unorthodox, not a player
If You Like This Vehicle
- Chevrolet Colorado
- Ford Ranger
- Nissan Frontier
- Toyota Tacoma