2023 Honda Ridgeline Review

The mid-size Ridgeline pickup truck from Honda is unique. The Ridgeline is a unibody vehicle, which means it lacks a separate frame, in contrast to conventional body-on-frame pickup rivals like the Chevy Colorado or Toyota Tacoma. When you drive it, it is clear that it is based on the unibody, three-row Honda Pilot SUV. The Ridgeline's unconventional structure combines the towing and cargo bed capabilities of a light truck with the driving comfort of an SUV. The Ridgeline nonetheless makes a great impact in the concrete jungle, even though this reduces its off-road potential in comparison to the most aggressive models from its rivals. The Ridgeline has a nice 280 horsepower V-6 and a nine-speed automatic transmission. It is only available as a four-door crew cab with a five-foot bed. All-wheel drive is required.

Modifications for 2023

For the new model year, the 2023 Ridgeline doesn't undergo any revisions.

Which Trim To Purchase?

Traditional body-on-frame pickups that offer sufficient towing and competent off-roading have oversaturated this market for mid-size trucks. The Ridgeline, on the other hand, caters to people who prefer a more luxurious and economical substitute. While the most expensive versions come with the fanciest features, we believe the RTL offers the best balance of desirable features and affordability. The Ridgeline RTL also comes with more equipment as standard than the less expensive Sport trim level. These include power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and a leather-trimmed interior.

Power & Performance

The only drivetrain consists of a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 280 horsepower, 262 pound-feet of torque, a nine-speed automated transmission, and standard all-wheel drive. When you request hard acceleration, the throttle response is extremely reresponsive,nd the engine feels smooth. The Ridgeline is a surprising pickup in many ways when you're in the driver's seat. It is courteous and feels very capable when driving. The competition's leaf-sprung, solid-axle configurations do not provide the same level of ride quality as its coil-sprung independent rear suspension does. Small bumps and minimal body lean in corners are barely perceptible. The electric steering that is powered by electricity feels fitting. The Ridgeline's only noticeable dynamic flaw is its braking performance. It has a relatively long stopping distance from 70 mph to zero, and we felt the brake pedal was too soft and had too much movement in everyday driving.

Towing Capabilities

The Honda Ridgeline pickup truck can haul some weight, but not much. All Ridgelines have all-wheel drive as standard, and their 5000-pound weight rating is 2000–2500 less than that of competitors like the Chevy Colorado and Ford Ranger. The Ridgeline has a payload capacity of about 1600 pounds, which is less than the Ranger's maximum but roughly on par with the Colorado.

Fuel Economy

At 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the interstate, the Ridgeline's engine is the most fuel-efficient V-6 in its class. An all-wheel-drive Ridgeline obtained 28 mpg on our 75 mph fuel-economy route, which mimics real-world highway driving and is a part of our rigorous testing process.

Interior & Comfort

The Ridgeline's interior is the most functional and comfortable in its class. Below the dash level, the Honda has hard plastics, just like the majority of other mid-size trucks. Other than that, the materials are great. Of all the mid-sized competitors, the rear passengers will have the most space. Both of the front seats' fold-down armrests are a pleasant addition, especially given how low the center console is in relation to them. The only bed length available for the Honda pickup is 5.3 feet, matching the short beds of its rivals. Its second-lowest volume is 34 cubic feet. Its locking, weather-tight in-bed trunk, which is situated beneath the bed's floor and is accessed from above, serves as a remedy for this disparity. Its volume is 7.3 cubic feet. One more benefit: the Ridgeline is the only mid-size truck with 50.0 inches between its wheel wells that can accommodate a sheet of four-by-eight-foot building material lying flat on the bed floor. Inside, there are more clever features. When flipped up, the 60/40-split back seat has space for a full-size bicycle. Unfortunately, it could be challenging to carry bulky objects because the back doors don't open very widely.

Infotainment

A touchscreen infotainment system with an 8.0-inch display is standard on every Ridgeline. Honda claims that it is now easier to use than its predecessor, thanks to the physical volume knob and the screen icons. We haven't had an opportunity to personally test this assertion or the upgraded Display Audio system, though. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included as standard on the Ridgeline. Additionally, some models may come with an in-bed audio system that will make any tailgate party more entertaining. It transforms the cargo bed into a massive speaker by using vibrating actuators.

Safety

A variety of driver-assistance technologies are also included as standard in the Honda pickup truck. Visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for more details regarding the Ridgeline's crash test results. Important safety elements include:

Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking

Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

Standard adaptive cruise control

Warranty & Coverage For Maintenance

Honda offers a reasonable powertrain and limited warranties, and like many of its rivals, the Ridgeline includes a free scheduled maintenance program.

Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles

Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles

Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for two years or 24,000 miles

Competitive Cars

Honda Ridgeline vs. Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is more of a workhorse and appeals to different people than the Ridgeline. There are more combinations available on the Tacoma, including extended and crew cab body styles, 5- and 6-foot beds, two- and four-wheel drive, and four- and six-cylinder engines, for a starting price that is approximately $11,000 less than the Toyota. Superior off-road capability is made possible by the Tacoma's body-on-frame structure, low-range transfer case, and additional ground clearance. Additionally, the Toyota has greater payload and towing capacities. The Ridgeline, on the other hand, has a cabin that looks more upscale and is significantly more pleasant to drive over rough terrain. Its handling is also crisper and nearly as smooth. Both are respectable possibilities in this class, albeit distinct.

Honda Ridgeline vs. Ford Maverick

One of the newest models in the class, the tiny Ford Maverick, uses a similar design to the Ridgeline. The Maverick is a four-door crew cab unibody truck that is only offered in this body form. Similar payload capacity, a smooth ride, and agile handling are offered by both trucks. The Maverick has several benefits, including a reduced starting price ($20,995) and a more economical selection of four-cylinder engines, including a hybrid model that is extremely fuel-efficient. Nevertheless, the Honda continues to have a competitive advantage in terms of interior quality, seating capacity, bed size, and towing ability. Both are viable choices in this section.