Honda Ridgeline

The Ridgeline is a midsize four-door pickup with room for up to five passengers and a 5.3-foot bed. It’s the only truck in Honda’s lineup and is positioned between the Passport (a midsize SUV) and the Odyssey (a minivan) in terms of size. Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks, the Ridgeline utilizes unibody construction, giving it more car-like driving dynamics. Properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The Ridgeline received a full redesign in 2017, which brought a more refined ride, improved fuel efficiency, and more modern tech and safety features. Available trims include the RT, Sport, RTL, RTL-T, and RTL-E, and Black Edition. The base RT provides essential features such as a rearview camera, push-button start, and a seven-speaker audio system, and the Sport, which replaced the RT as the base model in 2020, offers similar amenities. The RTL adds premium touches such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The RTL-T includes an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The RTL-E trim further offers a premium audio system and advanced safety features, while the Black Edition is equipped similarly but with unique black exterior and interior accents.

Under the hood, the Ridgeline employs a 3.5-liter V6 engine. Initially generating 250 horsepower and paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, it received a significant update in 2017, increasing output to 280 hp and upgrading the gearbox to a nine-speed unit. All versions come standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Honda has not offered any electric or hybrid versions.

With the introduction of the second-generation Ridgeline in 2017, Honda added an available 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which became standard across all trims starting in 2020. The Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist, became standard on all trims beginning with the 2021 model year. Prior to that, these features were available only on higher trims, such as the RTL-E and Black Edition.

We recommend that used Ridgeline buyers prioritize second-generation models (2017-present) due to their improved ride quality, fuel efficiency, and updated tech features. Within this generation, the RTL-E trim offers a good balance of comfort, convenience, and safety features. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the 2020 Sport trim with optional all-wheel drive still offers standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, providing a solid feature set at a lower price point.