2009 Honda Ridgeline: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2009 Honda Ridgeline gets the first meaningful update of its first generation. The main change is a broad mid-cycle refresh with revised styling, a slightly stronger V6, and more standard equipment rather than a full redesign.
About the 2009 Honda Ridgeline
1st generation (2006-2014), mid-cycle refresh year
Honda positioned the Ridgeline as a smarter, easier-to-live-with pickup for people who wanted truck usefulness without the rougher manners of a traditional body-on-frame truck. Its big selling points were a roomy five-passenger cabin, a smoother ride from its integrated body/frame design and independent suspension, and signature utility features like the dual-action tailgate and lockable in-bed trunk. For most buyers, the Ridgeline’s appeal was everyday comfort plus genuinely useful cargo solutions.
The RT is the straightforward work-and-family trim, with four-wheel drive, a dual-action tailgate, a lockable in-bed trunk, and a trailer hitch. The RTS has more everyday comfort, including dual-zone climate control and a power driver’s seat, while the premium RTL has leather, heated front seats, and a moonroof.
What changed, by category
2009 Honda Ridgeline specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, VTEC, 3.5 Liter | V6, VTEC, 3.5 Liter | V6, VTEC, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 15 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 250 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 247 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 5000 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 36.4 in | 36.4 in | 36.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Honda Ridgeline fully redesigned?
No. The 2009 Ridgeline is a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation truck, not a full redesign. It receives updated styling, modest mechanical revisions, and additional standard equipment.
What engine does the 2009 Honda Ridgeline have?
The 2009 Ridgeline has a 3.5-liter V6 producing 250 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a five-speed automatic with revised gearing and Honda’s VTM-4 four-wheel-drive system.
What safety equipment changed on the 2009 Honda Ridgeline?
Active front head restraints and daytime running lights became standard on the 2009 Ridgeline. These were part of the lineup-wide mid-cycle update.
What utility upgrades did the 2009 Honda Ridgeline receive?
Every 2009 Ridgeline received an integrated Class III trailer hitch, and the bed gained two additional tie-down cleats for a total of eight. The dual-action tailgate and lockable in-bed trunk remained signature features.
What are the main reasons to consider a 2009 Ridgeline over a 2008?
The 2009 Ridgeline has refreshed styling, slightly more powerful V6 output, revised transmission gearing, added standard safety equipment, a standard Class III trailer hitch, and two more bed tie-down cleats. It is an update of the same first-generation design rather than an all-new truck.