Honda Ridgeline

We like to tell our customers that Honda has something for everyone; while we are sure every car company out there says that, with Honda, it is actually true. Not only do you find an amazing selection of sedans and SUVs to meet just about every need, but you also have fantastic vehicles like the Honda Ridgeline, a midsize truck designed for daily driving, getting work done, and having an adventure. This is the perfect example of how Honda works to meet the needs of a wide range of drivers, and they have been doing this for as long as they have been in operation. The Honda Ridgeline first hit the scene in the 2006 model year, and for nearly 20 years it has been an essential pickup for many drivers, delivering on a promise of impressive power in a modest package.

Development of the Ridgeline began all the way back in 2001, and Honda spent several years letting their engineers and designers create something truly impressive. One of the most remarkable aspects of the Ridgeline is that its first generation ran from its launch in 2006 all the way through 2014; you do not often see a single generation for a vehicle last so long, but it tells you a lot about the impressive quality and capability of the original Ridgeline design. During that period, Honda delivered a couple of facelifts for the Ridgeline—first in 2009, then again in 2012—but the basic engineering and underpinnings remained the same, creating a fantastic truck that drivers can count on year after year.

With the launch of the second-generation Ridgeline in 2017, Honda showcased all that it had gleaned over the preceding decade with a remarkable midsize truck designed for a broader range of uses. Whether you are looking for something that's perfect for hitting the trail on the weekend or you need to be able to navigate crowded city streets on your way to a job site, the Ridgeline is up to the task. Following a facelift for the second-generation Ridgeline with the 2021 model year, this powerful pickup looks better than ever and continues to be a favorite for many drivers. All it takes is a few minutes behind the wheel to understand why and to realize that Honda understands the needs of truck owners.

MSRP: $39,750 ^[a]

Horsepower (hp): 280

Max. Towing (lbs): 5,000

Max. Payload (lbs): 1,583

With the 2012 model year, the Honda Ridgeline continues its first generation, but it receives an impressive facelift with a number of major updates to bring it more in line with other modern vehicles. One of the biggest parts of this facelift is a new grille, which might seem pretty minor, but quite a few critics had complained about the grille on the Ridgeline since its release, making this a visual update that is sure to please. New tail lights and similar elements have also come along for the ride with this update, creating a more dynamic and exciting overall look while refreshing the feel and aesthetics of the Ridgeline.

Powering the 2012 Ridgeline is a 3.5L V6 engine that delivers 250 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque; improvements to the overall aerodynamics of the 2012 model have also boosted fuel economy slightly and created a more rewarding driving experience. One of the biggest updates with the refreshed 2012 model is the introduction of a new Sport trim for the Honda Ridgeline. The Sport boasts numerous upgrades inside and out, including improved audio options—such as controls mounted on the steering wheel—along with a sleek blackout exterior that includes a black honeycomb front grille and surround, 18-inch black alloy wheels, and similar details. This is a great year for the Ridgeline that showcases the ways in which Honda builds on what they have done to improve and innovate.

After such a lengthy first generation, you probably expect Honda to go all-out in delivering their first all-new Ridgeline in a decade—and this is exactly what they have done. The fully redesigned second-generation Honda Ridgeline for 2017 is a vision of upgrades, improvements, and innovation that far surpass what we expected. One of the biggest aspects of the Ridgeline’s redesign is utilizing Honda’s global light truck platform (the same used for the Honda Pilot SUV), allowing development to be easier and quicker. Just about every part of the Ridgeline was improved and strengthened, including a beefier frame and sturdier chassis, with reduced weight for superior performance. From the outside, the Ridgeline looks better than ever, and the new approach to its design has created more interior space for passengers and cargo.

Powering the Ridgeline is a 3.5L V6 engine that delivers a solid 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, which is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that ensures a smooth driving experience with snappy, responsive acceleration. The coil-spring independent rear suspension on the all-new Ridgeline provides a comfortable ride that feels more like a luxury sedan or SUV than a rugged pickup, but you still get plenty of power and capability to go anywhere you need. Inside the fully updated interior, you will find a standard 5.0-inch infotainment display, with an 8.0-inch touchscreen display available. When paired with the available eight-speaker sound system—including truck bed audio that is perfect for tailgating—you have a pickup that was designed to be driven and enjoyed all week long.

This is an interesting model year for the Honda Ridgeline—it is not a full update or refresh, but it includes a number of important upgrades and changes that are worth discussing. The 2020 model year marks the last of the first offerings for the second generation, with a facelift coming in 2021, but Honda has not simply rested on their laurels with it. For one thing, the previously standard six-speed automatic transmission has been replaced by a new nine-speed automatic on every model; this provides an incredibly responsive driving experience that feels great while accelerating or going uphill, ensuring every moment behind the wheel is rewarding.

Trim levels for the 2020 Honda Ridgeline have been simplified with the elimination of the previously-starting trim, the RT, making the popular Sport trim the new standard. The mid-level RTL-T trim has also been cut, making it easier to determine your preferred outfit. With its new starting trim, every Honda Ridgeline model now comes with the 8.0-inch infotainment display standard, which was previously an available option. Inside, the 2020 Ridgeline is refined with comfortable seating—including one of the roomiest backseats in its class—and superior materials used throughout. Safety features are also taken to a new level for 2020 as the Honda Sensing suite—which includes a Forward Collision Warning and Collision Mitigation Braking—is now standard.

For the 2021 model year, Honda gave the Ridgeline a well-deserved makeover and refresh for its second generation, which continues strong with the 2023 model. The visual impact of this update is immediately apparent, as the Ridgeline looks and feels bolder and more aggressive than ever before. A wider track and broader stance are a big part of this new, stronger look, along with a revised front end that is visually striking and instantly compelling. The 280-hp V6 engine with its nine-speed automatic remains in the 2023 Ridgeline, which is beyond suitable since this has been one of our favorite truck engines ever since we first felt its responsive acceleration and excellent handling.

 Inside the 2023 Ridgeline, Honda has taken a simple approach: improve where there was room for it, and don't try to fix anything that wasn't broken. You will find the same impressive level of comfort and quality throughout the interior, including spacious seating, excellent materials, and plenty of extra room for storage. Available options like heated front seats and a heated steering wheel take things even further, while the improved 8.0-inch infotainment system is easy to use, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can still get a fantastic 540-watt premium audio system with eight speakers, including a subwoofer, plus Honda’s truck-bed sound system that uses actuators to turn the cargo bed itself into a massive speaker. And since Honda Sensing is still standard in every model, you get a Collision Mitigation Braking system, Adaptive Cruise Control, and much more in any Ridgeline you choose.

It's easy to see that Honda believes in offering something for every driver—and here at Ralph Honda, we believe in helping every driver find that something. This starts with the amazing team of salespeople we've assembled, which ensures you have someone working closely with you as you look at different Honda Ridgeline options to find the truck that best meets your needs. We'll listen to what you're looking for, answer all your questions, and explore the possibilities Honda offers so that you get a vehicle with everything you've been looking for. 

With one of our financing experts by your side, figuring out the right financing solution becomes easy, and we'll help you find a loan or lease with great terms to meet your needs, ensuring you can take home the vehicle you want. Perhaps best of all, our certified service center and Honda parts department are here for your long-term support, so you always know where to turn whenever you need maintenance or repairs. Call or visit us at Ralph Honda today to learn more, and we'll ensure you get the truck—or car, SUV, or minivan—that you've been looking for.

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^[a] MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for complete details.