For years, the midsize truck market has been dominated by big names like Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevrolet Colorado. Yet, one truck consistently carves out its own loyal following: the Honda Ridgeline. Unlike traditional body-on-frame pickups, the Ridgeline uses a unibody design that gives it SUV-like comfort while still offering impressive utility.
Now, with the Honda Ridgeline 2025 set to make waves, more and more drivers are asking the same question: why should I stick with a traditional truck when the Ridgeline offers the best of both worlds?
In this in-depth review, we’ll cover everything about the Ridgeline—from Honda Ridgeline specs and interior design, to Honda Ridgeline towing capacity, mpg, price, and reviews. We’ll also explore common Honda Ridgeline problems and why, despite them, this truck is becoming the go-to choice for smart buyers.
A Brief History of the Honda Ridgeline
The Honda Ridgeline debuted in 2005 as an unconventional alternative to traditional pickups. Its goal was clear: deliver truck versatility without sacrificing ride comfort. Unlike the rugged, bouncy nature of body-on-frame trucks, the Ridgeline’s unibody construction made it ride more like a crossover SUV.
Over the years, Honda refined the formula. The second generation, launched in 2017, introduced sharper styling, more capability, and advanced tech. Today, with the Honda Ridgeline 2025, the truck continues to offer a rare blend of refinement, innovation, and practicality.
Why the Honda Ridgeline Stands Out
So, why is everyone suddenly switching to the Ridgeline? Let’s break it down.
-
SUV-like Comfort – Thanks to its unibody construction, the Ridgeline feels more like driving a Honda Pilot than a pickup truck.
-
Innovative Features – From its dual-action tailgate to the in-bed trunk, it’s packed with clever solutions.
-
Everyday Practicality – It’s perfect for families and urban dwellers who need a truck without the compromises of a heavy-duty pickup.
-
Reliable Performance – Backed by Honda’s legendary reliability, it avoids many of the headaches that plague traditional trucks.
Honda Ridgeline Specs
When shopping for trucks, performance always comes first. Here’s a look at the Honda Ridgeline specs that make it a top contender:
-
Engine: 3.5-liter V6
-
Horsepower: 280 hp
-
Torque: 262 lb-ft
-
Transmission: 9-speed automatic
-
Drivetrain: Standard all-wheel drive (AWD)
-
Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
-
Payload: Around 1,583 lbs
The Ridgeline may not tow as much as full-size trucks, but for most buyers, its Honda Ridgeline towing capacity is more than enough for trailers, boats, and small campers.
Honda Ridgeline MPG
One of the key reasons people are switching is fuel economy. The Honda Ridgeline mpg figures are impressive for a midsize truck:
-
City: 18 mpg
-
Highway: 24 mpg
-
Combined: 21 mpg
While rivals like the Tacoma and Frontier can guzzle more fuel, the Ridgeline’s efficient V6 and smooth 9-speed transmission make it one of the most economical trucks in its class.
Honda Ridgeline Interior
Step inside the Honda Ridgeline interior, and you’ll immediately notice why it’s winning buyers over. Unlike traditional trucks with stiff, utilitarian cabins, the Ridgeline offers a premium feel.
Key Interior Highlights
-
Seating for five with generous legroom
-
High-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces
-
Tri-zone automatic climate control
-
8-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
-
Available leather upholstery and heated/ventilated seats
-
Roomy backseat (one of the best in its class)
-
Clever storage solutions, including under-seat storage
The Honda Ridgeline interior feels closer to an SUV, making it a fantastic choice for families who need comfort on road trips without giving up the utility of a pickup.
Honda Ridgeline 2025
The Honda Ridgeline 2025 continues refining Honda’s successful formula. While not a complete redesign, expect updates such as:
-
A refreshed exterior with more aggressive styling
-
Updated infotainment with a larger touchscreen
-
Improved driver-assist features via Honda Sensing
-
More standard safety tech across trims
-
A TrailSport edition for those who love off-road adventures
With these updates, the Ridgeline stays competitive in a rapidly changing midsize truck market.
Honda Ridgeline Price & Trims
One of the most common search queries is the Honda Ridgeline price. Here’s what to expect for the 2025 lineup (estimated starting prices):
-
Sport: $40,500
-
RTL: $43,500
-
RTL-E: $46,500
-
Black Edition: $48,500
Compared to competitors, the Ridgeline sits in the mid-to-upper range, but its long list of standard features makes it worth the cost.
Honda Ridgeline Reviews
Looking at Honda Ridgeline reviews, it’s clear why many drivers are making the switch. Owners love:
-
Smooth, car-like ride
-
Comfortable cabin space
-
Clever features like the dual-action tailgate
-
Strong reliability record
Of course, there are some critiques:
-
Limited off-road capability compared to Tacoma TRD Pro or Jeep Gladiator
-
Higher starting price than some rivals
-
Fewer customization options (no long-bed or single-cab versions)
Still, most Honda Ridgeline reviews lean positive, with many owners calling it the perfect truck for “real life.”
Honda Ridgeline Problems
No vehicle is perfect, and it’s important to acknowledge potential Honda Ridgeline problems. While the Ridgeline is known for reliability, a few common complaints include:
-
Transmission hesitation in older models (largely improved in newer models)
-
Limited off-road ruggedness for hardcore adventurers
-
Some infotainment glitches reported in earlier trims
Thankfully, Honda has addressed many of these issues in newer models, making the Honda Ridgeline 2025 one of the most dependable trucks available.
Who Should Buy the Honda Ridgeline?
The Ridgeline isn’t for everyone—but it’s perfect for many. If you’re looking for:
-
A truck that drives like an SUV
-
Comfortable daily commuting with weekend utility
-
Enough towing and payload capacity for recreational use
-
Honda’s reputation for reliability
…then the Honda Ridgeline is an ideal choice.
Honda Ridgeline for Sale
If you’re looking for a Honda Ridgeline for sale, your best options are:
-
Certified Pre-Owned programs for added peace of mind
-
Honda dealerships with special lease or financing offers
-
Online platforms like CarGurus, Autotrader, or Cars.com for competitive deals
Given its popularity, the Ridgeline holds value well, but shopping around can still save you thousands.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, people are switching to the Honda Ridgeline because it’s practical, comfortable, and innovative. It bridges the gap between SUV luxury and truck capability, making it the perfect option for modern drivers who don’t need a heavy-duty workhorse but still want the versatility of a pickup.
The Honda Ridgeline 2025 takes everything that made the truck great and adds even more refinement, safety, and tech. With competitive pricing, strong fuel economy, and glowing reviews, it’s no wonder this truck is winning buyers over.
If you’re in the market for a new midsize truck, it might be time to forget the old-school options and discover why the Ridgeline is becoming the smart buyer’s choice.
Chevrolet Malibu 2025: The Most Underrated Sedan of the Year