2019 Honda RidgelineReview
Overview
The thing that makes the Ridgeline stand out from its competitors is the fact it is built on the same platform as the Honda Pilot and Acura MDX, giving the truck a much more car-like feel on the road. This means the Ridgeline does not punish you on rough road surfaces, plus drivers can confidently take sharp turns a little faster in the truck. Of course with this advantage comes a few drawbacks. Chief among them is the fact that the Ridgeline cannot tow or haul as much weight as some trucks, but for many people this will never be a problem.The Ridgeline’s engine does well around town, but under hard acceleration when merging on the freeway or climbing mountain passes it does begin to struggle. Still, the Ridgeline is a very livable truck that won’t break the bank when it comes to keeping it fueled and in good running condition. The fact is that for many people, the Ridgeline is as much truck as they will ever need.
Positives
Crossover-based pickup exudes refinement; Many novel built-in features; Spacious interior
Considerations
All-wheel drive lacks low-range; Towing capacity lower than most competitors
Verdict
The Honda Ridgeline is a midsize four-door sport utility truck aimed at people who want a light truck that handles more like a car. Honda first introduced the Ridgeline with the 2006 model year, while the latest generation began with the 2017 model year.
What's New for2019
Virtually unchanged for 2019
Trims and Pricing
Honda makes the Ridgeline truck in four different trim levels: RT, Sport, RTS and RTL. RT models come with standard features like a power-sliding rear window, 17-inch steel wheels, 60/40 split folding rear seats, storage compartments under the rear seats, air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, trip computer, cruise control and a sound system with six speakers and a CD player.Sport models come with rear privacy glass, 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, foglights and an auxiliary jack for the sound system.RTS models come with 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, rear privacy glass, a power-adjustable driver’s seat and a sound system with seven speakers and a six-CD changer.Top-of-the-line RTL models come with 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, leather upholstery, a sunroof, heated front seats ambient lighting, satellite radio and an AC power outlet. Optional equipment includes Bluetooth connectivity and a navigation system.A Ridgeline comes with a factory invoice of about $27,800 for an RT model and an MSRP of about $30,300. Sport models come with an MSRP that adds about $1,000 while the RTS adds another $2,000. Top-of-the-line RTL models have an MSRP of about $3,000 more than the RTS. As a member you can expect to receive an upfront price with guaranteed savings. You also enjoy as a no-hassle shopping experience when you visit your Certified Dealer.
Engine and Performance
Honda offers the Ridgeline with only one engine option, a 3.5-liter V6 that puts out a maximum 250 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive are also standard. Honda’s all-wheel-drive system favors sending power to the front wheels, but drivers can engage the system so power is evenly split between the front and rear wheels at speeds of up to 18 mph. The Ridgeline’s towing capacity tops out at 5,000 pounds.The EPA estimates fuel economy at 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, with a combined 17 mpg.
Interior
Honda keeps the interior colors of the Ridgeline pretty conservative with either grey or beige trim and upholstery colors of beige, grey or black. The gauges are quite large and the driver should not have any trouble reading them, no matter the driver’s height. Switches and buttons are grouped together by their function, making it easy to remember where to reach, and can be easily used while driving.Interior space is excellent. The Ridgeline is extra-wide, meaning all five occupants have plenty of hip and shoulder room. Legroom in the front and rear seats is enough to accommodate even tall adults. Unlike in many other trucks, getting into and out of the Ridgeline does not require much climbing, making it an excellent vehicle for drivers who often transport children.Despite the simplicity of the Ridgeline’s interior, there are some ingenious features. The bottom of the rear seats fold up and against the seatbacks, providing a flat load floor for transporting large items inside the truck’s cab. Storage compartments and cup holders are plentiful. The front console’s bottom section slides forward several inches, providing an open box for placing all kinds of items you need to quickly grab.Some might think the Ridgeline’s bed is too small. Measuring at 5 feet long and 50 inches wide, the available payload is sufficient for many people’s needs without being too much. A great feature of the bed is the lockable compartment that sits underneath toward the rear, which acts like a type of trunk you can use to stow all kinds of items. The truck’s tailgate is innovative since you can open and close it like a regular truck’s tailgate, or you can swing it open on a hinge on one side like a door.
