A truly unique competitor in its segment, the comfortable and spacious Honda Ridgeline does things its own way. The four-wheel independent suspension, front-wheel-drive (on lower trims), and the smooth 3.5-liter V6 engine combine to make this the best on-road truck. With outputs of 280 hp and 262 lb-ft, there’s enough power to make smooth, efficient progress. A new nine-speed automatic transmission is now fitted to all models.
The range starts with the base Sport model. It gets 18-inch gray-painted alloy wheels, a dual-action tailgate, and a clever in-bed lockable trunk. The Honda Sensing suite of safety features encompasses adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and forward collision warning. The cloth-covered seats feature manual-adjustment, plus you also get tri-zone automatic climate control, an eight-inch touchscreen, and a seven-speaker audio system. One level up is the RTL and, like the Sport, FWD is standard and AWD is optional. This trim introduces power-adjustable front seats (with a ten-way power driver’s seat), heated front seats, leather upholstery and a one-touch power moonroof.
The RTL-E builds upon the RTL’s features and adds a 540-watt premium sound system, a blind-spot monitor, parking sensors front and rear, and Honda’s satellite-linked navigation system. Driver comfort is improved with a heated steering wheel and a two-position memory system. Finally, there’s the range-topping Black Edition trim - it gets an aggressive look thanks to 18-inch black alloy wheels, Black Edition exterior trim, and a Black Edition leather interior.
As is typical for a truck, the Honda's optional extras are focused on tough exterior styling enhancements and a range of accessories for those with active lifestyles. The Adventure Package beefs up the styling with additions like a sport grille, 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, fender flares, and black running boards. It goes for $3,372. The Interior Cargo Package costs $1,194 and introduces features like in-bed storage dividers and a rear underseat storage system. An Outdoor Essentials Package comprises red door sill trim, crossbars, black roof rails and more for $2,399. Two Utility packages are available with more accessories such as crossbars and a low profile hood air deflector - the pricier of these costs $2,074. Worthwhile standalone options on the Sport include a rear underseat storage system for $135, back-up parking sensors at $500, and a wide range of typical truck accessories like a bed extender and bike attachments.