Honda Ridgeline Meets Real-World Needs, But For Heavy Towing Look Elsewhere

Originally introduced in 2005 as a 2006 model, the mid-sized Honda Ridgeline represents a significant departure from traditional pickup truck design.

Not only are its high, sloped bed rails both unconventional and controversial, but so are the use of a transversely-mounted engine, unibody construction, and fully-independent suspension. "Real truck" owners frequently dismiss it as a wimpy, underpowered, overpriced minivan-with-a-bed.

It turns out that many of these unusual elements work to the Ridgeline's advantage. The one piece, unibody construction yields excellent safety ratings. Since the 2009 model year, the Honda Ridgeline has received the IIHS's highest crash ratings while earning it a Top Safety Pick. For 2017, models equipped with LED headlights earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating - the only pickup truck to do so.

What Sets Ridgeline Apart

Other unique features of the Ridgeline that set it apart from traditional pickup trucks are a dual action tailgate that is hinged on both the bottom and left side along with a lockable, weather-resistant trunk located in the bed that also houses the spare tire. The four-wheel independent suspension allows the truck to handle more like a sedan than a pickup.

Don't Miss: 2017 Honda Ridgeline Pickup rides like new after 8,000 abusive miles

The Ridgeline is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs. and its cargo-carrying capacity exceeds that of some other pickups. A dent and rust-resistant composite bed is another standard Ridgeline feature.

Initially, sales were steady before facing a sharp decline during The Great Recession. Sales declined again due in part to the 2011 Japan earthquake. By 2014, the Ridgeline had received only minor updates during its decade-long production run. Absent for the 2015 and 2016 model years, it returned as an all-new model for 2017 sharing much of its design with the Honda Pilot except for the obvious bed and some stronger suspension components that are more suitable for the intended duties of the Ridgeline.

Honda gave the new Ridgeline a more conventional appearance by eliminating the sloped bed rails, matching the height of the tailgate with the bed rails, and implementing a simulated gap between the bed and cab. The front end styling has drawn some controversy, but it is more aerodynamic and makes the Ridgeline stand out against the competition.

Those looking to tow fifth wheel trailers, go rock crawling, or roll coal will need to look elsewhere, but for the real-world needs of many, the Honda Ridgeline continues to offer more cargo and towing capacity than many traditional pickup buyers will admit to while offering a ride quality and level of quietness that rival many luxury sedans.

Also See: 2018 Honda Ridgeline returns with Fewer Model Options and Two New Colors