2024 Honda Ridgeline Trailsport Review: Better Than a Truck
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- Опубликовано: 8 фев 2025
- I’ve recently started enjoying more off-road capable offerings from different manufactures. The latest is the 2024 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport. After driving the Pilot TrailSport, I was excited to see how the Ridgeline did with the TrailSport treatment. I was glad that the color of choice was Sonic Gray Pearl as it’s one of the better color options. I was a little surprised to see no exterior options were added to this loaner. If you were to go online and build your own Ridgeline, you’ll see that Honda offers a large selection of accessories.
The 5-spoke 18” alloys come wrapped in 245/60 all-terrain tires to handle rugged terrain. I do wish the TrailSport got a 1-2 inch lift to help a little more with approach angle, since the front bumper can hang a little low. The tailgate impressed me with the 2 different types of ways to open it, but you’ll need to be careful as it can be relatively heavy compared to its competitors. Although the bed itself is a little on the shallow side, there is additional storage under the bed that can be used as a cooler since it has a drain plug.
Getting in, you’ll get greeted by leather trimmed surfaces that have the orange TrailSport stitching. Having a kid, dog, and living in a more rural area, the all-season floor mats were a carpet saver! There was plenty of space for everyone and felt more like a SUV than a truck. One thing I did have an issue was the angle of the infotainment screen that pointed up and was reflective. The lack of a 360 degree camera system was a shame since the Pilot had such a great system to help with parking and trail driving.
Under the hood, the 3.5L VTEC V6 pumped out 280 horsepower. With all the force induction vehicles, it was nice to drive a naturally aspirated vehicle that offered responsive and linear power delivery. The impressive component of the Ridgeline is its i-VTM4 AWD system. The power distribution is proactive instead of reactive like many other AWD systems. When turning, it will actively deliver the power to the outer wheels to help with rotation. When I drove the Ridgeline on unpaved roads, the truck felt stable and completely in control.
Overall, I’ve been impressed with Honda’s TrailSport offering and the 2024 Ridgeline TrailSport definitely gets added to that list.
The Ridgeline is by far the best midsized truck on the market today. It handles well, has a naturally aspirated v6 and can haul 4x8 sheets of building material. It has the most space for rear seat passengers and the same or better load capacity of all the midsized. Nobody drives a brand new truck off road so that argument is not valid. Non-work trucks do not need a full frame as it is old technology.
Exactly this! Your comment is getting pinned lol. Thanks for watching!
I take a brand new truck off road😅 funny part is its a ridgeline
I think you need a Ridgeline of your very own!
@@tomhockman6267 I’m on my second Ridgeline now. 2017 Black Edition and currently 2022 Touring. I would buy another one tomorrow if anything happened to my 2022. I used to drive 1/2 ton trucks at work and they were glorified hay wagons with engines... Robust with terrible steering, ride and no creature features. They were work trucks afterall. In the Ridgeline you feel like you have moved up from worker to the boss. The RL has refined confident handling, practical interior, quiet and confident driving dynamics and the ability to haul and tow anything I want. The 4x8 sheet is a huge thing for me when working around the house. I think Honda should have used a 2.0L Turbo four hybrid drivetrain but unfortunately the haters would have issues with that while giving the Tacoma and Ranger a pass for the same setup.
I took my brand new Ranger Tremor off road the same week I took delivery. Towing capacity is not near other true midsize trucks. Stop kidding yourself. The Ridgeline has 2500lbs less towing capacity than my ‘21 Ranger Tremor. Ground clearance is not good. The only thing going for it is the tailgate.
This is the best midsize truck on the market. Bought one of the first built, and now I’m on my 5th. No problem pulling my 20 ft camper at 4000lbs or the 19 ft covered snowmobile trailer with sleds and gear. Well built and Honda reliability.
That's awesome to hear! What do you think they should add for the next generation?
6000 lb tow capacity, a little height on all models.
I don't know that it's the best (been tortured by the new Taco), but I am pretty sure it will be the best for me. Not planning any rock crawling - just need to get the SUP to the beach and back, most days. Been a Honda V6 fan for a long time. Their AWD is superb. And build quality is amongst the best. These are the things that matter most to me.
@@reginaldpenner4280 This would be great for taking to the beach and back. The locked storage under the bed is perfect for keeping things out of sight. The AWD is like nothing I've seen in a while and the V6 was great as well. The biggest thing is that it is such an incredible everyday drive.
they need to add a 1 inch lift to the trailsport model and I think it would be perfect.
The Ridgeline is such an excellent, well thought out truck. It does truck things like hauling and towing extremely well and does them in comfort. This should be the #1 selling midsize truck IMO. I've owned 2 of them and it's so good at hauling my camping gear and towing my 16' boat. The ground clearance isn't great as you mentioned but just add a simple 2" lift kit with slightly bigger tires and you'll be around 9.5" of clearance which is standard for other midsizers. The V6 is incredible and it's amazing in the snow.
Your comment is tempting me to get one since I’d like to have something to tow my Miata to auto cross events. Thanks for watching!
@@Revmatchmedia that V6 and transmission on the 2021 and newer are super smooth and so strong. I live in Colorado (so around 6,000 ft above sea level) and get around 17 mpg towing my boat with a loaded bed. The boat weighs around 2500 lbs. It's amazing how much stuff you can load into this truck with the rear folding seats and trunk.
@@Revmatchmedia BTW excellent review! You did an excellent job and can tell you were having fun. Made me want to take my Ridgeline out on some dirt roads!
@@ramjam4618 Thanks! It was such an easy review to film since it was such a great truck. You definitely should blast through some dirt roads! The crazy thing is how planted the Ridgeline felt. I tried the same in the Mazda CX-50 Meridian and I had to back off. It didnt feel stable above 25mph and any higher had me sliding allover. The Ridgeline, I was up there in speed and had so much confidence in it.
True that. Just add a 2 ft lift kit and bigger tires.
I have a 2023 Ridgeline RTL and have grown to love it even more than when I got it. Prices are so high on trucks that leasing seems the only viable option (for me at least). I can't wrap my head around $800-1200 monthly payments for one vehicle.
Nice! Ugh don't remind me about prices. All the press cars I get to reviewed are $50k and higher, so when I get something under $50k, I'm surprised lol. As a Ridgeline owner, what's one thing you'd like to change on it?
@@Revmatchmedia I really wish it had a hybrid option to get mpg over 30. The 21 mpg avg isn’t bad relative to mid-size trucks but I hate paying too much for gas. It’s the price for power and utility, but Toyota has managed to get hybrids in its truck line so why not Honda?
@@tomhockman6267 Hybrid option would be really nice. Seeing how the CR-V hybrid gets a massive bump of about 12mpg in city, it would be nice to have that in the Ridgeline. Toyota's truck hybrid use is kinda weird. They don't like saying its for MPGs and their power increase isn't that much compared to the competition.
I wanted a Toyota Tacoma but an equally trimmed out Tacoma was $12k to $15k more than the Ridgeline. After doing a lot of research I bought the Ridgeline two days ago. I think I am going to really like the Ridgeline as it is versatile - we are driving to Alaska ( again) next summer if we are able to.
@rickfetz469 it’s going to be an awesome drive to Alaska. It’ll be super comfortable and plenty capable with the AWD. Congrats on your purchase!
Great review! We tow a small camper (2,900 lbs) so the RL’s 5,000 tow capacity is just fine. What I like about the RL is that its real world payload surpasses most midsize trucks with 1,500 to 1580 lbs. So, it can handle passengers, topper/shell, camping gear, and tongue weight. I agree with most of your shortcomings of the 2024 RL mild refresh. However, I am so impressed with what the RL can do and the features it provides. I am leaning TrailSport, but will consider a Black Edition as well. We are buying at the end of 2024. At this point, the RL is the truck that we are measuring all other trucks against for our needs and preferences.
Thanks for watching! I think I’m going to go Black Edition for the added things like the vented seats, rear heated seats, LED bed lights, and bed outlet. I would probably “TrailSport” the RL myself. The oil pan guard is available as a Honda option on the BE, along with all season mats. I’d go with an aftermarket lift and wheels regardless of trim.
@@Revmatchmedia yes the Black Edition does offer features that I wish the TrailSport had. I will ponder it more as we get closer to the end of 2024. LOL, if I choose the Black Edition, I will also have to pay a premium for paint since the only nonpremium paint color is black. I don’t want another black vehicle (sharp, but hot and shows dirt too much). I can get the TrailSport in silver that I like for no additional cost. So, the Black Edition will cost another $455 for me. I have not ruled it out. Both are sharp!!!
I just bought one of these and the fact that the engine has been around a long time, is tried and true, and has no turbo was the big reason.
I agree. It was nice having a naturally aspirated engine when everything is being turbo'd these days. Only thing is that MPGs are a little on the low side. I'm definitely hoping for a hybrid option to improve those city MPGs.
got to love that vtec
Great video and very detailed - I'm wavering on whether I want to basically sell my 2023 Colorado Z71 for a Ridgeline. It was a tossup between these two when I was shopping for a mid-size (moving down from a 2011 RAM 3500 diesel mega-cab...now *that* had room) - and it's not that I dislike the Colorado, it's a great truck with loads of torque and honestly it pulls like a diesel - it's just that I think I would enjoy the handling of the Ridgeline and how the bed works. Still undecided - Carvana basically offered me $38K for my truck (bought for $48 but also has 16,500 miles already) but we'll see. Love videos like this that really go into the details.
Thanks for the view! I was also torn between the Colorado and the Ridgeline. The Ridgeline is missing a couple of things before I’d consider it over the Z71. One of them is the better camera system. The better storage options for the Ridgeline definitely beats the Colorado’s. If you’re not going to be doing heavy rock climbing, the Ridgeline’s AWD system will be more than adequate. In fact I reviewed a ZR2 and it didn’t feel as stable as the Ridgeline did driving fast on unpaved roads. Personally, id wait to see what a 2025 model has to offer and then make the jump. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Dude you want it all‼️ I think most people want a cheaper truck as expensive as things are today.
That’s why there’s lower trims. Since prices are already up, why not ask for it all! Lol. I think a barebones work truck style Ridgeline would be great. How would you want your cheaper Ridgline to be set up? I’m always a fan of steel wheels.
@@Revmatchmedia AND I’m a fan of after market. I hate steel wheels BUT wheels can be replaced. You know what would make the RIDGELINE even less like a truck ? All of the excessive crap they put in it. Stay w/the AWD but the rest….Keep it simple & affordable.
Nice review. I am going to get a Black Edition soon.
Congrats. The Black Editions look nice. Any plans to mod it?
I have a '21 B.E. Best vehicle I've ever owned. The bed speakers are soooo loud lol
Love my 2020 sport! It is such a good looking truck! Great vid!
Thanks for watching! What is something you'd like to see in the new gen that you wish yours had?
@Revmatchmedia hmmm bit more space under rear seats. I'm a big car audio guy lol!
@@Xplicit_fpv I'm the same with audio. Im planning on doing a whole sytem for my Miata. If you want more space under the seats, don't ever consider a Colorado as a replacement lol. That's what I was wanting before I got to drive the Ridgeline and the space under the Colorado seat is non existent. Hopefully new gen will give us more space.
@Revmatchmedia haha. Thanx.. no Chevy for me! Been a Honda guy for some time. 04 element before ridgeline. Loved it!
Manufacturers need to realize dated infotainment systems will kill sales of their vehicles. CPU speed, responsiveness, func, ease of use are critical. I’d say they need to be redesigned so that significant software updates can be applied after purchase. I even think a modular hardware configuration is needed. It would be nice to be able to swap out older and slower hardware with new hardware that can run more advanced software. Manufacturers need to understand they are a computer company nowadays. Vehicles are computers on wheels. I’ve read of Ridgeline complaints regarding warped rotors. I’ve owned many Hondas and they all suffered from warped rotors. Honda needs to upgrade their brakes in most of their vehicles.
ALL OF THIS!!! Thank you for being a consumer that has such great insight on things. I feel like the user experience is something that gets overlooked when it comes to tech. One of the biggest things I complain about is a vehicle that has a wireless charger but doesn't have wireless apple carplay or wireless android auto (Genesis/Hyundai/Kia). I've recently started to look into Hondas since the early 2000 models were such a let down after having such a strong 80s and 90s presence. I haven't heard anything about warped rotors in the Facebook group I'm in, but i did just join. Were you looking into getting a Ridgeline?
@@Revmatchmedia it’s a possibility. The overall package is appealing. But the tech seems dated and in need of an update. I’ve read the new Pilot has a much better infotainment capability. So I might have to look elsewhere or wait for a refresh of the Ridgeline.
I agree. Need the 360 camera 📷
Yup! Add the Pilot’s 360 camera system and I’m sold more than I already am lol
And with the tailgate swung out the bumper becomes quite useable with plenty of space for your shoe .
Yes it does!
Black Edition should include ACC with stop and go, 360cam or at least a front trail cam, center front parking sensors, passenger seat height adjustment, hill descent control... hopefully when they redo the ridgeline they include these.. also it should have over 8 inches of ground clearance and the cargo bed should be at least 20 inches deep... all this would make the Ridgeline perfect.
The black editions adds more feature to the back center console like climate controls with USB-A and USB C charging ports
The ports would be a nice touch. The climate controls wouldn't personally be useful since i have a 9 year old that likes to press buttons lol. I was looking at going black edition and then giving it the TrailSport treatment with aftermarket parts. I saw the available 2" lift and how it looked installed and I think its EXACTLY what the TrailSport needed to be!
@@Revmatchmedia Haha yeah but it's 3 way independent climate control so it shouldn't be a big deal. I was also thinking about that trailsports treatment if I were to get one. I really want one now!
I like this truck. I am planning to buy one.
You’ll love it! It’s one of my favorite vehicles that I’ve reviewed.
Keep in mind that 2023 Pilot is a generational platform update and 2024 Passport and Ridgeline are just refreshes of old platform. I hoped Ridgeline would get the same platform update after 7 years but all manufacturers seem to stretch truck generations to 6-12 years now. I don't expect a true platform upgrade for Passport/Ridgeline until 2026, but that's my opinion only, not based on intel of any repute.
Great presentation.
The trailsport edition should contain over head fog lights bars . A portable tent for outdoors activities. Also a over head. roofrackstorage container for rugged out door storage. 20" 245/60/R20 wheels and tires package. 3" liftkit to increase ground clearance and height 👏 due to the fact its called the truck version of performance that honda has designed. Even though it's considered convenient. But a foldable honda flat roller trailer should be designed as well for large appliances that may not fit on the 5 foot truck bed... or the trailer could be used for camping 🏕
I’ll pass on the 20” but everything else sounds like fun packages
No off roads but why doesn't honda have the 360 cameras and park sensors, i tested the black edition hard to park cannot see the end of hood
If Honda made a single cab with a 6ft bed that was deeper in depth. They could take away from the big 3 with a legit work truck !
I think a single cab option would be cool to have and then it opens it up for that longer bed. I’m sold! lol
The ONLY thing that bugs me about my 2022 Ridgeline is the placement of the E- brake. Yes, I have bruised a shin on it.
Ouch. I bet it hurt like hitting your shin on a metal bed frame lol
Any intel if there is going to be a 3rd Gen Ridgeline? This is getting dated inside. I would really like to see one on the Pilot Platform.
I don’t know about a third gen. If they can improve on what I mentioned tech wise, I’m heading to the dealership. The Pilot TrailSport was incredible and had a great camera system and infotainment system.
I saw another video where they said that the USB-A port is the only working port that can be used for CarPlay. Is this true? I know the 2024 has a USB-C port, but they said that's for charging only.
I’m actually not sure. I used the wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless charger the whole time.
How's the wireless Apple CarPlay?
@@Revmatchmedia
@stw2186 really good. No issues with connectivity. My wife didn’t complain about it so that meant it worked with her phone too lol.
Great! Loved your review by the way!@@Revmatchmedia
@stw2186 thank you so much. I’ve been missing the Ridgeline so much that I think I need one in my life lol
Trans temp.gauge, trailer brake control,higher ground clearance.would be nice thanks.
Like a list to Santa lol. All that would be amazing to have. It would make Honda sell even more Ridgelines.
I have choice between the ford and honda do you think ranger is the better choice as ridgeline black edition is 50 000.00 same as ford bit ford has all the technology
@@johnp.2276 are you planning on going rock crawling? If you are, go with the Ranger. If you’re not, the Ridgeline will offer a better everyday ride but still offer decent soft roading capabilities.
HONDA es una marca de excelentes carros y esta trucka es hermosa 😃
El Pilot TrailSport también era increíble. El Civic Type R era uno de mis carros favoritos cuando lo probé en la pista.
How about fuel, I think someone told me they had one a few years ago and it didn't like regular, he used mid grade fuel. I wish other brands of mid size trucks had All Wheel Drive. I don't need 4x4 with low and high and limited slip or lockers for my everyday drive but love the All Wheel Drive's I've had over the years. I will be looking at this vehicle next chance I get to a dealer. Thanks for the review. 👍
87 fuel is fine
87 is fine. I had no issues with fuel and I was pushing it.
Smallest insignificant complaint ever, but I’m looking for ways to dye the orange trim 😬 only part we don’t like, looking for a TS Pilot for the wife first :)
The orange trim is my favorite part. Adds some pop to the interior
Hey there - great video. Think i will wait for 2025 though. If you could provide any new info on this soon to be release would be appreciated! Thankyou.
Unfortunately I don’t, it’s pure speculation at this point.
How about the 3.5 v-6 engine recall
Looks like only 2017-2019 might be affected
What about the recovery points?
I don't recall seeing any but after reading the manual online, it is saying there are front and rear tow hooks. I searched further online and saw the the front ones are super low and back. Basically rendering them useless if your sit it on its belly while off roading. I did see some prototype aftermarket ones the bring them forward like you'd typically see in an "off-roader"
I'm considering buying the ridgeline. I have a Silverado rst. It's a lemon. 😔. I will go for the full loaded off road package.
Sorry to hear about the Silverado. The Ridgeline was a blast to drive. What color are you looking at?
You’re in Texas with California plates?
It's not my Ridgeline. Its a Honda press vehicle that I get to review for a week and then they take it away.
Does it have the center lane assistance while in cruise? Or just lane assistance?
Thanks for watching. The Honda website explains it like this
The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)* helps make highway driving easier when you're cruising on the open road. While your hands are on the wheel, the system can help keep your vehicle centered in a detected lane by making subtle steering adjustments.
You can turn on lane keep assist whether or not Cruise control is on. It will find lines and keep you centered actively. I use it a lot since my backroads are curvy. You have to manually enable every time. It works well if you don’t mind it being a bit more aggressive in steering you center.
Honda needs to hire someone that knows about ground clearance, one that has been on a real trail in a competing truck.
Someone in a Ridgeline Facebook group posted theirs with a 2” lift and it looked perfect. Everyone was loving the look and if I get one, that’s the first upgrade it’s getting.
They are more interested in government CAFE mileage standards than clearance. If I wanted an off road vehicle I would get a Toyota truck.
I have a 22 and I think getting rid of the adjustable arm rest is a mistake.
I just joined a Ridgeline Facebook group and saw the arm rest you’re talking about. Definitely a better option than the one I had.
Nice review. But your Ridgeline critique on lack of 360 camera is misplaced. This 2024 Ridgeline is still part of the older generation which doesn’t have 360 camera. The new Pilot is a complete new generation and Honda included 360 camera on this new generation Pilot. Next gen Ridgeline should have 360 camera 🎥
I understand that but still have to mention it to make sure that Honda is aware that people will want it. The system is incredible in the Pilot so it'll definitely have me running to the dealer when it gets added.
@@Revmatchmedia I agree with you on that! 360 camera would definitely be something to run to get on Ridgeline once available 🏃🏻♂️
7:32
"Thats what she said!"
I am cracking up so loudly that I scared my wife lol. Thanks for this and now I'll subconsciously remember this comment when talking about ride heights lol
@@Revmatchmediareally enjoyed the vid, tho. +1
They still have the exterior speakers on these?
They have exterior speakers? Where would it have been? I must've missed it if it did have it.
@@RevmatchmediaI think he's referring to the bed speakers. They removed this option on all trims in 2024.
@@adir_1 That sucks. Looks like if I get a Ridgeline, I'll get a used pre 24' .
If they were anything like the Kicker system on the GMC Sierra, you won’t be missing much. Just pick up a JBL speaker (my favorite brand) and you’re set.
Your hitting all the negatives that are keeping me from buying one.
Small fixes that can be addressed but overall a really amazing truck. The only difficult one to battle is the infotainment screen angle and the lack of 360 camera. Which ones were concerning?
@@Revmatchmedia Lack of 360 cameras integrated with the display is a major issue. Automated parking assist is almost necessary for us oldsters. The clearance is also an issue and I would have to get an after market lift - but only 2 inches makes sense, and then you need to add power running boards (ideally on a rock slider.)
Thats why they don't sell outdated tech
Honda didn't try very hard with the Ridgeline, they didn't bring over so much of the good things the Pilot had.
I want one in "trailsport" orange
Sign me up too! That would look awesome with black wheels and trim.
So it as you say a great truck how about the 2024 9:04 ford ranger, it has all the technology
The Ford Ranger is awesome! I just had one to review a few weeks ago and I need to finish up my edit.
Brake dosent interfere at all Cmon Yes I own a 2021
old school engine…timing belt expensive to replace… newer engine use timing chain doesn’t need replacement.
Stop air quoting “truck” its a damn truck it qualifies as a Comercial vehicle.
It's an suv
Make this a hybrid and I’m sold
I agree, the bump in MPG would be nice.
Why did they remove the captain seats?
I think you mean on the pilot. The Ridgeline truck didnt have captain seats but I may be wrong.
I thought they did, maybe I'm mis-remembering. It happens... >.
If the ridgeline is so good why did it make 6th on car and driver reviews
Because not everyone is right all the time 😉
It'd be better if it was a body on frame, 2 inches higher, with a Turbo 3.5 V6. AWD. Then again, it does drive nice, like a car...
I saw some with a 2” lift and it looks perfect. I’d rather see a hybrid offering to help with mpg, like the big bump the CR-V gets.
I saw some with a 2” lift and it looks perfect. I’d rather see a hybrid offering to help with mpg, like the big bump the CR-V gets.
Turbo is a definite deal breaker. No way would I have bought one.
@@stevehenderson2571 The 3.5 V6 is severely conservative with the power handling. This is from Honda's press release of the Ridgeline Baja win, "Making approximately 550 horsepower, HPD's 3.5-liter HR35TT engine uses the same block, cylinder heads and crankshaft as the production V6 engine that will power the all-new Ridgeline. Additional, custom elements of the powertrain include an HPD-designed intake plenum and custom Engine Control Unit programming." For the power to basically be doubled AND put through that grueling race, shows it has a lot more potential.
Still not a truck
how did the ridgeline hurt you?😂
@@daverules just the idiots who call it a truck.
@user-vt9ss3ft2z how about the ugly POS ford merrick? That ugly shit don't look like a truck also and no one complained 😂