am i the only one to realise that honda has actually figured out that 80% of the trucks bought are never used for what there designed for honda basically designed a truck to do what we have been using 80% of the trucks we have purchased . this is an everyday drop the kids to school go to the gym pick up shopping go to the hardware store trusk and thats what is needed cause thats what 80% of the trucks purchased are used for
+cordellej This should be the top comment lol. My dad commutes in a full size and has an HD for hauling. I don't think its ever seen a trailer lol, but it kind of makes sense considering its rated a decent 23 HWY, and he needs the 4wd in winter and the cargo volume for random stuff you do with a pick up. That Honda would be an upgrade for his purposes. Just filling a void in the market.
LOL poor Honda dude. He actually did a great job putting up with all the criticism. FWIW I think the Ridgeline satisfies 90% of what most new truck owners do 90% of the time--including myself and I'm a F-150 owner.
Agreed. But I wouldn't buy one lol. I like the f150 and if I were to buy a travel trailer or something I can use my truck. And... It's an American compnay
Leon Wagner something most people don’t realize that Honda ridge lines are made in America with american made parts unlike domestic vehicles which get a large portion of their parts from Mexico.
I love the people who keep saying this isn't a real truck! Listen, back in the day a 'real truck' was a regular cab, bench seat, short or long bed, 2 wheel drive and a manual transmission. Ford didn't even offer 4WD in the F-150 until the 1970's. Then trucks began to evolve, in a really ugly bad way, into 4 door behemoths with leather interiors, sun roofs, navigation, (you can't even get a manual anymore), turbos (Eco-boost), and a price tag that's a down payment on a house. The fact that the Ridgeline has a unibody is called 'moving forward'. Honda doesn't build vehicles that people want? Seriously?! Is that why I see so many Civics, Accords, CRV's and Odysseys on the road? The fact that I can't go off roading and take on Rubicon trails with a Ridgeline is something I can live with. My biggest obstacle while driving is dealing with the idiots on 287 every day coming home from work, something I really don't need 4WD for... I'll take the 25 mpg, you can keep your "truck" that gets 18 mpg on a good day... Well done Honda, can't wait to get mine!
It's not a truck it's a pilot with a bed and that is it. It can pull or tow like ALL THE OTHER TRUCK it can't go off road like a real truck. dude it's a car or at best a suv. Those are the facts
I respect your opinion sir, although I think you may have missed my point (or just chose to ignore it) Either way, as the current owner of an F-150 FX4 I do very little off roading. The bed on the Ridgeline is 64 inches (just shy of the 5.5 ft bed on most full-size four door pickups. The Ridgeline can handle 1584 lbs in the bed, about what my FX4 can handle (1,600 to 1,700 lbs? maybe). As far as towing, I'll agree with you. Although what it lacks in towing ability I believe, for the average customer, it makes up for in gas mileage. A 'majority' of truck owners never take their truck off road (according to statistics). That being said I believe Honda is meeting a majority of customers needs. Honda never intended for their truck (car, SUV) to go up against the Tacoma. For those that want a true off road truck they will buy a Wrangler, Tacoma, or anything with a true 4WD system, creeper gear, ect (not AWD) and a short wheelbase. For most weekend warriors who go to Home Depot or Lowes the Ridgeline is fine. I hate the look of four door trucks, they look out of proportion and odd. But I guess if I had to buy one the Honda makes sense. Personally, I'd love to get rid of my FX4 and go back to a regular cab, short bed pickup truck for better maneuverability and fuel mileage.
I purchased a 2019 Honda Ridgeline all wheel drive, I put a three and a half inch traxda suspension lift on it and 32 inch all terrain tires. I can now tow 5000 pounds easily, carry a thousand five hundred pounds of payload in the bed very comfortably, go to the beach and drive through the sand using the all-wheel drive Sand setting, and I even used the mud setting to drive through 4 to 5 inches of thick mud with no problem at all. Make no mistake this truck can do just about anything that a half ton four-wheel drive truck can do! It just needs a lift and some all terrain tires !
I am sort of a Ford freak, and let say, you don’t have a clue what you are talking about. First off Ford did not produce an F150 until 1975. Secondly Ford stated producing in-house 4wds in 1959
This truck does a job that 95% of customers will use it for very well. Smart differentiation by Honda. Most trucks don't see extreme off road, ever. It makes sense to focus on road worthiness first and foremost. Real men don't need a truck to verify their "manhood"
Lmao this piece of shit is worthless, even at being a truck. Things I use my truck for. Going off-road (which this can't do), pulling a trailer (which this can do, barely. The most it can pull is probably less than 3,000lbs) hauling stuff in the bed (2 dozer scoops of rocks would snap this POS in half). This is pretty much a minivan.
Exactly. This small truck is a sufficient size for hauling brush, hardware or camping gear. Hell, I live in the city; I'm not towing a trailer with livestock.
Yeah, I don't get all the small peened butthurt dudes bad mouthing this vehicle. Don't buy it if you don't want it, you yappy insecure morons. I like it, think it looks great and will be a comfortable highway cruiser, passenger mover, with the capability to haul building and garden supplies from Home Depot, furniture, tools, etc. for the 5% of the time I need to run errands like that. I don't need some overly butch, lifted, huge tires, impossible to park, poor mpg, jerk-off wagon to prove how masculine I am.
I have owned other trucks and a 4Runner as well. I never used the other trucks to their fullest capacity. I just bought a 2017 Ridgeline. I love it! I do wish it had a little more ground clearance, but it is an awesome truck. I have used it to move from an apartment to a house, pull two cruising motorcycles on a flatbed, and drive-in on trails for backcountry hiking. It is extremely versatile, and perfect for someone not needing a work truck! I didn't know how much I love the idea of an in bed truck until I had one, and started using it everyday like you mentioned. I work in EMS and use it to store my gear to and from work all the time. I have also used it as a cooler for water bottles during outdoor training on hot days. I also flip up the back seat and use the flats floor space regularly. Most importantly, my family of three fits in there perfectly along with my 90 lb black lab!
+HondaPro Jason I was shocked and pleasantly surprised to see you in the video with him! Love the new Ridgeline and can't wait to get my hands on one :)
One of your best videos. This long, in depth type of review is some of your best work. Please try to continue to make videos like this. Was like an entire 30 min TV show. Doesn't get better than that. Also the fact that Roman was a bit more critical than usual made it that much more interesting. Thanks guys!
I have a truck and always have. They are right about one thing.....95% of the time I just drive it back and forth to work and I don't think I have ever done anything that would exceed the capabilities of this truck. I actually like it and will consider it when it is for sale.
This is a strange review. It's like you are trying to argue how the truck isn't good and the Honda reps just banter back and say how it's great... Weird.
for all the haters out there, 95% of truck owners only comute to work on freeways, and haul something once a year, they just have dreams of grandure towing there mega yacht and 65logs, this is practical
Precisely... that's what makes it so great! I don't know why I didn't discover the Ridgeline before. It totally fits my need for a comfortable daily and long-distance commuter for one or two people, but something that can haul a trailer or load up the bed when you need it.
+Sean Taylor yes you can fit a full 4x8 sheet of plywood. They widened the bed and dropped the wheel wells down the 3 inches and the tail gate must be down to carry the wood.
Honda obviously made this for a special group of buyers. It's obviously NOT a Colorado and it's not supposed to be. It's an alternative that you even want or don't want. No big deal. No reason for endless "well it can't do this, this and this" arguments. It is a little pricey though. Oh and really...the fact that the tailgate is not dampened is a non-issue. Why carry on about it? Unless you're a 95 year old granny with arms as weak as a shrew, you don't need a dampened tailgate. I don't have one on my 2014 full size pickup and like I said...NOT an issue at all.
if they were to put a Ford logo on this truck and call it a Ranger people would be lined up around the corner to buy one of these things people are idiots
sleepybird09 no they wouldnt, theyd defend a bad design to there death, and buy more when theirs shit the bed. ford fanboys the last 30 years in a nutshell
From the future when the Ranger was re-introduced, from a Ford fanboy who has only driven Rangers (93, 05, 10). I was looking for a new midsize truck and was super excited for the brand new 2019 Ranger. I went into the dealership expecting to give them my money. Then I looked at the Ranger and its features. I am now the proud owner of a 2019 Toyota Tacoma
It is a crossover, but instead of being a crossover SUV, its a crossover truck. That's perfectly fine...people need to get out of their little boxed in categories...crossovers work well for most people so I don't see the issue with offering a crossover with a bed. I'm still not sure it will sell well, but I don't think thats the fault of the vehicle.
Does it matter whether it is a 'car' or 'truck', or 'crossover', or whatever? It fits my needs/wants better than any other vehicle design. Thanks for the review.
So, my wife just bought the 2019 crv this spring and we LOVE that vehicle...I would hands down buy a Honda truck...BUT...I just cannot get behind the exterior...this sounds dumb....but it’s not trucky enough looking. I’m an f150 owner and I love my truck...part of my love for it is that it just looks the part...when I drive it I feel nostalgic...reminds me of my dad and grandfather when I would ride in their trucks....Honda, you change the body style and I’m in....lol but I’m one customer...if the masses love it, you’re winning!
I love this truck or crossover I drive a 05 Tacoma with 10 inch lift that gets about 13 miles to the gallon and would really consider giving this a try
Roman I think it is about time you and yes your channel come into the 21st century with the rest of the world. This is a innovative state of the art product that is well over due to the marketplace.
+Dan Lubar I think current F-150s are innovative, looks at the new Aluminum, twin turbo v6 F-150. Or the new Ram v6 turbo diesel with air ride suspension, or the Nissan Titan Diesel v8 with a Heavy 1500 frame, or the Chevy with cylinder deactivation v8 and 10 speed transmission. I think Honda is trying to sell a truck to SUV people. Not saying that is bad, but TFL truck makes very valid points, this is not a pickup it is a Wagon with a bed. Not that it is bad, just it is a car.
+Dan Lubar But not to get me wrong, I think kits great to have them make this "truck". I think it will a good option for those that need more cargo room than an SUV. I think SUVs are such a waste. This is a better option than a FWD CUV. Plus those options are interesting with the speaker thing, and the side swing bed.
Honda definitely has a niche market with this Ridgeline. Funny 20 years ago I brainstormed the day a front wheel drive pickup would hit the road. I applaud Honda for being different, and considering Honda's reputation for reliability, the Ridgeline will definitely be worth a look.
I just test drove a new Ridgeline up here in Canada. The reason why I am considering such a non-truckish truck, is simply because 5 days of the week I need a comfortable car. It isn't till the weekend when I can load up my dirt bikes and go for a nice ride. Very comfortable, very spacious, and very nice to look at, but the price is rather high. I am planning on ordering one, and hopefully it will serve me well with my 160km daily commute.
I think Honda has done a pretty decent job with this. They are taking a different approach to the truck market by making a cross over look like a truck and have some truck like functions. I think they will definitely sell a decent number in urban areas. Obviously someone who needs a truck should not even look at this, but if they are looking for a cross over, this is definitely an option to consider.
Lets be honest here. The Ridgeline is a ute. You're not going to haul horses with it but it will haul a couple bales of hay if you need to. For a lot of people this is a good choice if you're being honest about what you use your vehicle for. I drove a 3/4 ton diesel for years and loved it, but it was way more than I ever really used. I still love trucks, but a ute like this would work just fine for me.
I don't mind that it's not technically a truck. It performs enough of the functionality that a traditional truck provides and then some more with the comfortable ride and technology packages. As a guy who's not a farmer or of other similar trades, this vehicle is perfect for me. Thanks for the review
It depends on how you define a truck. It's got a bed in it that dirt can be thrown into without messing up the interior, so to me it's a truck. I don't get too hung up on what things are called, but more on what they do and how they can be used.
This is a car with some truck-like capabilities. It's for people that have nothing heavy to tow or haul. If I didn't have 7000lbs of boat, trailer, and gear to tow I would consider it. I still need the bed for greasy, dirty things around the house, as I have a 21,000sqft of yard to take care of. All the rest of the time, I would get to enjoy a more car-like drive and parking, plus an extra 6 miles to the gallon over my behemoth Tundra.
I think I would rather pick this over chevy and toyota. Its car like, but still with a bed to move stuff. Plus you gotta love that trunk at the back, I can think of tons of uses for it where I live.
Front wheel drive is genus, I had a Dakota rear drive only always get stuck in snow because the bed has no weight. Honda is a lot more intelligent car maker, solving problems American companies never change for centuries.
get winter tires and put something heavy in the back, problem solved. Could even kill two birds with one stone and shovel the snow from your driveway into the bed of the pickup.
Roman, I'm not a fan of the 2nd generation Ridgeline, but you need to check your bias at the door man! I can tell from your body language and inflection that you like this midsize truck, but your personal bias is getting in the way of performing a good review. Of course "Honda Pro. Jason" has a bias as well; so maybe that helps this video review a little.
+The Fast Lane Truck Er, how does this square up with your previous statement, " We have no horse in this race "⁉️ The Devil's advocate is a person who expresses a contentious opinion in order to provoke debate or test the strength of the opposing arguments. It sounds to me like you're speaking with a forked tongue and a club foot‼️ ☹️☹️☹️
+MrKeyboardCommando What? this isn't meant to be taken that seriously. They are at a Honda promo event. This is an informative video about the vehicles features and driving experience. Not an in depth review or comparison. Take it for what it is. Roman was entertaining and obviously had to bring up supposed negatives to balance the fanboy. Just info, hardly a review.
+Andrew Jensen Roman, has attachment issues, and if he's not holding on to a knob like his mothers nipple, he get all giddy, and has difficulty concentrating. 🎭
So lets me get his straight for all the people that bitch this is not a "Truck". So to be a truck it needs to be.. Solid framed, Get poor fuel economy, Be uncomfortable, Be RWD in a 2x4 trim and be noisy inside. So the fact that it can tow, has a v6 (that has more power than Fords v8 4.6) has a bed on the back to hall things, can tow and goes off road... all things a truck does is completely irrelevant to "Truck" owners. No wonder the rest of the world does not understand "Mercia's" love for a out dated concept. Kinda sad to be honest but oh well I will enjoy my "CAR" like truck on my trips to Home Depot in a snow storm.
No matter what you think of the new Honda truck, I am just glad small trucks are back. I had a Ford Sport Trac for years and loved it. This is a great segment, maybe we will see more brands jump on the band wagon. Its nice to have a vehicle that drives like a small SUV but has the added benefits of an open truck bed. Maybe its not a real truck, but I like the idea.
I feel there are 4 things buyers look for in a mid-size verse a full-size. 1) Priced lower than a full-size truck. 2) Smaller package thats easier to drive and maneuver. 3) MPG. 4) Focus on outdoor activity. I guess you can add a 5th in Car like characteristics if this does well. I don't think most buyers will care that it drives like a car. 1) Its priced higher than entry full-size trucks. 2) Its smaller, thus easier to park comment. 3) MPG isn't out yet, but based on the pilot, MPG is worse than the Ram eco-diesel and close to F-150s. 4) Other trucks may prove to be more useful for outdoor activities with their ride height. To me it only has its small size and car-like driving characteristics. You can still probably be better served by a Full-size truck for less money.
+Kevin Smith I agree with all of your points except the last one. I would not be better served with a full size truck. I live in a large city, I park in a parking garage at work everyday. I owned a 2013 Ram 1500, loved the truck, but driving that thing in the city was a pain in the ass. The parking garage was a nightmare. I had to get to work early everyday to make sure I could get a spot on the end of a row or else I was screwed. Full size trucks are great, but not for everyone. I learned they are not for me, at least not as my daily driver. Until Ford or Ram starts making small trucks again choices are slim. I think this is a great option, although the Canyon/Colorado are very good looking trucks compared to this. I don't know if they are really comparable though.
I use my truck to tow a 5,500lb trailer several times every summer including up and over significant mountain passes. Because I love trailering I purchased a "real truck", and yes that only accounts for 10 - 20%. Yes the reason I got the truck was that "10%" which you guys are referring to, or negatively referring to. Very happy I did so too and a Ridgeline wouldn't cut it for that 10% of the time I am referring to
The focus in these comments has become "lets pile on when the trend seems to be going negative". We know that Jason is a Honda guy, but admits that he has little truck experience, so his views must be accepted accordingly. If this wannabe mid size Ridgeline does not suit your needs or definition, then select an alternative, but no real need to be trashing Honda's concept. The marketplace will prove the success or failure for this 2nd generation......Honda builds great products. If this crew cab is not to your liking, then go for something else.
Most people call a Pilot and Explorer SUVs and not crossovers because of their size. I'm fine with calling the Ridgeline a truck because it has a pickup bed. Is it the best for towing or off-roading, no, but neither are the 4 cylinder 2wd trucks. The Ridgeline looks like it's a capable family truckster, towing kids and hauling diapers, and I've sold many full size trucks to families for just that.
ELMER SALGUERO Yes towing and hauling is the point of a truck. Point is most people don't buy a short cab, long bed, max tow package truck, they buy a 4 door short bed with low axle ratios to carry their family and stuff. Call these people posers or whatever you want, they use trucks like most people use SUVs for family wagons, and for them the Ridgeline will work.
I feel like people really gloss over a couple trucky things about this. The payload of this is 400lbs more than a base tacoma, 100lbs less than the v6 Tacoma, and it's the same as a Colorado. For towing, it's 1,500lbs MORE than the colorado v6 without the towing package. Tailgate weight rating is 300lbs, tacoma is 200lbs. And, of course, lets not forget it's the only mid size that can lay full sheets of drywall and plywood flat in the bed. This is especially important for drywall.
I like this truck. Honda did their research well. It is not meant to do "real truck things", but is more for the city driver who needs to move a couple of things from time to time and do so with style, refinement, and comfort. Good job!
This truck is perfect for anyone who likes trucks. Obviously not for people who work in the construction industry and use trucks for heavy duty or heavy duty hauling. This or the Tacoma is perfect besides that, It doesnt make you less of a man owning one of these lol So many guys out there who just buys a truck to look tougher and never use it like one
+Recon9143 = Its called INFLATION, and right now inflation in the U.S. is around 12%. Interest rates should be around 14%, not zero % like they are now.
Roman this could probably be your best review because you didn't try to stroke the ego or a new truck manufacturer. You gave it to Honda pure and simple stating how its not really a truck and how you pointed out ways it isn't a truck. You nailed this review especially when you called it a car and caught Honda officials calling it a car. I hope you keep this same mind set when trying it in the Ike gauntlet. You see the Ridgeline for what it is and dont see it for what its trying to be.
This truck is so bad ass. It fits a 4x8 that is huge. Honda made something that is not like anything you can currently buy. It looks cool and most importantly... It's a damn Honda. The best cars money can buy. Look on the used market. People that own ridge lines do not give them up. The towing thing is a pissing contest. It can tow 5,000 lbs across the country. And do it for 500,000 miles. It has completely original ideas and is outside the box and that's what makes it a Honda. I have a element and it is the most amazing vehicle ever. It is as big as a escalade in the inside and much smaller on the outside. That is Honda engineering
+brandon brillhart You think you need a big duramax or a diesel to be a truck? Sounds like you're compensating for something small...Honda isn't trying to pull people from the heavy duty market or the full sized market. They are targeting current Honda owners that may need a truck type vehicle and frankly this vehicle has a lot of features that I wish I had on my new canyon.
+Eric Franklin well those are a full pickup😂 anyway you got a point there the diesel has just become a fashion trend instead of a truck for work like it was meant to be, but that's, that's not a truck that's a mini-van with a bed
Looking at this Truck and all others currently out there, I would have to say this is a great option for very many families. Not everyone wants a gas guzzler as a daily driver. Today's midsize trucks were classified as full size trucks 10 years ago.... Why do we keep insisting on increasing the size of Trucks and their engines? Its asinine. This is a good fit for many people who want the functionality of a truck when they need it and comforts of a car for all the other drives. Haters are gonna hate, but whatever. If you like it buy it. It Honda and you cant go wrong there.
i actually like these. the tailgate and box designs are hits. i dont really tow so the big v8 rwd isnt necessary and the interior is nice. gor some reason everyone hates on the fwd but every suv now are the exact same. this isnt a work truck or wrangler in the bush, but for a daily driver with the occasional load this does the job fine.
+Ryan Lavallee then get one of the 2.7L ecoboost f150's. At least if you want to haul something you have the option with that. This thing is beyond useless. It's like a minivan without the back seats...
Hey Roman, the fwd drive Ridgline has a snow mode button. What does this button actually do?? Does it mean one would be sending power to both front wheel ??? Thanks
Only a tool would describe a truck as a tool, because ALL vehicles are tools, and putting importance on large size rather than performance, a sign of personal inadequacy. The definition of a truck is a vehicle designed for moving cargo, not how crude, how massive, or how unrefined it is. Drive train design and capacity are irrelevant. A rear bed is what defines a pickup truck, not the passenger compartment. The idea that a good tool should handle crudely "like a truck" only shows how low the bar has been set for trucks. Ride quality/driveability should be as important as hauling capacity in any truck, because SAFELY transporting cargo and occupants is the primary objective. The arbitrary classification of light trucks by bed carrying weight capacity doesn't exclude the Ridgeline from the 1500 lb class. The question isn't whether it is a "truck", but for which consumers this vehicle provides the right amount of utility for the price. Personally, I think that it is too expensive and has too fragile an interior for a vehicle used primarily to move cargo, but the rear seat is a plain statement that isn't its intended function. Its market is upper middle class small families and workmen with light/occasional cargo moving needs. For any other group, the lifecycle cost of ownership makes no economic sense. Unlike many people, I prefer a vehicle with the simplest construction, avoiding "keyless" start that requires an electronic key, touch screen controls that require taking eyes off the road (inckuding navigatuon, which should be voice ptompt only when driving by federal mandate). The entire idea of infotainment built into a vehicke is ridiculous, when better tech is carried in most peoples pockets. Bluetooth capable basic I/O with just amp and simple manual controls makes much more sense. The interior of vehicle should be adequately comfortable, and durable, easy to maintain and restore, as should EVERY system in a modern vehicle. It makes little sense to buy a 30K midsize vehicle that wears out in less than 15 years of light to moderate use, or for the aggregate cost of maintenance over a 10 year/2000,000 mile period excluding consumables to exceed the resale value of the vehicle at any time during that period. If people wouldn't treat pickup trucks like disposable toolboxes, but as a major investments that require care, most of the midsize trucks sold in this US today would meet this standard, while NONE of their 1950's ancestors would. it is
Married, father of two, own a pair of jet skis, enjoys camping. Perfect vehicle for the suburban lifestyle my family exudes. Be it buying mulch at the local big box or taking the family out of the city for a few days this vehicle will meet my needs. Although my SUV allows me to accomplish most of these same goals the Ridgeline will offer a different type of versatility. The built in "trunk" offers compartmentalized storage that no other truck does, a big plus in my eyes. If you need an F-150 by all means buy one, but the Ridgeline offers features and refinement that many MEN look for in a car. Just because I don't need the ability to pull a backhoe to the job site doesn't imply that I don't occasionally need a bed.
I usually enjoy watching TFL Car and Truck channels but the over-the-top act Roman put on in this video, with the constant giggling and outbursts, etc., was just annoying. I don't understand why he thought that was an improvement over his regular reviews. Please let Nathan review the Ridgeline after driving it for a few days.
it looks like a crossover between a small SUV and small truck. that said, for those of us who don't need an F350 this could be a very good alternative. potentially.
I like the back seats, chassis seems strong. really like the bed. bedbars available? can it lock the center diff? they should look into turbos for it, I think they have a turbo deisel civic
+konic40 I think Honda is allergic to Turbos (except for the new sports car they are coming out with). the power train is over 10 years old with some minor tweaks. Almost every other manufacturer has surpassed them on that feature alone.
This is by far not the best way to market a truck the the American market. Because by America's standards this is a car. Never once have I heard someone say they wanted a front wheel drive truck or for that matter a unibody truck that sits that low
First, I am a Honda owner. Secondly. I have sold trucks from pickups to 18 wheelers since 1974. I understand everything you are saying, but don't try and sell this as a pickup. When chevrolet made the elcamino, they didn't try and pass it off as a truck. Even in the manufacturing, it was considered a car. It was built in the same factory, on the same chassis, as the Monte Carlo and Malibu. They can disguise this all they want, but it is far more of an suv than a real truck. 275 hp and 5000 pounds towing capacity isn't enough to work. It will pull a bass boat, but the V6 still won't do it as well as a v8. People that buy this are not truck buyers. Period. It is a family car. One more thing. Torque is given in foot pounds. Not pounds feet. That was started about 20 years ago by a briish scientist. Every engineering school in the US teaches foot pounds. At least they did for about 100 years. Oh, all full size pickups can take a 4 by 8 sheet of plywood. This isn't a midsize truck. It is a lot larger than the Tacoma.
Jason hit the nail on the head. This is not a "tool" truck. It's a truck for suburbanites like me who can't afford both a sedan and a pickup. I currently drive a Toyota Avalon, and it's an amazing car, but it can't tow a small camper or haul equipment from the tool rental shop. For those few times I might need a truck, I'd have to rent one. Far too many SUVs or crossovers offer a tow package only as an option. The Ridgeline offers the best of both worlds, and the tow package is integrated into the vehicle. That's what I call a win-win. This is now at the top of my shopping list should I decide to replace my Avalon.
maybe the plumber wants to haul shit and NOT be in a truck, case in point, i drive both a 2011 ford econoline 150 and a 2015 ford transit... the transit is much more car like and is sooo much nicer to drive.
I thought I was the only thinking of front wheel drive trucks. Went even to a dealer to tell them that. Find out Honda made one totally agree with a mid size truck with front wheel drive especially for control. When you hit a water puddle I think you have more control having it. Experimented with my Ford contour and my charger rt. When I hit those puddles with my ford just went thru them.charger kind of went to the side of the road
As a Ridgeline owner their are only two things I wish were better thought out. The rear doors only open 22 inches (30%). Also the tailgate does not have a lock so if you put on a Tonneau cover you can still gain access to the bed because the tailgate does not have a lock.
The biggest complaints I had with my 2007 Ridgeline seem to have been addressed: MPG, and interior fit and finish. The Ridgeline is NOT going to replace the Tacoma as an off-road truck, nor is it going to replace a Frontier as a nice utilitarian vehicle like the previous generation was. The Risgeline is, and forever will be, an urbanites truck. It is for those city dwellers who want a fuel efficient truck and is easy to park and manage in the city for someone who isn't familiar with driving a truck in such conditions.
Yeah, this seems to be similar in form and function with the Ford Explorer Sport Trac from a few years ago--something that will work 90-95% of the time as an SUV but has a bed for when that sort of thing is needed.
Roman: "You realize it's the only 2WD truck..." Jason: "That's a good thing - it stands out." Good stuff, guys! You state the point of its uniqueness very well. Thanks to all - and thanks for keeping us #InTheKnow
My uncle has a 2017 ridgeline and he's done everything from hauling firewood to hauling his 4 wheelers and riding mower with a trailer. Also the awd system Is awesome. Watched him go through mud on street tires without spinning that some rwd trucks would spin and get stuck.
Pretty poor review, and this guy Roman comes across a bit immature. He hardly spent any time on the features that are the key selling points for the vehicle and constantly acted like he was expecting to review a F-350 Super Duty. Who cares if it's called a truck, SUV, car, SUT, or anything else. It's a vehicle, and a really nice one. If you do not think it's a truck, and your channel is for trucks, then don't review it. I actually saw a comparison Roman did where he said he liked the fact that, in the event of a Zombie apocalypse, he could drive a Tacoma to Argentina. That pretty much highlights the silliness of the bulk of American truck buyers. The Honda has a 4 foot wide bed between the wheel-wells. That makes it the only Midsize truck that is capable of hauling my Jon Boat, quad, and full sheets of plywood/drywall. That is pretty truck-ish to me.
+Kevin Allen i did drive the old one and its not a truck. The Ridgeline has the same motor but god the 4x4 or AWD system sucks i tried to tow a boat and theres a few rocks it wouldnt go into awd all it did was spin two tires. not to mention it sits really low to the ground and rides nice. the Ridgeline can be useful but for what most truck buyer needs this truck is for a person who needs the bed sometimes like to carry dirty things but need a more of a grocery getter
Its awd with fwd option. Also, you blind bro? Can you not tell a minivan from a truck? A minivan has no bed, but a truck does. There is no "minivan with a bed." What an idiot comment.
I live in West Texas and we have some serious wind. When the tailgate is opened like a door, is there something that keeps it open so it doesn't slam shut and break your back?
I'm retired and have a 19' hybrid travel trailer that I pull with a 2010 Tundra. The TT weighs 3700# dry and we probably load it up with close to 1000# of gear. I know the RIdgeline will pull the camper but my concern is braking. Even with a Prodigy trailer braking system I wonder if the Ridgeline's brakes are up to the task of stopping such a heavy load. I have a weight distribution hitch but seems I read somewhere that Honda doesn't recommend using it on the Ridgeline. Is that true?
I've enjoyed TFL Car and TFL Truck for years now, but Roman is getting really annoying. All he does in his videos now is argue with people. Roman should just stick to editing and let Nathan and Andre do all the work in front of the camera.
I loved how Roman approached this review. A lot of people see the Ridgeline as a wannabe truck, me included, and Roman asked all the questions most people would ask. I came into this video with a mindset that if I wanted a truck, I'd probably buy a "real" one, but after watching the video I might actually buy one. No, this is not the ultimate off road machine but it does the work most people would need out of a truck.
I'm a Subaru fanboy but damn this 2nd generation Honda Ridgeline is friggin nice! I'm really curious how it handles the twisty stuff (read: mountain passes, canyon roads, etc) compared to the 1st generation Ridgeline.
![Blox Fruits Dragon Rework Update [Full Stream]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EqDAp8udhm0/mqdefault.jpg)
am i the only one to realise that honda has actually figured out that 80% of the trucks bought are never used for what there designed for honda basically designed a truck to do what we have been using 80% of the trucks we have purchased . this is an everyday drop the kids to school go to the gym pick up shopping go to the hardware store trusk and thats what is needed cause thats what 80% of the trucks purchased are used for
+cordellej exactly.
Didn't think of it that way
what u just described is a soccer mom minivan and no real man wants it
+cordellej This should be the top comment lol. My dad commutes in a full size and has an HD for hauling. I don't think its ever seen a trailer lol, but it kind of makes sense considering its rated a decent 23 HWY, and he needs the 4wd in winter and the cargo volume for random stuff you do with a pick up. That Honda would be an upgrade for his purposes. Just filling a void in the market.
+RichNationProds even though thats how most men use their trucks, they are just bigger expensive cars most of the time
LOL poor Honda dude. He actually did a great job putting up with all the criticism. FWIW I think the Ridgeline satisfies 90% of what most new truck owners do 90% of the time--including myself and I'm a F-150 owner.
Agreed. But I wouldn't buy one lol. I like the f150 and if I were to buy a travel trailer or something I can use my truck. And... It's an American compnay
Leon Wagner something most people don’t realize that Honda ridge lines are made in America with american made parts unlike domestic vehicles which get a large portion of their parts from Mexico.
I love the people who keep saying this isn't a real truck! Listen, back in the day a 'real truck' was a regular cab, bench seat, short or long bed, 2 wheel drive and a manual transmission. Ford didn't even offer 4WD in the F-150 until the 1970's. Then trucks began to evolve, in a really ugly bad way, into 4 door behemoths with leather interiors, sun roofs, navigation, (you can't even get a manual anymore), turbos (Eco-boost), and a price tag that's a down payment on a house. The fact that the Ridgeline has a unibody is called 'moving forward'. Honda doesn't build vehicles that people want? Seriously?! Is that why I see so many Civics, Accords, CRV's and Odysseys on the road? The fact that I can't go off roading and take on Rubicon trails with a Ridgeline is something I can live with. My biggest obstacle while driving is dealing with the idiots on 287 every day coming home from work, something I really don't need 4WD for... I'll take the 25 mpg, you can keep your "truck" that gets 18 mpg on a good day... Well done Honda, can't wait to get mine!
It's not a truck it's a pilot with a bed and that is it. It can pull or tow like ALL THE OTHER TRUCK it can't go off road like a real truck. dude it's a car or at best a suv. Those are the facts
I respect your opinion sir, although I think you may have missed my point (or just chose to ignore it) Either way, as the current owner of an F-150 FX4 I do very little off roading. The bed on the Ridgeline is 64 inches (just shy of the 5.5 ft bed on most full-size four door pickups. The Ridgeline can handle 1584 lbs in the bed, about what my FX4 can handle (1,600 to 1,700 lbs? maybe). As far as towing, I'll agree with you. Although what it lacks in towing ability I believe, for the average customer, it makes up for in gas mileage. A 'majority' of truck owners never take their truck off road (according to statistics). That being said I believe Honda is meeting a majority of customers needs. Honda never intended for their truck (car, SUV) to go up against the Tacoma. For those that want a true off road truck they will buy a Wrangler, Tacoma, or anything with a true 4WD system, creeper gear, ect (not AWD) and a short wheelbase. For most weekend warriors who go to Home Depot or Lowes the Ridgeline is fine. I hate the look of four door trucks, they look out of proportion and odd. But I guess if I had to buy one the Honda makes sense. Personally, I'd love to get rid of my FX4 and go back to a regular cab, short bed pickup truck for better maneuverability and fuel mileage.
I purchased a 2019 Honda Ridgeline all wheel drive, I put a three and a half inch traxda suspension lift on it and 32 inch all terrain tires. I can now tow 5000 pounds easily, carry a thousand five hundred pounds of payload in the bed very comfortably, go to the beach and drive through the sand using the all-wheel drive Sand setting, and I even used the mud setting to drive through 4 to 5 inches of thick mud with no problem at all. Make no mistake this truck can do just about anything that a half ton four-wheel drive truck can do! It just needs a lift and some all terrain tires !
ok boomer
I am sort of a Ford freak, and let say, you don’t have a clue what you are talking about. First off Ford did not produce an F150 until 1975. Secondly Ford stated producing in-house 4wds in 1959
This truck does a job that 95% of customers will use it for very well. Smart differentiation by Honda. Most trucks don't see extreme off road, ever. It makes sense to focus on road worthiness first and foremost. Real men don't need a truck to verify their "manhood"
That's what I'm saying all these people bashing it but yet there lifted f350 has never seen off road before
Lmao this piece of shit is worthless, even at being a truck. Things I use my truck for. Going off-road (which this can't do), pulling a trailer (which this can do, barely. The most it can pull is probably less than 3,000lbs) hauling stuff in the bed (2 dozer scoops of rocks would snap this POS in half). This is pretty much a minivan.
Exactly. This small truck is a sufficient size for hauling brush, hardware or camping gear. Hell, I live in the city; I'm not towing a trailer with livestock.
Yeah, I don't get all the small peened butthurt dudes bad mouthing this vehicle. Don't buy it if you don't want it, you yappy insecure morons. I like it, think it looks great and will be a comfortable highway cruiser, passenger mover, with the capability to haul building and garden supplies from Home Depot, furniture, tools, etc. for the 5% of the time I need to run errands like that. I don't need some overly butch, lifted, huge tires, impossible to park, poor mpg, jerk-off wagon to prove how masculine I am.
It 5,000 lbs for hauling in AWD configuration!
I have owned other trucks and a 4Runner as well. I never used the other trucks to their fullest capacity. I just bought a 2017 Ridgeline. I love it! I do wish it had a little more ground clearance, but it is an awesome truck. I have used it to move from an apartment to a house, pull two cruising motorcycles on a flatbed, and drive-in on trails for backcountry hiking. It is extremely versatile, and perfect for someone not needing a work truck! I didn't know how much I love the idea of an in bed truck until I had one, and started using it everyday like you mentioned. I work in EMS and use it to store my gear to and from work all the time. I have also used it as a cooler for water bottles during outdoor training on hot days. I also flip up the back seat and use the flats floor space regularly. Most importantly, my family of three fits in there perfectly along with my 90 lb black lab!
The video turned out great! Thanks Roman, it was a pleasure spending the day with you and I learned a lot about trucks.
+HondaPro Jason I was shocked and pleasantly surprised to see you in the video with him! Love the new Ridgeline and can't wait to get my hands on one :)
It cannot haul. It does not have locking differential, it's unibody. So it's a car. This is a fail already
Roman did a great job making Jason look dumb. He actually is dumb. I think !
Jay Mann حبللايجارظسلسىن
Jay Mann حب ٧ للايجار مسلسل ت كؤ
One of your best videos.
This long, in depth type of review is some of your best work. Please try to continue to make videos like this. Was like an entire 30 min TV show. Doesn't get better than that.
Also the fact that Roman was a bit more critical than usual made it that much more interesting. Thanks guys!
+Rick Rajchel you are very welcome. Thank you for watching!
I have a truck and always have. They are right about one thing.....95% of the time I just drive it back and forth to work and I don't think I have ever done anything that would exceed the capabilities of this truck. I actually like it and will consider it when it is for sale.
This is a strange review. It's like you are trying to argue how the truck isn't good and the Honda reps just banter back and say how it's great... Weird.
perceptive
for all the haters out there, 95% of truck owners only comute to work on freeways, and haul something once a year, they just have dreams of grandure towing there mega yacht and 65logs, this is practical
Precisely... that's what makes it so great! I don't know why I didn't discover the Ridgeline before. It totally fits my need for a comfortable daily and long-distance commuter for one or two people, but something that can haul a trailer or load up the bed when you need it.
It saves gas, is at honda quality and can carry my motorcycle...what's wrong with it?
No one has mentioned the low wheel wells in the bed. That is great for hauling full sheets of plywood.
Nobody who needs plywood on a regular basis is buying this.
It makes a good parts runner for a vehicle maintenance shop
I'm not sure the bed is long enough for sheets of plywood
+Sean Taylor yes you can fit a full 4x8 sheet of plywood. They widened the bed and dropped the wheel wells down the 3 inches and the tail gate must be down to carry the wood.
To be fair, the vast majority of full size pickups can't carry full size sheets without the tailgate down either.
Honda obviously made this for a special group of buyers. It's obviously NOT a Colorado and it's not supposed to be. It's an alternative that you even want or don't want. No big deal. No reason for endless "well it can't do this, this and this" arguments. It is a little pricey though. Oh and really...the fact that the tailgate is not dampened is a non-issue. Why carry on about it? Unless you're a 95 year old granny with arms as weak as a shrew, you don't need a dampened tailgate. I don't have one on my 2014 full size pickup and like I said...NOT an issue at all.
if they were to put a Ford logo on this truck and call it a Ranger people would be lined up around the corner to buy one of these things people are idiots
sleepybird09 no they wouldnt, theyd defend a bad design to there death, and buy more when theirs shit the bed.
ford fanboys the last 30 years in a nutshell
From the future when the Ranger was re-introduced, from a Ford fanboy who has only driven Rangers (93, 05, 10). I was looking for a new midsize truck and was super excited for the brand new 2019 Ranger. I went into the dealership expecting to give them my money. Then I looked at the Ranger and its features.
I am now the proud owner of a 2019 Toyota Tacoma
This is a nice truck. That however is why there are different brands. You choose the one that suits you.
Different, but it definitely seems practical in its own way
It is a crossover, but instead of being a crossover SUV, its a crossover truck. That's perfectly fine...people need to get out of their little boxed in categories...crossovers work well for most people so I don't see the issue with offering a crossover with a bed. I'm still not sure it will sell well, but I don't think thats the fault of the vehicle.
I've been waiting a long time for a vehicle like this. Just enough truck to suit my needs.
Does it matter whether it is a 'car' or 'truck', or 'crossover', or whatever?
It fits my needs/wants better than any other vehicle design.
Thanks for the review.
GREAT REVIEW. You and Jason hit it off. Jason is certainly an asset to Honda, and to this video! and OH, TFL has the best reviews of anyone!
lets be real. this what most truck drivers need. obviously not for the 10% of truck drivers we actually NEED a truck
Ive never seen Roman this happy in any Japanese made vehicle.
I have this weird feeling that he wants to hate but cant help but love it.
So, my wife just bought the 2019 crv this spring and we LOVE that vehicle...I would hands down buy a Honda truck...BUT...I just cannot get behind the exterior...this sounds dumb....but it’s not trucky enough looking. I’m an f150 owner and I love my truck...part of my love for it is that it just looks the part...when I drive it I feel nostalgic...reminds me of my dad and grandfather when I would ride in their trucks....Honda, you change the body style and I’m in....lol but I’m one customer...if the masses love it, you’re winning!
I love this truck or crossover I drive a 05 Tacoma with 10 inch lift that gets about 13 miles to the gallon and would really consider giving this a try
Much better design than last iteration.
Roman I think it is about time you and yes your channel come into the 21st century with the rest of the world. This is a innovative state of the art product that is well over due to the marketplace.
+Dan Lubar We have no horse in this race but fan boys will always be fan boys.
+The Fast Lane Truck
Don't own a Honda not a fanboy, in fact I drive a Ford. Thank you for the attempt at an insult, lmao.
+Dan Lubar I think current F-150s are innovative, looks at the new Aluminum, twin turbo v6 F-150. Or the new Ram v6 turbo diesel with air ride suspension, or the Nissan Titan Diesel v8 with a Heavy 1500 frame, or the Chevy with cylinder deactivation v8 and 10 speed transmission. I think Honda is trying to sell a truck to SUV people. Not saying that is bad, but TFL truck makes very valid points, this is not a pickup it is a Wagon with a bed. Not that it is bad, just it is a car.
+Dan Lubar Its not state of the art lmao
+Dan Lubar But not to get me wrong, I think kits great to have them make this "truck". I think it will a good option for those that need more cargo room than an SUV. I think SUVs are such a waste. This is a better option than a FWD CUV. Plus those options are interesting with the speaker thing, and the side swing bed.
Honda definitely has a niche market with this Ridgeline. Funny 20 years ago I brainstormed the day a front wheel drive pickup would hit the road. I applaud Honda for being different, and considering Honda's reputation for reliability, the Ridgeline will definitely be worth a look.
Seriously? You have a phone with a stopwatch and you conduct a 0-60 test by counting "one one-thousand, two on-thousand..."? Why?
I just test drove a new Ridgeline up here in Canada. The reason why I am considering such a non-truckish truck, is simply because 5 days of the week I need a comfortable car. It isn't till the weekend when I can load up my dirt bikes and go for a nice ride. Very comfortable, very spacious, and very nice to look at, but the price is rather high. I am planning on ordering one, and hopefully it will serve me well with my 160km daily commute.
I think Honda has done a pretty decent job with this. They are taking a different approach to the truck market by making a cross over look like a truck and have some truck like functions. I think they will definitely sell a decent number in urban areas. Obviously someone who needs a truck should not even look at this, but if they are looking for a cross over, this is definitely an option to consider.
Lets be honest here. The Ridgeline is a ute. You're not going to haul horses with it but it will haul a couple bales of hay if you need to. For a lot of people this is a good choice if you're being honest about what you use your vehicle for. I drove a 3/4 ton diesel for years and loved it, but it was way more than I ever really used. I still love trucks, but a ute like this would work just fine for me.
Gordon Wagner
5000 lb.towing capacity will definitely haul a couple of horses and the hay ta boot!
I don't mind that it's not technically a truck. It performs enough of the functionality that a traditional truck provides and then some more with the comfortable ride and technology packages. As a guy who's not a farmer or of other similar trades, this vehicle is perfect for me. Thanks for the review
Idk its trying to be something its not my Nissan hardbody is more of a truck and its 20 years old.
It depends on how you define a truck. It's got a bed in it that dirt can be thrown into without messing up the interior, so to me it's a truck. I don't get too hung up on what things are called, but more on what they do and how they can be used.
Had a Ridgeline for 5 years & love the damn thing!
This is a car with some truck-like capabilities. It's for people that have nothing heavy to tow or haul. If I didn't have 7000lbs of boat, trailer, and gear to tow I would consider it. I still need the bed for greasy, dirty things around the house, as I have a 21,000sqft of yard to take care of. All the rest of the time, I would get to enjoy a more car-like drive and parking, plus an extra 6 miles to the gallon over my behemoth Tundra.
Tundra is a smart choice, I went with a 2016 Tacoma because tundras were WAY too big for me lol
I think I would rather pick this over chevy and toyota. Its car like, but still with a bed to move stuff. Plus you gotta love that trunk at the back, I can think of tons of uses for it where I live.
I was lucky to film this awesome vehicle recently and I really liked it… I might even replace my RSX with it! :)
I would keep the RSX... it is a classy car with the performance people admire.
The RSX is a great car... I'll just have to keep it.
I would definitely buy a new RSX if they still made one.
...And possibly get the Ridgeline too :)
+MikesCarInfo Hey Mike! Didn't think I'd find you here!
+MikesCarInfo Love your videos!
Thanks brother :)
Front wheel drive is genus, I had a Dakota rear drive only always get stuck in snow because the bed has no weight. Honda is a lot more intelligent car maker, solving problems American companies never change for centuries.
get winter tires and put something heavy in the back, problem solved. Could even kill two birds with one stone and shovel the snow from your driveway into the bed of the pickup.
***** get winter tires or put something heavy in the back of their truck?
That's what sandbags are for. FWD is great for traction, but it absolutely sucks for towing.
frieddayfriday care to explain, or are you just a butthurt troll?
Or, switch to 4H and keep on trucking
This red shirt guy is very enthusiastic and deeply understand about his product
Roman, I'm not a fan of the 2nd generation Ridgeline, but you need to check your bias at the door man! I can tell from your body language and inflection that you like this midsize truck, but your personal bias is getting in the way of performing a good review. Of course "Honda Pro. Jason" has a bias as well; so maybe that helps this video review a little.
+Philip Neitz Roman says since HondaPro Jason is such a Honda fan boy he had to play the Devil's advocate roll in this review.
+The Fast Lane Truck Er, how does this square up with your previous statement, " We have no horse in this race "⁉️ The Devil's advocate is a person who expresses a contentious opinion in order to provoke debate or test the strength of the opposing arguments. It sounds to me like you're speaking with a forked tongue and a club foot‼️ ☹️☹️☹️
+MrKeyboardCommando
What? this isn't meant to be taken that seriously. They are at a Honda promo event. This is an informative video about the vehicles features and driving experience. Not an in depth review or comparison. Take it for what it is. Roman was entertaining and obviously had to bring up supposed negatives to balance the fanboy. Just info, hardly a review.
+Andrew Jensen Roman, has attachment issues, and if he's not holding on to a knob like his mothers nipple, he get all giddy, and has difficulty concentrating. 🎭
Andrew Jensen What has your comment got to do with anything I wrote⁉️ Don't any of you idiots understand the English language⁉️ 😠😠😠
So lets me get his straight for all the people that bitch this is not a "Truck". So to be a truck it needs to be.. Solid framed, Get poor fuel economy, Be uncomfortable, Be RWD in a 2x4 trim and be noisy inside. So the fact that it can tow, has a v6 (that has more power than Fords v8 4.6) has a bed on the back to hall things, can tow and goes off road... all things a truck does is completely irrelevant to "Truck" owners. No wonder the rest of the world does not understand "Mercia's" love for a out dated concept. Kinda sad to be honest but oh well I will enjoy my "CAR" like truck on my trips to Home Depot in a snow storm.
No matter what you think of the new Honda truck, I am just glad small trucks are back. I had a Ford Sport Trac for years and loved it. This is a great segment, maybe we will see more brands jump on the band wagon. Its nice to have a vehicle that drives like a small SUV but has the added benefits of an open truck bed. Maybe its not a real truck, but I like the idea.
What makes a small truck good, this does badly. Only saving grace is parking.
I feel there are 4 things buyers look for in a mid-size verse a full-size. 1) Priced lower than a full-size truck. 2) Smaller package thats easier to drive and maneuver. 3) MPG. 4) Focus on outdoor activity.
I guess you can add a 5th in Car like characteristics if this does well. I don't think most buyers will care that it drives like a car.
1) Its priced higher than entry full-size trucks.
2) Its smaller, thus easier to park comment.
3) MPG isn't out yet, but based on the pilot, MPG is worse than the Ram eco-diesel and close to F-150s.
4) Other trucks may prove to be more useful for outdoor activities with their ride height.
To me it only has its small size and car-like driving characteristics. You can still probably be better served by a Full-size truck for less money.
+Kevin Smith I agree with all of your points except the last one. I would not be better served with a full size truck. I live in a large city, I park in a parking garage at work everyday. I owned a 2013 Ram 1500, loved the truck, but driving that thing in the city was a pain in the ass. The parking garage was a nightmare. I had to get to work early everyday to make sure I could get a spot on the end of a row or else I was screwed. Full size trucks are great, but not for everyone. I learned they are not for me, at least not as my daily driver. Until Ford or Ram starts making small trucks again choices are slim. I think this is a great option, although the Canyon/Colorado are very good looking trucks compared to this. I don't know if they are really comparable though.
I've never been much of a truck guy, but this new Ridgeline looks quite slick in black.
I use my truck to tow a 5,500lb trailer several times every summer including up and over significant mountain passes. Because I love trailering I purchased a "real truck", and yes that only accounts for 10 - 20%. Yes the reason I got the truck was that "10%" which you guys are referring to, or negatively referring to. Very happy I did so too and a Ridgeline wouldn't cut it for that 10% of the time I am referring to
this is more like a new age el Camino or the yutes from Australia
+phoenix240 I wish they would bring back the el camino and do it right.
The focus in these comments has become "lets pile on when the trend seems to be going negative". We know that Jason is a Honda guy, but admits that he has little truck experience, so his views must be accepted accordingly. If this wannabe mid size Ridgeline does not suit your needs or definition, then select an alternative, but no real need to be trashing Honda's concept. The marketplace will prove the success or failure for this 2nd generation......Honda builds great products. If this crew cab is not to your liking, then go for something else.
Most people call a Pilot and Explorer SUVs and not crossovers because of their size. I'm fine with calling the Ridgeline a truck because it has a pickup bed. Is it the best for towing or off-roading, no, but neither are the 4 cylinder 2wd trucks. The Ridgeline looks like it's a capable family truckster, towing kids and hauling diapers, and I've sold many full size trucks to families for just that.
That Is the whole purpose of this truck.
ELMER SALGUERO Yes towing and hauling is the point of a truck. Point is most people don't buy a short cab, long bed, max tow package truck, they buy a 4 door short bed with low axle ratios to carry their family and stuff. Call these people posers or whatever you want, they use trucks like most people use SUVs for family wagons, and for them the Ridgeline will work.
I feel like people really gloss over a couple trucky things about this. The payload of this is 400lbs more than a base tacoma, 100lbs less than the v6 Tacoma, and it's the same as a Colorado. For towing, it's 1,500lbs MORE than the colorado v6 without the towing package. Tailgate weight rating is 300lbs, tacoma is 200lbs. And, of course, lets not forget it's the only mid size that can lay full sheets of drywall and plywood flat in the bed. This is especially important for drywall.
I like this truck. Honda did their research well. It is not meant to do "real truck things", but is more for the city driver who needs to move a couple of things from time to time and do so with style, refinement, and comfort. Good job!
This truck is perfect for anyone who likes trucks. Obviously not for people who work in the construction industry and use trucks for heavy duty or heavy duty hauling. This or the Tacoma is perfect besides that, It doesnt make you less of a man owning one of these lol So many guys out there who just buys a truck to look tougher and never use it like one
WTF is with it with truck prices...
+Recon9143 = Its called INFLATION, and right now inflation in the U.S. is around 12%. Interest rates should be around 14%, not zero % like they are now.
It's with Everything in LIFE - - - " CALLED MONEY GREED " !!!~~~ ?
Honesty Counts inflation is more like around 2%. Don't mislead people.
its because were winning so much....arent you tired of so much winning?
I personally love the hate.The fact that I can ruin someones day just because they don't like the ridgeline makes me laugh. I love my Ridgeline!
Got one a week ago. It is awesome. Comfortable and economical are terms I would use to describe it. Mpg - freeway is 37.5, mixed 29+, in town 21. Wow!
Roman this could probably be your best review because you didn't try to stroke the ego or a new truck manufacturer. You gave it to Honda pure and simple stating how its not really a truck and how you pointed out ways it isn't a truck. You nailed this review especially when you called it a car and caught Honda officials calling it a car. I hope you keep this same mind set when trying it in the Ike gauntlet. You see the Ridgeline for what it is and dont see it for what its trying to be.
This truck is so bad ass. It fits a 4x8 that is huge. Honda made something that is not like anything you can currently buy. It looks cool and most importantly... It's a damn Honda. The best cars money can buy. Look on the used market. People that own ridge lines do not give them up. The towing thing is a pissing contest. It can tow 5,000 lbs across the country. And do it for 500,000 miles. It has completely original ideas and is outside the box and that's what makes it a Honda. I have a element and it is the most amazing vehicle ever. It is as big as a escalade in the inside and much smaller on the outside. That is Honda engineering
I love it too!!!! It's perfect for a mom who loves to garden!!!
Wow I was lmfao the whole time. You think this is a real truck. You can come hook Chains with my duramax. I'll show you what a real fucking truck is
+brandon brillhart Gayest comment I have ever read
+brandon brillhart You think you need a big duramax or a diesel to be a truck? Sounds like you're compensating for something small...Honda isn't trying to pull people from the heavy duty market or the full sized market. They are targeting current Honda owners that may need a truck type vehicle and frankly this vehicle has a lot of features that I wish I had on my new canyon.
+Eric Franklin well those are a full pickup😂 anyway you got a point there the diesel has just become a fashion trend instead of a truck for work like it was meant to be, but that's, that's not a truck that's a mini-van with a bed
Looking at this Truck and all others currently out there, I would have to say this is a great option for very many families. Not everyone wants a gas guzzler as a daily driver. Today's midsize trucks were classified as full size trucks 10 years ago.... Why do we keep insisting on increasing the size of Trucks and their engines? Its asinine. This is a good fit for many people who want the functionality of a truck when they need it and comforts of a car for all the other drives. Haters are gonna hate, but whatever. If you like it buy it. It Honda and you cant go wrong there.
i actually like these. the tailgate and box designs are hits. i dont really tow so the big v8 rwd isnt necessary and the interior is nice. gor some reason everyone hates on the fwd but every suv now are the exact same. this isnt a work truck or wrangler in the bush, but for a daily driver with the occasional load this does the job fine.
+Ryan Lavallee then get one of the 2.7L ecoboost f150's. At least if you want to haul something you have the option with that. This thing is beyond useless. It's like a minivan without the back seats...
+crephotos the f150 is way to big and dont want a turbo vehicle.
It does not look very nice but having the new pilot, I can tell you that the new engine is totally amazing, powefull and low consumption.
The way you kept messing with your buddy made this probably one of my top 10 TFL videos. 😂
Hey Roman, the fwd drive Ridgline has a snow mode button. What does this button actually do?? Does it mean one would be sending power to both front wheel ??? Thanks
+Andreas Modl it probably just starts in 2nd gear from a stop.
+The Fast Lane Truck that is to bad :(
It shovels your driveway
+Bam Boozled that is funny
+Andreas Modl = Snow Mode Button : It turns off the engine to remind you to go out and get a 'REAL' truck.
Roman, please perform a matchup review between Tacoma and this 'truck'.
Only a tool would describe a truck as a tool, because ALL vehicles are tools, and putting importance on large size rather than performance, a sign of personal inadequacy.
The definition of a truck is a vehicle designed for moving cargo, not how crude, how massive, or how unrefined it is. Drive train design and capacity are irrelevant. A rear bed is what defines a pickup truck, not the passenger compartment.
The idea that a good tool should handle crudely "like a truck" only shows how low the bar has been set for trucks. Ride quality/driveability should be as important as hauling capacity in any truck, because SAFELY transporting cargo and occupants is the primary objective.
The arbitrary classification of light trucks by bed carrying weight capacity doesn't exclude the Ridgeline from the 1500 lb class.
The question isn't whether it is a "truck", but for which consumers this vehicle provides the right amount of utility for the price.
Personally, I think that it is too expensive and has too fragile an interior for a vehicle used primarily to move cargo, but the rear seat is a plain statement that isn't its intended function. Its market is upper middle class small families and workmen with light/occasional cargo moving needs. For any other group, the lifecycle cost of ownership makes no economic sense.
Unlike many people, I prefer a vehicle with the simplest construction, avoiding "keyless" start that requires an electronic key, touch screen controls that require taking eyes off the road (inckuding navigatuon, which should be voice ptompt only when driving by federal mandate). The entire idea of infotainment built into a vehicke is ridiculous, when better tech is carried in most peoples pockets. Bluetooth capable basic I/O with just amp and simple manual controls makes much more sense. The interior of vehicle should be adequately comfortable, and durable, easy to maintain and restore, as should EVERY system in a modern vehicle.
It makes little sense to buy a 30K midsize vehicle that wears out in less than 15 years of light to moderate use, or for the aggregate cost of maintenance over a 10 year/2000,000 mile period excluding consumables to exceed the resale value of the vehicle at any time during that period. If people wouldn't treat pickup trucks like disposable toolboxes, but as a major investments that require care, most of the midsize trucks sold in this US today would meet this standard, while NONE of their 1950's ancestors would.
it is
The future of trucks. It might seen bad, but this is not a bad thing guys.
Married, father of two, own a pair of jet skis, enjoys camping. Perfect vehicle for the suburban lifestyle my family exudes. Be it buying mulch at the local big box or taking the family out of the city for a few days this vehicle will meet my needs. Although my SUV allows me to accomplish most of these same goals the Ridgeline will offer a different type of versatility. The built in "trunk" offers compartmentalized storage that no other truck does, a big plus in my eyes. If you need an F-150 by all means buy one, but the Ridgeline offers features and refinement that many MEN look for in a car. Just because I don't need the ability to pull a backhoe to the job site doesn't imply that I don't occasionally need a bed.
I usually enjoy watching TFL Car and Truck channels but the over-the-top act Roman put on in this video, with the constant giggling and outbursts, etc., was just annoying. I don't understand why he thought that was an improvement over his regular reviews. Please let Nathan review the Ridgeline after driving it for a few days.
it looks like a crossover between a small SUV and small truck. that said, for those of us who don't need an F350 this could be a very good alternative. potentially.
+Kilo Bravo Productions F350 lol not many people drive those i see a lot more folks who drive F250 or a F150
+Kilo Bravo Productions or a half ton, or a mid size truck.
Makes me think of those jettas with the bed conversion.
But those Jettas are quirkily cool, but the Ridgeline is just ugly
But those Jettas are quirkily cool, but the Ridgeline is just ugly
hondapro jason is the man. I'm wanting to buy this truck more and more everytime I learn something about it. Good vid. Honda power
I like the back seats, chassis seems strong. really like the bed. bedbars available? can it lock the center diff? they should look into turbos for it, I think they have a turbo deisel civic
+konic40 I think Honda is allergic to Turbos (except for the new sports car they are coming out with). the power train is over 10 years old with some minor tweaks. Almost every other manufacturer has surpassed them on that feature alone.
There's a bed in the back because it's so boring you will need to go to sleep.
hahaha
+Paul Montero lmao!
+Paul Montero best comment ever!
the best commente
SAVAGE
Not FTL's finest review. Roman can be pretty annoying. He leaves no doubt in this video.
Roman is fine. The fan boy is annoying
This is by far not the best way to market a truck the the American market. Because by America's standards this is a car. Never once have I heard someone say they wanted a front wheel drive truck or for that matter a unibody truck that sits that low
First, I am a Honda owner. Secondly. I have sold trucks from pickups to 18 wheelers since 1974. I understand everything you are saying, but don't try and sell this as a pickup. When chevrolet made the elcamino, they didn't try and pass it off as a truck. Even in the manufacturing, it was considered a car. It was built in the same factory, on the same chassis, as the Monte Carlo and Malibu. They can disguise this all they want, but it is far more of an suv than a real truck. 275 hp and 5000 pounds towing capacity isn't enough to work. It will pull a bass boat, but the V6 still won't do it as well as a v8. People that buy this are not truck buyers. Period. It is a family car. One more thing. Torque is given in foot pounds. Not pounds feet. That was started about 20 years ago by a briish scientist. Every engineering school in the US teaches foot pounds. At least they did for about 100 years. Oh, all full size pickups can take a 4 by 8 sheet of plywood. This isn't a midsize truck. It is a lot larger than the Tacoma.
Jason hit the nail on the head. This is not a "tool" truck. It's a truck for suburbanites like me who can't afford both a sedan and a pickup. I currently drive a Toyota Avalon, and it's an amazing car, but it can't tow a small camper or haul equipment from the tool rental shop. For those few times I might need a truck, I'd have to rent one. Far too many SUVs or crossovers offer a tow package only as an option. The Ridgeline offers the best of both worlds, and the tow package is integrated into the vehicle. That's what I call a win-win. This is now at the top of my shopping list should I decide to replace my Avalon.
maybe the plumber wants to haul shit and NOT be in a truck, case in point, i drive both a 2011 ford econoline 150 and a 2015 ford transit... the transit is much more car like and is sooo much nicer to drive.
So are you gonna buy one of these?
my company buys the work trucks so i dont have a vote, but if we needed a pickup not for towing, then sure.
+fpstina oh ok
I Love JASON.
a wonderful salesman
Why does Roman repeat the same corny lines over and over? I can't stand watching videos with him in it.
I thought I was the only thinking of front wheel drive trucks. Went even to a dealer to tell them that. Find out Honda made one totally agree with a mid size truck with front wheel drive especially for control. When you hit a water puddle I think you have more control having it. Experimented with my Ford contour and my charger rt. When I hit those puddles with my ford just went thru them.charger kind of went to the side of the road
As a Ridgeline owner their are only two things I wish were better thought out. The rear doors only open 22 inches (30%). Also the tailgate does not have a lock so if you put on a Tonneau cover you can still gain access to the bed because the tailgate does not have a lock.
The biggest complaints I had with my 2007 Ridgeline seem to have been addressed: MPG, and interior fit and finish. The Ridgeline is NOT going to replace the Tacoma as an off-road truck, nor is it going to replace a Frontier as a nice utilitarian vehicle like the previous generation was. The Risgeline is, and forever will be, an urbanites truck. It is for those city dwellers who want a fuel efficient truck and is easy to park and manage in the city for someone who isn't familiar with driving a truck in such conditions.
Yeah, this seems to be similar in form and function with the Ford Explorer Sport Trac from a few years ago--something that will work 90-95% of the time as an SUV but has a bed for when that sort of thing is needed.
is a modified Pilot
Should start at 23k and top out at 29k. It then becomes an extreme value proposition.
Roman: "You realize it's the only 2WD truck..."
Jason: "That's a good thing - it stands out."
Good stuff, guys! You state the point of its uniqueness very well. Thanks to all - and thanks for keeping us #InTheKnow
My uncle has a 2017 ridgeline and he's done everything from hauling firewood to hauling his 4 wheelers and riding mower with a trailer. Also the awd system Is awesome. Watched him go through mud on street tires without spinning that some rwd trucks would spin and get stuck.
When I thought the old ridgeline was ugly they made it even worse
Never doubt Honda's ability to make ugly vehicles
+Mark Schaefer lmao... so true
Pretty poor review, and this guy Roman comes across a bit immature. He hardly spent any time on the features that are the key selling points for the vehicle and constantly acted like he was expecting to review a F-350 Super Duty. Who cares if it's called a truck, SUV, car, SUT, or anything else. It's a vehicle, and a really nice one. If you do not think it's a truck, and your channel is for trucks, then don't review it.
I actually saw a comparison Roman did where he said he liked the fact that, in the event of a Zombie apocalypse, he could drive a Tacoma to Argentina. That pretty much highlights the silliness of the bulk of American truck buyers.
The Honda has a 4 foot wide bed between the wheel-wells. That makes it the only Midsize truck that is capable of hauling my Jon Boat, quad, and full sheets of plywood/drywall. That is pretty truck-ish to me.
I think the old ridgeline looked much better
I love this truck. I would definitely go for it over the tougher guys cuz it gives more all round practicality
Sooo the Ridgeline is basically the start of the crossover truck era.. What a time to be alive..
I'd choose any mid size truck over the Ridgeline. This is not a truck.
thank-you!
Drive it first. Also think about what you will be using for. It may surprise you.
+Kevin Allen uh no it wont
+Kevin Allen i did drive the old one and its not a truck. The Ridgeline has the same motor but god the 4x4 or AWD system sucks i tried to tow a boat and theres a few rocks it wouldnt go into awd all it did was spin two tires. not to mention it sits really low to the ground and rides nice. the Ridgeline can be useful but for what most truck buyer needs this truck is for a person who needs the bed sometimes like to carry dirty things but need a more of a grocery getter
tyler boyer you drove the old one. Drive the new one.
I'm as big of a honda fanboy as they come but, uhhhh. no.. and those fuel economy numbers really? the F150 ecoboost bests that and can tow 12,000lbs
It's front wheel drive because its a minivan with a bed.
I like minivans with beds: they're meant to be affordable
Its awd with fwd option. Also, you blind bro? Can you not tell a minivan from a truck? A minivan has no bed, but a truck does. There is no "minivan with a bed." What an idiot comment.
I live in West Texas and we have some serious wind. When the tailgate is opened like a door, is there something that keeps it open so it doesn't slam shut and break your back?
I'm retired and have a 19' hybrid travel trailer that I pull with a 2010 Tundra. The TT weighs 3700# dry and we probably load it up with close to 1000# of gear. I know the RIdgeline will pull the camper but my concern is braking. Even with a Prodigy trailer braking system I wonder if the Ridgeline's brakes are up to the task of stopping such a heavy load. I have a weight distribution hitch but seems I read somewhere that Honda doesn't recommend using it on the Ridgeline. Is that true?
I've enjoyed TFL Car and TFL Truck for years now, but Roman is getting really annoying. All he does in his videos now is argue with people. Roman should just stick to editing and let Nathan and Andre do all the work in front of the camera.
remember the Pontiac Aztec?
+phil tripe the preferred crossover of new mexico meth kingpins
I loved how Roman approached this review. A lot of people see the Ridgeline as a wannabe truck, me included, and Roman asked all the questions most people would ask. I came into this video with a mindset that if I wanted a truck, I'd probably buy a "real" one, but after watching the video I might actually buy one.
No, this is not the ultimate off road machine but it does the work most people would need out of a truck.
that's a Honda oddessey with a bed
Lmao
Pilot
Lmao true
WakeTheDead300 not much a difference between a oddessy or pilot
WakeTheDead300 Honda Odyssey's don't look like it looks like the CR-V
I'm a Subaru fanboy but damn this 2nd generation Honda Ridgeline is friggin nice! I'm really curious how it handles the twisty stuff (read: mountain passes, canyon roads, etc) compared to the 1st generation Ridgeline.
Front wheel drive? Load the bed up and throw a trailer on the hitch. How's your traction and steering?