This is my fourth truck. The first one I needed for heavy plowing; it was a Chevy 2500HD; same as my second truck. I loved them. My third truck was not for plowing but I liked the 4WD option and big bed aspects of a full size truck. They're monsters. But when I bought my fourth truck I put a little more thought in it and realized I wasn't plowing anymore and I rarely used the 4WD. I studied mid size pickups and was surprised that (1) you can put a plow on a Ridgeline, and (2) everything I need to haul in the bed still fits well in the Ridgeline bed because it might be shorter but it is wider because there are no wheel well space eaters in it. Then I drove one a Ridgeline and saw how smooth it drives and rides and how the tailgate opens vertically OR horizontally and I was amazed. Finally, I was sold on it when I looked at the built in, huge underbed truck it has with a drain plug in it for those hauling ice for tailgate parties. I bought a 2022 RTL and I love it! I have enjoyed my bulky, heavy, "manly" trucks but I've been there and done that now and concerns for fit and function for my lifestyle today are paramount. Worth it!
About the same as you. Had trucks for the last 30 years, towing boats and travel trailers. Last truck was a 2015 Ford f-250 6.2l towing fx-4x4. Now that I'm old with fake knees and bad back, I Hate towing anymore. the roads are bad, crowded..rarely used the 4x4. You can buy a Loaded and reliable, ridgeline half price of the new big trucks, with more goodies. I went with a 2022 ridgeline rtl-e awd. I do go down logging roads and dirt paths to my favorite fishing holes, now I don't beat up my back getting there. It can all the truck alot of people need, with a whole lot better fuel economy.
Own a 2020 Ridgeline TRUCK. Actually my 5th truck after spending 60+ years in Alaska (Ford, Chevy, GMC). Yes, I loved all of my trucks, however, even as a Contractor, they were not necessary 95% of the time. The Ridgeline is the best I’ve ever owned; comfort, fuel economy of 26 mpg (goes up with a Tonneau cover), acceleration, fits in the garage, etc. Why all the BS about: Diesel trucks, goosenecks, dual wheels, 3500, 8’bed, Turbo to haul a couple of motorcycles!! Be serious! Stick to the topic! - Retired living the good life in Colorado!!
They've really hit on something with this trio. Gotta love the boy racer energy from Monty and Ryan and then practical mom Jen keeping them on track. Great dynamic!
The new Maverick and Santa Cruz are the best things that have ever happened to the Ridgeline because there's a lot more attention on the unibody pickup segment now and people are discovering or rediscovering how good the Ridgeline is.
You are correct. I was looking to make the Ridgeline my next truck, but then they announced the Santa Cruz. Personally, I find the interior and exterior of the Hyundai much better looking, the infotainment system way more modern, and it would fit my garage a little better. But I'm having second thoughts, years of owning Honda/Accura cars have made me a believer in their dependability over the long haul. My Santa FE has just had a factory covered engine replacement, along with some other nagging issues. I'm rethinking the Ridgeline for my next purchased.
The Ridgeline has always been one of the best trucks. For the people who don’t tow or need something for extreme off roading, it’s a fantastic riding and purposeful trucks. I compare it to a Swiss Army knife. Very practical.
I tow with my Ridgeline, but only a utility trailer/ATV with total weight below 3000 lb. You hardly know anything is back there. So it will tow - just not huge loads. IIRC, there's only at most 2000 lb between the RL's towing capacity and the best-equipped competition. And remember only *some* models of the others have higher tow capacity - many have less. So there is - at most - a 2000 lb "window" where some models of other midsize pickups can tow more than the RL. Most buyers needing that capacity should just move on to a full-size pickup. Do you really want to tow 7000 lb with a 4500 lb vehicle?
I’m an in-house electrical technician that recently changed from a Tundra to the Ridgeline. So due to my work, the backseat of my Tundra was always full of tools, completely useless as a backseat. Now with the Ridgeline, all my tools go in the trunk, the backseat is clear and I can put a car seat in there now. The ride quality is amazing, there is a surprising amount of cabin space, the awd is great, and it’s comfortable. If you’re not towing, the Ridgeline is the truck just people need. The HPD package is a complete waste of money IMO. In Canada the Base Sport model has more features that I actually need, great value.
I have a 2021 ridgeline. 2800 miles. I have hauled just shy of 5 cords of firewood (fresh cut gray birch, black walnut, & apple; seasoned red oak, hickory and cherry). I have some plywood sides to increase the bed volume. 1 cord takes about 2 and a quarter loads. The great ride sucks when loaded, but the handling is fine. This TRUCK has a 1500 pound load rating. It tows my 3500 boat without issue. I just sold my Tundra to buy this. I've had a Tacoma. I get it, it's not a full sized truck, but it is clearly NOT an SUV with a bed. I don't off road anymore than to get firewood, so a 4 low would be wasted.
Sledgehammers, framing hammers, finish hammer, just pick the right tool for the job. I certainly wouldn’t pick a finish hammer to drive a form spike. The ridgeline is the best midsize because it’s built for that class. No one tows with the rangers to max capacity. They simply buy a f-150. The ridgeline is king in its class based in true use and comfort.
I really enjoyed this episode. You all are great, keep up the good work 👍. I drive a Chevy Colorado and really enjoy that little truck but I always know deep down the Ridgeline is a more practical vehicle in the midsize category
Very interesting, I was driving early this morning and I saw a Grey one on the 210 East. I was thinking I don't really see many Ridgelines, it is a good size and good looking "truck".
Interesting discussion at 16:21 about EVs in Fairbanks. They're here, for sure, and it's not a bad place for them to live. While public charging infrastructure is essentially non-existent, the cars are still a manageable choice. The winter effect on range depends a lot on driver habits; the practical impact is around -40% (versus around -30% for ICE vehicles). As such, if someone wants an electric vehicle to make a 40-mile commute, a 110-mile rated vehicle should do the trick, but, as mentioned in the video, you're not leaving a lot of room to spare on particularly cold days. The helpful part of a commute, though, is that it is two directions separated by time (you aren't running forty miles in a single go). I know a lady who drives her Subaru Crosstrek hybrid battery-only on a 25-mile daily commute year-round (it is rated for 17 miles). She is able to charge at work (110V/15A receptacle), but then most workers here can access some type of outlet since block (and other) heaters are a common (and commonly used) accessory in the sub-arctic. I would not recommend a hybrid because that is a more complicated car overall (higher future repair costs), and that really wasn't what Shaun wanted in the first place.
I have a 2021 RTLE and I love it. It's an exceptional vehicle. Honda easily sells every one. Their buyers know what they are.They know what they want without compromise. It's not BOF and thats what makes I special
You're right about the HPD package, is total nonsense! But you guys also don't do justice to the Ridgeline's AWD system. It is mechanically the same as the SH-AWD in Acuras just tuned differently. Very impressive and capable!
Love my Ridgeline and can hit +30mpg if I take it easy and under 75mph. The new HPD trim is awful - just a desperate move by Honda as they see "tougher-looking" trucks taking some sales. Those flat "flares" look horrible. The Honda AWD system is superior in everyday driving - including off asphalt but especially on snow and ice. Honda just needs to put together a real "more off-road" package with a bit of a lift, room for larger tires and some skid plates. All available in the aftermarket, so not a big ask The "trunk" is a great feature but putting the spare tire there is a problem for me - I have hauled with the bed full of compost or gravel and then thought - what if I have a flat? No way I could access the spare. You can throw the spare and jack in the back seat (as long as you remember in advance), but the Santa Cruz location (tire under, jack in the cabin) is a better solution IMO
I just purchased a HR touring trim. No idea when it will get delivered due to the flooding and road closures here in BC. I feel it’s all the truck I need. Time will tell.
I love my 2021 Ridgeline. I have a Ford F350 as my work, hauling, and towing RV truck. The Ridgeline is my everyday drive. It's much easier to park, It rides so smooth, and getting in and out of it doesn't kill my knees, because I don't have to bend low to get in it.
TFL Truck has videos of towing 4900 lbs up and down the IKE in Colorado with the Ridgeline and it does just fine, you can definitely tow with the Ridgeline 5000 lbs though is the suggested limit to be safe
Please do some testing of EVs in super, super cold weather, ie, -30F or even -35F. I live in Canada where it gets to -30c and colder, my next vehicle (in 5 years or so) will definitely be either a hybrid or plug-in hybrid although the latter would likely need me to install a 220V charger in my garage, adding another $2,000 Cdn to the overall cost.
CR, The perfect COMPACT pickup was/is the made-in-California Tacoma with a manual transmission. Please ask Mike Monticello for confirmation. No FULL-SIZE pickup can be considered 'perfect' without an 8 foot bed.
Isn't the transmission in the Ridgeline the same ZF Transmission that is in the Pilot and some Jeep products that has been highly criticized for a very long time now? Now you're praising it? What's going on?
I saw that your post is two years old but thought I could add this info just in case you are still interested and want to know. It is my understanding that ZF is a German company and designs their transmission to be used in lots of FWD and AWD vehicles all over the world. So if I recall correctly the software is up to the OEM for the intended use of the vehicles that the transmission will be going into and so there was a learning curve by many companiees ... by now most if not all of the issues have been resolved. The ZF 9HP transmission is produced at ZF's Gray Court facility in Laurens, South Carolina, and is considered 100% American made. Production began in 2013 and the plant produces 400,000 units per year. The 9HP transmission is also produced at Indiana Transmission Plant I (ITPI) and Tipton Transmission Plant in Indiana for Fiat and Chrysler vehicles.
Great stuff…I really LOVE the Ridgeline, but really don’t have a use for one at the moment…but, when I retire and head up to my parents’ log house in the woods, it would be the best vehicle…Jen, I thought you did horse stuff and need to pull a big trailer? No? Did I get that wrong? As for the powertrain, I drove the last iteration and loved it, but glad they smoothed out the tranny. I’m not a fan of turbos…I’ve hated most that I’ve had (including my Porsche Boxster 718)…the only one I truly liked was my Audi Q7, but they strapped a supercharger onto it to get rid of that lag…otherwise, they are all laggy in my test driving…Currently drive a Wagoneer with a NA engine, a Niro EV, and a 2017 Honda CRV (I hate that engine!)…As for an EV option for your write-in, my 2022 Niro EV (last gen) is rated for 239…HOWEVER, it gets 278 when I charge to 80% and closer to 310 with a 100% charge, so the range in the cold would still be enough….I also owned a Niro EV PHEV and a RAV4 Prime…the RAV4 Prime was much better as you could ride in EV mode up to 80mph even if you floor it…the Niro EV PHEV got around 30 miles of pure EV range, but if you hit the pedal a bit aggressively, the engine kicked in…still a fun little commuter car.
I’m anxiously awaiting the TrailSport Edition to come available for the Ridgeline. For now, it’s only available for the Passport. The Ridgeline entered the midsized-pickup market with a best-in-class payload of 1,500 lbs (3/4 ton), which was better than some fully equipped full-sized pickups. A base trim Ranger can now reach 1,800 lbs payload, probably due to the I4 2.3L engine being small enough to significantly drop the weight vs the 3.5L V6 engine in the Ridgeline. I traded-in my 2019 Ridgeline for the 2020, just for the 9-speed German ZF transaxle with paddle-shifting, and the rear door stops that allow for a broader opening. The 9-speed consumes a little more fuel at low speeds (when compared to my old 6-speed), but the Autobahn gears 8-9 can sometimes hit 30+ MPG on the freeway to make up the difference. Also, the freeway gearing is so close in ratio, that downshifting to pass traffic or to climb a brief hill has a minimal RPM change, so the engine isn’t loud and won’t over-rev. The Ridgeline’s 2nd generation (2017-present) bed is best-in-class for the 5’ small box category, since it’s both widest and longest. The bed is specifically and conveniently sized for their Honda CR/CRF 125cc - CR/CRF 500cc motocross/enduro motorcycles, with the tailgate dropped. In terms of the rear seat comfort, it’s important to note that only the Ridgeline and Gladiator offers Tri-Zone Climate Control standard on all trims. Which gives rear seated passengers two mid-rise center console air vents in addition to two floor vents. The Ridgeline also utilizes rear-seat stadium seating higher than front seats, which diminishes the nausea affect associated with pickup passengers in the back seats. I don’t understand the Heavy Duty 2500 or 3500 reviews in comparison to a midsized-pickup? These are completely incompatible consumer demographics! A Ridgeline should be compared within the scope of the intended consumer demographic against the: Colorado/Canyon, Ranger, Gladiator, Frontier, Tacoma, and etc… Most midsized-pickups have a SAE towing rating that drops down around (4K lbs) due to a plush off-road long-travel suspension and higher center of gravity. This also drops payloads, often below (1k lbs). Only the light weight base trims are offering impressive towing (7k+ lbs) and good payloads for the midsized-pickup market. The Ridgeline however goes straight down the middle (between the 4k lbs off-road and 6k lbs mixed use) by offering a light off-road capability and still maintaining (5k lbs) of towing. If you must have off-road capability without loosing towing capability; then the Gladiator Overland trim and Tacoma TRD Pro trim will enable (6k lbs) SAE towing as the best consumer options. If you need max towing at the expense of off-road capability, then a base trim Gladiator, Ranger, or Colorado are very close to reaching 8k lbs towing. As a manufacturer, the cost of producing pickups is very high because of the vast product offerings. Plants must retool and reconfigure constantly for the abundance of trims and accessories. So a base Gladiator in the high $20k’s will reach the high $60k’s for a Rubicon trim before customizing with accessories. That’s a $40k+ spread for basically 80-90% of the same vehicle. The Ridgeline however only has about a $10k+ spread between base and top trims. The Ridgeline is the only midsized-pickup with a tow package standard on all trim levels. All other midsized-pickups are (2k lbs) tow from bumper, prior to a dealership up charge to a legitimate tow package, or a $ higher tier $ trim that offers a tow package. The Ridgeline has Tri-Zone Climate Control standard on all trim levels. The Ridgeline has the best-in-class and only impact resistant composite bed paneling for all trim levels. The competition charges extra for scuff-resistant drop-in bed-liners or scuff-resistant spray-in coatings, neither of which offer the tensile strength of the Ridgeline’s composite material. The Ridgeline comes standard on all trims with a best-in-class torque vectored AWD that can split torque 70%/30% rear/front and or front/rear. Even the Jeep Quadratec full-time 4x4 can only split torque 52%/48% rear/front. The competition only offers 2WD-rear for fuel economy or an extremely heavy 4x4 transfer case that ruins total payload and towing capacity. At which point you must purchase a heavy duty to overcome the transfer case weight to still achieve high payloads and heavier towing in combination with off-road capability. With the Ridgeline, you get the iVTM-4 AWD without compromising a competitive payload, towing, or fuel economy for the midsized-pickup class. Even the base trim Ridgeline has higher tier infotainment and Honda Sensing safety mitigation than competitors’ entry level trims. All-in-all, the average Ridgeline owner is probably spending $5k - $10k less than going to a competitor after accessorizing or demanding specified features. Also, the Ridgeline dominates the resale value and insurance safety ratings, which is important for family passenger vehicles.
I guess if you enjoy shopping solo? My wife and kids like going to IKEA as well. You can’t do that if you’ve removed the seats from your Odyssey or folded down the seats in your Passport or Pilot. The Ridgeline has the largest in-class 5’ small-box and is the only midsized-pickup capable of laying a 4’x8’ sheet of plywood flat to the deck between the tire wells. That must be a huge piece of ready-to-assemble furniture to exceed the dimensions of plywood? If the item is that large in size, forget the tailgate on a Ridgeline, because you won’t be able to close the hatch on a SUV nor minivan either.
Re the electric Mini in Alaska. I drive a gasoline Mini. It doesn't do well in deep snow because of low ground clearance. And I believe the electric version is even lower.
An example of what truck buyers are like from JDPower: Ram buyers aren’t all that concerned about quality, reliability, fuel economy, or maintenance costs. At the same time, they’re not as interested in paying extra for safety equipment or an environmentally friendly vehicle
Yesterday I met a man who was placing some hardware back near the battery compartment of his 2021 Honda Ridgeline. He complaint to me that he just finished jumping off his daughter's Nissan Altima and there was no clear way for him to easily connect the jumper cables on the Honda's battery. He clearly was placing part of the plastic air intake back in place because he had to remove it to get his jumper cables onto the battery terminals. I looked at it and thought it was odd that access to the battery was so complicated. I'm considering buying a 2023 Toyota Tacoma.
For jumping the vehicle, the positive terminal is accessible, so that shouldn’t have been an issue. Only the negative terminal is under the air intake trap, which isn’t used when jumping a vehicle anyways. The negative jumper goes onto the engine block mount loop that’s used to pull/lift the engine. It’s actually a good idea to cover the negative terminal, since different make vehicles change between positive and negative grounding. Only the “exposed” terminal that isn’t “ground” should be accessible to protect both batteries during a jump.
2 solutions for that. 1) the + terminal is readily available, so that isn’t a problem. You can ground the jump to the chassis. Another hack is to get a bolt and put it into a pre-machined and threaded boss on the frame rail.
The ridgeline has a few problems: The infotainment is still very poor. It sits too low on wheels that look too small. and the dash looks very dated. None of that is a real deal-breaker but I can't help but think that if this had a hybrid and got 30mpg that they'd be charging over sticker for them. As someone with a 1/4 ton truck, the efficiency of the car is tempting.
Thanks for your review, but the comments about suv with a box, or more rugged are bad marketing languages towards the American design, engineered, built by, built for...you don't have to like it, but you should find better languages. Stop talking about what it isn't, rather what it is.
You know you’re old, Monty, when you start disliking brash color combinations. Don’t worry, it happens to all of us, lol. Also, here’s another vote for the longer format v. this new shorter one.
Price. In Canada I can get a full size truck that is a lot more capable for not much more…or even less. Just doesn’t make sense to buy something that is good for 90% of my needs when I don’t save much vs something that meets 100% of my needs.
Why are you talking about HD trucks in a Ridgeline review? This is ridiculous. Noone towing a trailer with 6 horses is thinking about any mid size truck. The Ridgeline suspension and frame is beefed up compared to the Pilot. The payload is also excellent and with 10% tongue weight can still haul 4 people while pulling a trailer. It works off road too, nothing extreme, but it works. I work on large capital construction projects. I drive on muddy/icy haul roads and this vehicle never skips a beat.
As a person who owns the 1st generation Ridgeline. I think Honda went to much with the Cladding around the Wheel Wells on the New Generation with HPD option
First comment. I really want a 2022 Tundra, but it seems they won’t be available for 1 or 1.5 years! So I am considering the Ridgeline or a Tacoma until then. The Tacoma seems more like a rugged truck, which appeals to me more.
The Taco can be modded for "real" off-road where the RL can't, really. The RL is a much better vehicle for 99.9% of driving and use, but if look is more important than driving, your choice is obvious
The ridge line is a great truck for people who don’t need a truck! I have a F150 that I never haul anything in . In my old age l like trucks! That being said , my 2.7 F150 ride better, has tons more room and as a bonus gets way better mileage than the Ridgeline! The Ridgeline is way easier to Park .
This is how I would sum things up, if Honda offered “that little more” e.g. a longer bed, perhaps an actual low range performance package then I be willing to spend $50K. But I simply won’t spend $45K on the current 21-22’ model year, just too little of a truck for the money. Honda has good ideas that another company will eventually perfect. A year from now the 23’ RANGER the next rage.
The Ridgeline is a nice pick-up but for preppy people. Not much in cargo space. But it will do for a Sunday drive if you are delivering birthday or Christmas present.
I've had mine level with the top of the bed with loads of gravel or loam and still had suspension. The RL load weight capacity is actually larger than many of the competition. The bed is shallow compared to a full-size, but so is the competition (which lack the RL's secure locking trunk). Add in the hugely better passenger (F&R) compartment with extra "cargo" space. Just buy a full-size pickup if you need a full size pickup. But 90% of pickups never have anything in the bed but air or snow
@@stevep8773 don't get me wrong I know how they are made. Very good pickups I used to work for Honda and they stress quality. I help make the CRV, RDX, Crosstour, and Accords all were made the same way.
The Ridgeline has best-in-class cargo space between the: cab, 5’+ bed, and in-bed trunk. The wider bed in the Ridgeline has been far more useful to me than our old 6’ long-bed Ranger. Because of the Ridgeline’s larger width, the square footage in the 5’ box isn’t all that much different from a narrower Ranger with a 6’ box. The midsized-pickup competition drastically reduce the rear-seat cargo area to provide the 6’ long-bed. So you’ll give-up the dual-cab for an extended-cab. The Colorado/Canyon and Ranger may offer more vertical volume with taller sidewalls. But you can forget about reaching anything inside the bed, without climbing in from the tailgate, or using a step ladder alongside the vehicle. GMC/Chevy bragging about all their foot-hole-steps really just advertises the lack of practicality in their design. If I need taller sidewalls for a project, I’d rather accessorize for that, rather than never be able to access something sitting in the middle of the bed.
American's buy more trucks than any other vehicle but when you look at cr's ratings they don't include the 3.0 diesels in the full-size trucks from each of the big 3, which the GM version is getting over 30mpg? it seems if the car is not for soccer mom's they won't review it, this is big segment of the market to ignore
I want one. But the adaptive cruise control sucks and Honda doesn’t put their newest infotainment in it. Yes - the HPD crap is embarrassing. People don’t cross shop Ridgeline w/ heavy duty trucks. I’m waiting.
What's wrong with my RL ACC? I use it all the time but was unaware how bad it is. Only other ACC I've used is Mazda and Subaru - different but not better IMO. Or do you just not like any ACC? And as far as entertainment, if you buy a truck for the radio...
@@stevep8773 hey Steve - I have a ‘19 forester and do use the ACC extensively. It works to full stop and reminds me when traffic ahead starts to move - love the system! I really want the Ridgeline but am waiting for them to improve that system. I have done two test drives and dislike that the ACC disengages at 20 ish mph, and I found it to be abrupt and sensitive - admittedly I have less than 50 miles behind the wheel, but that’s my experience with it. The radio? I guess I feel Honda is just being cheap there. They already have an updated, faster, clearer head unit in the Pilot and Odyssey. For my 44K I want their best! Lol. (I’m hoping it will be soon)
The Ridgeline is for the suburban guy or gal who wants to bring home the "stuff" for the yard or garden, the antiques from the local market, etc. It's not an F1.
Sidney, what about skiing, traveling to remote fishing spots, a 5-6 hundred mile road trip, touring British Columbia in the winter or traveling the North American high line anytime. Name a better truck than the Ridgeline for 40k. btw; a Ridgeline is capable of pulling up to 6,000 pounds although rated for 5000. Pulls my 24’ pontoon with all the gear with ease.
I'm still driving my 2006 Ridgeline, bought in July 2005. I won't be buying another. They have left me to go upscale. I'm buying a Santa Cruz for $38K. To get the same stuff on a Ridgeline, it's closer to $50K. Too much. Too much.
Sales were up 70% before COVID-19 interfered with logistics. They’re parked here in Georgia, awaiting the chips to arrive. The vehicles are basically parked in various staging areas to keep the assembly lines active in Lincoln, AL.
Everybody does realize that this truck failed in the rollover test when it came to crashing you can't jerk the wheel hard or fast or you will roll this truck proven by the crash test study
I'd buy a tri-motor Cybertruck. It can haul (literally and figuratively). It gets 500 miles of range (allegedly) and it won't destroy the planet. Now that's what I call a daily driver.
This is the worst discussion of the Ridgeline I've ever seen. The Ridgeline is a midsize pickup, and in that realm, it's the best pickup out there (unless you actually rock crawl or need to tow over 5k). But these bozos do nothing but compare it to full size trucks - and the larger end of full size trucks at that. - Oh, has someone who's lived with a 5' bed for the past 20 years - 5' bed is perfectly fine for plywood, trips to the dump, bikes, you name it. If you don't have the brains to lower the tailgate when your 1-item load is 3" longer than your bed, you don't have the brain cells to be driving.. - Also, learn some color theory. Red and Gold are complimentary colors. The naturally go together. And gold, in general since it's metallic, typically goes with most colors. Certainly with all the stock Honda Ridgeline colors (as you can get the HPD package with any color). (I will agree, $2,800 for nice wheels and some stickers is pretty stupid...).
Honda and Toyota will be a day late and a dollar short in coming to the electric vehicle party. That will cost them in market share and in their profits. Not moving to electricify their fleet fast enough will cost them dearly.
More a worry for Honda than Toyota. I have seen Honda's "E" car in Europe and it is pitiful. Like a decade behind. Why bother? Of course, the US/CDN market is very late to electric, but the Ridgeline's tiny slice of the pickup market is unlikely to see them invest a lot in an electric model. More likely just cancel it (agaian).
Two negatives: I don't live in a snow belt and it only comes as AWD ($3,000 additional cost) and Honda is the only major manufactorer that still uses interference timing belt engines ($3,500 cost to replace. I am not interested in an additional $6500 cost in the first 100,000 mile ownership.
The AWD is advantageous in all conditions because it is torque vectoring. It improves the handling well beyond anything you would expect in a truck. You have to try it to believe it. A timing belt job is less than $1500 out the door including water pump, tensioner and idlers. It adds about $.01 per mile of ownership and you gain some of that back with the maintenance minder which is on condition maintenance vs something like a Tacoma which just has a set maintenance schedule of every 5K miles. Typically, our Maintenance Minder Honda products call for an oil change between 6K and 8K miles depending on conditions. All other major maintenance is driven by that as well and it works really well. So just by getting an extra 50% out of each service interval, you are saving a couple hundred of that $1500 back over the life of the timing belt.
Honda Ridgeline is NOT a truck, Its an SUV with a bed just as Ryan stated. This vehicle is in no way a truck and I would never waste money on a tiny truck wannabe.
My 2017 Ridgeline had a instrument panel and ECU failure at 4 years old and 45K miles, and a transmission issue, and the paint is falling off. This will be my last Honda
So instead of leaving the tailgate now and putting a strap across for a few more inches so this guy can get his IKEA furniture he’s telling us he’s gotta go buy a Dooley from terrible company like Dodge that ain’t gonna run with 20,000 miles before it breaks down, who is this guy why is he on the show with silly logicsense put your tailgate down and put a strap across problem solved and you still have a great truck in the Honda Ridgemont that guy is silly
CR videos are a waste of time.. I'm not interested in their personal lives and needs. Stay on point and tell me about the vehicle being discussed. I don't care about whether they have dirt bikes or not.
EV adoption is accelerating every year. Exponential not linear. The only limiting factor is batteries. The number of electric vehicles and types of vehicles and trucks is growing. Many people are holding off buying a new car or scooter until the electric vehicle they want becomes available. Electric vehicles are just better. No noise, no emissions, less fuel costs, less maintenance costs and amazing technology. Gasoline and diesel are OLD polluting technology. So last century. Electric cars, electric trucks, electric buses, electric trash haulers, electric snow blowers, electric lawn mowers, electric weed whackers, electric hedge trimmers, electric snow mobiles, electric water craft, electric garden tools, electric mechanic tools, electric motor cycles, electric bicycles, electric scooters, electric farm tractors, electric construction equipment, electric delivery vehicles, ...... everything is going electric. No worries about starting after sitting for a few months. Gas always needs repairs. If you care about the future for your children care about climate change
Government subsidies are needed so they are competitively affordable for the general public. Many countries show when you subsidize the price of an EV, the sales go up which is impressive seeing the initial purchase isn’t cheaper than the gas equivalent. No EV today requires more than 1hr to fast charge and most new EVs today offer even faster charging. Some of my best road trips have been in EVs because you are given the proper time to take a break from driving while you charge the car. You arrive at your destination rested and ready for your next adventure.
Ridgeline is straight GARBAGE 🗑! It's not a god damn truck... its a mf car with a bed. its for soccer moms with a small garage. its a insult to truck that do truck stuff! I'd buy this just to crash it 5 minutes later!
This is my fourth truck. The first one I needed for heavy plowing; it was a Chevy 2500HD; same as my second truck. I loved them. My third truck was not for plowing but I liked the 4WD option and big bed aspects of a full size truck. They're monsters. But when I bought my fourth truck I put a little more thought in it and realized I wasn't plowing anymore and I rarely used the 4WD. I studied mid size pickups and was surprised that (1) you can put a plow on a Ridgeline, and (2) everything I need to haul in the bed still fits well in the Ridgeline bed because it might be shorter but it is wider because there are no wheel well space eaters in it. Then I drove one a Ridgeline and saw how smooth it drives and rides and how the tailgate opens vertically OR horizontally and I was amazed. Finally, I was sold on it when I looked at the built in, huge underbed truck it has with a drain plug in it for those hauling ice for tailgate parties. I bought a 2022 RTL and I love it! I have enjoyed my bulky, heavy, "manly" trucks but I've been there and done that now and concerns for fit and function for my lifestyle today are paramount. Worth it!
Correction: built in, huge underbed trunck
About the same as you. Had trucks for the last 30 years, towing boats and travel trailers. Last truck was a 2015 Ford f-250 6.2l towing fx-4x4. Now that I'm old with fake knees and bad back, I Hate towing anymore. the roads are bad, crowded..rarely used the 4x4. You can buy a Loaded and reliable, ridgeline half price of the new big trucks, with more goodies. I went with a 2022 ridgeline rtl-e awd. I do go down logging roads and dirt paths to my favorite fishing holes, now I don't beat up my back getting there. It can all the truck alot of people need, with a whole lot better fuel economy.
Own a 2020 Ridgeline TRUCK. Actually my 5th truck after spending 60+ years in Alaska (Ford, Chevy, GMC). Yes, I loved all of my trucks, however, even as a Contractor, they were not necessary 95% of the time. The Ridgeline is the best I’ve ever owned; comfort, fuel economy of 26 mpg (goes up with a Tonneau cover), acceleration, fits in the garage, etc. Why all the BS about: Diesel trucks, goosenecks, dual wheels, 3500, 8’bed, Turbo to haul a couple of motorcycles!! Be serious! Stick to the topic! - Retired living the good life in Colorado!!
They've really hit on something with this trio. Gotta love the boy racer energy from Monty and Ryan and then practical mom Jen keeping them on track. Great dynamic!
The new Maverick and Santa Cruz are the best things that have ever happened to the Ridgeline because there's a lot more attention on the unibody pickup segment now and people are discovering or rediscovering how good the Ridgeline is.
People that bought the Ridgeline is the best thing that happened to the Ridgeline and not some other copies lol.
You are correct. I was looking to make the Ridgeline my next truck, but then they announced the Santa Cruz. Personally, I find the interior and exterior of the Hyundai much better looking, the infotainment system way more modern, and it would fit my garage a little better. But I'm having second thoughts, years of owning Honda/Accura cars have made me a believer in their dependability over the long haul. My Santa FE has just had a factory covered engine replacement, along with some other nagging issues. I'm rethinking the Ridgeline for my next purchased.
The Ridgeline has always been one of the best trucks. For the people who don’t tow or need something for extreme off roading, it’s a fantastic riding and purposeful trucks. I compare it to a Swiss Army knife. Very practical.
I tow with my Ridgeline, but only a utility trailer/ATV with total weight below 3000 lb. You hardly know anything is back there. So it will tow - just not huge loads. IIRC, there's only at most 2000 lb between the RL's towing capacity and the best-equipped competition. And remember only *some* models of the others have higher tow capacity - many have less. So there is - at most - a 2000 lb "window" where some models of other midsize pickups can tow more than the RL. Most buyers needing that capacity should just move on to a full-size pickup. Do you really want to tow 7000 lb with a 4500 lb vehicle?
That clip of the Ridgeline driving on the dirt road is one of my favorite roads to drive on! I love living only a mile away from CR!
I’m an in-house electrical technician that recently changed from a Tundra to the Ridgeline. So due to my work, the backseat of my Tundra was always full of tools, completely useless as a backseat. Now with the Ridgeline, all my tools go in the trunk, the backseat is clear and I can put a car seat in there now. The ride quality is amazing, there is a surprising amount of cabin space, the awd is great, and it’s comfortable.
If you’re not towing, the Ridgeline is the truck just people need.
The HPD package is a complete waste of money IMO. In Canada the Base Sport model has more features that I actually need, great value.
assuming you ever got a lighting pickup truck (I still think it should be the EF-150) would that be appropriate to too on the nose? lol
I have a 2021 ridgeline. 2800 miles. I have hauled just shy of 5 cords of firewood (fresh cut gray birch, black walnut, & apple; seasoned red oak, hickory and cherry). I have some plywood sides to increase the bed volume. 1 cord takes about 2 and a quarter loads. The great ride sucks when loaded, but the handling is fine. This TRUCK has a 1500 pound load rating. It tows my 3500 boat without issue. I just sold my Tundra to buy this. I've had a Tacoma. I get it, it's not a full sized truck, but it is clearly NOT an SUV with a bed. I don't off road anymore than to get firewood, so a 4 low would be wasted.
Sledgehammers, framing hammers, finish hammer, just pick the right tool for the job. I certainly wouldn’t pick a finish hammer to drive a form spike. The ridgeline is the best midsize because it’s built for that class. No one tows with the rangers to max capacity. They simply buy a f-150. The ridgeline is king in its class based in true use and comfort.
I love watching Mike, Ryan and Jen together as a team. You make my day when I watch your program and you're all together. Thank you!
Ridgeline's unibody and rear coil springs really make for a smooth ride. GPS is by Garmin and free updates for life!
The Ridgeline should be thankful of the introduction of the even smaller ones from Kia and Ford (Maverick and what not) for making it look truckier!
I really enjoyed this episode. You all are great, keep up the good work 👍. I drive a Chevy Colorado and really enjoy that little truck but I always know deep down the Ridgeline is a more practical vehicle in the midsize category
Very interesting, I was driving early this morning and I saw a Grey one on the 210 East. I was thinking I don't really see many Ridgelines, it is a good size and good looking "truck".
Honda only makes around 35 thousand a year.
The heck with YOU, red with gold wheels looks fantastic!!!!
Interesting discussion at 16:21 about EVs in Fairbanks. They're here, for sure, and it's not a bad place for them to live. While public charging infrastructure is essentially non-existent, the cars are still a manageable choice. The winter effect on range depends a lot on driver habits; the practical impact is around -40% (versus around -30% for ICE vehicles). As such, if someone wants an electric vehicle to make a 40-mile commute, a 110-mile rated vehicle should do the trick, but, as mentioned in the video, you're not leaving a lot of room to spare on particularly cold days. The helpful part of a commute, though, is that it is two directions separated by time (you aren't running forty miles in a single go).
I know a lady who drives her Subaru Crosstrek hybrid battery-only on a 25-mile daily commute year-round (it is rated for 17 miles). She is able to charge at work (110V/15A receptacle), but then most workers here can access some type of outlet since block (and other) heaters are a common (and commonly used) accessory in the sub-arctic.
I would not recommend a hybrid because that is a more complicated car overall (higher future repair costs), and that really wasn't what Shaun wanted in the first place.
I have a 2021 RTLE and I love it. It's an exceptional vehicle. Honda easily sells every one. Their buyers know what they are.They know what they want without compromise. It's not BOF and thats what makes I special
You're right about the HPD package, is total nonsense! But you guys also don't do justice to the Ridgeline's AWD system. It is mechanically the same as the SH-AWD in Acuras just tuned differently. Very impressive and capable!
Love my Ridgeline and can hit +30mpg if I take it easy and under 75mph. The new HPD trim is awful - just a desperate move by Honda as they see "tougher-looking" trucks taking some sales. Those flat "flares" look horrible. The Honda AWD system is superior in everyday driving - including off asphalt but especially on snow and ice. Honda just needs to put together a real "more off-road" package with a bit of a lift, room for larger tires and some skid plates. All available in the aftermarket, so not a big ask
The "trunk" is a great feature but putting the spare tire there is a problem for me - I have hauled with the bed full of compost or gravel and then thought - what if I have a flat? No way I could access the spare. You can throw the spare and jack in the back seat (as long as you remember in advance), but the Santa Cruz location (tire under, jack in the cabin) is a better solution IMO
Very informative video clip from a different perspective. Thank you
I just purchased a HR touring trim. No idea when it will get delivered due to the flooding and road closures here in BC. I feel it’s all the truck I need. Time will tell.
I love my 2021 Ridgeline. I have a Ford F350 as my work, hauling, and towing RV truck. The Ridgeline is my everyday drive. It's much easier to park, It rides so smooth, and getting in and out of it doesn't kill my knees, because I don't have to bend low to get in it.
I never thought I’d hear one day this truck drives like a SUV. I’m sold out.
PHEV version of Ridgeline with 65 miles of EV range is what I dream about 🙂
TFL Truck has videos of towing 4900 lbs up and down the IKE in Colorado with the Ridgeline and it does just fine, you can definitely tow with the Ridgeline 5000 lbs though is the suggested limit to be safe
Based on what I mostly do a SUV or minivan is more useful and easier to remove things from the back plus no need for a cap or bed cover.
Thank you so much. Great video and education. Thanks for sharing. I learned so much.
Love this show! Keep up the great work :)
As Mike said, "I love driving a dually." Me too. I love my Dodge D350 Dually.
And so easy on gas :-)
Please do some testing of EVs in super, super cold weather, ie, -30F or even -35F. I live in Canada where it gets to -30c and colder, my next vehicle (in 5 years or so) will definitely be either a hybrid or plug-in hybrid although the latter would likely need me to install a 220V charger in my garage, adding another $2,000 Cdn to the overall cost.
CR, The perfect COMPACT pickup was/is the made-in-California Tacoma with a manual transmission. Please ask Mike Monticello for confirmation. No FULL-SIZE pickup can be considered 'perfect' without an 8 foot bed.
There's a Taco with an 8' bed? And the manula, IIRC, has about half the tow capacity of a Ridgeline. You have to be *so* careful with Toyota specs
Isn't the transmission in the Ridgeline the same ZF Transmission that is in the Pilot and some Jeep products that has been highly criticized for a very long time now? Now you're praising it? What's going on?
I saw that your post is two years old but thought I could add this info just in case you are still interested and want to know.
It is my understanding that ZF is a German company and designs their transmission to be used in lots of FWD and AWD vehicles all over the world. So if I recall correctly the software is up to the OEM for the intended use of the vehicles that the transmission will be going into and so there was a learning curve by many companiees ... by now most if not all of the issues have been resolved.
The ZF 9HP transmission is produced at ZF's Gray Court facility in Laurens, South Carolina, and is considered 100% American made. Production began in 2013 and the plant produces 400,000 units per year. The 9HP transmission is also produced at Indiana Transmission Plant I (ITPI) and Tipton Transmission Plant in Indiana for Fiat and Chrysler vehicles.
The perfect compact pickup midsize truck.
@ 12:36 was he supposed to hit that pole with the car?
Great stuff…I really LOVE the Ridgeline, but really don’t have a use for one at the moment…but, when I retire and head up to my parents’ log house in the woods, it would be the best vehicle…Jen, I thought you did horse stuff and need to pull a big trailer? No? Did I get that wrong? As for the powertrain, I drove the last iteration and loved it, but glad they smoothed out the tranny. I’m not a fan of turbos…I’ve hated most that I’ve had (including my Porsche Boxster 718)…the only one I truly liked was my Audi Q7, but they strapped a supercharger onto it to get rid of that lag…otherwise, they are all laggy in my test driving…Currently drive a Wagoneer with a NA engine, a Niro EV, and a 2017 Honda CRV (I hate that engine!)…As for an EV option for your write-in, my 2022 Niro EV (last gen) is rated for 239…HOWEVER, it gets 278 when I charge to 80% and closer to 310 with a 100% charge, so the range in the cold would still be enough….I also owned a Niro EV PHEV and a RAV4 Prime…the RAV4 Prime was much better as you could ride in EV mode up to 80mph even if you floor it…the Niro EV PHEV got around 30 miles of pure EV range, but if you hit the pedal a bit aggressively, the engine kicked in…still a fun little commuter car.
This is my daily driver. It’s 1500lb payload is more than most trucks including some full size trucks and it will haul it all day long.
Now you got maverick in the blend
I’m anxiously awaiting the TrailSport Edition to come available for the Ridgeline. For now, it’s only available for the Passport.
The Ridgeline entered the midsized-pickup market with a best-in-class payload of 1,500 lbs (3/4 ton), which was better than some fully equipped full-sized pickups.
A base trim Ranger can now reach 1,800 lbs payload, probably due to the I4 2.3L engine being small enough to significantly drop the weight vs the 3.5L V6 engine in the Ridgeline.
I traded-in my 2019 Ridgeline for the 2020, just for the 9-speed German ZF transaxle with paddle-shifting, and the rear door stops that allow for a broader opening. The 9-speed consumes a little more fuel at low speeds (when compared to my old 6-speed), but the Autobahn gears 8-9 can sometimes hit 30+ MPG on the freeway to make up the difference. Also, the freeway gearing is so close in ratio, that downshifting to pass traffic or to climb a brief hill has a minimal RPM change, so the engine isn’t loud and won’t over-rev.
The Ridgeline’s 2nd generation (2017-present) bed is best-in-class for the 5’ small box category, since it’s both widest and longest. The bed is specifically and conveniently sized for their Honda CR/CRF 125cc - CR/CRF 500cc motocross/enduro motorcycles, with the tailgate dropped.
In terms of the rear seat comfort, it’s important to note that only the Ridgeline and Gladiator offers Tri-Zone Climate Control standard on all trims. Which gives rear seated passengers two mid-rise center console air vents in addition to two floor vents. The Ridgeline also utilizes rear-seat stadium seating higher than front seats, which diminishes the nausea affect associated with pickup passengers in the back seats.
I don’t understand the Heavy Duty 2500 or 3500 reviews in comparison to a midsized-pickup? These are completely incompatible consumer demographics! A Ridgeline should be compared within the scope of the intended consumer demographic against the: Colorado/Canyon, Ranger, Gladiator, Frontier, Tacoma, and etc…
Most midsized-pickups have a SAE towing rating that drops down around (4K lbs) due to a plush off-road long-travel suspension and higher center of gravity. This also drops payloads, often below (1k lbs). Only the light weight base trims are offering impressive towing (7k+ lbs) and good payloads for the midsized-pickup market.
The Ridgeline however goes straight down the middle (between the 4k lbs off-road and 6k lbs mixed use) by offering a light off-road capability and still maintaining (5k lbs) of towing.
If you must have off-road capability without loosing towing capability; then the Gladiator Overland trim and Tacoma TRD Pro trim will enable (6k lbs) SAE towing as the best consumer options. If you need max towing at the expense of off-road capability, then a base trim Gladiator, Ranger, or Colorado are very close to reaching 8k lbs towing.
As a manufacturer, the cost of producing pickups is very high because of the vast product offerings. Plants must retool and reconfigure constantly for the abundance of trims and accessories. So a base Gladiator in the high $20k’s will reach the high $60k’s for a Rubicon trim before customizing with accessories. That’s a $40k+ spread for basically 80-90% of the same vehicle.
The Ridgeline however only has about a $10k+ spread between base and top trims. The Ridgeline is the only midsized-pickup with a tow package standard on all trim levels. All other midsized-pickups are (2k lbs) tow from bumper, prior to a dealership up charge to a legitimate tow package, or a $ higher tier $ trim that offers a tow package. The Ridgeline has Tri-Zone Climate Control standard on all trim levels. The Ridgeline has the best-in-class and only impact resistant composite bed paneling for all trim levels. The competition charges extra for scuff-resistant drop-in bed-liners or scuff-resistant spray-in coatings, neither of which offer the tensile strength of the Ridgeline’s composite material. The Ridgeline comes standard on all trims with a best-in-class torque vectored AWD that can split torque 70%/30% rear/front and or front/rear. Even the Jeep Quadratec full-time 4x4 can only split torque 52%/48% rear/front. The competition only offers 2WD-rear for fuel economy or an extremely heavy 4x4 transfer case that ruins total payload and towing capacity. At which point you must purchase a heavy duty to overcome the transfer case weight to still achieve high payloads and heavier towing in combination with off-road capability. With the Ridgeline, you get the iVTM-4 AWD without compromising a competitive payload, towing, or fuel economy for the midsized-pickup class. Even the base trim Ridgeline has higher tier infotainment and Honda Sensing safety mitigation than competitors’ entry level trims.
All-in-all, the average Ridgeline owner is probably spending $5k - $10k less than going to a competitor after accessorizing or demanding specified features. Also, the Ridgeline dominates the resale value and insurance safety ratings, which is important for family passenger vehicles.
Good luck with the IKEA haul. Based on my experience, you'll have driven the 2 hours only to find the item isn't actually in stock 😅
I guess if you enjoy shopping solo?
My wife and kids like going to IKEA as well. You can’t do that if you’ve removed the seats from your Odyssey or folded down the seats in your Passport or Pilot.
The Ridgeline has the largest in-class 5’ small-box and is the only midsized-pickup capable of laying a 4’x8’ sheet of plywood flat to the deck between the tire wells.
That must be a huge piece of ready-to-assemble furniture to exceed the dimensions of plywood? If the item is that large in size, forget the tailgate on a Ridgeline, because you won’t be able to close the hatch on a SUV nor minivan either.
Hi guys, why use old footage with prior model. The new model with Monte's favorite gold rims and HPD package has been out for a while now.
What’s the perfect truck depends on the job.
Re the electric Mini in Alaska. I drive a gasoline Mini. It doesn't do well in deep snow because of low ground clearance. And I believe the electric version is even lower.
Anyone knows a good muffin recepie?
An example of what truck buyers are like from JDPower: Ram buyers aren’t all that concerned about quality, reliability, fuel economy, or maintenance costs. At the same time, they’re not as interested in paying extra for safety equipment or an environmentally friendly vehicle
Love my Ridgeline! But I am never going to tow a horse trailer or fill the bed with boulders either.
Yesterday I met a man who was placing some hardware back near the battery compartment of his 2021 Honda Ridgeline. He complaint to me that he just finished jumping off his daughter's Nissan Altima and there was no clear way for him to easily connect the jumper cables on the Honda's battery. He clearly was placing part of the plastic air intake back in place because he had to remove it to get his jumper cables onto the battery terminals. I looked at it and thought it was odd that access to the battery was so complicated. I'm considering buying a 2023 Toyota Tacoma.
For jumping the vehicle, the positive terminal is accessible, so that shouldn’t have been an issue. Only the negative terminal is under the air intake trap, which isn’t used when jumping a vehicle anyways. The negative jumper goes onto the engine block mount loop that’s used to pull/lift the engine. It’s actually a good idea to cover the negative terminal, since different make vehicles change between positive and negative grounding. Only the “exposed” terminal that isn’t “ground” should be accessible to protect both batteries during a jump.
2 solutions for that.
1) the + terminal is readily available, so that isn’t a problem. You can ground the jump to the chassis. Another hack is to get a bolt and put it into a pre-machined and threaded boss on the frame rail.
I have your 1979 Firebird Trans Am "SE" , "Bandit" car in my garage!
Did they open the doors a little wider?
Most common hack on the first Gen 2s was to swap the Pilot rear door check straps so they'd open further. $20 and an hour
The ridgeline has a few problems: The infotainment is still very poor. It sits too low on wheels that look too small. and the dash looks very dated. None of that is a real deal-breaker but I can't help but think that if this had a hybrid and got 30mpg that they'd be charging over sticker for them. As someone with a 1/4 ton truck, the efficiency of the car is tempting.
C'mon folks. The Ridgeline fails the single most important test of a pickup. Providing a boost for the testosterone impaired.
Thanks for your review, but the comments about suv with a box, or more rugged are bad marketing languages towards the American design, engineered, built by, built for...you don't have to like it, but you should find better languages. Stop talking about what it isn't, rather what it is.
You know you’re old, Monty, when you start disliking brash color combinations. Don’t worry, it happens to all of us, lol. Also, here’s another vote for the longer format v. this new shorter one.
Price. In Canada I can get a full size truck that is a lot more capable for not much more…or even less. Just doesn’t make sense to buy something that is good for 90% of my needs when I don’t save much vs something that meets 100% of my needs.
Ridgeline hand down, no any midzide can match the swiftknife of these Ridgeline. Period...but the HPD package is a just a joke.
Why are you talking about HD trucks in a Ridgeline review? This is ridiculous. Noone towing a trailer with 6 horses is thinking about any mid size truck. The Ridgeline suspension and frame is beefed up compared to the Pilot. The payload is also excellent and with 10% tongue weight can still haul 4 people while pulling a trailer. It works off road too, nothing extreme, but it works. I work on large capital construction projects. I drive on muddy/icy haul roads and this vehicle never skips a beat.
As a person who owns the 1st generation Ridgeline. I think Honda went to much with the Cladding around the Wheel Wells on the New Generation with HPD option
Why are you talking about 2500 & 3500 trucks. Honda will haul 1600 pounds. Compare it to comparable trucks.
RL will tow 5000 lb
First comment. I really want a 2022 Tundra, but it seems they won’t be available for 1 or 1.5 years! So I am considering the Ridgeline or a Tacoma until then. The Tacoma seems more like a rugged truck, which appeals to me more.
The Taco can be modded for "real" off-road where the RL can't, really. The RL is a much better vehicle for 99.9% of driving and use, but if look is more important than driving, your choice is obvious
I agree the HPD package is a total waste of money.
The ridge line is a great truck for people who don’t need a truck! I have a F150 that I never haul anything in . In my old age l like trucks! That being said , my 2.7 F150 ride better, has tons more room and as a bonus gets way better mileage than the Ridgeline! The Ridgeline is way easier to Park .
If you have the bucks, wait for the Rivian etruck or eSUV.
This is how I would sum things up, if Honda offered “that little more” e.g. a longer bed, perhaps an actual low range performance package then I be willing to spend $50K. But I simply won’t spend $45K on the current 21-22’ model year, just too little of a truck for the money. Honda has good ideas that another company will eventually perfect. A year from now the 23’ RANGER the next rage.
The Ridgeline is a nice pick-up but for preppy people. Not much in cargo space. But it will do for a Sunday drive if you are delivering birthday or Christmas present.
I've had mine level with the top of the bed with loads of gravel or loam and still had suspension. The RL load weight capacity is actually larger than many of the competition. The bed is shallow compared to a full-size, but so is the competition (which lack the RL's secure locking trunk). Add in the hugely better passenger (F&R) compartment with extra "cargo" space. Just buy a full-size pickup if you need a full size pickup. But 90% of pickups never have anything in the bed but air or snow
@@stevep8773 don't get me wrong I know how they are made. Very good pickups I used to work for Honda and they stress quality. I help make the CRV, RDX, Crosstour, and Accords all were made the same way.
The Ridgeline has best-in-class cargo space between the: cab, 5’+ bed, and in-bed trunk. The wider bed in the Ridgeline has been far more useful to me than our old 6’ long-bed Ranger. Because of the Ridgeline’s larger width, the square footage in the 5’ box isn’t all that much different from a narrower Ranger with a 6’ box.
The midsized-pickup competition drastically reduce the rear-seat cargo area to provide the 6’ long-bed. So you’ll give-up the dual-cab for an extended-cab.
The Colorado/Canyon and Ranger may offer more vertical volume with taller sidewalls. But you can forget about reaching anything inside the bed, without climbing in from the tailgate, or using a step ladder alongside the vehicle. GMC/Chevy bragging about all their foot-hole-steps really just advertises the lack of practicality in their design. If I need taller sidewalls for a project, I’d rather accessorize for that, rather than never be able to access something sitting in the middle of the bed.
Mine is perfect for driving to your moms house to give her a "present".
Mike just needs to apply the Pythagorean Theorem to load hauling and he can drive reasonable sized PU.
American's buy more trucks than any other vehicle but when you look at cr's ratings they don't include the 3.0 diesels in the full-size trucks from each of the big 3, which the GM version is getting over 30mpg? it seems if the car is not for soccer mom's they won't review it, this is big segment of the market to ignore
HPD is terrible branding. At first I thought they said HPV. If you run out of EV range in Alaska, you begin living off the gird :)
Remember when they was #1 in product comparison. Yellow pages, AOL, trump, blockbuster
It's a dumb question to say, "What would you buy?" You should say, "IN THIS SEGMENT..." and then define the segment.
I want one. But the adaptive cruise control sucks and Honda doesn’t put their newest infotainment in it. Yes - the HPD crap is embarrassing. People don’t cross shop Ridgeline w/ heavy duty trucks. I’m waiting.
What's wrong with my RL ACC? I use it all the time but was unaware how bad it is. Only other ACC I've used is Mazda and Subaru - different but not better IMO. Or do you just not like any ACC? And as far as entertainment, if you buy a truck for the radio...
@@stevep8773 hey Steve - I have a ‘19 forester and do use the ACC extensively. It works to full stop and reminds me when traffic ahead starts to move - love the system! I really want the Ridgeline but am waiting for them to improve that system. I have done two test drives and dislike that the ACC disengages at 20 ish mph, and I found it to be abrupt and sensitive - admittedly I have less than 50 miles behind the wheel, but that’s my experience with it. The radio? I guess I feel Honda is just being cheap there. They already have an updated, faster, clearer head unit in the Pilot and Odyssey. For my 44K I want their best! Lol. (I’m hoping it will be soon)
The Ridgeline is for the suburban guy or gal who wants to bring home the "stuff" for the yard or garden, the antiques from the local market, etc. It's not an F1.
Sidney, what about skiing, traveling to remote fishing spots, a 5-6 hundred mile road trip, touring British Columbia in the winter or traveling the North American high line anytime. Name a better truck than the Ridgeline for 40k. btw; a Ridgeline is capable of pulling up to 6,000 pounds although rated for 5000. Pulls my 24’ pontoon with all the gear with ease.
I'm still driving my 2006 Ridgeline, bought in July 2005. I won't be buying another. They have left me to go upscale. I'm buying a Santa Cruz for $38K. To get the same stuff on a Ridgeline, it's closer to $50K. Too much. Too much.
My 2018 is almost paid off. I can't find a 2021 anywhere! 😡😡😡
Sales were up 70% before COVID-19 interfered with logistics.
They’re parked here in Georgia, awaiting the chips to arrive. The vehicles are basically parked in various staging areas to keep the assembly lines active in Lincoln, AL.
Everybody does realize that this truck failed in the rollover test when it came to crashing you can't jerk the wheel hard or fast or you will roll this truck proven by the crash test study
HPD = High-Priced Decals
Not a “serious truck”. But only a minority of people who have a truck need a serious truck.
I'd buy a tri-motor Cybertruck. It can haul (literally and figuratively). It gets 500 miles of range (allegedly) and it won't destroy the planet. Now that's what I call a daily driver.
And by the time it arrives, the cash you've been saving will be enough to buy a house :-)
Geeze, anyone hear of a utility trailer? Throw it on the back of the Ridgeline and solve 95% of those rare hauling needs for most people.
This is the worst discussion of the Ridgeline I've ever seen. The Ridgeline is a midsize pickup, and in that realm, it's the best pickup out there (unless you actually rock crawl or need to tow over 5k). But these bozos do nothing but compare it to full size trucks - and the larger end of full size trucks at that.
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Oh, has someone who's lived with a 5' bed for the past 20 years - 5' bed is perfectly fine for plywood, trips to the dump, bikes, you name it. If you don't have the brains to lower the tailgate when your 1-item load is 3" longer than your bed, you don't have the brain cells to be driving..
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Also, learn some color theory. Red and Gold are complimentary colors. The naturally go together. And gold, in general since it's metallic, typically goes with most colors. Certainly with all the stock Honda Ridgeline colors (as you can get the HPD package with any color). (I will agree, $2,800 for nice wheels and some stickers is pretty stupid...).
Why are you showing the pre-2021 Ridgeline in this video? All your road footage shows the 2017-2020 version. Sloppy/lazy editing.
Honda and Toyota will be a day late and a dollar short in coming to the electric vehicle party.
That will cost them in market share and in their profits. Not moving to electricify their fleet fast enough will cost them dearly.
More a worry for Honda than Toyota. I have seen Honda's "E" car in Europe and it is pitiful. Like a decade behind. Why bother? Of course, the US/CDN market is very late to electric, but the Ridgeline's tiny slice of the pickup market is unlikely to see them invest a lot in an electric model. More likely just cancel it (agaian).
Two negatives: I don't live in a snow belt and it only comes as AWD ($3,000 additional cost) and Honda is the only major manufactorer that still uses interference timing belt engines ($3,500 cost to replace. I am not interested in an additional $6500 cost in the first 100,000 mile ownership.
The AWD is advantageous in all conditions because it is torque vectoring. It improves the handling well beyond anything you would expect in a truck. You have to try it to believe it.
A timing belt job is less than $1500 out the door including water pump, tensioner and idlers. It adds about $.01 per mile of ownership and you gain some of that back with the maintenance minder which is on condition maintenance vs something like a Tacoma which just has a set maintenance schedule of every 5K miles. Typically, our Maintenance Minder Honda products call for an oil change between 6K and 8K miles depending on conditions. All other major maintenance is driven by that as well and it works really well. So just by getting an extra 50% out of each service interval, you are saving a couple hundred of that $1500 back over the life of the timing belt.
9:00 it's like Mugen, but even worse.
20:09 and a heat pump for the battery and heating system.
If only they weren't so cotton pickin' expensive!! Other than the price it's the
perfect vehicle for me.....especially in red.
ICE Berg
It’s not a truck! Only look’s like a truck! A SUV with a bed!
Someone is overcompensating for something.
Honda Ridgeline is NOT a truck, Its an SUV with a bed just as Ryan stated. This vehicle is in no way a truck and I would never waste money on a tiny truck wannabe.
My 2017 Ridgeline had a instrument panel and ECU failure at 4 years old and 45K miles, and a transmission issue, and the paint is falling off. This will be my last Honda
So instead of leaving the tailgate now and putting a strap across for a few more inches so this guy can get his IKEA furniture he’s telling us he’s gotta go buy a Dooley from terrible company like Dodge that ain’t gonna run with 20,000 miles before it breaks down, who is this guy why is he on the show with silly logicsense put your tailgate down and put a strap across problem solved and you still have a great truck in the Honda Ridgemont that guy is silly
CR videos are a waste of time.. I'm not interested in their personal lives and needs. Stay on point and tell me about the vehicle being discussed. I don't care about whether they have dirt bikes or not.
EV adoption is accelerating every year. Exponential not linear. The only limiting factor is batteries.
The number of electric vehicles and types of vehicles and trucks is growing.
Many people are holding off buying a new car or scooter until the electric vehicle they want becomes available.
Electric vehicles are just better. No noise, no emissions, less fuel costs, less maintenance costs and amazing technology. Gasoline and diesel are OLD polluting technology. So last century. Electric cars, electric trucks, electric buses, electric trash haulers, electric snow blowers, electric lawn mowers, electric weed whackers, electric hedge trimmers, electric snow mobiles, electric water craft, electric garden tools, electric mechanic tools, electric motor cycles, electric bicycles, electric scooters, electric farm tractors, electric construction equipment, electric delivery vehicles, ...... everything is going electric. No worries about starting after sitting for a few months. Gas always needs repairs. If you care about the future for your children care about climate change
I suspect the future is more Chevy Bolt debacle than Tesla success. Time will tell
Government subsidies are needed so they are competitively affordable for the general public. Many countries show when you subsidize the price of an EV, the sales go up which is impressive seeing the initial purchase isn’t cheaper than the gas equivalent. No EV today requires more than 1hr to fast charge and most new EVs today offer even faster charging. Some of my best road trips have been in EVs because you are given the proper time to take a break from driving while you charge the car. You arrive at your destination rested and ready for your next adventure.
Love Honda but Its hideous! Ugliest truck award 🥇
Hideous
Ridgeline is straight GARBAGE 🗑! It's not a god damn truck... its a mf car with a bed.
its for soccer moms with a small garage.
its a insult to truck that do truck stuff!
I'd buy this just to crash it 5 minutes later!
you need help.