10 Reasons Why The Honda Ridgeline Is A Criminally Underrated Truck

The all-new Ridgeline delivers everything a truck-driver could want; striking looks, impressive durability, and a driver-orientated cabin.

The Honda Ridgeline was born in 2005, and considering the ever-growing demand for modern pickup trucks, it was only a matter of time before the Japanese automotive empire released their newest version. The contemporary Ridgeline poses as a well-rounded package, delivering a top-notch driving experience while surrounding its passengers with innovative technology and impressive features.

Buyers are treated to a revamped look in the form of an aggressive grille and slimmed body. Not only does the Ridgeline deliver in terms of stunning looks, this beast ticks all the right boxes of a capable everyday truck, with a heap of storage space and competent towing capacity. With four exciting trim levels available, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline offers truck-enthusiasts a modern and reliable ride.

We sourced information from Honda, Edmunds, and other reputable sources to bring our readers the most accurate data on the 2023 Honda Ridgeline.

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In a world of ever-increasing gas prices and sudden peak of road trips over exotic vacations, there’s no doubt that fuel economy is at the forefront of most car buyer’s minds when purchasing a new set of wheels. The Ridgeline’s beefy engine is the most fuel-efficient V-6 in its class, with a city fuel efficiency rating of 18 MPG and 24 MPG when on the highway. Considering the 2023 Ram 1500 Classic four-wheel-drive offers a mere 17 MPG combined the Ridgeline poses as a cost-friendly option, meaning fewer gas stops and fuller pockets.

Fuel Type

Regular gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

17 combined (18 city, 24 highway)

EPA-Estimated Range

410 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,550

Tank Capacity

19.5 gal

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The Ridgeline’s extreme rugged exterior gives way to a sleek cabin featuring leather-trimmed seats and a stylish leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Ridgeline’s truly accommodating cabin features 60/40 split lift-up seats; creating room to stack up groceries, camping gear, and even a bike. Driver-orientated features include a sweet 10-way power driver’s seat, which offers lumbar support and two-position memory. The one-touch power moon roof snatches the limelight and treats passengers to a view and a steady stream of fresh air while on the open road. The roomy cabin’s spaciousness doesn’t go as far as the seating alone, front passengers will also be greeted to a large center console big enough to store a 10-inch tablet. A handy USB charging port is also available to power up devices on the go.

Honda Ridgeline Trims

Sport

RTL

RTL-E

Black Edition

Cargo Space (All Seats In Place)

34 cu.ft

34 cu. t

Front Headroom

40.1 cu.in

39.5 cu.in

Front Legroom

40.9 cu.in

Rear Headroom

38.8 cu.in

Rear Legroom

36.7 cu-in

36.7 cu.in

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The second-generation Ridgeline snatched a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, and we expect to see the same with the 2023 model. All Ridgeline trims feature a Honda Sensing suite of innovative safety features such as a collision mitigation braking system, forward collision warning, lane departure, and a road departure mitigation system. Drive-assistive features come in the form of adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and auto high-beam headlights. If that wasn’t flashy enough, additional features, such as blind spot information, cross traffic monitoring, and parking sensors, are available on select trims.

Every Ridgeline model comes with the following standard safety features:

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline has sent shock waves through the automotive industry with its sleek and modern design. An aerodynamic body complemented with stylish looks, the Ridgeline flashes a sporty front grille and piercing headlamps. The truck's subtle creases and curves create a diverse appearance while maintaining a traditional style. The 2023 Ridgeline will be available in 8 colors, including Radiant Red and Obsidian Blue.

The Ridgeline boasts a fiery 3.5-liter V-6 that pumps out 280 horses and 262 lb-ft of torque. As standard, the truck comes with front-wheel drive, although all-wheel drive is an available option for those yearning more control and capability. The all-wheel drive setup can send 70 percent of the V6’s power to the rear wheels, allowing the beast to flaunt superior traction and range in various weather conditions. Sprinting from 0 to 60mph in just 6.3 seconds and able to reach a top speed of 130mph, the 2023 Ridgeline laughs in the face of the Chevrolet Colorado’s 7.5 second run.

0-60 MPH

6.3 seconds

Top Speed

130 mph

Curb Weight

3496 lbs

Horsepower

280

Torque

262 lb-ft

Layout

Front-mid engine, rear-wheel/all-wheel drive

Hooked up to a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive, passengers will be treated to a smooth drive, with a receptive throttle response when the accelerator hits the floor. The untraditional has promised to feel extremely competent and well-mannered on the road. The 2023 Honda Ridgeline’s coil-sprung independent rear suspension supplies the truck with a car-like ride quality which is sure to be preferred over its competition's solid-axle setup.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline comes in four trim levels: RTL, Sport, RTL-E, and Black Edition. Each spectacular in their own way, Honda have ensured that there is a truck for everyone depending on their needs. The Sport edition sees the interior seats dressed in rich cloth seats and treated to additional under seat storage. A dual action tailgate makes an appearance, with an integrated Class III trailer hitch complimented by red ambient LED lighting. The RTL model receives cool leather-trimmed, heated front seats and a 7-speaker, 200-Watt audio system. To look at, the RTL-E trim is largely similar, but features an 8-speaker, 540-Watt audio system and wireless phone charging station. Smart Entry w/Walk Away Auto Lock is included, alongside Honda’s Satellite-Linked Navigation System. Finally, the Ridgeline Black Edition boasts dreamy black trim accents throughout its bodywork, with sleek Black Edition leather-trimmed seats. Similar to the other trims, this trim will also feature a top-of-the-range audio system and advanced navigation system.

Capable of pulling a boat or trailer with ease, the 2024 Honda Ridgeline capacity is 5,000lbs across all four trims; even its 1,500lbs payload capacity is impressive. There’s very little that the average truck driver would wish to tow that the Ridgeline can’t take in its stride. The Ridgeline features a mega 5-foot-4-inch bed and the tailgate opens in two ways, allowing for easier loading and unloading. Owners will find a useful 7.3 cubic foot waterproof compartment space under the bed floor for additional storage.

The 2023 Honda Ridgeline will come packed with technology inside and out; treating buyers to the latest tech in the industry. The truck’s impressive 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen features various apps which will allow users to pinch, touch, and swipe their way through music, an advanced navigation system, and HondaLink; an app which allows the driver to control ride features through their phone. Not only does the Ridgeline’s truck-bed act as the ideal space to store a whole load of camping supplies and necessities. This industry-leading pickup flaunts a truck-bed audio system which uses the bed walls to blast great sound.

Honda’s Intelligent Variable Torque Management system comes as standard across all 2023 Ridgeline trims. This system efficiently detects the needed level or torque each axle needs while delivering the right amount of power required. This feature also senses traction for each wheel and redistributed different amounts of power to each wheel when needed, depending on terrain conditions.

The Ridgeline’s Sport model will carry the cheapest price tag at $40,145 with the Black Edition costing an additional $7,430. It’s true, the 2023 Honda Ridgeline acts more like a crossover SUV with its independent rear suspension and unibody construction making it destined to lead the way in terms of comfort and drivability. Offering impressive performance, a superb design, and a plethora of driver-orientated features, the new Ridgeline is a pickup that will inevitably shake the market.

Helen has always held a great love for all this automotive related. After working within her family's garage, she has developed a particular love for muscle, sports, and classic vehicles. She enjoys bringing cars to life through her writing.

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