Accelerates smoothly and has plenty of passing power on the highway - 2021 Honda Ridgeline Review
2Overview
The only Honda with a cargo bed—the 2021 Ridgeline—is a one-size-fits-all alternative to traditional pickup trucks. While the Ridgeline lineup doesn't include an off-road-ready model or an optional diesel engine, it does have a standard crew cab that's roomier and more comfortable than any of its competitors'. Its minivan-based underpinnings and V-6 powertrain don't allow it to tow more than 5000 pounds, but they do enable the Ridgeline to accelerate quickly, consume fuel efficiently, provide a competitive payload rating, and drive with unrivaled agility and refinement. Its host of standard driver assists and innovative features—including an in-bed trunk and a multifunction tailgate—further bolster the 2021 Ridgeline's status as the truck equivalent of a Swiss Army knife and earned it an Editors' Choice award.
What's New for 2021?
Before the 2021 model year, people could say the Ridgeline looked like a lot of things, but rugged wasn't one of them. We're not sure that the mid-size truck's makeover— which includes a fresh design from the front roof pillars forward—will quiet all the haters, but it definitely looks bolder than before. Enhancing this fresh aesthetic is a new package from Honda Performance Development (HPD) that's available on all trim levels and adds black overfenders, a distinctive blacked-out grille, HPD graphics on the bed walls, and cool-looking bronze wheels. Non-HPD models get a standard set of newly designed 18-inch wheels with more aggressive all-terrain tires and reduced backspacing that gives the Ridgeline a wider track and a broader stance. Inside, there is a smattering of subtle changes, but the biggest update is the revised infotainment system. Along with improved graphics and screen icons that Honda says are easier to use, the Ridgeline now comes with a physical volume knob, addressing our years of complaints. All-wheel drive is now standard.
This segment of mid-size trucks has become oversaturated with traditional body-on-frame pickups that provide ample towing and capable off-roading. However, the Ridgeline caters to folks who want a more comfortable and fuel-efficient alternative. While the priciest models have the fanciest features, we think the RTL has the best mix of desirable equipment and value. Likewise, the Ridgeline RTL receives better standard features than the lesser Sport trim level. These include heated front seats, a leather-trimmed interior, and power-adjustable front seats.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The lone powertrain is a 280-hp 3.5-liter V-6 that makes 262 lb-ft of torque and hooks up to a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The engine feels smooth, and throttle response is especially receptive when you call for hard acceleration. An untraditional pickup in many ways, the Ridgeline surprises from behind the wheel. On the road, it is well-mannered and feels extremely competent. Its coil-sprung independent rear suspension contributes to a carlike ride quality not available with the leaf-sprung, solid-axle setups used by the competition. Body lean in corners is minimal, and small bumps are barely noticeable. The electrically assisted steering feels appropriate. The Ridgeline's braking performance stands out as its lone dynamic blemish. Its braking distance from 70 mph to zero is on the long side, and we thought the brake pedal felt soft and had too much travel during normal use.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Ridgeline is quick, but when it comes to towing, it's lacking. All Ridgelines come standard with all-wheel drive and are rated at 5000 pounds, which is between 2000 and 2500 less than V-6 rivals such as the Chevy Colorado and Ford Ranger. The Ridgeline is capable of hauling almost 1600 pounds of payload, which is about on track with the Colorado but less than the Ranger's maximum.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Ridgeline's engine is the most fuel-efficient V-6 in its class at 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. On our 75-mph fuel-economy route, which simulates real-world highway driving and is part of our extensive testing regimen, an all-wheel-drive Ridgeline earned 28 mpg. That figure matches our results for a GMC Canyon with the diesel engine and all-wheel drive, which is impressive considering the Honda's gas engine.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Ridgeline's interior is tops in its class in terms of practicality and comfort. As with most other mid-size pickups, the Honda features hard plastics below the dash level. Otherwise, the materials are above average. Rear-seat passengers will enjoy the most space of all mid-size rivals. Fold-down armrests on both front seats are a welcome addition, especially since the center console sits low between them. The Honda pickup has only one bed length, 5.3 feet, which lines up with competitors' short beds and has the second-lowest volume at 34 cubic feet. The antidote to this disparity is its locking, weather-tight in-bed trunk