The Honda Ridgeline is a midsize truck that balances all-terrain performance with unparalleled comfort and style. Please keep reading to learn more about the features of the Honda Ridgeline that make it one of the most popular midsize trucks on the road today. And if you’re shopping for a Honda Ridgeline dealer in Colorado, Mile High Honda is here to help you find your perfect truck.
When Did Honda Start Making the Ridgeline?
Honda introduced the Ridgeline in 2005 as a 2006 model-year vehicle. From the beginning, the Ridgeline set itself apart with a unibody construction technique. Most trucks are built with a body on frame design. This means the body is mounted onto a separate chassis, primarily so that the vehicle can have a higher payload.
In unibody construction, as with the Honda Ridgeline, the vehicle’s body and frame are integrated into a single structure. The body itself provides structural integrity and serves as the main load-bearing element. A unibody design has several advantages for a truck, including:
- Lighter Weight: Unibody vehicles are generally lighter than body-on-frame vehicles, improving fuel efficiency.
- Better Handling: The integrated design lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity, resulting in more stable handling and a smoother ride.
- Crash Safety: Unibody designs are engineered with crumple zones that absorb energy during collisions, offering better protection for occupants.
- Efficient Manufacturing: Since the frame and body are a single unit, production is streamlined.
Why Is the Honda Ridgeline So Popular?
The Honda Ridgeline is popular because it combines the practicality of a truck with the comfort and refinement of a crossover SUV. It’s a great option for people who want a versatile vehicle that can handle light-duty truck tasks without sacrificing ride quality or modern features. In addition to the unibody design, here are a few reasons why the Ridgeline has such a huge fan base:
Unique Features
The Honda Ridgeline is packed with clever, practical features, such as:
- In-Bed Trunk: A lockable, weatherproof storage area in the bed that doubles as a cooler with a drain plug.
- Dual-Action Tailgate: The tailgate can open both traditionally (downward) or swing out sideways, making loading and unloading easier.
- Truck Bed Audio System: The bed includes built-in speakers, perfect for tailgating or outdoor gatherings.
- Flat Bed Floor: With no wheel arches intruding, the bed offers more usable space than competitors of similar size.
Everyday Usability
The Ridgeline appeals to people who want a truck without the downsides of driving one daily:
- Spacious Interior: The cabin is roomy, comfortable, and, unlike the traditionally sparse interior of many trucks, the Ridgeline is loaded with high-quality tech and comfort features.
- Good Fuel Economy: It offers better gas mileage than most traditional trucks in its class (see below).
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): AWD provides capability for light off-roading and handling snowy or rough terrain.
- Towing and Payload: While not designed for heavy-duty towing, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is sufficient for small trailers, boats, or campers.
Reliability and Low Maintenance
Honda is known for building reliable vehicles, and the Ridgeline is no exception:
- Long-Lasting Durability: Owners frequently report years of trouble-free performance.
- Low Maintenance Costs: The Honda Ridgeline is easier and cheaper to maintain than many full-size trucks. Car Edge reports that Ridgeline owners can expect to spend, on average, $1548 less per year on maintenance during the first ten years.
Versatile Lifestyle Vehicle
The Ridgeline caters to people who want:
- Weekend Adventures: Perfect for camping, kayaking, or biking trips.
- Urban Living: Its smaller size and smoother ride make it easy to maneuver and park in cities.
- Family-Friendly: With seating for up to five, it works as a practical family vehicle.
Strong Resale Value
Honda vehicles, in general, hold their value well, and the Ridgeline is no different. In fact, it has the highest resale value of all the Honda models: after five years, it holds 76.4% of its original value!
Does Honda Ridgeline Get Good Gas Mileage?
For a mid-size truck, the Honda Ridgeline offers competitive fuel efficiency. The 2024 Honda Ridgeline has 19 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined. It varies slightly with the TrailSport, which has 23 mpg on the highway. The Honda Ridgeline is a solid choice for those who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing capability.
2024 Honda Ridgeline vs 2025 Honda Ridgeline
Performance
The 2024 and 2025 models feature a 3.5 liter V6 engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The smooth 9-speed automatic transmission remains unchanged, providing a seamless driving experience.
Price
Expect a slight price increase for the 2025 model, with the MSRP starting at $40,150 for the Sport. The 2024 MSRP for the Ridgeline Sport starts at $39,750. The MSRP for the 2024 and 2025 RTL, TrailSport, and Black Edition begin their prices from $42,500-$46,700.
Size
The 2024 and 2025 Ridgeline trims maintain the same dimensions, with the same roomy interior and a spacious truck bed for all your gear.
Features
The 2025 model introduces new technology such as wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ capabilities.
Key Takeaway
If you’re deciding between the two, the choice depends on whether you prioritize the latest tech or want to save money on the 2024 model.
Is the Honda Ridgeline Bigger Than a Tacoma?
The Honda Ridgeline is slightly larger than the Toyota Tacoma in certain dimensions (wider exterior, headroom, shoulder room, and hip room). It offers more interior space and a wider bed, which makes it a great choice for drivers who value comfort and utility. However, the Tacoma might edge out the Ridgeline in off-road-specific trims.
What Is the Life Expectancy of a Honda Ridgeline?
The Honda Ridgeline can last up to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Many owners report that their trucks have been running reliably for over 15 years, thanks to Honda’s renowned engineering and build quality.
2025 Honda Ridgeline Trim Options
Each trim offers standard all-wheel drive, ensuring capability no matter the conditions. The 2025 Honda Ridgeline is expected to offer four trim levels:
- The Sport is entry-level with essential features and great value.
- The RTL adds luxury touches like leather-trimmed seats and power-adjustable features.
- The TrailSport includes premium technology like parking sensors, LED daytime running lights, and off-road-tuned suspension.
- The Black Edition is the top-tier trim with HD Radio™, a 540-watt premium audio system with eight speakers, including a subwoofer, and more.
Honda Ridgeline Dealer Colorado
Have we convinced you yet? Don’t just take our word for it, stop by Mile High Honda to test drive one of these incredible vehicles. We have certified used and brand new 2025 models at the ready. Simply walk in or give us a call to schedule your visit today!
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