The 2025 Honda Ridgeline is a midsize pickup truck that stands out for its balance of comfort, practicality, and capability. Set to release on August 7, 2024, the Ridgeline is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This engine provides responsive acceleration and is mated to Honda’s Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) all-wheel-drive system, ensuring stable performance on various terrains. With an EPA rating of 18 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined, it offers a competitive balance of power and efficiency.
In terms of utility, the Ridgeline offers solid cargo space, with its bed providing up to 33.9 cubic feet of room. The truck also includes a unique in-bed trunk, offering 7.3 cubic feet of weather-tight storage beneath the bed floor, ideal for keeping items safe and dry. The bed is versatile, with a 50-inch gap between the wheel wells, making it the only midsize pickup that can carry a full 4×8-foot sheet of building material flat. The Ridgeline can also haul up to 5,000 pounds and carry a maximum payload of 1,583 pounds, making it suitable for moderate towing and hauling needs, though its towing capacity is lower than some competitors.
Inside, the Ridgeline boasts a spacious and comfortable cabin with a seating capacity for up to five passengers. The interior prioritizes practicality, with features such as split-folding rear seats that can accommodate larger items like bicycles. The front seats offer ample comfort with available heated seats and leather trim, while the center console is low and provides ample space for storage. The cabin is fitted with a 9.0-inch touchscreen that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity. Higher trims like the TrailSport and Black Edition add built-in navigation.
The 2025 Ridgeline comes in four trims: Sport, RTL, TrailSport, and Black Edition, with prices ranging from $41,545 to $48,145. The RTL trim offers a solid mix of features and value, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-sliding rear window. The TrailSport trim is geared toward off-road enthusiasts, featuring an off-road-tuned suspension, stabilizer bars, and all-terrain tires, enhancing its capabilities on rugged terrains. Despite its off-road focus, the Ridgeline maintains a smooth and composed ride on paved roads, thanks to its independent rear suspension and carlike handling.
Safety is a key priority for Honda, and the 2025 Ridgeline is equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features. This includes forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These technologies enhance the driving experience, making the Ridgeline safer and more convenient for everyday use. It also boasts high crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.
The Ridgeline’s ride quality sets it apart from its competitors. Unlike many traditional body-on-frame pickups, the Ridgeline uses a unibody construction derived from the Honda Pilot SUV and Odyssey minivan, which allows it to provide a more comfortable, carlike ride. The independent rear suspension and lack of a solid axle contribute to its smoothness, offering less body lean and better handling compared to its competitors, such as the Chevy Colorado or Ford Ranger. Even the TrailSport, with its all-terrain tires, manages to maintain a relatively quiet and comfortable ride.
While the Ridgeline may not have the same rugged image or extreme towing and off-roading capabilities as some of its body-on-frame rivals, it makes up for it with a more livable and practical design. Its smooth performance, comfortable ride, ample interior space, and clever features like the two-way tailgate and in-bed trunk make it an excellent choice for buyers looking for a well-rounded and easy-to-use midsize truck. With its balance of everyday usability and moderate utility, the Ridgeline offers a unique option for those who prioritize comfort and convenience over sheer toughness.
