@@AAutoBuyersGuide I was over the moon when I saw the 3.5L V6TT. Thinking Honda cooked up something crazy, and then noticed the 280hp of the normal 3.5L.
We have a '23 Black Edition in Sonic Gray, and I LOVE this truck. It's truly an underrated midsize truck. I do not care for the model name embossed on the tailgate, prefer the captains chairs setup instead of the armrest, but I do wish we had the upgraded gauge cluster.
We have the same as you. Bought it in September. Almost waited for this model. Glad I didn’t. This is really disappointing. However, I do like the upgraded screen and power folding mirrors.
@@mjg1544 If he's talking about power folding mirrors, that is a great addition. The Ridgeline is super wide, and is hard to fit in our garage without folding the mirrors in.
Alex, your reviews are hands down the best on You Tube. I really appreciate bookmarking the content and of course your thorough observations. Keep up the great work sir.
Look at it this way: In 10 years your Ridgeline will still be running well and have good resale value. Your Chevy Colorado, not so much--probably a $5,000 truck by then.
Wrong. The Ridgeline's engine is rated to 200,000 miles. So what you should have said was in 15-20 years, your Ridgleine will still be running well and have good resale value.
You know what they say when one assumes... Love my Colorado. I had a new Honda Odessey that was a lemon...AC failed. auto doors failed. I sold it and purchased a Suburban (which I later sold at 247K miles). The guy who bought the Odessey from me called me about four months later to ask if there's something I did not tell him...I said "No, why?" He also had several issues with that van, but fortunately it was under warranty. So keep up with your narrative if it makes you feel good!
Appreciate the review, very helpful ! Especially the fold up rear setting, showing the flat floor is helpful for many pet owners. So many midsize have indentations in floor if seats flipped up, very undesirable.
That, of course, is if the Frontier is going to keep its 3.8 V6 for 2024. Besides, there hasn't been a lot of info on the Frontier since it was released in 2021.
What a silly comment, by that logic why are you reviewing this? It sells less than the Frontier by a lot. You never even did a real review on the Frontier.@@AAutoBuyersGuide
If the Ridgeline ever came with a hybrid powertrain (either HEV or PHEV) at a price under $40k, I would seriously consider punting my desire for a Maverick. I don't need a truck, but a SUV with a bed would be so convenient for the times I had something large and/or dirty to move.
40k with a battery big enough for the 7500 fed incentive would have me putting an order in right now. 40 miles of electric range is more than enough for me 90% of my days.
The only bad thing of the Ridgeline is the depth of the bed. You can reach the bottom while standing beside it because it is so shallow. I had a 1st gen and with the sloped bed fairing you could load more cargo.
For us Honda fans - it seems like the changes we want are always 1-2 years away (hybrid). They did address the very old instrument cluster and updated the infotainment system to the excellent system found in the civic (we own a ‘23 civic). I’m also assuming the Ridge has the latest Safety systems that work great (better than BMW for example). Alex mentions “wide” like 25 times in this video - really wanted to stress that for some reason?
Really good review. I own a 2021 Honda Ridgeline and really like it. Like all the great features and think the wireless Apple Carplay & upsized cupholders are nice improvements for 2024.
So many channels have been putting out the lie that the 2024 Ridgeline was going to get the Pilot's upgraded drivetrain with the 10 speed transmission. One channel (I forget which one) stated that towing capacity would also increase to 6,000 lbs. This is very disappointing.
If 90% of truck buyers were honest with themselves about what they truly need and what vehicle caters to those needs the best, they would buy a ridgeline
Well there has been a decent explosion in the market in terms of the Maverick. I think a lot comes down to pickup buyers preferring certain brands even if the overall package is similar.
True if you only focus on bare minimum needs, but with the cost of vehicles people also like getting wants met as well even if it's an edge case once in a while capability. Come to think of it people do the same thing with almost everything they buy
I don’t understand people that buy huge trucks. Our neighbors have the biggest diesel beast they spent 110k on and they haven’t used it for anything in the last year. We haul more stuff in our Honda accord/HR-V. I would love a Ridgeline in the next year or so, when we remodel our house. I just need simple homedepot runs.
I have been following the Ridgeline for years - and it seems we are always ina ‘need to wait another year or two’ mode. Gets frustrating. But I suppose when you look at what Toyota did with the 4 runner - their data must tell them most truck buyers don’t care.
Ridgeline doesn't do the volume of other competitors. Waiting to upgrade to Ridgeline is a 3-prong strategy. 1) Keep the price down by scaling new features on other higher volume models. 2) Iron out kinks with Pilot so when it gets to Ridgeline its already proven. 3) MPG on Ridgeline is less important than on Pilot. Truck buyers value durability and push their vehicles harder (more likely to tow and go off-road.) than 3-row crossover owners. Honda gives customers the most well rounded and versatile mid-size pickup for the daily driver/people hauler use case...
Thank you, Alex. I just purchased a new RTL-E with the HPD package... and a few dealer-installed accessories, like the 1.5-inch leveling kit, stepsides, and oversized Wildpeak tires. But I was worried I should have waited for the Trailsport to be released. Well, not anymore. I do love the new instrument panel, but not the new center console... love my captain's chairs. So, all things being equal, I like my 23 much better.
Really hope the dealers don’t decide to do their own markups over Manufacturer MSRP like so many other models are seeing. Seriously considering this proven design over any upcoming full redesign. Like the updates all around.👍
@@AAutoBuyersGuide I bet ventilated seats are not outdoor activity friendly with all those holes for the ventilation. A seat material without holes which user can easily use a cleat cleaner and wipe it off might be more practical imo. Maybe why in 4Runner world the city friendly Limited has ventilated seats vs offroad focus models doesn't have them?
I am always looking for the sweet spot of something towing and off-road capable but still efficient comfortable classy and fun or atleast not un-nerving around mountains roads. This is one of the better options.
Has anything been published on whether the Ridgeline will get vented/cooled seats on any of the trims? I know the 2023 Canadian version in the Touring Trim has vented/cooled seats so it is possible. The 2023 Black Edition does not have vented/cooled seats so I am thinking the 2024 US version will continue without them. I like the Ridgeline, but in the south really like to have vented/cooled seats in the summer.
I went to the OC auto show last month and talked to the Honda people there. They said the reason the Ridgeline was pushed back was because they are re-doing the Pilot again with a hybrid version first, then the Passport, then the Ridgeline. So they will all be getting hybrids but it will probably take a couple years to get there.
Nice video, well done. The vehicle size bar graph was odd though. Ridgeline has the longest "short bed". While only 5'-3" is much shorter than the Taco & Fronty long bed, the Ridgeline is significantly wider. Plus the in bed trunk. Standing by itself, it looks small. Beside any of it's competition, it looks big.
So why did they not update the engine and transmission? Like they did in the Passport. The Passport has 5 more horsepower and as a 10 speed transmission.
Personally I like the only Small changes made to this unit, Why because a complete redesign comes with more Cost and Problems, Don't believe me buy some other brands with new lineups and learn the hard way, Because every time You change everything new Problems shoe up it's a machine, Now of course this is just one Owner and Mechanics Opinion, The real problem is everything now is costing too much with over 20% Inflation of almost everything we buy, Now that it's more important to send All of our Money overseas to fund WARs it's getting Ridiculous already. The Ridgeline is still Great Thanks HONDA 🇺🇸👍.
Thanks for the video Alex. Do you think this is the kind of refresh we will see on the 2025 Odyssey? I was really hoping for the accord infotainment screen and cabin watch side by side with CarPlay.
The Ridgeline and Odyssey are likely not on the same development cycle and they have different audiences. it's hard to predict exactly what we'll find in the '25 Odyssey. -Travis
When I read last year that Honda was updating the model there was one thing I didn't see. The rear bumper, did they ever affix it (weld it) to the unibody? Co-worker had one (2021), and it actually tore out/off of it's plastic housing/clips. Honestly, never seen a rear (fake) step bumper on anything classified as a small truck at $40k+. and my buddy is like 160 lbs . Since I'm in the market and really like the Honda line, but this would be a deal breaker. Thanks
@Alex - you noted 2 midsize trucks available in 2024 that have NA V6 engines - I’ve been looking at all midsize options out there lately and the Nissan Frontier comes to mind as a 3rd option. Are you considering that smaller perhaps?
Does the trail sport address the ridgelines middling ground clearance? I’ve damaged the bottom of mine driving in Corova, NC (sand beach road). Didn’t have that issue with the missus Subaru (Outback, has over an inch more ground clearance - and wasn’t a wilderness). This truck by default is half an inch too close to the ground, and I don’t see any lift on the trailsport. This trim level is a bit disappointing.
I don't know why Honda didn't bother to put the Honda 10 speed automatic in 2024 Honda Ridgeline like they did for Pilot (vs non Honda 9 speed transmission). On a side note for 2025 Ridgeline if Honda give a 6 seat configuration like the full size work trucks have I bet it would be a crazy trend and I doubt it would be possible for other midsize pickups since others are not wide as Ridgeline.
@@0HOON0 if I'm not mistaken the 2024 Pilots does not require aftermarket ATF cooler to tow more than 3500lbs vs pre-2024 AWDs with 9 spd require aftermarket ATF cooler to tow more than 3500lbs per owners manual. I think Honda 10spd is a good upgrade in all ways.
I do not plan to go offroad, but I may want to drive on unplowed roads. As a Minnesnowtan I have experienced deep snow and the thrill of finding a large heavy plow behind me. Can this truck handle such situations with these tires?
With no effort, I've driven through 6'' of unplowed snow with all season tires on my "23 RTL-E" up and down hills prior to the plow trucks making the rounds, Honda's AWD system is Awesome!
Try to snag a deal on the '23. It's pretty much the same, and I don't see anything worth upgrading for. It's not like they're flying off the lot either haha. The base Sport is a pretty good looking base model in my opinion...
That is a great vehicle. Thankfully you were somewhat off in your pricing. I’d stick with the RTL which is above the base sport and below this ‘trail’ version.
I imagine that this is a relatively low volume vehicle for Honda, so I get why they wouldn’t want to spend the time/money to completely redesign it. It fills a niche in their lineup (North Americans with an obsession for trucks), but it’s not something most Honda buyers are looking for. So it makes sense that they would do the bare minimum to keep it somewhat competitive in its niche market. Toyota did the same with the Tundra until its reliability reputation wasn’t enough to excuse its lack of modern features. The ridgeline is a decent truck, but it’s easily outmatched by its industry counterparts and is in the same predicament that the tundra was.
What planet do you live on. With the exceptions of 'actual' rock climbing, and towning over 5k lbs - the Ridgeline is the best mid-size truck BY FAR in America.
Pretty sure this is just a stop-gap until they make an actually new one based on the 4th gen Pilot. I still can't get over how much better looking the 4th gen Pilot is over the minivan-esque looking 3rd gen.
i got the 24 BE but some things it is missing from being near perfect.. does not have front CENTER parking sensors... Adaptive cruise control does not have stop and go/slow follow.. passenger seat does not have height adjustment.. should add acoustic glass to the front side windows.. the rear window should have one touch open/close.. the tailgate should have proximity sensor so you can just open tailgate without having to first use key fob to unlock the tailgate... better stereo would be nice.. should have 360cam or at least a front cam.. also should have hill descent control.. this thing costs 48,200.. should have more of these options in the BE. the new driver dash screen is a lot nicer.. the new infotainment with wireless carplay and android auto is so conveinant .. the stereo is not that great, needs more bass range.. the vented seats are really nice.. very smooth v6. nice ride and handling..
They’re almost back to where they were with the 1st Gen.. blocky looks and a blocky functional interior. Now they just need to put the shifter on the dash (like the Odyssey) and put the open floor center console back, and they’d be making some progress for once.
I had a 2017 Ridgeline RTL-E and now a 2022 Ridgeline RTL-E. I’ll be the first to say this TrailSport adding only grippier tires is a joke. No steel undercarriage skid plates and not even raised an inch. Really disappointing. The Subaru Outback and Crosstrek have more ground clearance than my Ridgey. The only pluses are wireless Apple CarPlay, the redesigned middle console, power folding mirrors, suspension changes, and new tailgate. But still, no power tailgate and no hybrid system. At this point, next time I’m going with the new redesigned Taco.
This is the best ICE truck concept for most people, but it has GLARING flaws. Why isn't is a hybrid? WHY???? Why does it have 4 spare tires that scream that this is minivan-based? Why does it have such an ancient dashboard when the price is ultra-2024? Honestly, I bet the next gen of this truck will be a complete home run and would tell anyone who asked to avoid this like the plague and preorder the next gen that will probably get 30 mpg in the city and have a modern interior.
It's awesome, but Honda could have done more and a great disappointment as I was waiting patiently to trade in my 2028 black edition and this not different enough especially with everything else refreshed in the market....bit ill still get one.
Dang if you meant 2018 model, what is wrong with it? That seems still practically new in my mind unless you drive a lot and have like 200k on it already.
I was hoping it was going to get the new pilot from and an interior. However, that new motor isn’t as good double overhead cam cylinder deactivation no VTEC.
I am always shocked when he's impressed by a Korean vehicle, that will fail within 5 years, but hate on a Japanese vehicle that will last over 300,000 miles. He's jaded.
What hate? He really likes the Ridgeline, including this one. It's just a mild refresh, and wishing it has been more is definitely not hating the vehicle.
Thank God I got lucky and got a 23 sport for 35k with incentives thinking the newer body was coming and the dealer wanting to get rid of there last 23 sport they had.
I-VTM4 is mechanically identical to SH-AWD. It’s just tuned more for maximum traction vs maximum handling. That said though, it still handles fantastically. I think COVID caused a bit of delays with supply chain issues, though Ridgeline has historically trailed the Pilot timeline a bit.
This is a fine truck, but there is a huge gap from "light offroading" to "moab" that all the other BOF trucks will reliably do, and this won't. I doubt very much anyone that does even moderate offroaring on a regular basis will cross-shop the Ridgeline with the rest of the midsizers.
You're probably right but most people don't do much off-roading. Yes, it's going to likely eliminate this truck from a group of potential customers but I'm not sure that will make a huge difference in the long term. -Travis
Alex- I love your reviews. Thank you. Question: what do you think of the Ridgeline as a "only car" for a household? ie. for various reasons, I am considering offloading my 2018 landcruiser and 2006 Tundra for a Ridgeline as an All in One for my every day errands to towing to dump runs. HOWEVER... how would you rate the Rideglines livability for every day parking in most grocery store parking lots and that sort of scenario? ie. My Lancruiser is very easy to manuever... the Ridgeline is 15 inches longer and 1 inch wider than Landcruiser.
I'm a former Ridgeline owner (2011) and with that comes a bias, but I think this is hands down one of the best "only car" vehicles one could buy if you find yourself using the bed often, otherwise something smaller would probably be a better option. The benefits of being a non-traditional truck is that this drives like a crossover and is compliant and responsive in a way you won't get with a standard truck. There is loads of room on the interior for passengers, pets, cargo, etc. .It's going to be bigger than the Landcruiser but it shouldn't FEEL that much bigger. Ask me if I loved my Ridgeline! -Travis
I have a 2022 Ridgeline. It's AMAZING. I have no issues with parking it anywhere (although the rounded front end does take awhile to learn 'where the corners are'). My folks are a 6 hour drive, and this think is extremely comforatable on the freeway. I use it as my daily commuter as well, zero complaints. Seats 4 very comfortably. The in-bed truck is amzaingly handy, it's the perfect size for 4-5 bags of groceries (and it stays clean and dry, no worries about throwing in paper grocery bags). The rear seat/cargo area holds an amazing amount of 'stuf' with the seats folded up. I can fit both my, and my wife's 700cc wheeled gravel bikes back there (with 3/4 wheels off). (I have mounted fork mounts to the bed rails, which is where I normally carry the bikes. But in a pinch, I can put 2 bikes in the cabin for security). Really, go test drive one. My only recomendation is to get a current gen model. You'll like the armrests and center console better than this new gen.
@@bikebudha01 Thank you for this awesome feedback! Yeah.. I see the goodness in all areas for the Ridgeline and understand it would be an awesome road trip vehicle as well as every day around town. I guess I will just need to drive one and try out the parking lot scenarios!
@@AAutoBuyersGuide Thanks Travis! I do think this is as small as I would want to go for having a truck bed to use for the things I typically use my Tundra bed for. Yeah, I definitely need to drive one and get a good feel for it. I agree on your assumption that it should not feel to much bigger than my Landcruiser.
I don't think Honda needs turbo as they already do cylinder deactivation. They run on 3 cylinders when not needed. Adding turbo on top of cylinder deactivation might be little too risky. But who knows cylinder deactivation + turbo + hybrid might bring Honda to top of the mpg & epa game.
The Ridgeline is hands down the best midsize pickup in America* 1) Widest most spacious front seats. 2) Most volumous rear seats/cargo area. Most efficient storage space (the way the seats fold up to leave a massive rectangular volume of space) 3) Widest pickup bed. 4x8 plywood sheets LAY FLAT. 4) Only mid-size pickup with an in-bed trunk (that locks). 5) Only pickup with a swing-out tailgate. (Makes it amazingly easy to load the bed, and to use the bumper to step up into the bed). 6) Best driving dynamics of any mid-size pickup. 7) Top level gas mileage for any mid-size pickup. - I test drove the Tacoma, the Frontiere, the Ranger, the Colorado, and the Gladiator. None of them even came close in terms of 'daily driver'-ability. My parents are a 6 hour drive from my house. I can make the drive entirely in one seating position, without having to 'shift around' at all. Super duper highway cruiser. - I know, I know, all you "it's not a REAL truck guys" are out there doubting me. But really, if you are looking for a new truck, test drive a Ridgeline. You know, just to see. Then go back and try and wedge yourself into any other mid-sized truck's tiny cabin. Let me know how it goes.. - *Ok, so if you ACTUALLY need to tow more than 5,000lbs, or if you ACTUALLY go rock crawling - this isn't your truck. But for the other 99% of you out there - this is your truck.
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What about the missing reference to the V6 Frontier at 3:36 ?
@@rightlanehog3151 Let's be honest, most people forget the Frontier exists...
My god. 3262 pound ft of torque. Where has Honda been hiding this engine haha
@@AAutoBuyersGuide Were you expecting an argument? 🤔😉🤣
@@AAutoBuyersGuide I was over the moon when I saw the 3.5L V6TT. Thinking Honda cooked up something crazy, and then noticed the 280hp of the normal 3.5L.
I hope Honda keeps this bullet proof, smooth, naturally aspirated V6. No 4 cylinder turbo please!! Alex, your reviews are always the best, Sir.
This torque vectoring system is so underrated. You can really feel it working when you take those curved ramps on the interstate at high speeds.
😃 Someone's having fun
We have a '23 Black Edition in Sonic Gray, and I LOVE this truck. It's truly an underrated midsize truck. I do not care for the model name embossed on the tailgate, prefer the captains chairs setup instead of the armrest, but I do wish we had the upgraded gauge cluster.
We have the same as you. Bought it in September. Almost waited for this model. Glad I didn’t. This is really disappointing.
However, I do like the upgraded screen and power folding mirrors.
@@irambler4791folding mirrors? It already had folding mirrors….but are they power folding mirrors? If so, I completely missed that.
@@mjg1544 If he's talking about power folding mirrors, that is a great addition. The Ridgeline is super wide, and is hard to fit in our garage without folding the mirrors in.
@@evanlandry9503 power mirrors are confirmed.
@@mjg1544dang. That’s definitely a good feature to add given its width. It barely fits in our garage with the mirrors out.
Alex, your reviews are hands down the best on You Tube. I really appreciate bookmarking the content and of course your thorough observations. Keep up the great work sir.
Great review, Alex! Like it or not, nice to see some real information on this vehicle.
Look at it this way: In 10 years your Ridgeline will still be running well and have good resale value. Your Chevy Colorado, not so much--probably a $5,000 truck by then.
Wrong. The Ridgeline's engine is rated to 200,000 miles. So what you should have said was in 15-20 years, your Ridgleine will still be running well and have good resale value.
I can easily do 200,000 miles in 10 years….so what is your point? Besides, it may get 250-300K miles like most Hondas do.
You know what they say when one assumes... Love my Colorado. I had a new Honda Odessey that was a lemon...AC failed. auto doors failed. I sold it and purchased a Suburban (which I later sold at 247K miles). The guy who bought the Odessey from me called me about four months later to ask if there's something I did not tell him...I said "No, why?" He also had several issues with that van, but fortunately it was under warranty. So keep up with your narrative if it makes you feel good!
@@docholliday7548 Nice story bro...
Appreciate the review, very helpful ! Especially the fold up rear setting, showing the flat floor is helpful for many pet owners. So many midsize have indentations in floor if seats flipped up, very undesirable.
I believe that Nissan Frontier also comes with a V6, to include the Ridgeline and Gladiator.
That, of course, is if the Frontier is going to keep its 3.8 V6 for 2024. Besides, there hasn't been a lot of info on the Frontier since it was released in 2021.
@@damilolaakanniNissans website shows the 2024 model and it looks to be unchanged.
I forgot the Frontier somehow, although judging by sales... So do a lot of shoppers...
@@AAutoBuyersGuide You might be right. However, more Frontiers have sold this year than Ridgeline's.
What a silly comment, by that logic why are you reviewing this? It sells less than the Frontier by a lot. You never even did a real review on the Frontier.@@AAutoBuyersGuide
If the Ridgeline ever came with a hybrid powertrain (either HEV or PHEV) at a price under $40k, I would seriously consider punting my desire for a Maverick. I don't need a truck, but a SUV with a bed would be so convenient for the times I had something large and/or dirty to move.
It's a perfect candidate for a PHEV powertrain but it wouldn't come in under $40k. -Travis
I’ll gladly go $55k for a 45mile PHEV.
40k with a battery big enough for the 7500 fed incentive would have me putting an order in right now. 40 miles of electric range is more than enough for me 90% of my days.
The only bad thing of the Ridgeline is the depth of the bed. You can reach the bottom while standing beside it because it is so shallow. I had a 1st gen and with the sloped bed fairing you could load more cargo.
Excellent review. Well done not as many changes as I thought. Appreciate your work!
For us Honda fans - it seems like the changes we want are always 1-2 years away (hybrid). They did address the very old instrument cluster and updated the infotainment system to the excellent system found in the civic (we own a ‘23 civic). I’m also assuming the Ridge has the latest Safety systems that work great (better than BMW for example).
Alex mentions “wide” like 25 times in this video - really wanted to stress that for some reason?
And no plugin? 🙄
Yeah, I wanted this with a Hybrid system like the CR-V has. That would be amazing
The Nissan Frontier also has a V-6, along with the mentioned Gladiator and Ridgeline.
I agree. I think Alex was focusing on '24 models. I don't know if Nissan announce '24 Frontier yet...?
@@hynsum It was redesigned in 2022, it still has the V6 and yes the 2024 is out.
@@pigxstix 🙏👍
Really good review. I own a 2021 Honda Ridgeline and really like it. Like all the great features and think the wireless Apple Carplay & upsized cupholders are nice improvements for 2024.
So many channels have been putting out the lie that the 2024 Ridgeline was going to get the Pilot's upgraded drivetrain with the 10 speed transmission. One channel (I forget which one) stated that towing capacity would also increase to 6,000 lbs.
This is very disappointing.
If 90% of truck buyers were honest with themselves about what they truly need and what vehicle caters to those needs the best, they would buy a ridgeline
Well there has been a decent explosion in the market in terms of the Maverick. I think a lot comes down to pickup buyers preferring certain brands even if the overall package is similar.
That’s why I bought a 2022 Ridgeline Sport
True if you only focus on bare minimum needs, but with the cost of vehicles people also like getting wants met as well even if it's an edge case once in a while capability. Come to think of it people do the same thing with almost everything they buy
I don’t understand people that buy huge trucks. Our neighbors have the biggest diesel beast they spent 110k on and they haven’t used it for anything in the last year. We haul more stuff in our Honda accord/HR-V. I would love a Ridgeline in the next year or so, when we remodel our house. I just need simple homedepot runs.
If it got better gas mileage, yes.
Great review 👍
Only wish would be 6k towing to give a little more headroom for trailers in the low 4k area.
Cheers
I was hoping that this will get the 10 speed transmission from the Pilot. I guess we'll have to wait for the 2025 redesign.
I was a little surprised at this as well. I'm curious why it's taking so long for a more substantial refresh.
According to Autonews it wine be redesigned until 2027 but it was initially gonna be redesigned this year
I have been following the Ridgeline for years - and it seems we are always ina ‘need to wait another year or two’ mode. Gets frustrating. But I suppose when you look at what Toyota did with the 4 runner - their data must tell them most truck buyers don’t care.
Ridgeline doesn't do the volume of other competitors. Waiting to upgrade to Ridgeline is a 3-prong strategy. 1) Keep the price down by scaling new features on other higher volume models. 2) Iron out kinks with Pilot so when it gets to Ridgeline its already proven. 3) MPG on Ridgeline is less important than on Pilot. Truck buyers value durability and push their vehicles harder (more likely to tow and go off-road.) than 3-row crossover owners. Honda gives customers the most well rounded and versatile mid-size pickup for the daily driver/people hauler use case...
What’s wrong with the 9 speed?
Are there still some sort of issues in 2023/24?
You’re my hero Alex thank you for the great reviews
Thank you, Alex. I just purchased a new RTL-E with the HPD package... and a few dealer-installed accessories, like the 1.5-inch leveling kit, stepsides, and oversized Wildpeak tires. But I was worried I should have waited for the Trailsport to be released. Well, not anymore. I do love the new instrument panel, but not the new center console... love my captain's chairs. So, all things being equal, I like my 23 much better.
I am right there with you. The current armrests and center console ROCK. (Although I do long for an actual speedometer)...
Wait till that new 2025 model comes out...
Forget the truck. Alex, you look great! Keep it up!
The Frontier has a V6, and it's probably the most reliable in the market.
New Dec. 23 Consumer Reports just listed the Ridgeline as the most reliable midsize truck. Frontier was dead last which really surprised me.
@@chrisb9478 That is very surprising, to the point where it loses credit. Nissan makes a darn good truck.
Really hope the dealers don’t decide to do their own markups over Manufacturer MSRP like so many other models are seeing.
Seriously considering this proven design over any upcoming full redesign.
Like the updates all around.👍
Nah the Ridgeline is always discounted. I don’t see sale getting any better really
Did they add a ventilated seat option?
Sadly not that they mentioned to us..
@@AAutoBuyersGuide I bet ventilated seats are not outdoor activity friendly with all those holes for the ventilation. A seat material without holes which user can easily use a cleat cleaner and wipe it off might be more practical imo. Maybe why in 4Runner world the city friendly Limited has ventilated seats vs offroad focus models doesn't have them?
I have a 2019 Ridgeline RTL-E and I absolutely love it!!!
Alex, You seem to have forgotten that the Frontier 3:36 has a V6 as well. 🤨
In my defense, most shoppers have also forgotten the Frontier exists…
@@AAutoBuyersGuide Ouch!!!!!
@AAutoBuyersGuide not a fan of the 23 Frontier? I was looking into purchasing one soon😊
@@APOSTLESDOCTRINEPHOENIX It sounds like you wont bump into Alex in the showroom.
Woah! Over three thousand pound feet of torque is insane!
I am always looking for the sweet spot of something towing and off-road capable but still efficient comfortable classy and fun or atleast not un-nerving around mountains roads. This is one of the better options.
Of all the vehicles that most need a hybrid or PHEV engine, this is #4 in line behind the Subaru wagons.
Has anything been published on whether the Ridgeline will get vented/cooled seats on any of the trims? I know the 2023 Canadian version in the Touring Trim has vented/cooled seats so it is possible. The 2023 Black Edition does not have vented/cooled seats so I am thinking the 2024 US version will continue without them. I like the Ridgeline, but in the south really like to have vented/cooled seats in the summer.
Honda’s media talking points must have included “emphasize the cabin width”.
It IS a spacious cabin. -Travis
Does that mean it takes more lane? I like having space between my truck and what I am passing or is passing me.
Come on guys it’s wide!!!!!!
Did they fix the wireless charging?
Was really hoping for a hybrid announcement. 😭
Me too..
It might a mild hybrid in 2025
I went to the OC auto show last month and talked to the Honda people there. They said the reason the Ridgeline was pushed back was because they are re-doing the Pilot again with a hybrid version first, then the Passport, then the Ridgeline. So they will all be getting hybrids but it will probably take a couple years to get there.
@@pigxstix will odyssey get a hybrid cause Carnival just got one
@@pigxstix They need a hybrid Odyssey too. They letting Toyota get away with murder with the Sienna Hybrid.
What happened to the rumored 285hp from the Passport and the 10 speed??? Looks like I'm waiting another year.
Nice video, well done. The vehicle size bar graph was odd though. Ridgeline has the longest "short bed". While only 5'-3" is much shorter than the Taco & Fronty long bed, the Ridgeline is significantly wider. Plus the in bed trunk. Standing by itself, it looks small. Beside any of it's competition, it looks big.
So why did they not update the engine and transmission? Like they did in the Passport. The Passport has 5 more horsepower and as a 10 speed transmission.
What other colors dose it come in
Can’t believe Honda dealers demand markups for this relic
You might change your mind after you have achieved 350K+ miles on it, jmo
Personally I like the only Small changes made to this unit, Why because a complete redesign comes with more Cost and Problems, Don't believe me buy some other brands with new lineups and learn the hard way, Because every time You change everything new Problems shoe up it's a machine, Now of course this is just one Owner and Mechanics Opinion, The real problem is everything now is costing too much with over 20% Inflation of almost everything we buy, Now that it's more important to send All of our Money overseas to fund WARs it's getting Ridiculous already. The Ridgeline is still Great Thanks HONDA 🇺🇸👍.
Wait, is it wider than other options?
Hmm.. not sure, let me rewatch the video and let you know!😀
Thanks for the video Alex. Do you think this is the kind of refresh we will see on the 2025 Odyssey? I was really hoping for the accord infotainment screen and cabin watch side by side with CarPlay.
The Ridgeline and Odyssey are likely not on the same development cycle and they have different audiences. it's hard to predict exactly what we'll find in the '25 Odyssey. -Travis
When I read last year that Honda was updating the model there was one thing I didn't see. The rear bumper, did they ever affix it (weld it) to the unibody? Co-worker had one (2021), and it actually tore out/off of it's plastic housing/clips. Honestly, never seen a rear (fake) step bumper on anything classified as a small truck at $40k+. and my buddy is like 160 lbs . Since I'm in the market and really like the Honda line, but this would be a deal breaker. Thanks
Well that's utterly dissapointing.
I agree, very disappointing.
Gotta wait another year before a new Gen I'm guessing.
Me too, thought for sure a better one was coming 😫
I lease my ridge so I so wanted a more rugged one this trade, I may get one before I am to old😆😫
And utterly Honda
@Alex - you noted 2 midsize trucks available in 2024 that have NA V6 engines - I’ve been looking at all midsize options out there lately and the Nissan Frontier comes to mind as a 3rd option. Are you considering that smaller perhaps?
It's got a cool 2013 interior..
Does the trail sport address the ridgelines middling ground clearance? I’ve damaged the bottom of mine driving in Corova, NC (sand beach road). Didn’t have that issue with the missus Subaru (Outback, has over an inch more ground clearance - and wasn’t a wilderness). This truck by default is half an inch too close to the ground, and I don’t see any lift on the trailsport. This trim level is a bit disappointing.
Don’t forget Nissan frontier also is V6
I don't know why Honda didn't bother to put the Honda 10 speed automatic in 2024 Honda Ridgeline like they did for Pilot (vs non Honda 9 speed transmission). On a side note for 2025 Ridgeline if Honda give a 6 seat configuration like the full size work trucks have I bet it would be a crazy trend and I doubt it would be possible for other midsize pickups since others are not wide as Ridgeline.
Better crawl ratio than the 9 speed.
@@0HOON0 if I'm not mistaken the 2024 Pilots does not require aftermarket ATF cooler to tow more than 3500lbs vs pre-2024 AWDs with 9 spd require aftermarket ATF cooler to tow more than 3500lbs per owners manual. I think Honda 10spd is a good upgrade in all ways.
Frontier also has a naturally aspirated V6
Is it an inch higher off the ground?
Does it still offer that sound system in the bed? (I hope so)
You have the Nissan frontier with a naturally aspirated V6 as well.
Don't forget the Nissan Frontier also has a naturally aspirated V6!
If I ever decide to sell my F150, this will be the replacement! Kind of tired of trying to manuever a full size truck.
It is, but if you need the F-150 capability you kinda have to live with it.
Same thought process
It's a great truck. Drives just like a Pilot, which to me was a good thing. The Ranger/Tacoma felt was much harsher and not as refined.
no metal skid plate huh?
Nissan frontier is also naturally aspirated V6.
7:39 The steering wheel is not the same as the '17-'23 Ridgeline.
Agreed! I caught that too. I’m happy with my 23 model but envy the upgraded head unit and gauge cluster on this new model.
I wish they left the center console alone. I prefer the design on my 2022 Ridgeline.
Exactly..
Then it's a good thing you yours! -Travis
I wish I could fit in one, 6.5 in and I have no leg room. I hope they enlarge the next one.
Prices for all trucks right now is ridiculous. Showrooms are empty lol
I do not plan to go offroad, but I may want to drive on unplowed roads. As a Minnesnowtan I have experienced deep snow and the thrill of finding a large heavy plow behind me. Can this truck handle such situations with these tires?
With no effort, I've driven through 6'' of unplowed snow with all season tires on my "23 RTL-E" up and down hills prior to the plow trucks making the rounds, Honda's AWD system is Awesome!
What is it's ground clearance ?
Is there a bird’s eye view camera option, or only a rear view camera?
Is there an outlet in bed? I heardbthey got rid of it for some reason.
Able to confirm transmission software updates from 2023? Still terrible in 2023 model year.
They did not mention any additional changes
Thanks. Appreciate the response!
I would buy a new Ridgeline if it wasn’t so expensive! I would be happy with a base model, just the standard equipment!
Honda also offered $1500 in loyalty cash and conquest cash on the Ridgeline.
Try to snag a deal on the '23. It's pretty much the same, and I don't see anything worth upgrading for. It's not like they're flying off the lot either haha. The base Sport is a pretty good looking base model in my opinion...
That is a great vehicle. Thankfully you were somewhat off in your pricing. I’d stick with the RTL which is above the base sport and below this ‘trail’ version.
I imagine that this is a relatively low volume vehicle for Honda, so I get why they wouldn’t want to spend the time/money to completely redesign it. It fills a niche in their lineup (North Americans with an obsession for trucks), but it’s not something most Honda buyers are looking for. So it makes sense that they would do the bare minimum to keep it somewhat competitive in its niche market. Toyota did the same with the Tundra until its reliability reputation wasn’t enough to excuse its lack of modern features. The ridgeline is a decent truck, but it’s easily outmatched by its industry counterparts and is in the same predicament that the tundra was.
They sell about the same as the odyssey and more than the passport.
What planet do you live on. With the exceptions of 'actual' rock climbing, and towning over 5k lbs - the Ridgeline is the best mid-size truck BY FAR in America.
I wish Acura would make a truck based off the MDX....a nice sleek street truck
Pretty sure this is just a stop-gap until they make an actually new one based on the 4th gen Pilot. I still can't get over how much better looking the 4th gen Pilot is over the minivan-esque looking 3rd gen.
Honda. Please bring back the adjustable arm rests.
Will they put the new V6 and 10 speed transmission in the 2025 model. I think the Ridgeline could use at least 300 HP.
i got the 24 BE but some things it is missing from being near perfect.. does not have front CENTER parking sensors... Adaptive cruise control does not have stop and go/slow follow.. passenger seat does not have height adjustment.. should add acoustic glass to the front side windows.. the rear window should have one touch open/close.. the tailgate should have proximity sensor so you can just open tailgate without having to first use key fob to unlock the tailgate... better stereo would be nice.. should have 360cam or at least a front cam.. also should have hill descent control.. this thing costs 48,200.. should have more of these options in the BE.
the new driver dash screen is a lot nicer.. the new infotainment with wireless carplay and android auto is so conveinant .. the stereo is not that great, needs more bass range.. the vented seats are really nice.. very smooth v6. nice ride and handling..
Finally, Honda came to their senses on those dumb arm rests! That's almost as good as a re-design.
They’re almost back to where they were with the 1st Gen.. blocky looks and a blocky functional interior. Now they just need to put the shifter on the dash (like the Odyssey) and put the open floor center console back, and they’d be making some progress for once.
Loved the armrests!
Love when manufacurers slap aggressive tires to a compact pick up and call it off road vehicle.
Power folding side mirrors on Trail Sport, and Black edition for 2024.
Need a PHEV model Honda! Get it out soon!
I'm on your side but I won't be holding my breath. -Travis
I am so relieved. I bought a 2022 (in Mar 22). I was so worried that the next gen would be worlds better. It's the same truck. I win!!!!
Glad you don't regret your purchase! -Travis
This is not a new Gen
Me too! The 22 is arguably better than the new one
@@sawyerforever4259 It is. The 22' armrests and centerconsole are worlds better than the 23'.
Nissan Frontier V6 does not have a turbo, right? So naturally aspirated.
Too bad they didn’t use the new Pilot interior. Also, the Nissan Frontier is another NA v6 option.
I had a 2017 Ridgeline RTL-E and now a 2022 Ridgeline RTL-E. I’ll be the first to say this TrailSport adding only grippier tires is a joke. No steel undercarriage skid plates and not even raised an inch. Really disappointing. The Subaru Outback and Crosstrek have more ground clearance than my Ridgey.
The only pluses are wireless Apple CarPlay, the redesigned middle console, power folding mirrors, suspension changes, and new tailgate. But still, no power tailgate and no hybrid system.
At this point, next time I’m going with the new redesigned Taco.
This is the best ICE truck concept for most people, but it has GLARING flaws. Why isn't is a hybrid? WHY???? Why does it have 4 spare tires that scream that this is minivan-based? Why does it have such an ancient dashboard when the price is ultra-2024? Honestly, I bet the next gen of this truck will be a complete home run and would tell anyone who asked to avoid this like the plague and preorder the next gen that will probably get 30 mpg in the city and have a modern interior.
It's awesome, but Honda could have done more and a great disappointment as I was waiting patiently to trade in my 2028 black edition and this not different enough especially with everything else refreshed in the market....bit ill still get one.
Dang if you meant 2018 model, what is wrong with it? That seems still practically new in my mind unless you drive a lot and have like 200k on it already.
I was hoping it was going to get the new pilot from and an interior. However, that new motor isn’t as good double overhead cam cylinder deactivation no VTEC.
I am always shocked when he's impressed by a Korean vehicle, that will fail within 5 years, but hate on a Japanese vehicle that will last over 300,000 miles. He's jaded.
What hate? He really likes the Ridgeline, including this one. It's just a mild refresh, and wishing it has been more is definitely not hating the vehicle.
Check your torque fig graphic 3262
Thank God I got lucky and got a 23 sport for 35k with incentives thinking the newer body was coming and the dealer wanting to get rid of there last 23 sport they had.
Sounds like you got a good deal and are enjoying your truck! -Travis
It finally gets a proper center armrest ... amazing !
I wished they would’ve gone with the current gen Pilot along with the SH AWD
That’s for the redesign model
I-VTM4 is mechanically identical to SH-AWD. It’s just tuned more for maximum traction vs maximum handling. That said though, it still handles fantastically.
I think COVID caused a bit of delays with supply chain issues, though Ridgeline has historically trailed the Pilot timeline a bit.
3:38 my eyes popped out at 3,262 lb ft of torque
if I were to give my wife a car/truck, I would give her a Ridgeline
This is a fine truck, but there is a huge gap from "light offroading" to "moab" that all the other BOF trucks will reliably do, and this won't. I doubt very much anyone that does even moderate offroaring on a regular basis will cross-shop the Ridgeline with the rest of the midsizers.
You're probably right but most people don't do much off-roading. Yes, it's going to likely eliminate this truck from a group of potential customers but I'm not sure that will make a huge difference in the long term. -Travis
Alex- I love your reviews. Thank you. Question: what do you think of the Ridgeline as a "only car" for a household? ie. for various reasons, I am considering offloading my 2018 landcruiser and 2006 Tundra for a Ridgeline as an All in One for my every day errands to towing to dump runs. HOWEVER... how would you rate the Rideglines livability for every day parking in most grocery store parking lots and that sort of scenario? ie. My Lancruiser is very easy to manuever... the Ridgeline is 15 inches longer and 1 inch wider than Landcruiser.
I'm a former Ridgeline owner (2011) and with that comes a bias, but I think this is hands down one of the best "only car" vehicles one could buy if you find yourself using the bed often, otherwise something smaller would probably be a better option. The benefits of being a non-traditional truck is that this drives like a crossover and is compliant and responsive in a way you won't get with a standard truck. There is loads of room on the interior for passengers, pets, cargo, etc. .It's going to be bigger than the Landcruiser but it shouldn't FEEL that much bigger. Ask me if I loved my Ridgeline! -Travis
I have a 2022 Ridgeline. It's AMAZING. I have no issues with parking it anywhere (although the rounded front end does take awhile to learn 'where the corners are'). My folks are a 6 hour drive, and this think is extremely comforatable on the freeway. I use it as my daily commuter as well, zero complaints. Seats 4 very comfortably. The in-bed truck is amzaingly handy, it's the perfect size for 4-5 bags of groceries (and it stays clean and dry, no worries about throwing in paper grocery bags). The rear seat/cargo area holds an amazing amount of 'stuf' with the seats folded up. I can fit both my, and my wife's 700cc wheeled gravel bikes back there (with 3/4 wheels off). (I have mounted fork mounts to the bed rails, which is where I normally carry the bikes. But in a pinch, I can put 2 bikes in the cabin for security). Really, go test drive one. My only recomendation is to get a current gen model. You'll like the armrests and center console better than this new gen.
@@bikebudha01 Thank you for this awesome feedback! Yeah.. I see the goodness in all areas for the Ridgeline and understand it would be an awesome road trip vehicle as well as every day around town. I guess I will just need to drive one and try out the parking lot scenarios!
@@AAutoBuyersGuide Thanks Travis! I do think this is as small as I would want to go for having a truck bed to use for the things I typically use my Tundra bed for. Yeah, I definitely need to drive one and get a good feel for it. I agree on your assumption that it should not feel to much bigger than my Landcruiser.
@@johnmullins8932 best of luck
Steering wheel/control button placement is different from 2023 Ridgeline
Timing belt or chain? That's all we really need to know cause Honda hasn't done shite to this years model.
Belt
3262lb ft of torque lol😂that’s extreme powerful torque.
That’s when vtec kicks in
Yo
She's a real stump puller I'll tell you 'hwat.
This is a perfect truck for Honda to roll out plugin hybrid with a turbo 4. Give it a 20kwh battery and it will be good family truck.
That would be awesome, but I would not want turbo.
I don't think Honda needs turbo as they already do cylinder deactivation. They run on 3 cylinders when not needed. Adding turbo on top of cylinder deactivation might be little too risky. But who knows cylinder deactivation + turbo + hybrid might bring Honda to top of the mpg & epa game.
Agreed. -Travis
Insane pickup truck.
The Ridgeline is hands down the best midsize pickup in America*
1) Widest most spacious front seats.
2) Most volumous rear seats/cargo area. Most efficient storage space (the way the seats fold up to leave a massive rectangular volume of space)
3) Widest pickup bed. 4x8 plywood sheets LAY FLAT.
4) Only mid-size pickup with an in-bed trunk (that locks).
5) Only pickup with a swing-out tailgate. (Makes it amazingly easy to load the bed, and to use the bumper to step up into the bed).
6) Best driving dynamics of any mid-size pickup.
7) Top level gas mileage for any mid-size pickup.
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I test drove the Tacoma, the Frontiere, the Ranger, the Colorado, and the Gladiator. None of them even came close in terms of 'daily driver'-ability. My parents are a 6 hour drive from my house. I can make the drive entirely in one seating position, without having to 'shift around' at all. Super duper highway cruiser.
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I know, I know, all you "it's not a REAL truck guys" are out there doubting me. But really, if you are looking for a new truck, test drive a Ridgeline. You know, just to see. Then go back and try and wedge yourself into any other mid-sized truck's tiny cabin. Let me know how it goes..
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*Ok, so if you ACTUALLY need to tow more than 5,000lbs, or if you ACTUALLY go rock crawling - this isn't your truck. But for the other 99% of you out there - this is your truck.