@@seanbrosnan2074 I haven’t met any other owners, so it must be very popular where you live. Can’t keep a good product down. Love mine more and more, every time I drive it. Enjoy your bicycle, get a bigger basket.
Fascinating review, but one that ignores perhaps the biggest innovation of what the Ridgeline was all about. It was/is the pickup for folks who don't really need a pickup. It's a car based vehicle on purpose: to give it a huge advantage of on the road comfort and handling. I've read from owners THIS is why they bought it. These people could care less about that it could "only" tow 5,000lbs. or had a 1,500lb payload. For them, this was plenty. No need to get a choppy ride or excessively high seating step-in experience. Truck practicality, car comfort. It's unique and should be judged accordingly. But seriously, enjoyed the video.
Spot on. I bought mine because of everything you mentioned. If I towed stuff regularly I'd get a full size. I've only had my 07 Ridgeline for a month and a half but so far I'm enjoying it more than the 6 other vehicles I've owned.
Not a bad option for people who still want a truck but also want to occasionally get some stuff from Lowe's. But at the same time, that could be accomplished with a RAV4 or CRV, so this is only for people who really want a truck but don't actually need one at all. I expect this market soon to be taken up by the Ford Maverick
@@andrewsang4688 I was on the waiting list for the '22 Maverick and now I'm on the list for the '23. Thinking about buying a used 2010 Ridgeline because I'll probably be in my grave before the Ford rolls off the line.
283K on my Ridgeline. I'm the second owner. I bought it at 210K and changed the timing belt. I'll change it in another 30K. I'm not using it for work but I occasionally go on trails and pack my ATV in the back. I also occasionally tow my trailer for dirt, mulch and other light weight materials. It rides more like an Acura than a truck. So far so good!
The reason why people hate it , is because it’s better than what they are driving... my 2007 has done everything I needed it to do, from construction to off-road and I even pull a 22’ trailer. One thing to keep in mind is to maintain your vehicles no matter what they are and they will perform
I’ll be honest, my dad just bought a 2020 AWD Ridgeline a week ago. And I’ll be honest with you (as someone who owns a Toyota 4Runner and likes American pickup trucks like the F150) I actually LIKE the Ridgeline
I bought a 2006 Ridgeline and jumped the Royal Gorge last week. I added a 30" lift kit, Mickey Thompson's, straight pipes, grew an out of control beard, put on some aviator glasses and towed 60 tons up the side Pikes Peak unchartered territory while listen to Hank.
Yes! I have a 2007 that I bought new in 2006. Apart from scheduled fluid changes I have done nothing to this truck in 133,000 kilometres. Yes there was the airbag issue and the heater cover but that was covered under warranty. After getting dinged $225 Canadian for the fist oil change I never went back for service and did all my services myself using Orem fluids. I have never felt that the truck was underpowered. I think the jealousy lays in the fact that they are ultra reliable. I have the front wheel drive version with the electronic rear lock to give more traction when needed which keeps fuel consumption decent.
People loved (and still love) the Ridgeline. It's the knucklehead full-size truck drivers who complained loudly everywhere they could. Most of this video's criticisms of the Ridgeline are based on the uninformed views of those people. The Ridgeline was a great truck back in 2006 and the fact that so many are still running and in great shape today speaks volumes. I'm not a big fan of the second generation Ridgeline because it did away with a lot of the things that made the first generation so great and unique - mainly the incredibly thoughtful use of storage space in the interior, but the new one is also dinged because of the extremely bland styling it borrowed from the bland Pilot. It's not a bad truck by any means - I'd still buy one if it was priced more sanely over practically anything else available new today - but it doesn't hold a candle to the first generation.
The v6 in the Ridgeline is probably the better v6 in the midsize segment. The Ford v6 wasn’t very good the Tacoma v6 was good but I think Honda’s was slightly better
If this is the J series motor, yeah it's pretty good, but it also struggles with being a motor used in the Accord and Odyssey. Designed for on-road comfort, but then again, so is the Ridgeline
"2006 Honda Ridgeline Motor Trend Truck of the year" Honda was ahead of its time with this unique unibody style and V6 engine now these days all Trucks manufactures are catching up to this Honda unique style. Like Ford Maverick, Hyundai Santa Cruz and i'm sure Dodge, Chevy, Toyota, Nissan is going to come out with something to compete. People hate it because they are used to seeing trucks with traditional body on frame and can't use their imagination to move on with their lives when something unique comes out. It was never a Truck it was a Hybrid crossover between a SUV/Truck= SUT. The only vehicle that the Ridgeline compete with at that time was the Subaru Baja, not the Chevy Avalanche because it doesn't have a unibody frame.
The good news is that they don't have to love it the way I love mine. Everybody wins. It's a very reliable SUV with a truck bed and lots of convenient features, but if you need to tow something heavy, don't buy it. Simple enough for you?
I went form a 2016 F150 Black Platinum to a 2022 Black Edition/Black Ridgeline. For my age at 62 this is the perfect vehicle for me. I'm always by myself. I dont off road. I don't tow. But, I do like the room, the drive train, and the quietness this truck has. You can feel the quality in the vehicle when driving it. I see me driving this vehicle into my 70's.
I think the problem is people over buy for what they think they need. Personally, I'm just using my 1st gen for hauling my motorcycle around, not gonna tow anywhere near 5000lbs. Maybe go through unpaved road to get to the trails, don't need a lifted 4x4 with low range and rock crawl. NYC roads sucks so independent suspension gives it a nicer rider with plenty of room for storage.
Cross shopped midsize trucks this year and bought a 2021 honda ridgeline. The back seat in the others was just too tight and I couldn't imagine anyone sitting back there for any length of time. I also looked at full size trucks, then I looked at the parkade where I work in the city, so full size trucks didn't interest me. Ultimately the Ridgeline was a bit of everything, it is comfortable, easy to park and has a bed when I need it. It also has a trunk so my groceries aren't all over the place when I get home!! I don't know how many people on my block have big offroad trucks, which have never been off pavement and have immaculate looking beds, because they never put anything in them. To me thats being a poser!
I’ve had my 2013 for seven years, just did the 100,000 mile service, live in northeastern Az. and this little truck goes anywhere I ask it to so far. It fits on the trails way out here easier than the big boys and goes like hell when I ask it to. I love my Ridgeline! Just paid it off too!
I love my 2010 ridgeline. It’s dependable and handles Ohio winters like a champ. the v6 has plenty of power and it not as problematic as the jeeps plural, or the H3, or the zr2 s10 that I owned that were all j-u-n-k
2007 Ridgeline, 140k, and I haul heavy loads and have pulled a 14’ flatbed trailer with ~ 6k out of a boggy field when a full sized Tacoma couldn’t move it. Lots.of disinformation. A 280 Hp engine perfectly capable. I have pulled trailers with 5k load, not counting the trailer itself and held 70 mph in the hills and mountains of western Mt. Had to drop a gear, but Honda engines achieve highest torque at higher rpm. Neither Gen1 or Gen2 use the Pilot chassis, rather has a boxed frame version. Gen2 just styled to look like body on frame to offset the body on frame bias of real trucks. Also, 1500 payload is a quarter ton truck, while not too many years ago, full sized Detroit pickups were termed 1/2 ton, with heavy duty at 1 ton. As per gas mileage, Gen 2 has best of mid-size, still using the same engine as Gen 1. My highway is 23-24 at 60-65, 22 at 70 to 80. I do not advocate Ridgeline for heavy towing, gas mileage at 70 with max recommended load is about 15 on Gen 1. Truck interior markedly roomier, especially in width, than any of the new mid-sized trucks. Gen 2 is basically a facelift with more gears in tranny. Bump the towing up, add a grunt gear, and it would be nearly perfect.
I have always loved the Honda Ridgeline because a friend of mine has one. And he's had it for 8-10 years and it just keeps on going. I don't recall him ever having it in the shop for repairs aside from oil changes and tires, and I know he's crossed over 270K miles on it so far. Unbelievable Honda..
It was scoffed at during its release, but I think it’s growing on people, I see more and more as time goes by. It targeted an audience that ford and Hyundai are now after: people who don’t need a big truck.
I just found a 2006 Ridgeline in an old man’s garage with only 35,000 miles on it looks brand new… I have a Ford with a power stroke diesel, a jeep TJ… But I’m starting to love this thing… Lol
Mine has 236k, never a problem-hauled 8' trailer with furniture from FL to CA and Fl to Canada several times. Also had 22' boat with 150 hp motor- never a problem. I love it . Will buy another in a heartbeat.
I actually really like it, only cause of the interior really. Speaking of that I think for coming out in 05 as an 06 model it has aged tremendously well, I mean it still looks and feels like a newish car by 2020 standards.
I bought my 2023 Ridgeline because it's not a hard core truck. Hate the ride and all the compromises that come with them. But it's all the truck I need. For towing my fishing boat. To buying plywood, sheet rock, etc its perfect. And have you seen the prices on the 1500's? They are totally crazy. And I love the fact you don't see them every where. So why aren't people laughing at the Ford Maverick the same way they laugh at the Ridgeline.? My my opinion, they are too small and ugly.
I bought my 06 RTL in 05 as it was being delivered to the dealer. 228K on it. Timing belt twice -first was $850, 2nd was $1200. Recently needed a new ac compressor. Used it to tow my Honda Aquatrax and tote my Honda CRF 250. I always thought the 3.5 was a little under-powered but i think its a gearing thing. I have an 06 Toyota Avalon with a 3.5 that will put you back in your seat. My theory on new product launches is that they either rush to market and cut corners on quality or they want to cement a good reputation --especially if entering a new and very competitive market segment and want to make sure its bulletproof. I think Honda went for the latter with the Ridgeline.
the g1 was not designed to compete with the tacoma and the colorado, it was designed to compete with SUV's from the era, It's not a truck, Its an SUV with a truck bed, Im not saying thats a bad thing actually its an awesome feature,
I have driven many vehicles and this is the best snow truck bar none. Even with bald all seasons i made it up a hill no one else could make it; they all turned around to get a run at it. No it aint a heavy hauler, but 90 percent of 1/2 ton trucks never use it that way anyway.
I have a Ridgeline RTL 2013. Has over 120,000 miles the 3.5 engine works very smooth and when power is asked for it moves very fast. The cabin is bigger and more comfortable than others in the class, the rear cargo bed has a lower compartment that can be use as a huge cooler to keep drinks and meats for a tailgate barbecue. The cargo floor has built in grooves to transport certain types of Honda motorcycles. Mine is AWD and although it sits lower to the ground than the others it can go though mud, sand, snow with the additional VTM-4 than turns it into an off road beast.There are several videos in You Tube that shows it.
I have had fords Tacoma's tundras and my ridgeline is my favorite. it may not give as smooth a ride f150 lariat but will go more places and better on snow and ice than any thing else
Just wait, when they cancel the ridgeline or whatever... in 20 years these are gonna something everyone wants... just like the Subaru BRAT. it's a niche product.
I love the fact they got Lex Luthor to voice their commercial. - But really, I got a 2022. Have just over 10K miles on it. It's the bet mid-size truck BY FAR. (Unless you actually rock-crawl, which I don't). Better build quality. Better ride quality. Vastly better interior space.
Bought a 2008 Ridgeline 15 years ago beacuse of the unique body style and truly love it. Only have 118,000 miles on it but work it hard locally every week. Just did a Maaco overhaul of bodywork and paint and it looks and still feels like new..
One thing that I like about the 1st gen ridgeline is that it has way better back seat room for my son’s car seat. The Tacoma and Canyon are way too cramped for my taste and the full size trucks are unpractical to park where I live and just way more truck than I actually need. I want to go camping, haul bikes and kayak but still use the truck as a comfortable daily driver. The ridgeline is perfect for that. It is also easy and cheap to work on.
I bought one so I could get back and forth to work in the new england weather. I could care less about towing or off road B.S. because going off road destroys any vehicle no matter what it is. I didn't want a truck and every SUV looks the same. You can tell exactly what my vehicle is because no one else looks like it. Truck guys yank off the exhaust for maximum loudness, I want the most quiet vehicle I can get. If the ridge line was loud maybe it would attract some of the truck guys, but it's not. You can't lift a ridge line and that really pisses truck guys off because everything they buy needs to be jacked to the sky with 40 inch tires. All you can hope for is a 3 inch suspension drop and coil overs and even then you have to cut metal to get 33's to 35's on. I bought an suv with a bed in it so I could toss shit in the back and not mess up my interior and I wanted something that was reliable, I owned a siverado with a 6.0 with only 70k miles on it and the thing rotted in half. Toyotas rot away around here also. I can't afford brand new or used Toyota so a used one with even a little bit of rust under it is a red flag to run the f**k away.
I know of no one whom has ever compared it to an F-150, Silverado or Ram. It’s a midsize truck, pure & simple, and competes against the Tacoma, Colorado, Ranger, Frontier and now Gladiator. Its V6 still makes roughly the same power as competitors, and its towing numbers are competitive. It can’t haul a horse trailer like a Silverado HD, it can’t off-road like a Tacoma TRD Pro, and it’s styling was at first weird Japanese anime awkward or boring Pilot-with-a pickup bed. That’s its problem. All that gained it a reputation of “not manly enough to be a real truck”. If they could up the horsepower a little, give it proper off-road capabilities, and style it more like a traditional midsize truck it might do just fine. Realistically it’s all the pickup truck most Americans ever need. I live in a larger Midwestern city and their are plenty of F-250 Super Duty show ponies around here hauling nothing but air year round!
The 2020 and up Ridgeline with the 9 speed transmission, will churp ALL 4 tires from a stop. enough towing capacity to rescue your equipment trailer when your full size anything breaks down!
A little skeptical when I first bought the Ridgeline in 2008 but have enjoyed and liked it more the longer I drive one. I think those that hate them just do not own one or drive a truck for the macho image rather than need. The Ridgeline certainly is not for those that want a truck for the image. Best, most reliable vehicle I have ever owned.
I like the Honda Ridgeline. It would be nice to see a full size version one. ALL the different truck companies make vehicles with a center console with bucket seats. It’s like sitting in a Cockpit with no place to move. (Bring back the 60/40 bench seat) But all cars, trucks, suv, mini vans, mid size and luxury cars have that cock-pit bucket seat look. For the person 5 foot 6 inch 175 pounds body. Not everyone is that size.
I had a 05 Tacoma 4wd, wreck it, then got another tacoma but was not 4wd, found the 2010 RL for 12000 with 99000 on it, garage kept, looks like new and kinda still had the new car smell. I have had it for a year so far, I love it a lot more than the Tacoma, I needed a 4wd for my quads to take to Pismo Beach CA. It fits in the back, and I tow the other one on trailer. The Truck drives great, has plenty of power. It's great mid-size truck with a lot of features, storage and space. Like how the tailgate opens two ways and a big spacious trunk in the bed. This Truck, in my opinion is better than the Tacoma.
I love driving my Ridgeline waving at Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge owners stuck on side of the road. I pulled over to help a Chevrolet truck in 2015 and his spare tire cable would not release the tire. I looked it up and it was a factory defect all Chevrolet trucks had like his. Then It iced over in Texas in 2018 and every 2 wheel drive truck was stuck spinning tires in driveways. I passed a Jeep that was driving on plowed roads, and I passed him on the center media with ice on it. I was driving faster on 4 inches ice than the Jeep was on pavement. I can also take off in my Ridgeline on ice or snow faster than a 2 wheel drive Ford Raptor in Colorado. I just wish my Ridgeline was turbo or supercharged.
Have a 2006 original owner and I would say it's a fantastic vehicle. Only thing that's gone out on me annoyingly has been the starter. I guess it could happen on any truck but had to get it towed about 5 years ago. Other than that it's what most people only need in a truck. Drives like brand new with new rubber of course. Tires do loose their bounce like a great sneaker after awhile.
Damn, I’m actually thinking about getting one. I work in construction, so I need a truck to carry my tools, be able to drive good in gravel and unpaved roads, and not guzzle huge amounts of gas. Yes I’m looking at the Tacoma, Frontier, Maverick, Colorado and Ridgeline. Not the Santa Cruz because I don’t like the way it looks and I think it has horrible use of space. Maverick is too small even for the midsize pick ups. Colorado is a Chevy so you know it’s a piece of junk, sooner than later it will leave you stranded by the side of the road. Tacoma is really expensive, but I think it’s reliability is worth it. I don’t know much about the Frontier to be honest, oh and I forgot the Sierra, but everything GM makes is crap. Ridgeline is the weird kid of the bunch, the one that doesn’t look the part, the one that everyone picks on, but honestly, it’s the one that makes more sense for my situation. It’s got clever use of space, its got okayish mpg, it’s more than enough to carry tools. I don’t haul huge loads of lumber nor tow tractors, all I do is carry my tools in my tool boxes, yes boxes, I have a lot of tools. The Ridgeline is quite efficient as a work truck for CONSTRUCTION WORKERS. That should be their target audience, yes it will take some convincing for the die hard ford, ram and chevy fans but I think with the right advertisement campaign it can convince them.
I'm a concrete finisher and bought a 2008 Ridgeline RTL......I used to have an old F150 which I loved, but I got all my trowels stolen out of the bed. Trust me, one of the BEST features of the Ridgeline is the lockable trunk. I keep all my tools and valuables in there.....I love it.
Own an 2003 Element and just picked up a 2009 with 100k miles on it. I love my Unique vehicles. Looking at J37 swap though tbh.....J35 is nice and has plenty of power for what I need but more power always puts a smile on my face and would catch people offguard lol
The short snout on the 2017 redesign is about as ugly a front end on any pickup youwill ever see. I call the 2017 Ridge " snubby " , looks like a smashed in accordian. Too bad cuz you cannot argue with their dependable engines .
Probably because of the weird looks. If it looked more like a Ford Maverick it would have been far more popular. Honda quality and a lot of utility for the average person.
Best truck ever my wife and kids hated it till they drove now everyone wants to drive it I’ve owned Toyota Tacoma, f150 ram and Chevy 1500 the Honda by far is better I’m a contractor it does it all if it’s to heavy I use a trailer or get it delivered best long distance driver ever made love this truck please don’t buy these cause I want it
Would you fly in a plane made be GMC, Ford, Dodge or Honda? Honda all day every day. You have no idea when the others would fall apart. The new gen ridgeline is roomier than any midsize truck in its class. It gives a smoother ride. The ridgeline is used mostly as a daily commuter with mid size truck capabilities but used mostly for light work. Meanwhile, alot of these big truck guys don't use the American truck for what its meant for.
@@Giratina1999 The Avalanche was based on the Suburban. It's body-on-frame just like the Suburban at the time and every other truck out there. It just had a "single piece" body bolted onto it. Just google "Chevy Avalanche frame". One of the first images that pops up is a bare Avalanche frame.
It was actually a cross between the MDX and Pilot. I have an 07 my people who bought a Chevy at the same time don’t have it. I still have my “cheaply made truck”. The new one looked like a Pilot but this year looks better.
It’s such a crowd splitter, why people hate the video when he’s just being honest? All the info is anchored by actual research, haven’t found an incorrect piece of it, stop hating guys
Tahoe SuperSports I agree but how he came out with his statement is why I replied. Bigger is not always better but there is still benefits with having a bigger engine.
I liked it but could not afford it.Same thing w the Subaru baja.4.3 chvy towes more and better on gas.Ridgelines should be more affordable since they don't cost as much to build.Just get a used Pilot and cut half the roof off.
The Titan was a great truck driving wise, utility on frame towing or pulling was great too. The body itself was very thin or soft sheet metal however (probably added to the driving feel vis a vis weight) and would ding or crush very easily. I wonder if the sheet metal on this ridgeline is thicker/higher strength than other non-stressed body-on-frame chassis trucks (such as the Titan).
.....and this is why OEM's offer different vehicles with different features.....get what suits you. Me personally, I think all Nissans are the ugliest vehicles to ever be produced. So, I just won't buy one - simple.
The only people who don't like the truck are people who don't own one. I have. 2011 and it has been fantastic. I tow a 16 ft boat and the thing is bulletproof. It isnt designed to tow 10000 lbs. So people comparing it to monster full size trucks with big engines are ridiculous. 90% of truck owners dont need those truck but they buy them. My ridgeline is way better than my 2000 Tundra and that was a good truck. You don't know what you don't know. Just look at the actual owners comments.
Why is this 3 week old video discussing a discontinued Honda body style? If, they compared a 2017-2020 Honda Ridgeline - this would NOT be a video worth any chatter
I love mine. Most dependable truck on the market. I have had no issues. Couple recalls taken care of. No mechanical problems. It’s 18 years old garage kept and looks brand new. I’ll match it against any ford or Chevrolet at that age. I do take care of my investments I must say. Very proud of my truck. I don’t care what anyone says. My other car is a 2017 ZO6. So I think I drive in style everywhere I go.
It offers too many useful things. Which leads to jealousy and hate. Muricans love their F150 and make it personal.
Greg S eh fair, it’s just different, that and it came with a pretty gutless engine but mostly the fact that it’s a radical new change
Argowal get a fucking life asshole
Its because it has a small bed. So that makes it useless for certain things. Plus it’s doesn’t look very good. Its the pilot with a bed.
Honda is the combination of a truck and a car
@@seanbrosnan2074 I haven’t met any other owners, so it must be very popular where you live. Can’t keep a good product down. Love mine more and more, every time I drive it. Enjoy your bicycle, get a bigger basket.
People gonna hate but ridgelines are hitting over 300,000 with no problem 👀
Fascinating review, but one that ignores perhaps the biggest innovation of what the Ridgeline was all about. It was/is the pickup for folks who don't really need a pickup. It's a car based vehicle on purpose: to give it a huge advantage of on the road comfort and handling. I've read from owners THIS is why they bought it. These people could care less about that it could "only" tow 5,000lbs. or had a 1,500lb payload. For them, this was plenty. No need to get a choppy ride or excessively high seating step-in experience. Truck practicality, car comfort. It's unique and should be judged accordingly. But seriously, enjoyed the video.
Spot on. I bought mine because of everything you mentioned. If I towed stuff regularly I'd get a full size. I've only had my 07 Ridgeline for a month and a half but so far I'm enjoying it more than the 6 other vehicles I've owned.
Not a bad option for people who still want a truck but also want to occasionally get some stuff from Lowe's. But at the same time, that could be accomplished with a RAV4 or CRV, so this is only for people who really want a truck but don't actually need one at all. I expect this market soon to be taken up by the Ford Maverick
@@andrewsang4688 I was on the waiting list for the '22 Maverick and now I'm on the list for the '23. Thinking about buying a used 2010 Ridgeline because I'll probably be in my grave before the Ford rolls off the line.
The midwest region always ignored the innovation
The more people hate it, the more I like it.
People are always trying to bully my 2nd Gen Ridge-line with their trucks.
Me too
Same.
283K on my Ridgeline. I'm the second owner. I bought it at 210K and changed the timing belt. I'll change it in another 30K. I'm not using it for work but I occasionally go on trails and pack my ATV in the back. I also occasionally tow my trailer for dirt, mulch and other light weight materials. It rides more like an Acura than a truck. So far so good!
Why such a short interval for the timing belt? Recommended is like 100k miles
@@brandonmacdonald7802 I think it snaps somewhere around 160k but I’m not willing to test it lol.
The reason why people hate it , is because it’s better than what they are driving... my 2007 has done everything I needed it to do, from construction to off-road and I even pull a 22’ trailer. One thing to keep in mind is to maintain your vehicles no matter what they are and they will perform
I’ll be honest, my dad just bought a 2020 AWD Ridgeline a week ago. And I’ll be honest with you (as someone who owns a Toyota 4Runner and likes American pickup trucks like the F150) I actually LIKE the Ridgeline
Happens all the time.
grows on you.
@@sej4323 As I understand it, the Ridgeline and another truck are tied for the most American built truck in the US.
Are you Gāÿ ?
I bought a 2006 Ridgeline and jumped the Royal Gorge last week. I added a 30" lift kit, Mickey Thompson's, straight pipes, grew an out of control beard, put on some aviator glasses and towed 60 tons up the side Pikes Peak unchartered territory while listen to Hank.
Bought one new in 2006, put 280000 miles on it and it hasn't seen a wrench other than timing belt changes per schedule
Yes! I have a 2007 that I bought new in 2006. Apart from scheduled fluid changes I have done nothing to this truck in 133,000 kilometres. Yes there was the airbag issue and the heater cover but that was covered under warranty. After getting dinged $225 Canadian for the fist oil change I never went back for service and did all my services myself using Orem fluids.
I have never felt that the truck was underpowered. I think the jealousy lays in the fact that they are ultra reliable. I have the front wheel drive version with the electronic rear lock to give more traction when needed which keeps fuel consumption decent.
People loved (and still love) the Ridgeline. It's the knucklehead full-size truck drivers who complained loudly everywhere they could. Most of this video's criticisms of the Ridgeline are based on the uninformed views of those people. The Ridgeline was a great truck back in 2006 and the fact that so many are still running and in great shape today speaks volumes. I'm not a big fan of the second generation Ridgeline because it did away with a lot of the things that made the first generation so great and unique - mainly the incredibly thoughtful use of storage space in the interior, but the new one is also dinged because of the extremely bland styling it borrowed from the bland Pilot. It's not a bad truck by any means - I'd still buy one if it was priced more sanely over practically anything else available new today - but it doesn't hold a candle to the first generation.
The v6 in the Ridgeline is probably the better v6 in the midsize segment. The Ford v6 wasn’t very good the Tacoma v6 was good but I think Honda’s was slightly better
If this is the J series motor, yeah it's pretty good, but it also struggles with being a motor used in the Accord and Odyssey. Designed for on-road comfort, but then again, so is the Ridgeline
"2006 Honda Ridgeline Motor Trend Truck of the year" Honda was ahead of its time with this unique unibody style and V6 engine now these days all Trucks manufactures are catching up to this Honda unique style. Like Ford Maverick, Hyundai Santa Cruz and i'm sure Dodge, Chevy, Toyota, Nissan is going to come out with something to compete. People hate it because they are used to seeing trucks with traditional body on frame and can't use their imagination to move on with their lives when something unique comes out. It was never a Truck it was a Hybrid crossover between a SUV/Truck= SUT. The only vehicle that the Ridgeline compete with at that time was the Subaru Baja, not the Chevy Avalanche because it doesn't have a unibody frame.
The good news is that they don't have to love it the way I love mine. Everybody wins.
It's a very reliable SUV with a truck bed and lots of convenient features, but if you need to tow something heavy, don't buy it. Simple enough for you?
Yup, for me it is a “Weekend Warriors” truck and pulls all I need to tug around. Oh, then there is the quality factor from Honda which I like too.
I went form a 2016 F150 Black Platinum to a 2022 Black Edition/Black Ridgeline. For my age at 62 this is the perfect vehicle for me. I'm always by myself. I dont off road. I don't tow. But, I do like the room, the drive train, and the quietness this truck has. You can feel the quality in the vehicle when driving it. I see me driving this vehicle into my 70's.
Wimpy 3.5? Every midsize truck has a similar engine. What a hater.
Ive learned one thing, truck guys love to complain about gas prices, yet they wont choose a more fuel efficient vehicle. Theyll just complain instead.
I think the problem is people over buy for what they think they need.
Personally, I'm just using my 1st gen for hauling my motorcycle around, not gonna tow anywhere near 5000lbs.
Maybe go through unpaved road to get to the trails, don't need a lifted 4x4 with low range and rock crawl.
NYC roads sucks so independent suspension gives it a nicer rider with plenty of room for storage.
Cross shopped midsize trucks this year and bought a 2021 honda ridgeline. The back seat in the others was just too tight and I couldn't imagine anyone sitting back there for any length of time. I also looked at full size trucks, then I looked at the parkade where I work in the city, so full size trucks didn't interest me. Ultimately the Ridgeline was a bit of everything, it is comfortable, easy to park and has a bed when I need it. It also has a trunk so my groceries aren't all over the place when I get home!! I don't know how many people on my block have big offroad trucks, which have never been off pavement and have immaculate looking beds, because they never put anything in them. To me thats being a poser!
I’ve had my 2013 for seven years, just did the 100,000 mile service, live in northeastern Az. and this little truck goes anywhere I ask it to so far. It fits on the trails way out here easier than the big boys and goes like hell when I ask it to. I love my Ridgeline! Just paid it off too!
I love my 2010 ridgeline. It’s dependable and handles Ohio winters like a champ. the v6 has plenty of power and it not as problematic as the jeeps plural, or the H3, or the zr2 s10 that I owned that were all j-u-n-k
I just bought an 08...so it does great in the snow? I live in Ohio as well
2007 Ridgeline, 140k, and I haul heavy loads and have pulled a 14’ flatbed trailer with ~ 6k out of a boggy field when a full sized Tacoma couldn’t move it. Lots.of disinformation. A 280 Hp engine perfectly capable. I have pulled trailers with 5k load, not counting the trailer itself and held 70 mph in the hills and mountains of western Mt. Had to drop a gear, but Honda engines achieve highest torque at higher rpm. Neither Gen1 or Gen2 use the Pilot chassis, rather has a boxed frame version. Gen2 just styled to look like body on frame to offset the body on frame bias of real trucks. Also, 1500 payload is a quarter ton truck, while not too many years ago, full sized Detroit pickups were termed 1/2 ton, with heavy duty at 1 ton. As per gas mileage, Gen 2 has best of mid-size, still using the same engine as Gen 1. My highway is 23-24 at 60-65, 22 at 70 to 80. I do not advocate Ridgeline for heavy towing, gas mileage at 70 with max recommended load is about 15 on Gen 1. Truck interior markedly roomier, especially in width, than any of the new mid-sized trucks. Gen 2 is basically a facelift with more gears in tranny. Bump the towing up, add a grunt gear, and it would be nearly perfect.
Great post. Gen 1 one owner here.🤗😇
Why so much hate on this vid?
I have always loved the Honda Ridgeline because a friend of mine has one. And he's had it for 8-10 years and it just keeps on going. I don't recall him ever having it in the shop for repairs aside from oil changes and tires, and I know he's crossed over 270K miles on it so far. Unbelievable Honda..
It was scoffed at during its release, but I think it’s growing on people, I see more and more as time goes by. It targeted an audience that ford and Hyundai are now after: people who don’t need a big truck.
I just found a 2006 Ridgeline in an old man’s garage with only 35,000 miles on it looks brand new… I have a Ford with a power stroke diesel, a jeep TJ… But I’m starting to love this thing… Lol
Mine has 236k, never a problem-hauled 8' trailer with furniture from FL to CA and Fl to Canada several times. Also had 22' boat with 150 hp motor- never a problem. I love it . Will buy another in a heartbeat.
I actually really like it, only cause of the interior really. Speaking of that I think for coming out in 05 as an 06 model it has aged tremendously well, I mean it still looks and feels like a newish car by 2020 standards.
I bought my 2023 Ridgeline because it's not a hard core truck. Hate the ride and all the compromises that come with them. But it's all the truck I need. For towing my fishing boat. To buying plywood, sheet rock, etc its perfect.
And have you seen the prices on the 1500's? They are totally crazy. And I love the fact you don't see them every where.
So why aren't people laughing at the Ford Maverick the same way they laugh at the Ridgeline.? My my opinion, they are too small and ugly.
Im buying a 08 today hondas ridgelines are great mid size trucks
Looks like my 2008 which I bought new and now has 275k on it
Love my 2011, Not a damm thing has broken in my 11years of ownership. Tows my boat and S2000 with ease.
I bought my 06 RTL in 05 as it was being delivered to the dealer. 228K on it. Timing belt twice -first was $850, 2nd was $1200. Recently needed a new ac compressor. Used it to tow my Honda Aquatrax and tote my Honda CRF 250. I always thought the 3.5 was a little under-powered but i think its a gearing thing. I have an 06 Toyota Avalon with a 3.5 that will put you back in your seat. My theory on new product launches is that they either rush to market and cut corners on quality or they want to cement a good reputation --especially if entering a new and very competitive market segment and want to make sure its bulletproof. I think Honda went for the latter with the Ridgeline.
the g1 was not designed to compete with the tacoma and the colorado, it was designed to compete with SUV's from the era, It's not a truck, Its an SUV with a truck bed, Im not saying thats a bad thing actually its an awesome feature,
I have driven many vehicles and this is the best snow truck bar none. Even with bald all seasons i made it up a hill no one else could make it; they all turned around to get a run at it. No it aint a heavy hauler, but 90 percent of 1/2 ton trucks never use it that way anyway.
I have a Ridgeline RTL 2013. Has over 120,000 miles the 3.5 engine works very smooth and when power is asked for it moves very fast. The cabin is bigger and more comfortable than others in the class, the rear cargo bed has a lower compartment that can be use as a huge cooler to keep drinks and meats for a tailgate barbecue. The cargo floor has built in grooves to transport certain types of Honda motorcycles. Mine is AWD and although it sits lower to the ground than the others it can go though mud, sand, snow with the additional VTM-4 than turns it into an off road beast.There are several videos in You Tube that shows it.
I have had fords Tacoma's tundras and my ridgeline is my favorite. it may not give as smooth a ride f150 lariat but will go more places and better on snow and ice than any thing else
Just wait, when they cancel the ridgeline or whatever... in 20 years these are gonna something everyone wants... just like the Subaru BRAT. it's a niche product.
I have an 08 and my brother keeps telling me just what you said
I love the first gen, even though its got the side profile of the pizza hut logo
Take off the roof, slap a machine gun, and a green paint job on it. You have yourself a makeshift warthog from Halo
Funny you should say that. I deliver Pizza Hut in mine.
Speak up. You don't go offroad with your truck, so you don't need these "OffROAd CaPAbiliTIes" its an amazing truck.
I honestly think Honda should have an offload package option for these trucks.
I love my 06 Ridgeline. I would not buy a new one.
I love the fact they got Lex Luthor to voice their commercial.
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But really, I got a 2022. Have just over 10K miles on it. It's the bet mid-size truck BY FAR. (Unless you actually rock-crawl, which I don't). Better build quality. Better ride quality. Vastly better interior space.
I'm still going to buy one, but it did have a lot of potential to the most fuel efficient V8
Bought a 2008 Ridgeline 15 years ago beacuse of the unique body style and truly love it. Only have 118,000 miles on it but work it hard locally every week. Just did a Maaco overhaul of bodywork and paint and it looks and still feels like new..
One thing that I like about the 1st gen ridgeline is that it has way better back seat room for my son’s car seat. The Tacoma and Canyon are way too cramped for my taste and the full size trucks are unpractical to park where I live and just way more truck than I actually need. I want to go camping, haul bikes and kayak but still use the truck as a comfortable daily driver. The ridgeline is perfect for that. It is also easy and cheap to work on.
I bought one so I could get back and forth to work in the new england weather. I could care less about towing or off road B.S. because going off road destroys any vehicle no matter what it is. I didn't want a truck and every SUV looks the same. You can tell exactly what my vehicle is because no one else looks like it. Truck guys yank off the exhaust for maximum loudness, I want the most quiet vehicle I can get. If the ridge line was loud maybe it would attract some of the truck guys, but it's not. You can't lift a ridge line and that really pisses truck guys off because everything they buy needs to be jacked to the sky with 40 inch tires. All you can hope for is a 3 inch suspension drop and coil overs and even then you have to cut metal to get 33's to 35's on. I bought an suv with a bed in it so I could toss shit in the back and not mess up my interior and I wanted something that was reliable, I owned a siverado with a 6.0 with only 70k miles on it and the thing rotted in half. Toyotas rot away around here also. I can't afford brand new or used Toyota so a used one with even a little bit of rust under it is a red flag to run the f**k away.
If Honda offered a capable off-road package for these vehicles they would sell like hot cakes.
Damn right!!!!!
I have had mine 08 for 10 years and I have said this many times
I love my 2006 honda ridgeline my dream truck! People hate it but that’s the charm of it only people who understand it love it!
I know of no one whom has ever compared it to an F-150, Silverado or Ram. It’s a midsize truck, pure & simple, and competes against the Tacoma, Colorado, Ranger, Frontier and now Gladiator. Its V6 still makes roughly the same power as competitors, and its towing numbers are competitive. It can’t haul a horse trailer like a Silverado HD, it can’t off-road like a Tacoma TRD Pro, and it’s styling was at first weird Japanese anime awkward or boring Pilot-with-a pickup bed. That’s its problem. All that gained it a reputation of “not manly enough to be a real truck”. If they could up the horsepower a little, give it proper off-road capabilities, and style it more like a traditional midsize truck it might do just fine. Realistically it’s all the pickup truck most Americans ever need. I live in a larger Midwestern city and their are plenty of F-250 Super Duty show ponies around here hauling nothing but air year round!
I’m glad the Ridgeline is met with such criticism and low interest. Means I can get an awesome vehicle for an awesome price.
The 2020 and up Ridgeline with the 9 speed transmission, will churp ALL 4 tires from a stop. enough towing capacity to rescue your equipment trailer when your full size anything breaks down!
A little skeptical when I first bought the Ridgeline in 2008 but have enjoyed and liked it more the longer I drive one. I think those that hate them just do not own one or drive a truck for the macho image rather than need. The Ridgeline certainly is not for those that want a truck for the image. Best, most reliable vehicle I have ever owned.
I like the Honda Ridgeline. It would be nice to see a full size version one. ALL the different truck companies make vehicles with a center console with bucket seats. It’s like sitting in a Cockpit with no place to move. (Bring back the 60/40 bench seat) But all cars, trucks, suv, mini vans, mid size and luxury cars have that cock-pit bucket seat look. For the person 5 foot 6 inch 175 pounds body. Not everyone is that size.
I had a 05 Tacoma 4wd, wreck it, then got another tacoma but was not 4wd, found the 2010 RL for 12000 with 99000 on it, garage kept, looks like new and kinda still had the new car smell. I have had it for a year so far, I love it a lot more than the Tacoma, I needed a 4wd for my quads to take to Pismo Beach CA. It fits in the back, and I tow the other one on trailer. The Truck drives great, has plenty of power. It's great mid-size truck with a lot of features, storage and space. Like how the tailgate opens two ways and a big spacious trunk in the bed. This Truck, in my opinion is better than the Tacoma.
I love driving my Ridgeline waving at Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge owners stuck on side of the road. I pulled over to help a Chevrolet truck in 2015 and his spare tire cable would not release the tire. I looked it up and it was a factory defect all Chevrolet trucks had like his. Then It iced over in Texas in 2018 and every 2 wheel drive truck was stuck spinning tires in driveways. I passed a Jeep that was driving on plowed roads, and I passed him on the center media with ice on it. I was driving faster on 4 inches ice than the Jeep was on pavement. I can also take off in my Ridgeline on ice or snow faster than a 2 wheel drive Ford Raptor in Colorado. I just wish my Ridgeline was turbo or supercharged.
I hate the new ones the old ones are much better
Have a 2006 original owner and I would say it's a fantastic vehicle. Only thing that's gone out on me annoyingly has been the starter. I guess it could happen on any truck but had to get it towed about 5 years ago. Other than that it's what most people only need in a truck. Drives like brand new with new rubber of course. Tires do loose their bounce like a great sneaker after awhile.
Damn, I’m actually thinking about getting one. I work in construction, so I need a truck to carry my tools, be able to drive good in gravel and unpaved roads, and not guzzle huge amounts of gas. Yes I’m looking at the Tacoma, Frontier, Maverick, Colorado and Ridgeline. Not the Santa Cruz because I don’t like the way it looks and I think it has horrible use of space. Maverick is too small even for the midsize pick ups. Colorado is a Chevy so you know it’s a piece of junk, sooner than later it will leave you stranded by the side of the road. Tacoma is really expensive, but I think it’s reliability is worth it. I don’t know much about the Frontier to be honest, oh and I forgot the Sierra, but everything GM makes is crap. Ridgeline is the weird kid of the bunch, the one that doesn’t look the part, the one that everyone picks on, but honestly, it’s the one that makes more sense for my situation. It’s got clever use of space, its got okayish mpg, it’s more than enough to carry tools. I don’t haul huge loads of lumber nor tow tractors, all I do is carry my tools in my tool boxes, yes boxes, I have a lot of tools. The Ridgeline is quite efficient as a work truck for CONSTRUCTION WORKERS. That should be their target audience, yes it will take some convincing for the die hard ford, ram and chevy fans but I think with the right advertisement campaign it can convince them.
I'm a concrete finisher and bought a 2008 Ridgeline RTL......I used to have an old F150 which I loved, but I got all my trowels stolen out of the bed. Trust me, one of the BEST features of the Ridgeline is the lockable trunk. I keep all my tools and valuables in there.....I love it.
I bet I see 90% of trucks/monster trucks with lift kits and all this after market crap used less than most HR owners.
Just bought a used one 2009 I love it. Is an suv and a truck. 👍👍
Avalanche
Own an 2003 Element and just picked up a 2009 with 100k miles on it. I love my Unique vehicles. Looking at J37 swap though tbh.....J35 is nice and has plenty of power for what I need but more power always puts a smile on my face and would catch people offguard lol
J37 will definitely add couple more inches to your smile, but it needs to be properly tuned.
Comments 👇 form happy Ridgeline owners. They all sit when they pee.
Damn,old ads were really good
It's my favorite truck.
I like the ice cube music.
OK dudes, if you dont like it ….. Then Dont Buy It, you are not being forced into this decent …..TRUCK !
I have an 06 with 300k
THAT IS WHY I GOT ONE.............. with 60K but with the right maintenance.........great investment.
The short snout on the 2017 redesign is about as ugly a front end on any pickup youwill ever see. I call the 2017 Ridge " snubby " , looks like a smashed in accordian. Too bad cuz you cannot argue with their dependable engines .
Probably because of the weird looks. If it looked more like a Ford Maverick it would have been far more popular. Honda quality and a lot of utility for the average person.
Best truck ever my wife and kids hated it till they drove now everyone wants to drive it I’ve owned Toyota Tacoma, f150 ram and Chevy 1500 the Honda by far is better I’m a contractor it does it all if it’s to heavy I use a trailer or get it delivered best long distance driver ever made love this truck please don’t buy these cause I want it
Would you fly in a plane made be GMC, Ford, Dodge or Honda? Honda all day every day. You have no idea when the others would fall apart. The new gen ridgeline is roomier than any midsize truck in its class. It gives a smoother ride. The ridgeline is used mostly as a daily commuter with mid size truck capabilities but used mostly for light work. Meanwhile, alot of these big truck guys don't use the American truck for what its meant for.
Best truck I’ve ever owned if l ever have to get a new truck it will be a ridgeline or a Honda product norm
It's just a pilot
Traded in my Tacoma for the Ridgeline. Ridgeline outperforms by far! I wonder where all this hate is originating from...
If 💰 grew on trees I'd have a Ridgeline and give my 97 CRV WITH 500,000 MILES ON IT A REST.✌🤠👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
The avalanche had a frame under it.......
Not really, the avalanche was a unibody but this was based on the Honda Pilot
@@Giratina1999 The Avalanche was based on the Suburban. It's body-on-frame just like the Suburban at the time and every other truck out there. It just had a "single piece" body bolted onto it. Just google "Chevy Avalanche frame". One of the first images that pops up is a bare Avalanche frame.
It was actually a cross between the MDX and Pilot. I have an 07 my people who bought a Chevy at the same time don’t have it. I still have my “cheaply made truck”. The new one looked like a Pilot but this year looks better.
My Honda Ridgeline is made in Alabama. Where's your GM made?
Mexico
It’s such a crowd splitter, why people hate the video when he’s just being honest? All the info is anchored by actual research, haven’t found an incorrect piece of it, stop hating guys
Argowal tahoe came with a 5.3 bud
Alex Moreno Bigger not always better
Winnie you still need power to do something at all
Tahoe SuperSports I agree but how he came out with his statement is why I replied. Bigger is not always better but there is still benefits with having a bigger engine.
Not everyone!!!......that is just your opinion!
2’ longer than a single cab short bed Tacoma maybe.
Not everything needs a v8
I liked it but could not afford it.Same thing w the Subaru baja.4.3 chvy towes more and better on gas.Ridgelines should be more affordable since they don't cost as much to build.Just get a used Pilot and cut half the roof off.
Honestly no truck guy likes this but I kinda do it’s weird it’s a Honda
I have one. I quite like the front end but the back end is not the best
I loved my Ridgeline, had one for 13 years, never let me down, waiting for the 2024 Ridgeline trail sport
The Titan was a great truck driving wise, utility on frame towing or pulling was great too. The body itself was very thin or soft sheet metal however (probably added to the driving feel vis a vis weight) and would ding or crush very easily. I wonder if the sheet metal on this ridgeline is thicker/higher strength than other non-stressed body-on-frame chassis trucks (such as the Titan).
.....and this is why OEM's offer different vehicles with different features.....get what suits you.
Me personally, I think all Nissans are the ugliest vehicles to ever be produced. So, I just won't buy one - simple.
They never fucking update em
The only people who don't like the truck are people who don't own one. I have. 2011 and it has been fantastic. I tow a 16 ft boat and the thing is bulletproof. It isnt designed to tow 10000 lbs. So people comparing it to monster full size trucks with big engines are ridiculous. 90% of truck owners dont need those truck but they buy them. My ridgeline is way better than my 2000 Tundra and that was a good truck. You don't know what you don't know. Just look at the actual owners comments.
Love it
Why is this 3 week old video discussing a discontinued Honda body style? If, they compared a 2017-2020 Honda Ridgeline - this would NOT be a video worth any chatter
Why not the new ones are even uglier
Love this truck
I love mine. Most dependable truck on the market. I have had no issues. Couple recalls taken care of. No mechanical problems. It’s 18 years old garage kept and looks brand new. I’ll match it against any ford or Chevrolet at that age. I do take care of my investments I must say. Very proud of my truck. I don’t care what anyone says. My other car is a 2017 ZO6. So I think I drive in style everywhere I go.
I don’t.
They don’t
Avalanche Gang
All Ridgelines are unibody
Still is and always will be
About half of your info is just not right
My ridge line great
El Camino and ranchero unibody trucks
Unibody pickups aka UTEs
Ice cube 👍🏾
The Vagiline by Honda