Many people might think you need a full-size truck to tackle your next big adventure, but that isn’t always the case. The perfect example is the recent 2023 Honda Ridgeline. The latest midsize truck from Honda offers drivers the perfect mix of power and performance in the perfectly sized package that fits where and when you need it to. To top it off, Honda offers drivers the option to upgrade their trucks with various packages and features to meet the demands of their lifestyle. Despite our excitement about the latest Ridgeline, this isn’t the first time the midsize truck has proven that it’s more than capable of handling muddy trails, snow, sand, and rocky roads. The Ridgeline has been taking drivers down the road less traveled since it was introduced to the market. Since 2006, the Honda Ridgeline has shown us that it’s not always about size.
Over the last decade and a half, the Ridgeline has continued to attract drivers who want a versatile truck that works for everyday errands and weekend adventures. The midsize truck is currently making its way through its second generation after taking a few years off in 2015 and 2016. Honda released the second generation in 2017 with major updates and a redesign that really caught people’s attention. The second generation saw the Ridgeline shine with new technology, modern styling, and a powerful 3.5L V6 engine that helped it stand out in the midsize truck market. Thanks to its increased off-road capabilities and clever design, the Ridgeline has become a favorite of truck drivers who want the power without the big body.
If a Ridgeline, new or pre-owned, has been on your mind, the second generation is your best bet, thanks to the additions, updates, and available features Honda came up with to make the truck more powerful and convenient for drivers who wanted a flexible truck that can get them where they need to go. From downtown, the open highway, and beyond, check out why the second generation of Honda Ridgeline models are designed not just for on or off-roading but for life in general.
The 2017 Ridgeline: A Truckload of Value
The Ridgeline has always been a noteworthy truck, but thanks to the 2017 model that kicked off the truck’s second generation, it made a mark on the midsize truck market and drivers in general. The 2017 Ridgeline gave drivers a lot of great features that made it perfect for family hauling or camping. The 2017 Ridgeline brand new was also affordable, starting at just under $24,000 at the time. The new powerful V6 engine delivered 280 hp, yet the truck was still fuel efficient enough for regular everyday driving. These were just a few reasons why the 2017 model ranked #1 on the “2017 Compact Pickup Truck” list from US News & World Report.
The 2017 Ridgeline is considered a versatile truck that gives drivers a lot for their money. Smart storage, like under-bed storage, allows people to bring along extra gear and essentials, while the dual-action tailgate makes access to the back bed easier than before. If you’re in the market for a great truck at a great price, the 2017 offers a lot of value for drivers. Since 2018 didn’t see any major updates or changes, you can keep even more cash in your pocket if you spot a 2017 with low mileage on the used lot.
The 2019 Ridgeline: More Options for More Lifestyles
The 2019 Ridgeline is great for drivers looking for a pre-owned vehicle with choices. In 2019, the Ridgeline was offered updated trims, specifically the RT, Sport, and RTL trims, which offered additional features like USB ports, a power sliding rear window, and a moonroof. The 2019 Ridgeline was also noted for having a beautiful, updated cabin with user-friendly tech and soft-touch materials that added an extra sense of style to the interior. Thanks to its supportive seats and thoughtful design, the 2019 Ridgeline can boast about offering exceptional quality and cabin design. If you want a truck that offers plenty of creature comforts, you’ll enjoy the value that the 2019 Ridgeline brings to the table.
The 2019’s updated tech features, simple touch screen, and Bluetooth compatibility let drivers personalize their drive while going hands-free so they can focus on the road but stay connected without distractions. Look for additional available features, such as more USB ports, a larger 8-inch touch screen, navigation, an in-bed audio system, and tri-zone automatic climate control when you level up in trim models. We also love the Ridgeline’s versatile truck bed, which, while not as large as the standard midsize truck bed, still offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to hauling cargo. It’s crafted from composite materials that keep it protected, so there’s no need for an additional liner, while the in-bed truck offers an additional 7.3 cu.ft. of storage space.
The 2021 Ridgeline: Less SUV, More Truck
The 2021 Ridgeline saw updates both in performance and styling that made it look and feel less like a beefy SUV and more like the truck it was always meant to be. Honda also added the new Honda Performance Development package, which added to the toughness and performance of the midsize truck. The package is available across all 4 trim levels and adds features like a heavier grille, bronze-painted wheels, and HPD decals. If you’re looking for a Ridgeline with a little extra performance, keep an eye out for a pre-owned 2021 model with the HPD upgrade.
While the Ridgeline saw an increase in looks and performance to make it a bit more rugged, it still offered plenty of comfort on the inside thanks to its high-end feeling cabin that offered ample head and leg room for adult passengers across both rows. The 2021 Ridgeline was released with an updated 8-inch infotainment system, making it easy for drivers to sync their smartphones and stay connected while on the road. Coming standard on the 2021 Ridgeline is the noteworthy 3.5L V6 engine that is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. This mix offers drivers more than enough power for nature trails or taking on daily errands.
The 2021 model offers a ground clearance of 7.6 inches and a Torque-Vectoring All-Wheel Drive System combined with a Terrain Management System. This allows drivers to quickly switch between modes like Sand, Mud, Snow, and Normal for increased performance that helps them take on whatever the road throws at them.
The 2023 Ridgeline: Brand New and Ready for Adventure
This brings us to the latest Ridgeline model. If you’re in the market for a new truck and want the latest and greatest Honda, the 2023 Ridgeline won’t disappoint. As you can see from its progress over the years, the Ridgeline has grown from a standard midsize truck to a real attention grabber. While it has also boasted high cabin quality and plenty of value, it’s only in the last few years that the focus has shifted to additional packages and available features that make the Ridgeline capable of handling any adventure, from highway cruising to off-roading fun. Its versatility is just one of the many reasons why the Ridgeline continues to score so highly in the midsize truck market.
The Ridgeline might not be up there with the off-roading giants, but it still manages to hold its own thanks to smooth ride and responsive handling that give drivers the confidence to handle anything. The truck’s unibody makes it easier to handle than typical trucks built with body-on-frame construction and makes it quicker and easier to handle on both busy city streets and venturing off to pavement to enjoy Mother Nature. The interior of the 2023 is airy and modern, with the latest technology that makes it easy to customize your daily drive and stay informed while on the road. It’s further complimented by a sporty 3.5L V6 engine that makes the midsize truck capable of hauling a payload up to 1,500 lbs. When you want a truck that works in any given situation and terrain, the Honda Ridgeline is there and ready when you are.
Big Value in a Midsize Package
There’s a lot to love about the Honda Ridgeline’s second generation. Its complete overhaul in 2017 took it from a basic midsize truck to a capable, flexible machine that will take you around the city and beyond with ease. It offers a V6 engine, all-wheel drive, and plenty of ground clearance for rocky hills or uneven trails. The smart design of the truck bed makes it easy to store additional equipment or tools out of the way, while its strength means you can tow upwards of 5,000 lbs.
Besides great everyday performance, the premium interior makes it a comfortable ride for drivers and passengers alike. Soft-touch quality materials and an engaging infotainment system mean drivers will have no problem getting in and hitting the road. For truck drivers who want power and cutting-edge tech in a package smaller than its full-size counterparts, you can’t go wrong with a Honda Ridgeline.
