Overview:
Look out world (especially Detroit) Honda now has a pickup in its lineup. 5 trim levels are offered, the RT, RTS and 3 versions of the upscale RTL. All models are powered by the same 255 hp 3.5 liter V6 coupled to a 5-speed automatic featuring all-wheel-drive. Unlike most of the competition, the Ridgeline is of unit-body construction rather than body on frame. The box is a closed box frame for greater payload and towing capacity which are listed at 5,000 and 1,550 pounds respectively. The Ridgeline looks a little like a shrunken Chevy Avalanche. A hidden trunk under the box and a dual swinging tailgate add to its versatility. Available only as a 4-door, the Ridgeline gets points for car-like handling and passenger comfort.

Driveline:
The smooth and powerful 3.5 liter single over head cam 24 valve VTEC engine makes 255 hp and 252 pound feet of torque providing excellent power. Mated to a 5-speed automatic (no manual is offered) the AWD Ridgeline is well suited to Colorado driving conditions. The VTM-4 system is full-time all-wheel-drive with a manual locking rear differential when in deep snow, mud or ice. There is no low range and the Ridgelines 8.2 inches of ground clearance limits off road driving. Expect 16 mpg around town and 21 on the highway. I averaged just under 17 mpg in mostly city driving.

Handling/Ride
Car-like handling makes the Ridgeline a pleasure to drive. Variable assist rack and pinion steering gives better than expected road feel. Honda has fitted the Ridgeline with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. Front and rear stabilizer bars keep the truck well planted in the corners. Large 245/65 series 17” tires are mounted on alloy wheels. Base models get steel wheels. 4-wheel disc brakes with Electronic brake distribution and brake assist combine for smooth sure stops. Variable stability assist and ABS are standard on all Ridgelines. The ride is composed without being harsh. A wide 42.6 inch turning diameter is one of the few drawbacks.

On the inside:
The 4-door Ridgeline is roomy both front and rear with more leg and hip room than a Toyota Tacoma. The long list of standard equipment on the RTL includes a 6-disc CD player with 7 speakers and XM satellite radio. The audio controls are mounted on the steering wheel. The 8-way power seat with power lumbar support is quite comfortable. Heated leather seats are standard. Drivers are afforded a good driving position and outward visibility is good except for a blind spot behind the second door. Our Ridgeline had a power moonroof and heated outside door mirrors.

Interior storage is generous with a multi-functional center storage area along with available storage under the rear seat. There are 6 cup holders. The dash is well-laid out and the controls are straight forward for the most part except for the cruise control switch which is located on the lower left side of the dash. The large knobs for climate control and audio volume are handy but they are trimmed with silver and look a little out of place. Ditto the large chrome grab handles for the front doors. Functional yes, but they look a little odd in my view.

Sizing it up:
I compared the Ridgeline to a likely competitor, the Toyota Tacoma regular box quad cab. The Tacoma has a 5” longer wheel base. Bed length is nearly identical but the Ridgeline’s box is 2 inches wider. Speaking of the box, Honda has cleverly included a hidden trunk located underneath the bed. Remember the old Ford wagon ‘Magic’ tailgate? It’s back on the Ridgeline enabling you to open the tailgate up and down or to the left side for handy curbside loading. The Ridgeline edges the Tacoma in payload by about 100 pounds but the Tacoma has the edge in towing, 6,500 pounds to 5000 for the Ridgeline.

Safety:
The Ridgeline scores a perfect 5 rating from the National Highway Safety Administration for both frontal and side impact. Safety features include drivers and front passenger dual stage airbags with side airbags. Side curtain air bags are standard. You’ll also find a tire pressure monitor and an immobilizer anti-theft system. The LATCH system for child seats is included.

Bottom line:
I’ve often said than Honda has never built a bad car. Now I can say that ‘Honda has never built a bad truck’. For those suburbanites wanting a handy and fun to drive mid-size pick-up for going to the home center or just driving to work the Ridgeline is a perfect fit. It can get pricy however. Opt for the navigation system and your looking at over $34 large. With that you also get Honda’s legendary reliability and industry leading resale value. All in all the Ridgeline is a hit. Make that a homerun.

Tom Collins
6-14-05