The second-gen Honda Ridgeline came to the North American market four years ago and now received a modest mid-life refresh that keeps the tech while improving the looks.
The front clip, including the bumper with side air intakes, the radiator grille, the fenders, the LED-based headlights and the hood, is all-new. There is a bar between the headlights that is black in the Sport and Black Edition variants and chromed in the RTL and RTL-E versions. The exhaust tips are exposed, and wheels are sized 18 inches across by default. Customers may opt for the HPD Package, which adds a different grille, black fender extensions and ornamental graphics for the truck bed sidewalls.
The Display Audio infotainment system also enjoys an update. The seat upholstery is new, and those buying Sport, RTL and RTL-E trims may look forward to redesigned steering wheel, dashboard and center console as well.
The power source stays stock. The 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 still pumps out 284 hp (212 kW) along with 355 Nm (262 lb-ft) of peak torque, sending it to the front wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission. Higher trims offer optional AWD, which is identical to the i-VTM4 system of the Honda Pilot. Its main feature is the capability of simultaneous torque distribution between axles and between rear wheels.
The truck can lift up to 717 kg (1,580 lbs) and tow a trailer weighing up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs). The truck bed is over 1.2 meters (4 feet) wide, and the sidewalls are rated for 136 kg (300 lbs) load support. An additional section lies concealed under the bed, and loudspeakers come build into the wall panels.