2017–2026 Honda Ridgeline
3.5L V6
What Scouts Say
Critics Consensus
The Ridgeline's appeal lies in its ability to handle most of the tasks most people want a pickup for with a more comfortable ride and crisper handling than conventional mid-size pickups.
Expert Reviews (7)
The Ridgeline's appeal lies in its ability to handle most of the tasks most people want a pickup for with a more comfortable ride and crisper handling than conventional mid-size pickups.
Pros
- ✓Spacious cabin with comfortable, minivan-like ride
- ✓Unique in-bed storage compartment
- ✓Car-like driving behavior with agile handling
Cons
- ⚠Limited to one crew-cab body style
- ⚠Lower towing capacity compared to rivals (5000 lbs vs. up to 7500 lbs)
- ⚠Lacks a high-performance or off-road variant
Don't listen to the naysayers—the Honda Ridgeline has a lot to offer. Its unibody construction and fully independent suspension makes it easy and fun to drive compared to conventional body-on-frame pickups. Updates for 2024 made the interior a much better place to spend time.
Pros
- ✓Easy and fun to drive due to unibody construction and independent suspension
- ✓Gutsy V-6 engine enables quick acceleration
- ✓Practical features like spacious underfloor storage and two-way tailgate
Cons
- ⚠Towing capacity is less than competitors like Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Tacoma
- ⚠Interior shows signs of age compared to newer models
- ⚠Off-road capability is limited, even with TrailSport upgrades
The new Honda Ridgeline offers a much nicer driving experience and an SUV-like interior while providing a wide bed, best-in-class payload capacity, and some truck capability, making it ideal for those who don’t tow or haul every day.
Pros
- ✓Nicer driving experience compared to traditional midsize trucks
- ✓SUV-like interior comfort
- ✓Wide bed with best-in-class payload capacity
Cons
- ⚠Limited variants with only one cab, engine, transmission, and bed length
- ⚠Does not offer best-in-class towing capacity
- ⚠Shallow bed with a high liftover, less suited for tougher work
Honda made the perfect pickup, but failed to make it desirable.
Pros
- ✓Solid truck
- ✓Reliable
- ✓American-made
Cons
- ⚠Styling issues
- ⚠Feels long in the tooth
- ⚠Lack of desirability
If you can get past the looks, the Ridgeline is a wonderful all-rounder for all types of lifestyles. Its unibody design and independent suspension deliver a surprisingly pleasant ride, while the 3.5-liter V-6 and nine-speed transmission provide a smooth and capable drivetrain.
Pros
- ✓Pleasant and cohesive ride due to unibody design and independent suspension
- ✓Comfortable interior with light steering and comfy seats
- ✓Capable 3.5-liter V-6 engine paired with smooth nine-speed transmission and 5000-pound towing capacity
Cons
- ⚠Exterior styling may not appeal to traditional truck buyers
- ⚠Engine requires high revs to access full power
- ⚠Does not drive like a traditional truck, which may deter some pickup enthusiasts
The Ridgeline makes more sense when viewed as a crossover with a bed, suiting the needs of most truck buyers who require functionality without the traditional ruggedness. While it lacks the presence and feel of a traditional pickup, its carlike ride and capable V6 engine make it a practical choice for everyday use.
Pros
- ✓Carlike ride quality suitable for soft-roading
- ✓Reliable and well-matched V6 engine
- ✓Functional bed and practical for everyday hauling needs
Cons
- ⚠Lacks the rugged presence and feel of traditional pickups
- ⚠FWD-biased unibody platform limits off-road capability
- ⚠Lower fuel economy than advertised, especially in winter conditions
The new Ridgeline looks like a truck right off the bat and drives just like your typical Honda, offering a carlike experience with practical features and a family-friendly interior. While it may lack bold styling compared to rivals, its quality materials and innovative cargo bed features make it a compelling choice for those wanting a comfortable and functional pickup.
Pros
- ✓Car-like driving experience with smooth and powerful V6 engine
- ✓High-quality interior materials and family-friendly cabin space
- ✓Innovative cargo bed features including in-bed trunk and versatile tailgate
Cons
- ⚠Exterior styling is plain and characterless compared to rivals
- ⚠Rear doors don’t open very wide, limiting ease of access
- ⚠Special editions like the Black Edition lack distinctive appeal
Known Issues (4)
Note: Data from NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and verified owner reports.
VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) Issues
The VCM system can cause excessive oil consumption, misfires, and spark plug fouling. Disabling VCM or installing a VCM muzzler is a common solution, but severe cases may require engine work.
6-Speed Automatic Transmission Issues
The 6-speed automatic transmission can experience harsh shifts, delays, or other irregularities. Software updates or, in some cases, transmission component replacement may be needed.
AC Condenser Leak
The AC condenser is prone to leaks, leading to a loss of refrigerant and ineffective air conditioning. Replacement of the condenser is required.
Alternator Failure
The alternator can fail, leading to battery discharge and electrical system issues. Replacement of the alternator is necessary.
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