Buyer’s Guide: 2017 Honda Ridgeline

With scores of innovations, safety technology, and class-leading power and economy, the new 2017 Honda Ridgeline pickup will be the perfect companion for Colorado mountain excursions and family road trips. Bridging the gap between a midsize pickup and Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV), the Ridgeline fills an exclusive niche, offering much more (and for much less) than you might think. Click here to stay in the loop with the latest new Ridgeline news, and take a look below to explore our buyer’s guide, infused with every bit of information we know so far.

Exterior Features

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline carries its predecessor’s tradition of offering much more than just pickup-bed versatility. Featuring durable composite construction, an 80-quart waterproof and drainable “trunk” and a dual-action tailgate (swings open horizontally or vertically) as standard equipment, there’s a way to transport virtually anything, any time, anywhere. The Ridgeline’s optional in-bed audio system and 400W power inverter make tailgating a breeze, while an available tonneau cover further enhances weather-friendly storage, security and capability.

Construction

Structurally, the 2017 Ridgeline shares many of its components with the 2016 Honda Pilot and the Odyssey minivan. While many of the suspension bits are physically identical to its platform mates’ items, the Ridgeline’s have been beefed up for pickup duty. Further, the front and rear structures are 17 and 31 percent (respectively) stronger than the Pilot’s, lending to a 1,584-pound payload capacity – virtually the same as a competitive mid-size, body-on-frame pickup. Towing capacity rates at 5,000 pounds for all-wheel-drive Ridgeline models and 3,500 pounds for those with front-wheel drive. On that note, the transversely-mounted V-6 up front lends way to a front-wheel-drive bias – unique for a pickup truck, but a benefit for traction, drivability, and maneuverability. All models come with a standard class-III trailer hitch, and AWD models add a seven-pin wiring connector.

Drivetrain

Standard on all 2017 Honda Ridgeline models is a 3.5-L V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Boasting 280 HP and 262 lb-ft of torque (up 30 and 15, respectively, from its predecessor), it’ll be more than enough to power the truck up and over Colorado’s foothills and Rocky Mountain grades. Fuel economy is class-leading, rated at 19/26 city/highway MPG** (FWD) and 18/25 city/highway MPG** (AWD) on regular-unleaded fuel.

The Ridgeline’s available all-wheel-drive system with intelligent traction management quickly and seamlessly channels power where it’s needed most depending on driving and traction conditions. A lightweight rear drive unit can even vector power laterally between the rear wheels (torque vectoring) to maximize traction in tricky situations. On that note, the system also boasts four selectable driving modes – normal, snow, mud, and sand – which optimize the AWD and stability control systems for specific types of terrain.

Interior

Retaining much of the original Ridgeline’s passenger-hauling innovation, the new truck remains the benchmark for active families who desire true hauling capability. The rig’s hallmark flip-up rear seat allows for hauling of a bicycle with the front wheel still attached (bottom cushion up), or transport of a golf bag underneath (bottom cushion down). Materials are premium, with soft-touch door and dash surfaces offering beauty and durability. The rear seat’s outboard positions also offer a full set of LATCH child seat anchors for optimally securing your most precious cargo.

Safety

Speaking of precious cargo, the 2017 Honda Ridgeline pickup offers an unmatched suite of available safety features. Items such as forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane departure warning, road departure mitigation, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control are all on the options list. Together, they offer a suite never before seen (altogether) in the mid-size pickup truck segment. Honda’s touchscreen audio system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability is also available, capitalizing on voice commands and helping keep your eyes on the road.

Pricing and Availability*

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline will be available in June, offered in a variety of configurations, both front-wheel drive (standard) and all-wheel drive. The base RT model includes a rearview camera, keyless start, a tilting and telescoping steering column, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio capability, and a seven-speaker stereo. Stepping up to the RT-S nets keyless access, remote start, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The Sport trim adds on black exterior trim, red footwell lighting, and gray wheels.

For luxury buyers, the RT-L capitalizes on the RT-S’ equipment with leather seats (power and heated in front) and an acoustic (noise-isolating) windshield. Techies can rejoice with the RTL-T, which includes an eight-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, additional USB ports for charging multiple devices (front and rear), and Honda’s LaneWatch blind spot camera system.

At the top of the range sit the RTL-E and the Black Edition. Both include the full aforementioned suite of HondaSensing safety features, plus blue ambient lighting, a power moonroof, heated steering wheel, power-sliding rear window, eight-speaker audio system, truck-bed audio, and a 400W power inverter. The Black Edition adds black paint, exterior trim and wheels, plus red interior ambient lighting and a black headliner.

Stay in the loop with the latest 2017 Honda Ridgeline news and availability by clicking here!

-Specifications-

Engine

SOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
212 cu in, 3471 cc
280 HP @6,000 rpm
262 lb-ft @4,700 rpm
Six-speed automatic transmission (all models)

Dimensions

Wheelbase: 125.2 in
Length: 210 in
Width: 78.6 in
Height: 70.2-70.8 in
Passenger Volume: 110 cu ft
Cargo Volume (in-bed trunk): 7 cu ft

Fuel Economy

EPA city/highway driving: 19/26 MPG** (FWD); 18/25 MPG** (AWD)

*Price does not include destination, tax, title, or registration fees.
**19 city/26 hwy mpg rating for 2WD models. 18 city/25 highway mpg rating for AWD models. Based on 2016 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.