As an architectural professional surrounded by the rugged world of construction, the Honda Ridgeline stands out like a well-dressed scholar on their first day at public school. Pulling up to a construction site for a meeting with some Contractors and Engineers, the Ridgeline was dwarfed by the imposing presence of lifted Chevrolet 2500 HDs, Ford F-150s, and F-250s making me wonder if I should have opted to bring the company car instead. 

After taking the ridicule and pokes of fun. It was evident the Honda Ridgeline was not designed for those that have a workhorse lifestyle. However, despite all of this, the Ridgeline targets the same buyers looking at the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado, which raises an important question: who exactly is Honda targeting with the Ridgeline? 

Getting a Little More Truckish

In an effort to enhance its rugged appeal, Honda has introduced the 2024 Ridgeline TrailSport trim, priced at $46,375. This new trim aims to capture the attention of those eyeing its more traditionally rugged competitors. The TrailSport features mild modifications to the springs, dampers, anti-roll bars, and specially designed all-terrain tires. These enhancements give the Ridgeline a more robust aesthetic, though it may still appear somewhat out of place next to the likes of a Tacoma TRD Off-Road or a Chevrolet Colorado Z71.  

One of the standout features of the Ridgeline is its balance between off-road capability and on-road refinement. Despite its rugged appearance, it remains a truck that can handle traditional truck tasks. The powerful 3.5-liter naturally aspirated i-VTEC V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, ensures that the Ridgeline is not just about looks. The engine truly comes alive as it surges past 5,000 rpm, delivering an exhilarating growl as the VTEC kicks in, allowing the Ridgeline to sprint to 60 mph in under 6.0 seconds, outpacing many of its rivals.  

Even better, the new hardware and tire setup do not compromise the Ridgeline’s daily drivability. Road noise is kept to a minimum from the chunkier tires. The ride comfort is sublimely impressive. The steering remains tight with responsive inputs. And braking is firmly held and some sources report that it stops quicker due to the griper tire arrangement. This balance makes the Ridgeline a joy to drive both on and off the road.  

Trailing Behind

However, the Ridgeline is not without its drawbacks. Its interior, which dates back to the previous generation Honda Pilot from 2016, is starting to show its age. The back seat is not particularly comfortable, and the safety features lag behind modern standards. For instance, the adaptive cruise control disengages at speeds below 20 mph, a feature that feels outdated in today’s market. Additionally, the Ridgeline’s fuel efficiency is less than stellar, averaging just above 19 mpg, which is slightly below its EPA-rated 21 mpg combined. 

Doing Its Duty

Despite these shortcomings, the Ridgeline continues to perform admirably as a truck. When it came time to haul lumber from the hardware store, the Ridgeline’s practicality shone through. By sliding open the rear window and threading the lumber through the opening, I was able to transport those studs with ease. Similarly, when picking up a new couch from the furniture store, the Ridgeline saved me on $200 in delivery fees. The truck bed, measuring just short of five and a half feet, offers more than just cargo space; it features a hidden trunk underneath that can be used as a cooler, and the tailgate can either swing out like a door or open traditionally for easier access.  

In conclusion, the Honda Ridgeline is a unique player in the truck market, blending practicality with a touch of ruggedness. While it may not completely fit in with the more traditionally styled trucks, it offers a compelling package for those who appreciate its versatility and balanced performance. The new TrailSport trim adds a layer of rugged appeal, making it an attractive option for those looking to stand out while still enjoying the comforts and capabilities of handling everyday tasks with ease.