Road Test: 2017 Honda Ridgeline Touring

Specifications:

Price: $47,290

Engine: 3.5L SOHC 24-valve, Direct Injection V6

Trans: 6-speed auto

Power: 280 hp@ 6,000 rpm

Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm

Curb Weight: 4,528 lbs./ 2,054 kg

Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) 12.8/9.5

New for 2017: The Honda Ridgeline is a brand new model for 2017 and has seen everything completely redesigned from its first generation. It features a bold new look, a more powerful V6 engine, and an upgraded interior while still maintaining the smooth ride and innovative cargo-carrying methods found in the original.

Segment Competitors: Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.

The Skinny: The Honda Ridgeline is truly a different beast when compared to other current mid-size pickups and is often referred to as a Sport Utility Truck (SUT) by Honda product planners. It incorporates full-time all-wheel drive rather than part-time four wheel drive found in most other trucks and boasts a unibody construction and four-wheel independent suspension which provides an amazingly smooth ride, especially when compared to other pickups.

Pros: We loved the lockable in-bed trunk, two-way tailgate, and the ample amount of space found when the back seats were folded up.

Cons: We had a hard time getting used to the front end looks as there aren’t much to distinguish it from the current Honda Pilot SUV.

The Verdict: The Ridgeline isn’t like other mid-size pickups as it has a number of drive features and design cues that are more reminiscent of an SUV rather than a pickup. If you enjoy the driving experience of an SUV but yearn for the capabilities of a pickup than the Ridgeline is probably the perfect vehicle for you.