When Honda introduced the Ridgeline, everyone was left in awe with its unibody design. The Ridgeline comes back with a 2017 model that aims to build on what made the previous model did right and to correct whatever it had didn't.
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline All-Wheel Drive. The new Ridgeline is more like the Pilot SUV but with an open bed and a stretched-out, more stable wheelbase for when loaded. As expected, it rides more smoothly and more comfortably than traditional pickup trucks.
The new Ridgeline runs on a 3.5-liter V-6 VTEC engine that can get from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.3 seconds. It does poorly in city driving with an EPA fuel economy rating of 18 miles per gallon. However, it does go 25 miles per gallon on the highway. Though modeled after the Pilot, it doesn't have its nine-speed automatic transmission. It instead has a much more reliable and responsive six-speed automatic transmission.
The 2017 Ridgeline is around 1,500 pounds although this could vary depending on the trim level. It is able to tow 3,500 on a two-wheel drive and 5,000 on all-wheel drive. Unfortunately, its towing capacity falls short of its competitors such as the Tacoma and Colorado.
Features of the new Ridgeline include a separate audio system in the bed liner with decent enough audio for speakers from Exciter. Along with the audio system in the bed liner is an enormous cargo space that looks like it could accommodate a two-person Jacuzzi. This comes with a handful of other features present in its competitors and a few unusual ones such as Hill Start Assist, Intelligent Traction Management, Trailer Stability Assist, and Agile Handling assist to name a few. The infotainment system on it is tedious to work as it lacks in responsiveness.
Although it is smaller compared to others, the inside feels huge and comfortable. It has more than enough cubbies and cargo space one probably needs on a normal day.
Though it still is a unibody truck, the frame of the new Ridgeline uses Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, a safety feature that distributes collision energy away from the passenger seats. Due to its small size, it is less prone to lean and wallow and feels generally safer with its smart cruise control systems and lane-keeping assist.
The 2017 Honda Ridgeline's price is a topic for debate as some find it too much for its value compared to traditional pickups. The base model retails at US$42,270.
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