2017-2024 Honda Ridgeline

General Overview

Model Years: 2017 through 2024 (Second Generation; facelifted for 2021)
Body Style: 4-door crew cab unibody pickup
Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
Drive Options: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD; 2017–2020 RT, Sport, RTL trims only); All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard from 2021 onward

Engine & Transmission

3.5 L V6 (J35Y6):

  • 280 hp @ 6,000 rpm
  • 262 lb-ft torque @ 4,700 rpm
  • 6-speed automatic transmission (2017–2019)
  • 9-speed automatic transmission (2020–2024)

Dimensions & Weights

  • Wheelbase: 125.2 in
  • Overall Length: 210.2 in
  • Width: 78.6 in
  • Height: 70.2–71.7 in depending on trim and wheels
  • Ground Clearance: 7.6–8.2 in depending on AWD/FWD and trim
  • Curb Weight: ~4,200–4,500 lb

Towing & Payload Capacities

  • Max Towing Capacity:
    • 3,500 lb (FWD models)
    • 5,000 lb (AWD models)
  • Max Payload Capacity: ~1,500–1,580 lb depending on trim

Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated)

FWD (2017–2020):

  • ~19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway

AWD (2017–2024):

  • ~18–19 mpg city / 24–25 mpg highway

Trims & Features

2017–2020 Trims: RT, Sport, RTL, RTL-T, RTL-E, Black Edition
2021–2024 Trims: Sport, RTL, RTL-E, Black Edition, (2024 adds Trailsport)

Key Features (varies by trim):

  • Dual-action tailgate (swings open or folds down)
  • Lockable in-bed trunk with drain plug
  • Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (standard from 2020)
  • Honda Sensing safety suite (standard from 2020):
    • Collision Mitigation Braking
    • Lane Keeping Assist
    • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Leather seating, heated/ventilated front seats (RTL+)
  • Premium audio (RTL-E and above)
  • Truck-bed audio system (RTL-E, Black Edition)
  • TrailSport (2024): Off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, skid plate aesthetics

Suspension & Handling

  • Front: Independent MacPherson strut
  • Rear: Independent multi-link (unibody construction)
  • AWD models feature Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) system with selectable drive modes (Normal, Snow, Mud, Sand)
  • Comfortable ride quality praised—more SUV-like than traditional body-on-frame pickups

Tires & Wheels

  • 18″ alloy wheels standard (all trims)
  • All-season or all-terrain tires depending on trim
  • TrailSport features more aggressive tire tread and unique wheels

Technology & Safety

  • Honda Sensing standard (2020+)
  • Multi-angle rearview camera
  • Blind Spot Information System (RTL+)
  • Available wireless charging, navigation, and remote start
  • Rear cross-traffic alert (RTL-E and above)
  • LED lighting updates in 2021 facelift

Owner Insights

  • Highly praised for ride comfort, interior refinement, and practical features like the in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate
  • Not a traditional work truck—better for light-duty towing, DIY hauling, or recreation
  • AWD system is effective for snow and light off-road use, but limited by ground clearance
  • 2021 refresh addressed criticisms of soft styling with bolder front end and improved transmission logic
  • TrailSport adds visual ruggedness, but still more crossover than rock crawler
  • Long-term reliability rated excellent; resale value strong due to Honda reputation

Summary

The 2017–2024 Honda Ridgeline blends SUV-like comfort with clever utility features, making it ideal for suburban truck buyers who prioritize versatility and refinement over brute strength. With innovations like a lockable in-bed trunk, smooth unibody ride, and AWD capability, it carves a niche all its own in the midsize pickup segment. The 2021 facelift added toughness and standard safety features, while the TrailSport caters to lifestyle and adventure buyers.

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