How Does the Honda Ridgeline Handle With a Fully Loaded Trailer? Let's Find Out!
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- Опубліковано 15 жов 2021
- We load up the refreshed Honda Ridgeline with a 5000-lb trailer to see how it handles at capacity. The Ridgeline takes a different approach than most other midsize pickups, with Honda going unibody rather than body-on-frame.
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#Honda #Ridgeline #Trucks - Фільми й анімація
Have had many "regular" trucks the last 40 years. Sold my 2019 F150 (for a profit) earlier this year and got the Ridgeline RTLE. Wife could no longer get in full size trucks easily. 😀 We love it for what we do..I don't care if people call it a truck or not..its a great vehicle. Ride, comfort, quality and flexibility to carry larger payloads and get us where we need to go. Plus it's made here in the US, has the highest US parts count (+70%) of any truck and is 5star safety rated. WTG Honda ....
Most people never use their trucks as a truck anyways, and many of them should be driving a car or small SUV rather than their bloated status symbol.
For me having a compact pickup is great as I can park anywhere you can park a car, and get into and out of places that you can't get a full size truck....if I need to haul anything that don't fit in the 7 foot bed, I have a couple of flatbed trailers. I'm looking into getting something newer here in the next few years and the Honda Ridgeline is tops on the list as it doesn't rely on a 4 cylinder turbo charged engine.
Well said brother... well said! I was in the same mindset with trucks. Had many of them. American and American made jap trucks... the ridgeline checks all the boxes
I have friends with the big three trucks. I do more truck things with my Ridgeline than they do. It’s comfortable and also tows my boat and two Waverunners with ease. I’ve owned F150 and a Ram. Wouldn’t trade my Ridgeline for either.
People criticize the Ridgeline for it's styling more than anything else... I used to do the same. But I think the new version is much better in that regard... It is much more efficient than a full size truck, and still has most of the capability of most 1/2 ton full size trucks, and like others have said, as much capability as most truck owners need or use. I bought a '21 Black Edition and am growing more impressed with it everyday. When you stop comparing it to full size trucks (which it is NOT), and compare to the other midsize trucks on the market, the choice is clear. It's the best midsize truck on the market, period.
I have owned blazers, broncos, Yukon, f150, 250 and f350. My Ridgeline is my favorite all around vehicle for me
I traded in my 2019 Silverado 6.2 4x4 LTZ for a 2023 Ridgeline. And I love it!
As a Ridgeline owner who tows with it and uses it as a truck and tows a UTV and a pontoon boat several times a year i can say i wasn’t sure when i bought it but after a year and a half i am convinced, it does great. Super comfortable as a daily driver and great gas mileage and still does everything i ask without question.
Try a Tacoma or Frontier, it is built like a proper truck unlike this open trunk minivan.
@@Thankyou_3 Test drove a Tacoma and didn’t like the feeling of sitting on the floor and they still have rear drum breaks. The new Frontier wasn’t out then. Great thing about the market now, you have lots of choices.
@@markflaugh2293 The Tacoma drum brakes works the best in our Canadian climate, it protects from all the elements and that is why they so reliable unlike disc brakes. The driving position is a matter of preference but reliability wise you can’t touch the Tacoma.
@@Thankyou_3 Don’t you have front disc brakes? And they do most of the stopping? I don’t disagree that Tacomas are reliable, but Hondas are too. Just didn’t care for the Tacoma when i drove it. To each his own. My truck, my choice on what to spend my money on.
@@markflaugh2293 No, Hondas have ongoing transmissions problems especially the V6 models. It’s a money grab for them not to address that.
I still think Honda pulled this off, great truck for what’s it’s used for. Realistically this truck will do what most people out there need it for. I realize most won’t admit that, but I see a lot of 1/2 ton and HD trucks driving around doing absolutely zero towing. I have owned everything from 1/2 ton and above, and just traded my HD in for a midsized truck. Don’t need the HD since I sold the camper. Driving a midsized truck now, it’s a lot easier to go anywhere I need it to without the extra bulk of the full sized. No I don’t own the Honda, went for the ZR2 and absolutely love it. Regardless I still think Honda did a good job on this truck, yep it’s a truck regardless of frame or not. I don’t care for the Hyundai version though…
I agree, I don’t understand all the hate for the Ridgeline. I haven’t heard one iota of criticism that the new Ford Maverick “isn’t a real truck” but that’s a unibody, just like the Ridgeline.
It has more payload capacity than many mid-size and full size 1/2 tons on the market. It has slightly more, and by slightly more I mean about 200 pounds more. My Ranger is rated for 1,260lbs of payload capacity, which given its equipped with a manual transmission is pretty good...its towing capacity also being hindered by the manual transmission at 2,000lbs. So, the Ridgeline's 1400+lb payload is very reasonable for its size. Just remember you eat that up with bodies in seats, and anything else you've thrown in all the cubbies in the vehicle.
@@weems715 I hated the looks of the original Ridgeline, but when they made it look more "normal" in 2016-ish, I could focus on what it actually does. What it does is actually very impressive! It's the ideal pickup for suburbanites like me who need occasional towing and hauling capability, but want a comfortable ride for a daily commute or even cross-country trips.
@@weems715 That's because some folks don't know the meaning of being objective.
A 1 ton payload = 2k lbs.
The Ridgeline Sport has a 1,583 lbs payload rating, or 3/4 ton in generic pickup-truck terms.
The newer Rangers with the Eco-Boost Twin Turbo are rated around 1,800 lbs payload, which is close to 1 ton on a midsized-pickup.
What everyone has to remember, is that on the 9 speed transmission, you also have paddle shifters to select the gear "YOU WOULD LIKE," rather than have the trans computer try and figure out what gear to go in. Then, you won't lose your RPM's and momentum!
Easy peasy!!!
No excuse in modern age for a bad program or a sloppy program. Simple tow/haul mode button would fix the issues. paddle shifters are stupid
Select S by pushing the D/S button a second time for Sport mode, it works when towing.
I bought a Ridgeline Sport 3 months ago. It tows my 18 1/2 ft bass boat with ease. I’ve had 1/2 ton GMC 1500 for the past 29 years and it was recommended that I try a Honda after a friend bought one to tow his boat. It does the job as advertised & for 24k less than a comparable GMC Sierra SLE Crew Cab 5.3 … yeah I’m good with it.
I just bought the 2023 Ridgeline sport in cherry red and I've never been more happy
Being eyeballing the Ridgeline for quite some time now, I finally know exactly what to expect, the king crew again working his magic! You guys are the best truck review (and beyond) 😁
Yeah, I really like mine especially on the ice and snow. That torque vectoring AWD system (Which is basically the same as the SH-AWD in Acuras) is totally underrated. Honda should do a better job of marketing how good it really is.
@@IamGroot786 how is this cylinder deactivation is doing ? I heard some people have vibration issues because of it. How is reliability for you so far?
@@lolotus4borderless I've never experienced any vibration to be honest. 50K miles so far and it's been rock solid. Oil changes, tire rotations and maybe a brake job is due next spring.
@@IamGroot786 thank you so much for the feedback, that is very encouraging, I think it’s a hell of a convenient truck for a regular joe like me ;)
I have a Ridgeline and often tow my tandem-trailered 21’ ski boat, which comes in right at 5,000 #’s. I have towed it on trips over 1,200 miles, up grades, over mountains, etc., and it does just great. As you said, it works the engine a little more, you know the trailer is there for sure and drive accordingly, etc., but it handles it with no problems whatsoever. And in the Honda, its a very comfortable ride!
Trent, do you monitor tranny temps? my only concern as a prospective buyer, thanks
My travel trailer camper is 4060lbs....I should be in good shape? I don't tow it often but I want a truck that has more of a daily driver feel.
Honda dominates the 0-60 times pulling 5,000 lbs. Honda makes an amazing engine.
Wrong the GMC Canyon is way better.
@@jessepoorman2621 both suck compared to a F150 Lightning in most categories except to range.
@@voltecrules624 Lightning should have been hybrid until battery tech improved.
@@jessepoorman2621 In this video at 12:20 they show the results for 0-60 towing 5000 lbs: Ridgeline 14.2 seconds, GMC Canyon 18 seconds. Which one is faster?
I wonder how it would fare against the V8s?
Not surprised by the good results. I tow a 4,500 lb boat (22 ft Glastron bow rider with a 5.0L Volvo Penta) and no problem on 260 mile runs to the cottage. Got 17.0 mpg (hand calculated) last time towing this boat. Towed the same boat/same route with my previous RAM 1500 5.7 Hemi and got 15.6 mpg. Very good tow vehicle and underrated for payload capabilities (hauled 1,000 lbs of concrete mix on several runs during a deck build). Yes, it does regular truck stuff.
I have a 2008 and and have had 800+ pounds in the back ridgeline many times. It doesn't even squat down rides great. These are much tougher trucks then people think 150 K not a single squeak or rattle.
Love my 21 RTL-E. It’s the jack of all trades. More then enough truck for 95% of ppl needs from a pickup.. best truck I ever had. And the Honda reliability is a +👍🏻.
Your review just keeps getting better and better. My best friend owns one of these ridge lines and now I can truly understand why he likes it so much. Would love to see Honda come out with a more off-road worthy ridgeline. Maybe lifted an inch, maybe skid plates, etc. Not asking for miracles just little upgrades to get one a little more confident going offroad
I think when it's time to replace my car in a few years this truck will be a strong consideration. I think it's the perfect truck for the majority of people out there that do some light hauling on the weekend.
I agree. The 5k towing capacity is very reasonable for its size, the payload capacity is very good for its size, and you get AWD, and decent fuel economy as well. I've had 1/2 tons, 3/4 tons, 1 tons, SUV's, Crossovers, cars...and the past few years I haven't had to tow/haul very much, yeah I tow frequently, but not a lot of weight at a time, so the Ridgeline would be great, and the huge plus with it, is you aren't relying on tiny little turbos on a tiny 4 cylinder engine to get you going and keep you going...I hope Honda sticks with their regular V6 engines and doesn't jump on the turbo bandwagon like every other automaker has done.
The problem with the gear hunting on hill climbing can be mitigated by using the “S” mode instead of “D”.
That's exactly what I do and the sport mode works great for towing.
I know many people don't actually read the owner's manual these days, but this is exactly what the manual says to do!!
And the use of paddle shifters.
You have to use paddle shifters on a truck to go up hill? I’ll stick with my GMC Canyon!
@@jessepoorman2621 the first thing to go on that piece of junk canyon will be the transmission. Not long after that, the engine will crap out. But hey, at least you'll be the proud owner of a GMC. 😆
I just towed my 4 seat sxs 4 hrs round trip with my 2021 RTLE, half of which was on a gravel road and I got 16mpg for the trip.
Obviously most people prefer the look of the Taco but there’s so much more comfort, room and refinement for the price with the Ridgeline.
Steve is my #1 favorite automotive journalist. It’s awesome to see another young Elmer stepping up. Brother kills it too
This was a very fair test that highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of the Ridgeline. For what I want to do (occasional hauling and towing, going on semi-maintained trails to access our flying range), it's great. If I were towing substantial loads frequently, I would likely take your advice and look at a F-150 or Ram. As a suburbanite who can't afford a separate commuter car and truck, this or the new Hyundai Santa Cruz (perhaps even the Ford Maverick) seem ideal.
I love the idea of this truck. I think it just lacks the right trim level some folks are looking for these days. Maybe the upcoming Trailsport trim will correct this.
Not looking to rock crawl but a factory lift, larger tires, and some underbody armor would be appreciated.
It will be interesting to see if Honda does a Ridgeline Trailsport.
Bro, it's a unibody SUV with a bed, not an off road vehicle.
I pull a 4,000 single axle travel trailer all over the Pacific Northwest hills and mountain passes with my 2020 RL. Never had an issue. Lots of confidence as you guys mentioned. Impressive 0-60 - destroyed all those other V6 trucks.
You’re full of it! The GMC canyon is the best midsize truck to tow with. That little dinky truck won’t make it up any mountain range with weight on it.
@@jessepoorman2621 Canyon sucks worse than the New Nissan Frontier. I hope you have the uber app so you can get a ride when it breaks down. 😆
What trailer are you pulling? I just purchased a travel trailer that is about 3500 loaded, and I tend to bring goodies along for the ride. We’re using an older Tacoma right now, and need to upgrade to pull more efficiently. The Ridgeline is appealing, as the vehicle would be my every day driver, with a need to occasionally tow. I love the thought of a Tundra, but I’d be over-trucked. Reliability is huge to me, so this and a Tacoma would be my consideration. The Tacoma has higher towing capacity, but is also more expensive.
@@richarde1355 I tow a hybrid, single axle camper trailer. Fully loaded it's over 4k lbs and of course, its as aerodynamic as a toaster oven. The 20 and newer RL's have the 9 speed with manual paddle shifters - so, you can manually hold your gears, which makes uphill and downhill a lot better. I've also towed a 5500lb tandem cargo trailer and the RL had no issues, as long as you have trailer brakes you're good.
A few things worth noting that isn't talked about a lot, the RL is much larger and more comfortable on the inside than any other mid sized truck. Makes a huge difference on long trips, not even close. If you need 6500lb towing or need off road, there are better options. But if you only need 5k lbs towing, there is no better rig than the RL.
@@poke-evan He just said it did. Why don't believe him? You think he's wasting his time coming on youtube and lying?
You guys are true trucker gentleman 👏. Great review...also congrats on the runner-up award.
Love the video. I owe a Honda Ridgeline 2017 Black Edition and its been nothing but awesome for me. Done road trips, hauled things and it doesnt flinch at any of it.
I am very happy with my 2021 Ridgeline and don't care what other truck owners think. It soots me just fine for my lifestyle and for my needs from a truck. Then there is the fuel economy that it can give me, especially in these times of very gas prices ( $ I.48 per liter) Happy happy happy ......
Great video! Majority are "over trucked" so true! if your occupation/recreation doesn't involve hauling the Ridgeline is definitely a great choice to consider when completing the ordinary day-to-day task and occasional fun trips this truck has surely earned it's place.
I own a 2020 RTLE and absolutely love it.
To be honest, I had a 16’ Tahoe(that I traded in) that towed my 21’ ft runabout with a 5.0 merc/Volvo penta optional big/heavier engine dry at 3300 lbs and loaded with fuel and 4/5 passengers closer to 4500 or more..the 21’ Ridgeline now takes place of that duty and honestly besides pulling uphill or BRAKING, Ridgeline did ok, my point is for people like myself who pulls near capacity a handful of time a year, the pros of driving Ridgeline FAR exceeds daily driving a current model Tahoe, just my personal opinion, cheers guys!
Pick the right tool - right?
Love that you're doing tow test with trucks with V6 engines
Awesome video. Great review with actual performance demo's. Thanks for sharing. I am in the market for this truck.
We passed on a Maverick and Ranger, decided on the Ridgeline 2wd. No regrets, it's comfortable and practical for a daily driver and has plenty of "real truck" capability for special occasions. More truck than is actually *needed* in most cases. It will pull a decent size camper without breaking a sweat, and will move my working tool trailer in a pinch. If I need more, then that's what my big 4x4 work truck is for. Also, the bed trunk is brilliant 👏 👌
I wish I could say the same, we have a 2019 Honda Ridgeline RTL and it's already in the shop for who knows how long. The max load for 2WD from what Honda said is about 3,000lbs and the transmission on our truck is already bad. We didn't know it had a doomed transmission in it when it was bought but it has had problems since it was bought. We also didn't get it new, it was bought as used. Since the transmission is on backorder I don't even know how long that part will be available to be shipped out to install onto our truck. We are lucky that it had an extended warranty. I hope yours continues to stay working in great shape since these Ridgelines are known for transmission problems.
@Dragonesa41083 Dang that stinks. Ours did have a little shudder shifting into 2nd when the throttle was generous, but I insisted the dealer change the transmission fluid twice and it went away. We have just over 50k miles and do not tow regularly, with an extended warranty it is covered up to 100k. Hopefully no problems though. Thank you for sharing that info
@@Dragonesa41083 How many miles have you put on yours since you bought it?
@@alphaclean3364 ours has 67K miles. When my partner got it, it only had 41K miles on the odometer, then he put only 5K on the truck so that lands it at 46K miles and he got the message that the transmission overheated, the dealer dismissed it because they didn’t see the message and weren’t able to replicate the issue. So my partner went into more detail on how to replicate it and then they were able to.
Then at 66K miles the message came on again and that’s only 20K difference! The dealer dismissed it again even after I mentioned how to replicate it but they refused to and sent me on my way.
So once it really started having problems, the message came on again at exactly just 1K miles making it 67K, all kinds of stuff happened after that, the RPM going at 6K, failing to change into correct gears and all that crazy stuff.
Now we don’t know when that truck will come back. We just had a storm here in Maryland and a tornado happened just around the same spot as that dealership, it would suck if we found out that more damage happened to that truck.
Welcome back Matt, good job guys.
I'm glad that it looks like its own vehicle and doesn't try to follow the crowd and look like a "real" truck..
Honda is ahead of the crowd here. I love my 2023 Ridgeline sport..
Guys I really enjoy your real reviews.
My wife loves her Ridgeline and for what we use it for it is awesome. Rarely do we need to use the truck to it's maximum potential of 5000 pound tow potential. However we have been wanting to go camping and most camping trailers that we were looking at happen to be around 6500 to 7500 pounds which requires a slightly larger vehicle.
This truck should sell way more units than it does. They were first in making the tail gate a thing automakers worry about
I have a 2018 and love it. No, I don't tow very much...and no I don't haul very often either (but I can confirm a 4-wheeler fits just fine in the bed)... but with the addition of a hard cover and locking tail gate, it makes the perfect hockey hauler...keeps the stink out of the cab! Great truck on the highway and/or around town. Reasonable amount of space in the backseat for our 2 teenagers and the dog as well.
That quirky girl Sarah did some off roading in one of these. Actually surprising what these are capable of.
Yeah, I saw the video your taking about.
The Ridgellne surprised her on the hill climb (with street tires).
Yes I watch all of her videos for the “information”
@@ajmedeiros77 You'd think that she's total click-bait because well, let's face it she is hot! But that lady knows her stuff about cars too.
@@IamGroot786 yes!!
@@IamGroot786 Flat as a board but atleast she's a car girl
The trunk and wide open bed are pretty sweet. I think this is great for an all arounder, especially in places which get a lot of snow and ice on the roads. And it's a honda- keeps going as long as you give it new oil and gaskets.
Love mine.I have 2 snowmobiles and an enclosed 14 foot trailer I tow a few times a year.Works for me.
Tundra was totaled and I'm considering downsizing. Great reviews, Just subscribed!!
Great vid guys! Great to see Matt on again. And congrats again for the recent award. You folks are definitely great Canadian content out on UA-cam providing a Canadian view on lots of great vehicles and trailers with real world tests. Cheers!
I think it’s the best truck for 90 percent of the consumer market.
Great video. You need to do a comparison video. Do the test with a Ridgeline, then repeat them with the Van version of the Ridgeline and see how they compare. Inquiring minds want to know! Love the bed features on the Ridgeline.
I have the 2021 RTLE, towed 4200 RV trailer. Ridgeline did it fine, but I wanted something that when I got to 65 said “you want more?” So wife has the Ridgeline (THE best midsize truck) and I got a GMC 1500 2.4Turbo. Towed with same RV and it came to play! If Honda ever comes out with a “Tundra”, I will go back in a heartbeat.
You wanted power but got the smallest engine?
@@theejoeylee able to tow 9000 lbs is enough.
Great video. Turkey excitement gold 🎉😂❤
When people tell me "it's not a truck," I always say back to them "yeah, im glad that it's not." They always gives me that confused look on their face.
You guys are so well spoken
It’s almost unbelievable how much quicker this was then the other with the weight. Really impressive but I don’t think sales have been as good as maybe they expensive expected. Lastly a review without the sensei father is not the same. But still good stuff mates. Thank you
Excellent review as always! I own a 2021 Ridgeline and love it! Tow a 16' fishing boat (~2500 lbs) and don't even know it's there. Loading it up with camping / fishing / hunting gear is so easy with all of the cargo space (wide bed, trunk and rear folding seats). Such a solid truck and drives so smooth. Love my Ridgeline!!!
How often are you towing your boat? I’m looking at this as an option for me but I tow my boat 1 a week and not sure if this makes sense for pulling in and out of boat ramps
@@bassaddict_85towing about once or twice per week during the summer months
@@ramjam4618 how is it launching? Putting in and pulling out? Any situations where it struggled. Thanks
@@bassaddict_85 No issues at all. Plenty of power. It has a front wheel biased system so it grips very well going up the ramp. It's fun to watch big lifted trucks struggle and spin out and have to go into four-wheel drive to pull out. This is actually my second Ridgeline, had a 2008 for 7 yrs. I love these trucks. Way underrated. I added a 1.5 lift kit and larger tires. Looks great!
@@ramjam4618 Thanks so much for the great feedback I really appreciate it, I will definitely be checking them out for my new rig! Thank you
Ridgeline is all the truck most 1/2 ton owners really need. And more. Similarly, an Outback, or even a Corolla hatchback, is all the car most SUV owners really need.
I signed the deal on mine, arriving in a few weeks. From runs to Costco to hauling 20 bags of mulch or drywall, I know it will serve me well. We may even pick-up a small family camper (3500 lbs) which we will occasionally tow. Plus Honda reliability, a great spacious interior for a mid-size truck and last but not least -- hopefully decent fuel economy.
I just traded my 2017 for a 2021, last trip in the 17 to the dealer got 28mpg highway on the 40 mile drive with the cruise set at 63mph. As for campers, I use mine to tow a 2020 Coleman Lantern LT 17b, a 17 ft bunkhouse that sleeps 6 and weighs 3042lbs empty and maxes at 3900lbs. I do use an aftermarket trailer brake, out of caution it really does not need it at this weight, and the thing hauls fine while returning 13 to 15 mpg. One thing to note is that I have a leer bed cap on my Ridgeline, which does help frontal wind load on the camper, so towing with an open bed or tonneau cover will likely get lower mpg and more resistance than I experience. Hope this is useful to you.
I actually highly recommend the bed cap as I know I get much better fuel economy than others reported with open beds and it really does improve the towing with a boxy trailer. I once achieved 32 mpg highway (measured not per trip computer) on a 100 plus mile road trip with a 25 mpg average on that tank of gas.
@@jg8263 Good to know. Many thanks for the info!
I haveva 2011 and still own it and love it, I tow my kabota kx41-3v and trailer with it, it just don't like big hills, I can live with that😊
Have to say, these are growing on me. Never thought I’d consider buying one. 😂
The Ridgeline is pretty awesome and the front end refresh was much-needed. However it won't be perfected until they add the new 10spd trans from the Odyssey, the new infotainment OS from the Civic hatch, and until the HPD package actually offers a lift, tires, armor, etc.
There’s aftermarket support for all those things right now. I’d prefer it that way, TBH. The worst thing about my Ridgeline is the dog shit infotainment. I hate it.
I think the Ridgeline needs a hybrid powertrain.
thank you
Can't wait to see the Ridgeline Trail sport version.
Great video, really impressive
Glad you think so!
I think that's a Ridgeline is a great vehicle. I think it's underrated and people should get over the fact that it doesn't have a frame. I think it's a better option than the Maverick or the Santa Cruz also. Also, you can just buy a Curt Echo if you want to have brake controller capabilities without an actual brake controller.
Some people may find the Santa Cruz and Maverick may better meet their needs if they don't need the full 5,000 towing capability, since those are a bit smaller and fit better in the average garage. All three of these vehicles would suit the needs of most suburbanites much better than an F-150, Ram, Tacoma, Ranger, etc., and be more comfortable as a daily commuter to boot. Your point about the Curt Echo is excellent.
It does have a frame.
@@agaad22 a sub-frame, not a body on frame....
@@JBM425 Good point about the garage. The Ridgeline isn't as small as everyone thinks. It's the widest among mid sizers too.
@@IamGroot786 I have a Ridgeline it’s definitely a lot bigger than you think. It’s the size of the pick up trucks out of the 80s and 90s
Good vid as always 👍
I called 3 local dealers close to me in Richmond Hill -- no one has them to test drive. One Rep told me they are selling, people just ordering without test drive.
There are rumors of a 2023 hybrid - I might wait for it as Hybrids "will" have a better resale value in 5 yrs(my average trade time) as everyone will be looking for them
Cheers
They need to update display screen and tires too
@@Travisjoe31
I test drove the Santa Cruz -- I really liked the blind spot cameras when the signals are used. Would be nice to see it in the Ridgeline.
2021 Honda solved the "looks" issue. It's now looks like a really clean truck. I like a lot because it's not "overdone". Most of the other trucks are so "overdone" with fake vents, grills, and macho styling. (They look good, just so manly..). But for the 99% of the time you aren't towing, the Honda rides nicer...
New subscriber here, thanks for another great review!
Perfect truck for the city ❤
I'm not a diehard truck guy but even I recognize that this is not really a truck, it's a Honda Pilot with a truck bed.
But it will be enough truck for anyone who considers it a truck.
I can't tell you how many people I know driving F-150s with perfect paint in the bed and has never pulled a trailer.
This makes so much more sense for people like that.
75% of people that drive so-called real trucks spent a lot more money and don't even use them for a truck😮.. call my Honda Ridgeline whatever you want but I love it
Hello TK guys, just subscribed after seeing your Ridgeline test drive.
How about hooking up your travel trailer to the Ridgeline and see how it behaves…
Nice truck!
we just bought the ridgeline black edition in the white and its sure is nice looking after watching this video telling her what it could haul she said i could not haul my utiltty trailor and atv lol
Still #1 on the leaderboard against all the midsize trucks and even some V6 half ton trucks in a later comparison video.
one thing i love but never hear about is the tow hitch is really nice they didn't use punched out plate for the the chain hooks they used 5/8 round stock. Thats basically integrated recovery hooks/eye.
Luv this truck . I have a 2021 RTE and pull a 19 ft. 3600 lb. travel trailer with no issues. No need for extra mirrors. Gas mileage is decent as well. Great ride and lots of good tech.
Is that the dry weight? Do you use a weight distribution hitch and have you installed a brake controller? We are looking at purchasing a camper around that same weight (dry) and not sure what we need to purchase in addition to keep our truck in good running condition. (We have the ‘22 Black Edition.)
@@heidimelms62 yes that is dry weight and I have a weight distributing hitch. I use a portable Echo brake controller as well to avoid the install of an under dash controller. It has an app that allows you to make all the necessary adjustments via a Bluetooth connection.
@@oldguytries53 thank you so much! I am having a hard time getting much help from Ridgeline Facebook group, so I appreciate you taking the time to respond. Any other tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!
@@heidimelms62 I found that keeping speed at about 90 kmph (55 mph) really improved gas mileage.
Matt does a good job. Both good presenters here.
Thanks for the love. - Matt
I think the trailer brake controller should come on the higher trim levels. Integrated would be nice.
Too bad so few trucks have a MT nowadays because that would make the towing experience so much better.
Yay! Not dwell on looks, dwell on the way it works....
Great video and test Maybe I missed it is there a button for Tow Mode? Thanks
Guys, the hesitation your feeling on the uphills is the cylinder deactivation feature coming on/off... Ridgeline drops to 3 cylinders when it decides power is not needed, then it surges when all cylinders wake up.... it’s the only annoying negative of this truck but not a deal breaker for me... but I would gladly give up 1-2 mpg for full time torque. Also the truck has the optional brake controller pre wired into the electrical harness under the steering column so it’s an easy plug and play installation.
You can purchase a disable device called S-VCM so you don't have to deal with the VCM on and off. It sends a temperature of 165F to the engine so VCM never enables. (Trigger for operation is 167F). It disables at 205F so you can know if the engine overheats. Really nice addition to the truck.
6:41 Fellow tow vehicle was like “WTF a Ridgeline???”
Good review. In future tests would you be able to hook up a reader to the OBD port to show Transmission temps? That would be really helpful to show the transmission can really handle these loads.... Thanks!
I suggest calling ahead to your local Honda dealer to hold the Ridgeline they happen to have on lot for you. Every I get an oil change, a Ridgeline that is on the lot WILL get sold in an hour. I was looking at the 2023 model, when the salesperson says "sorry this truck has just sold!" No problem I have a 2020 RTL-E getting an oil change 😅.
Nice video and format. At Honda, just add TOW/HAUL mode with new shift strategies and the Ridgeline will excel at 5k towing. Merci
I want one.retiring at the end of this year.
would like to get a 2022 black edition.
VTEC YO. That sticker is a must.
So i'm looking into the small categories of travel trailers, with a UVW of 3,000lbs and a GVWR of 3,680lbs i think this would be a perfect match for that thing.
I've heard a hybrid version of this truck may be available soon. It may be interesting how well that can pull.
How much different would an enclosed trailer feel?
The Ridgeline deserves more respect. It's so misunderstood.
Love the random turkeys 🦃
I have a 2013 Ridgeline, and it does everything I need, only issue is a v6 works hard on the highway towing heavy, and it cant really offroad. I use to have a half ton, and I don't miss the huge size or bumpy ride.
That's probably more down to the 5-speed transmission than the engine.
@@nicholassmith7048 definitely!
The bed of the ridgeline was basically the design of the back of the chevy wagons in the 90s. Tailgate and storage/extra seating. Certain car designs are timeless it seems. I do own an 18 BE and love it actually. Just wish honda made a vtec v8. :) torque would make the difference and they could go back to less gears. Nothing wrong with some extra displacement. Would sound better too.
Nice video,iam thinking about 2024 Ridgeline Black Edtion,seen all kids of video about this trk,but no one takes about how many MPG while your towing a trailer,or it performs while pulling a maxed out load of 5k...😊😊😊😁😁😁
Truck king I think you should get an enclosed trailer to do all the towing test it's going to be more challenging just my opinion 👍
I tow a 17ft 3900lb coleman 17b camper (bunkhouse). It pulls just fine and returns 13-15mpg doing so depending on how many hills you encounter.
Ridgeline is definitely enough truck + great day to day features for most people. Probably the same guys who shit on the Ridgeline that have never taken their power wagon off the pavement. Funny part is this has almost the same payload as a power wagon lol.
In some cases, the Ridgeline exceeds the competition in its actual payload... plus, between the "trunk" and the ability to lay flat 4x8 sheets of building material, it can do things that the others can't unless you move up to a much larger truck.
I'm getting interested in these vehicles. Something no-one has pointed out, is that the Ridgeline is 6" wider than a Ranger. This might be useful for the side mirrors when towing.
(And perhaps worse in parking lots)
Fantastic truck for most people. Love the trunk, ride, comfort. Best in class except for hard core off roading. People are showing their bias against this truck by loving on the maverick which is smaller and less usable.
I think if the Ridgeline was originally introduced by any American badge, nobody would have anything bad to say. Honda had the audacity to infringe on their "boys club" and the brodozer drivers cannot forgive it.
@@jg8263 you nailed it! Bingo
@@ajmedeiros77 honestly, I think this is how "truck guys" thought process works:
They see guy drives prius: you're cool, bro
They see guy drives minivan: you're cool, bro
They see guy drives Ridgeline: OMFG UR SO GAY, IT CAN'T TOW A HOUSE OR GO ON MOAB
They see actual gay guy drives "real truck": you're cool, bro
Actual gay guy who owns "real truck" to a Ridgeline owner: you drive a Ridgeline? OMFG UR SO GAY
@@jg8263 Ironically the Ridgeline is more American (by parts content and labor, assembly) than anything Ford, Ram or GM offer.
@@seruresto1386 I know right! Not only that, but the top 10 list of most American made vehicles contains 6 Hondas from the platform: the Ridgeline, Passport, Pilot, Odyssey, and the Acura RDX and MDX.
Nice video! Since you were towing a max load, what happened when you drove up an incline? Did the engine get hot or stall?
no
My only problem is trying to find one here in Michigan for sale lol. They are amazing
Am definitely getting one! Ridge line or never
The Ridgeline may be maxed out towing 5000lbs but it handily out-accelerates a Ram 1500 V6 towing 5000lbs! Honda's 3.5 V6 is a really impressive engine and is probably underrated hp and torque-wise.
This acceleration is something that doesn't come as too much of a surprise if one has a good understanding of how the SAE J2807 test that manufacturer's use to determine "Max Tow Rating" works. The short version is that, the advertised Max Tow is not necessarily the upper limit the vehicle is capable of, but rather the lowest trailer weight with which any single test in a battery of test is completed. I will break down more below, but because I know it will be a TL/DR, let it suffice to say that a truck that towed say 8000lbs through all but one of the tests, but only managed 6000lbs on that one other test, is rated for 6000lbs towing. With this said, let's break down the method of the J2807 and why the Honda is rated for only 5000lbs when it is actually capable of more. I should mention that I attended Michigan Technological University for Mechanical Engineering, including interning at General Motors, so I am fairly well versed in (but certainly not an expert on) these testing parameters.
The tests: There are several testing modes, such as (not everything included here): 1) vehicle malfunction, 2) timed tests, 3) handling tests, and 4) quantitative tests. Examples of these named ones: 1) Max trailer weight towing up an 11.4 mile grade in Arizona that has an average grade of 6% and total elevation change of 3500 feet (this test is performed only in ambient temps above 100 degrees and AC must be on max, to test the cooling systems of the engine and transmission) without overheating or throwing any codes. Also standing starts in both forward and reverse on a 12% grade in the same outside temperature, 5 of each start type, traveling 16 feet per start, in a 5 minute time frame, again with no overheating or codes. 2) Max trailer weight that allows 0-60mph in 30 seconds (this figure is for single rear wheel vehicles, not dualies that have a different standard) among other timed tests for acceleration. 3) A battery of tests for understeer and trailer sway. 4) Max weight vehicle can stop from 20mph in 80 feet (without leaving the testing lane) and the max weight the parking break can hold on a 12% grade (performed facing both up and down hill). Again, these are not all the tests, but just examples to illustrate what vehicles must go through.
The vehicles: When J2807 is conducted, the vehicle tested must be equipped with all standard features (no creativity like Ford used to do, deleting spare tires and all but the driver's seat to get a higher max tow number before this standard test was agreed to by manufacturers) and any optional or trim specific features that have a 33% or greater market adoption, and if the vehicle has more than one differential/final drive ratio the lowest ratio configuration is used in testing. Testing is done with the weight equivalent in the cab of a 150lb driver and 150lb passenger. 100lbs are allowed for towing equipment (hitch, sway bars, etc). This is why a vehicle may have different ratings for different trims or configurations, as they independently test crew cabs from single cabs, 4x4 from 4x2, etc. Tongue weight used in testing is 10% of the trailer weight.
What is my point? Without going into the specifics of the various test results for the Honda, the acceleration figure in this video stands out. With 5k lbs behind it, the 0-60 time is certainly well under the 30 second time the J2807 allows, so it seems like the Honda should be more capable, and as another video on this channel once showed, the Honda barely sags with a load behind it or in it, due to that impressive payload number, so it should be able to handle a higher tongue weight (it is rated at 600lbs). Again, as noted earlier, however, the vehicle's "max" towing is the lowest weight with which it passes any single test. Now, a variety of sources will note that in braking tests, the Ridgeline is one of the worst, if not the worst, stopping distance among mid-sized trucks when empty, and certainly the worst with weight in or behind it. Also remember the whole "all standard equipment" part of the tests. Many trucks these days come standard with trailer brake controllers, or the option for one is greater than 33% adoption, meaning those trucks get to use the brake controller in the test. Now, Honda is pre-wired for a brake controller, but none is offered from Honda at all, making that moot from the test's standpoint. The final point, the Honda Ridgeline was and still is able to best the majority of the J2807 tests with 6000 to 7000 lbs behind it, but it cannot stop more than 5000lbs from 20mph within 80 feet without equipping a brake controller, and therefore has the 5000 lb max tow rating. Note the 6000lbs specifically, as 10% tongue weight of that is 600lbs, the max tongue weight of the Honda. I think that is the number Honda wanted to target, but missed.
So, if you don't mind taking a little longer than 80 feet to stop, or are smart and equip an aftermarket brake controller to the handy pre-wired spot under the dash (and don't plan on towing up a 6% grade in 100+ degree heat for 11+ miles), you can safely and routinely tow 6000 lbs with the Honda (7k if you are brave). be very aware that if you tow above the official limit listed on the door sticker (in any vehicle, not just the Honda) and get into an accident, you will be held 100% liable and your insurance will not cover anything. More importantly, HONDA PUT BETTER BRAKES OR A STANDARD BRAKE CONTROLLER ON THE RIDGELINE SO IT CAN GET BUMPED TO AT LEAST 6000LBS TOWING!
@@jg8263 Thanks for the interesting information! More people need to see this.
@@jg8263 Fantastic, though information/delivery. I’ve attempted to explain much of what you delivered to family and friends, but they are Still Big truck guys, not knowing that the Ridgeline will accomplish 98.6% of all the challenges that they will encounter. Me thinks that the other 1.4% are imagined 😁 I reside in a Rocky Mountain state, lots and lots of grade. I use my transmission up - and down, have yet to discover and issue with slowing down, truly enjoy the paddle shifters. Kudos to you for such a wonderful explanation.
I do like the Honda ridgeline.
Would sport mode help avoid the hunting of gears when towing?
I am waiting for the ridgeline to get a hybrid drive train like the ford maverick. hoping to get 30-40 MPG whiteout towing.