Just picked up a Ridgeline Black Edition a week ago. Drove Tacomas(including X-Runner) since 1998. They were great trucks and I have nothing but love for them. Wanted to experience something else. Did a lot of research on the Ridgeline including several test drives. Very happy with my purchase of this. Looking forward to many years with this Black Edition!
Long time Toyota Tacoma owner, had many. Love the Ridgeline especially in a black/hpd edition, and it will be my next truck. Fingers crossed they come out with a hybrid or plug-in version.
I wrecked my 2020 ridgeline last week. I will absolutely be getting another one. Great vehicles, I usually have 1000 extra pounds in the bed. So I’ll likely upgrade the brake kit. By far one of my favorite vehicles. A little bit higher tow capacity would be nice too
Test drove one and liked it, just not a peppy as my fullsize and hwy cruise lack of low rpm torque could not maintain speed on grades like my fullsize. Ridgeline needs 3.0T option, 1.5" factory lift/leveling kit option, integrated trailer brake controller option and it would be perfect. I could really get used to the dual action tailgate, in bed trunk and audio. Here is hoping for 2024!
have a '22 RTL-E..love it..needs pano roof, auto folding side mirrors, heads up display , full center console armrest, and lift, hybrid version, which would make it perfect!!!!
Very nice truck. Wish I could have one. When I look at the price of new ones I fall back in love with my old f150. AKA yard dog. Also I'm not 100% sure but I think Honda still uses a timing belt on the V6 that would worry me.
That is correct Sam they still use them and normally you want to service that before or around 100k to keep the engine from having it break. Great everyday trucks but that F150 is 👌, more towing and can hold heavy loads. Enjoy the games today 👍.
I have a 2018 Black Edition best vehicle I've ever owned in my life and man have I owned a lot of vehicles, enjoyed your review very informative. Probably won't trade till they do a little bit more of a change with exterior and interior but definitely going to stick with the Ridgeline.
This is like a car on the road. Very comfortable when I test drove it. Shocked at how big the trunk was. Very little depreciation and it tows 5000lbs. Extremely reliable and surprisingly quick acceleration. The bed sound system was great. $50,000ish after all is done for top trims RTLE and Black here in SW USA. Unfortunately, the Nissan Frontier Pro 4X beats this with better capabilities at the same price.
I’m 6’ tall and could nearly close the trunk in the bed on me. With the trunk full of iced drinks and the bed sound system, you’d have the perfect tailgate setup. There is a 2” lift kit available for this and it looks awesome with the bigger tires. This mod has no impact on the front safety sensors
@HawkeyeRides there's a lot I love about it, especially the dual action tailgate. It's perfect for guys who want some extra traction in bad weather and don't do a lot of hauling or towing. That in-bed storage and basically no wheel wells? Game changers for sure. Also, I agree with everyone here on your comment regarding the interior. It's vastly outdated and desperately needs a refresh.
Honda has something that is nice but could be epic. 2.5” taller ground clearance, 4 inches wider for beast look…. Locking storage in the bed sides…. Timing chain already… lol and a bullet proof hybrid engine…. 30 plus mpg. It could be done.
Things to improve are timing chain. A timing belt on these need to be changed 60-100k, depending on how hard you push the truck. If that belt snaps, the engine is done. It’s an interference engine. 2k service to change it every 60-100 k. A pain for those driving a lot. Interior needs a refresh for top trim levels. A HPD is 50k. Interior is lackluster for that price. Ride height should be increased as option too. Some dealers will add it though. 9 speed Transmission is crappy. Needs the new 10 speed Honda has. A bump in HP and torque would be great, but not gonna happen. It’s cool they still use this engine instead of a 4 cylinder. Glad Honda got rid of the 2.0 T, so it will never be an option for this.
The biggest fail with this truck (something I wish I had known before buying) is that you can't put a full-size spare in that rear compartment. Sure, there's an option to mount one on the inside of the bed, but then you're screwed because you can't have a bedcover.
@@mxd8 I would as it’s only a few months but I’m waiting to see if Honda will copy other vehicles, like giving 2 different 2024 models; one refreshed and one a carry over.
@@HawkeyeRides waiting sucks, but ill wait, then almost pulled the trigger on a white black-edition new 2023 with $3k price drop and 2.9%, but a refresh would obsolete it, thank you for your advice!
Honda engineers done a great job on this truck, the simplicity of the drive train Non turbo engine with the latest VTM AWD system works flawlessly butter smooth, a future hybrid version which I'm not interested in this truck would add weight and you would most likely lose the under the bed truck storage!
How is the 9 speed transmission--The Santa Cruz base model is a decent deal but the expansive one is overpriced as in 40 grand ++ and still a small bed so much better off with a Ridgeline and the Hyundai trans. with the turbo has issues
It drive smooth but they might have a trailsport version so I would wait till it’s confirmed or not before pulling the trigger because that trim will be better than this 👍
@@HawkeyeRides Thanks, i just called about a TRL with 2 grand Honda discount, TRL has the leather interior, sunroof, etc. I might take a look at it tomorrow for a close look my myself, i don't like high pressure. 0-60 in a bit over 6 seconds is PLENTY of power, i have a 2023 Tuscon SEL AWD with the convenience package and that's about 10 seconds but it gets 30-32 strictly highway
I don’t want a digital gauge cluster. I don’t want a fancy infotainment. I want a vehicle that doesn’t take much time or money to keep on the road that is 90/10 split street/off road.
You compare it a lot to the minivan. Does the v6 engine have honda's disastrous cylinder deactivation system which adds mpg but causes spark plug misfires, oil consumption and vibrations? Reviews of new honda 3.5 v6 vehicles seem to gloss over this troublesome feature.
I have a 2006 honda ridgeline which has 92000 miles. I don't like the look of the new ones and do not want any of the cylinder deactivation features of the new models.
@@HawkeyeRides i see. I thought different types of tread pattern tires cause more road noise, not the wheels. I traded in my SC limited in on an HPD super quiet,comfortable and roomy, not to mention all the storage frome,rear,bed and trunk. I miss my SC it was great,lots of tech, cameras and safety features,fast, great ride, just needed more room for a growing family. Plus this dealer sold me my rtl-e hpd package for 41k. And you know how much they msrp... the other Honda dealer in town couldnt come close to it.
It is a combo of both as the wheel is bigger, less meat on the tires. From my personal SUV I have large wheels and when I changed types it helped but nothing like the stock 20 inch. 18 inch or under is really the best for comfort and a quite ride.
Compare it to trucks of similar size and similar amenities. It will make the Ridgeline seem very affordable in comparison. The world has long moved on from the days of loaded $30K trucks.
If you need a full size truck to pull 10,000 for your job site, then sure, don't buy a Ridgeline. But there's a lot of guys out there with a 65k diesel truck sitting in their driveway that they don't use for anything other than rugged shopping mall parking lots.
Some guys need a big truck to tow and some need big trucks to make up for what they lack. Self esteem, courage, confidence, and security. A big truck fills their void in life.
Just picked up a Ridgeline Black Edition a week ago. Drove Tacomas(including X-Runner) since 1998. They were great trucks and I have nothing but love for them. Wanted to experience something else. Did a lot of research on the Ridgeline including several test drives. Very happy with my purchase of this. Looking forward to many years with this Black Edition!
Congratulations 👍
Now you upgraded to the best, there's no going back now.
@@hulkbig1151 That's not even a thought!
Just got a used 21 black edition. Best ride ever imo. Nothing like laying the peddle down and hearing/feeling the v-tech kick in.
Congratulations they are awesome
Long time Toyota Tacoma owner, had many. Love the Ridgeline especially in a black/hpd edition, and it will be my next truck. Fingers crossed they come out with a hybrid or plug-in version.
They are both nice trucks congrats when you take delivery 👍
I wrecked my 2020 ridgeline last week. I will absolutely be getting another one. Great vehicles, I usually have 1000 extra pounds in the bed. So I’ll likely upgrade the brake kit. By far one of my favorite vehicles.
A little bit higher tow capacity would be nice too
Sorry to hear that, hope everyone was ok. They are awesome trucks and I agree, I would like to see 6-7500 lbs then it would be near perfect 👍
Test drove one and liked it, just not a peppy as my fullsize and hwy cruise lack of low rpm torque could not maintain speed on grades like my fullsize. Ridgeline needs 3.0T option, 1.5" factory lift/leveling kit option, integrated trailer brake controller option and it would be perfect. I could really get used to the dual action tailgate, in bed trunk and audio. Here is hoping for 2024!
That would be a great package
They won’t put a turbo on it. It will bring cost of it up 10k more.
have a '22 RTL-E..love it..needs pano roof, auto folding side mirrors, heads up display , full center console armrest, and lift, hybrid version, which would make it perfect!!!!
Agreed 👍
Thank you for watching let us know what you think in the comments and give a 👍.
Very nice truck. Wish I could have one. When I look at the price of new ones I fall back in love with my old f150. AKA yard dog. Also I'm not 100% sure but I think Honda still uses a timing belt on the V6 that would worry me.
That is correct Sam they still use them and normally you want to service that before or around 100k to keep the engine from having it break. Great everyday trucks but that F150 is 👌, more towing and can hold heavy loads. Enjoy the games today 👍.
“ Yard Dog” I love it and going to use it!!
I have a 2018 Black Edition best vehicle I've ever owned in my life and man have I owned a lot of vehicles, enjoyed your review very informative. Probably won't trade till they do a little bit more of a change with exterior and interior but definitely going to stick with the Ridgeline.
They are awesome 👍
Really want to get this or the new Colorado. I really like the colorado design wise over the Ridgeline but you can’t beat the reliability of a Honda.
They are both nice, I like the Ridgeline because of the total value that comes from this truck 👍
Hawkeye, question, is the the Ridgeline front passenger seat powered?
Yes
This is like a car on the road. Very comfortable when I test drove it. Shocked at how big the trunk was. Very little depreciation and it tows 5000lbs. Extremely reliable and surprisingly quick acceleration. The bed sound system was great. $50,000ish after all is done for top trims RTLE and Black here in SW USA. Unfortunately, the Nissan
Frontier Pro 4X beats this with better capabilities at the same price.
I like the Frontier, they did a great job reworking it. The Ridgeline is an awesome vehicle with more storage due to the truck under the bed.
I’m 6’ tall and could nearly close the trunk in the bed on me. With the trunk full of iced drinks and the bed sound system, you’d have the perfect tailgate setup. There is a 2” lift kit available for this and it looks awesome with the bigger tires. This mod has no impact on the front safety sensors
Outdated cluster gauge and software looks very 2009. Needs a total refresh on the interior.
I agree it needs a digital or new rework 👍
But it works and all the others don’t !
Simplicity is proven to be better in terms of reliability compared to technology or over engineered cluster
Give 2 shits on the inside of the vehicle the engine and trans and overall mechanical is what matters
@@Spc_Garza agreed. Have a 2011 acura mdx. Analog guages. Minimal liquid crystal display for radio. That's it and that's the way I like it.
Great vehicle but needs the TLS turbo 6, pano roof from the pilot, updated infotainment, and towing capacity up to 6.5K lbs. It would then be perfect.
Good point 👍
I'm downsizing this year from a Ram 1500, and the Ridgeline is definitely the front runner on my list. Hate that exterior color, but I loved the vid.
It’s not everyone’s fav but great trucks 👍
@HawkeyeRides there's a lot I love about it, especially the dual action tailgate. It's perfect for guys who want some extra traction in bad weather and don't do a lot of hauling or towing. That in-bed storage and basically no wheel wells? Game changers for sure.
Also, I agree with everyone here on your comment regarding the interior. It's vastly outdated and desperately needs a refresh.
Honda has something that is nice but could be epic. 2.5” taller ground clearance, 4 inches wider for beast look…. Locking storage in the bed sides…. Timing chain already… lol and a bullet proof hybrid engine…. 30 plus mpg. It could be done.
That would be awesome 👍
Timing chain would be a huge upgrade for engine. Save lots of money on maintenance and headaches.
Things to improve are timing chain. A timing belt on these need to be changed 60-100k, depending on how hard you push the truck. If that belt snaps, the engine is done. It’s an interference engine. 2k service to change it every 60-100 k. A pain for those driving a lot.
Interior needs a refresh for top trim levels. A HPD is 50k. Interior is lackluster for that price.
Ride height should be increased as option too. Some dealers will add it though.
9 speed Transmission is crappy. Needs the new 10 speed Honda has.
A bump in HP and torque would be great, but not gonna happen. It’s cool they still use this engine instead of a 4 cylinder. Glad Honda got rid of the 2.0 T, so it will never be an option for this.
Great points 👍
Nice truck but hope it gets a front end update next year and gloss black interior has to go!
I agree 👍
The biggest fail with this truck (something I wish I had known before buying) is that you can't put a full-size spare in that rear compartment. Sure, there's an option to mount one on the inside of the bed, but then you're screwed because you can't have a bedcover.
That’s a good point
You could always weld up a swing out or mount one on a roof rack system. There is always a way...
Put one in the trunk
This color is niceeee!
I liked it too 👍
when will they release the new redesigned 2024 version?
In the 3rd quarter but Honda hasn’t set a official date 👍
@@HawkeyeRides should i wait? should be a better front end? thanks
@@mxd8 I would as it’s only a few months but I’m waiting to see if Honda will copy other vehicles, like giving 2 different 2024 models; one refreshed and one a carry over.
@@HawkeyeRides waiting sucks, but ill wait, then almost pulled the trigger on a white black-edition new 2023 with $3k price drop and 2.9%, but a refresh would obsolete it, thank you for your advice!
Maybe not be the fastest of those other trucks you mentioned but it damn well looks the best.
They are nice 👍
Excellent truck
I agree 👍
Honda is the best!
They make great vehicles
Good review... More legroom and bring back the shifter!
I agree 👍
It will get the interior from new Pilot.
Honda engineers done a great job on this truck, the simplicity of the drive train Non turbo engine with the latest VTM AWD system works flawlessly butter smooth, a future hybrid version which I'm not interested in this truck would add weight and you would most likely lose the under the bed truck storage!
Great points
Not to sound weird but how tall are you? As a tall person, I always have a fear that vehicles like this are too tight to fit in comfortably.
6’3 👍
Great Review
Thank you
How is the 9 speed transmission--The Santa Cruz base model is a decent deal but the expansive one is overpriced as in 40 grand ++ and still a small bed so much better off with a Ridgeline and the Hyundai trans. with the turbo has issues
It drive smooth but they might have a trailsport version so I would wait till it’s confirmed or not before pulling the trigger because that trim will be better than this 👍
@@HawkeyeRides Thanks, i just called about a TRL with 2 grand Honda discount, TRL has the leather interior, sunroof, etc. I might take a look at it tomorrow for a close look my myself, i don't like high pressure. 0-60 in a bit over 6 seconds is PLENTY of power, i have a 2023 Tuscon SEL AWD with the convenience package and that's about 10 seconds but it gets 30-32 strictly highway
I don’t want a digital gauge cluster. I don’t want a fancy infotainment. I want a vehicle that doesn’t take much time or money to keep on the road that is 90/10 split street/off road.
This is the vehicle for you 👍
You compare it a lot to the minivan. Does the v6 engine have honda's disastrous cylinder deactivation system which adds mpg but causes spark plug misfires, oil consumption and vibrations? Reviews of new honda 3.5 v6 vehicles seem to gloss over this troublesome feature.
As long as you service the vehicle correctly it shouldn’t have too many problems and it did not have the deactivation system
Anyone have issues if water can get into the trunk space in the bed?
Honda has a seal around the cover but I’m sure it could but it shouldn’t for a long time. It also has a drain plug 👍
Wireless carplay?
No
www.hondainfocenter.com/2023/Ridgeline/Feature-Guide/Interior-Features/Ridgeline-Audio-and-Connectivity-Systems/
@@HawkeyeRidesguess with navigation and an aux port they didn't design the infotainment around our cellphones which is kinda a plus in my opinion.
I thought it has the same powertrain as the Honda Pilot.
The new pilot has 5 more hp and a 10 speed auto
Nice truck
I agree
whoelse bought this in california? anyone can tell me how much usually the tax is for this truck?
What is the going price they are asking over on your side
@@HawkeyeRides for the sport 41k
Why does HONDA put those cranberryish looking seats in the “black edition?”
They should have Black Edition badging instead but it’s part of that package.
It’s nice, but I still like the first generation better.
That is a good point
I have a 2006 honda ridgeline which has 92000 miles. I don't like the look of the new ones and do not want any of the cylinder deactivation features of the new models.
Needs Head up display and a real gear shifter, not those buttons...no idea why Honda still uses them!
I agree 👍
transmission and dash the oly thing holding this truck back from being mainstream
Great points, I agree about the dash and it would be nice for a quicker tranny 👍
3:33 🤨
It’s a v6, not a turbo 4 cylinder so it’s a bad boy with hp and torque 👍
those wheels are noisy? 🤔🤔🤔
Interior road noise, larger wheels bring in more exterior sound and alter ride quality.
@@HawkeyeRides i see. I thought different types of tread pattern tires cause more road noise, not the wheels. I traded in my SC limited in on an HPD super quiet,comfortable and roomy, not to mention all the storage frome,rear,bed and trunk. I miss my SC it was great,lots of tech, cameras and safety features,fast, great ride, just needed more room for a growing family. Plus this dealer sold me my rtl-e hpd package for 41k. And you know how much they msrp... the other Honda dealer in town couldnt come close to it.
It is a combo of both as the wheel is bigger, less meat on the tires. From my personal SUV I have large wheels and when I changed types it helped but nothing like the stock 20 inch. 18 inch or under is really the best for comfort and a quite ride.
Too expensive even if it’s the highest trim level.
This is the pricing for new vehicles
Compare it to trucks of similar size and similar amenities. It will make the Ridgeline seem very affordable in comparison. The world has long moved on from the days of loaded $30K trucks.
Inflation is here for good now. Things will go higher in a year too.
All vehicles have increased
Better than Chevy in all respects except towing…
Honda makes a nice truck 👍
$47 K! 😂
👍
Really small vehicle for little wee men.
I don’t understand
If you need a full size truck to pull 10,000 for your job site, then sure, don't buy a Ridgeline. But there's a lot of guys out there with a 65k diesel truck sitting in their driveway that they don't use for anything other than rugged shopping mall parking lots.
90% all around truck. No major recalls. Actually will last.
Some guys need a big truck to tow and some need big trucks to make up for what they lack. Self esteem, courage, confidence, and security. A big truck fills their void in life.
Halogen head and tail lights in 2023 ?!?
Yep