Perfect tires on Rigy to get slipped off the hill in a ditch and kiss the trees lol, and looks like such a bad ground clearance for these roads, it needs at least cheap 3" spacers lift and awesome tires then i would take it there if it was my truck.
I’d have a Ridgeline. They serve a purpose, and that is to transport you in more comfort than a traditional truck, while still offering a load bed for trips to the hardware store etc. And that AWD system is clearly good enough to tackle most of what other trucks will do anyway. Plus, fit a suspension spacer lift kit and some All-Terrain tyres and it’d be highly capable off-road. Don’t get why people hate on these. 🤷♂️
These guys always include the Ridgeline in their test which is awesome for comparison….and they always come away impressed and make a strong case to buy the Honda for most people. I had a 2019 lifted Tacoma manual for comparison and am now buying the Ridgeline
@@riva2model64 I agree. I've only ever owned regular cab, long bed, no BS, work trucks. Do you know how hard it is to find good reviews on regular cab, long bed trucks?? They do all of these towing and hauling reviews with decked out crew-cab trucks when its the regular cabs that tow and haul the most! That's like hiring Mitch Trubisky to run your kid's quarterback camp when Tom Brady is available. Sure, it'll do the job, but not nearly as well.
@@halflife103I imagine it’s just because it’s the oldest model of the three? Like Rangers have been around longer than the other two? Only thing I can think of.
Can you please share more about your lifted Pilot? Did you go with the dealer J Sport option or full aftermarket? I’m looking to do something to my 2nd-gen.
I love these guys. These guys love Jeeps. I love Jeeps. There’s no way the Ridgeline was getting a fair shake. Giving credit where credit is due... the Honda did amazing.
My buddy got 2" front/1" rear lift kit and oversized AT tires on his Ridgeline.. It off roads EXCEPTIONALLY well. Excellent fuel economy, towing and super quiet, comfy and roomy interior.
As a proud owner of a 2004 Pilot, Hondas can be 'froaders too. Full stock, I've taken it through mud pits. Road tires. Also, I have been driving down the interstate in a sleet storm, and felt the VTM-4 system save my life repeatedly. AWD FTW, it just needs a fair shake.
I just bought a 2020 Ridgeline. I don’t off-road, I don’t tow anything, and I needed something with decent gas mileage as I drive an hour one way for work. I needed something for trips to the lumber yard, Home Depot, and yard work. No point in over compensating like 90% of most trucks owners and overpaying for things I don’t need. This truck is perfect for me and I love it
I have a gen1 ridgeline with a 2inch lift and falken at3w tires(makes a world of a difference).. seeing you guys give a ridgeline credit for alot of things makes me happy! Keep it up! Always watching you guys!
A lift on a UNIBODY? Why not get a real midsize truck..in design /features i mean. I've got a new Ranger XLT FX4 crew cab (black on black). 9k mis so far & love this truck! Phenomenal powertrain/refined/tons of tech/features. 300hp/310lbft TQ - 22mpg *average*. Best truck I've owned yet. Recommend a test drive!
A guy near me drives a gen 1 RLine that is lifted and I absolutely love the way it looks. If you don't mind saying, what is involved for your RLine to be lifted?
Chip LeVan ifs basically just a spacer kits.. bigger tires and some trimming... honestly has not affected my mpg or comfort and i didt go too agressive on the AT TIRES
FYI: I had $$ down a year ago on both a Nissan and Ranger (waiting for the 1st to appear). I saw this video and my local dealer was rolling off a Ridgeline. I was in the right place at the right time and I haven't looked back. We camp and pull a trailor routinely, and I use as a backup truck for landscaping. I love and tbh never really considered it before.
You guys always ask what mode you should put the Ridgeline in. I suggest you open the manual and see what the modes actually do. For what you guys do you need sand mode. It puts 70% power to the rear wheels and locks the rear diff at slow speeds, but you never use that mode.
Mike McLean I offroad my Honda Passport quote a bit. I actually find Mud Mode is the best for mostly all offroad situations. It splits the torque 40 front, 60 rear and has a much more controllable throttle map. It lets you crawl when the pedal is lightly pushed, but will also let you give it the beans when you press a little harder. In sand mode, a tap of the pedal is waaaaaaaay too sensitive. Hope you find the tip useful!
Actually these guys did a tfl slip test on the Honda pilot and in that video Tommy even mentioned that sand mode is the most aggressive mode but I guess he forgot about it in this video
Ajaya Kumar I 100% agree, sand mode is the most aggressive, but it’s not the best for the terrain they tackled. They were in the right mode. Mud or normal is the best for most offroad situations. Sand is great for actually sand.
Thank you for including a Honda Ridgeline in this video! It really helped me make my buying decisions 👍 A two inch lift and off road tires would work great with Honda’s AWD system
Yep, there are videos of a lifted Passport with off-road tires on UA-cam, and a lifted Ridgeline with off-road tires should be comparable. Some of the suspension components are beefier on the Ridgeline than that of the Passport and Pilot as well.
@@1MarkKeller I own a Passport and I’ve been waiting for a more off road worthy Ridgeline, right now the Passport has 0.5” more clearance. And suspension components are interchangeable across all vehicles based on the Odyssey chassis including the MDX
The ridge line is that truck that becomes more and more desirable every year with all its awesome features, but you will never buy it because you don’t wanna lose your man card
The 2021 refresh makes the Ridgeline look a little more manly now. And if you put on a 2 inch lift kit with beefier tires ... I think most "truck" guys (not the super hardcore ones, but everyone else) would give it a serious look.
@@jasonbranning7071 I got one, too. I buy a vehicle for my needs, not other people's. With the guys saying it's not a "real" truck, that's just the insecurity talking. The Ridgeline is the right truck for what I do. When I go off-pavement, it's usually to take an un-maintained rough dirt road up to a desert trailhead. I've been doing a lot of hiking in areas that I tried to get to in my crossover-SUV and it didn't make it. It's been fun to revisit those areas in a vehicle that's much better suited and gets up there. I'm not saying that the Ridgeline can hang with the crazy hardcore off-roaders but it's been working great for what I do. I've been impressed with some of the hills that I've gotten up in the Ridgeline. I had a couple of failures and it worked great after putting it in sand mode, so I need to keep that in mind.
Ezra Redgwell he said it’s one of the best, he never it’s the best. Subaru symmetrical all wheel drive is the best in my opinion, followed by Honda SH all-wheel-drive.
Great review. I am a Ridgeline owner but like all 3 of these. Best off-road, Gladiator without a doubt. Good for fun. Best on-road/street, Ridgeline. Good for family and weekend warriors. Best of both, the Ranger. Good for a work truck.
The Jeep is really good on road too, it's got Ram's new rear suspension setup. That plus the slightly longer wheel base give it a nice ride. Now if only you could get with it with Hemi out of the 1500.
I know, right. They had to force that ranger up those rocks after multiple attempts just to make a point that it was so much better than the ridgeline. Besides, for 99.9% of the people that own the fully loaded ranger they won't even get it dirty, pull a trailer, and will only haul some mulch. I'll take the Honda as a daily driver.
No, no, no. The song is "Summertime" ... Two miles an hour so everybody sees you there's an air of love and of happiness and this is the Fresh Prince's new definition of summer madness! Possibly my all-time favorite song! Thanks for all you guys do!!
Take my 19 Ridgeline on muddy , rutted logging roads in Maine all fall and never had issues. Put Nokia’s Rotiva AT tires in larger size and pulls though mud holes just fine. It doesn’t have the ground clearance of the Gladiator but still does fine if you pick your lines. Owned full size 4 X 4’s prior to this and don,t see this as being any less a truck than they were. Besides, I will take the ride and longevity over harsh ride and maintenance bills any day of the week. As they say, don’t knock it until you tried it.
Any downsides? Ive got a Subaru Forester now but I miss having a truck. I’m 6’1 the Tacoma has a cabin that is too small for me and the tundra is too big. This video has me looking into the ridge line. I also commute to work a good bit.
@@CLP2102 I appreciate it! Not going to lie, I was looking into getting a full size truck again with a big beefy engine but I don’t need that for what I do. Going to look more into these and see if works out for me. Thanks
Great video as usual! To summarize; the Ridgeline is the cheapest by far, most comfortable, best tailgate/bed, did excellent with these off-road tests (even with stock all season tires) until you came close to a tree, except a little less ground clearance? Not to mention that 99.99% of people will never take their $40k+ truck on a road like the one you're testing on. With the price difference, could lift the Ridgeline, buy some really nice AT tires, and still be cheaper. For the rest of us, leave it as is and have the perfect commuting truck. Sounds like the obvious winner to me.
I agree. My last four All Wheel drive vehicles have never been off road but once, nor have I had to change a tire in on any in the past 15 years. My air pump will usually get me to the tire shop or at least home if it's too late.
Yeah, but I'd guess they are all loaner trucks from the manufacturers... You'd think that when they receive a load request from TFL, they'd take 15minutes and put decent tires on them
Love the Honda truck!! I think you guys should buy one and modify it just enough for "off road" worthiness! Also, with the 9 speed trans, if you lock in 1st gear, it has an incredibly low craw ratio! want to see you guys do an Off road Ridgeline!! What a great video it would be... you know... skid plate, bigger wheels/tires, exhaust... maybe beefier axles ect...
To be fair, they're using the stock tires to compare offroad performance you'd get from the factory. They've talked about tires enough to know the impact they make. However, I would definitely be curious to see how well a Ridgeline could do on AT's or MT's
@@lawnmowerdude Honda doesn't need to compete with any other brand for "off-roading" Honda didn't make the ridgeline to be a serious off-roader, it doesn't need to be, and everyone knows the mission of this truck and why you would buy one.
Very helpful video. I own a Jeep TJ wrangler and have driven the new gladiator. Your video has helped me to make a decision on my next vehicle purchase. The gladiator cabin is too confining for me and the ride is typical Jeep. I’m like the vast majority of Jeep owners who seldom get to real off roading. I’ll just keep my old TJ and go for the Honda as a perfect all around vehicle and daily driver for comfort, truck bed and overall reliability. And I’ve never owned a Honda vehicle before but I’ll be looking to get a Ridgeline soon.. Thanks!
Honda AWD is the best. I had an 05 Pilot and we were out four-wheeling in mud with an S-10 pickup and it got stuck like Chuck in a second with good all terrains on it too. The VTM4 system is bad ass too. Locks the rear diff solid up to 20 mph. Put some decent skins on those rims and the Ridgeline will go anywhere. It always amazed me that Honda never thought their system was worthy of off-roading the manuals all say don't take it offroad but they literally are only lacking those skid plates.
Can you do Ford AWD Transit vs. Mercedes 4x4 Sprinter on this trail? That would be epic for people looking to choose which one for adventurous van life. PLEASE!!!
Ok so not a fan of the ridgeline at all, but did you see how instant the awd system was at stopping the slipping wheel? I'm super impressed. With a lift and some underbody protection honda could have a serious competitor in the midsize PU category
The Ridgeline always gets ragged one and to be honest, the second gen Ridgeline is made more for the average city person but the gen one is exceptional to say the least. I have an 08 and am at 200k miles and have hauled trailers, sheep, a steer, gravel, sheep, hay, a ton of pellets, wood, coal, climbed fire roads, gone camping, fishing and carry all my tools in the trunk. The vehicle is amazing.
It's front biased able to send 70% to rear vectoring axle, they also using it for steering aid. But mostly for road and light offroad use. I wish they would put this in some better offroad and crawl capable vehicle
I owned two ridgelines and in deep snow they were unstoppable. I’ve owned two lancruisers(91 and 93) and currently drive an FJ (14) and a 1794 Tundra. It performed as good if not better than all of them. That and they both were trouble free.
7 - 2011 Tundra Crew Max 5.7L 4x4 TRD w/Dual TRD Exhaust - This truck was a Beast…it sounded GREAT (would always make my daughters giggle with its V8 marvelous sound under an overpass). 😀 Again, I put Michelin LTX M/S on right away. It never got stuck, but we also never really tested it too much off pavement…BUT it actually, ahem I cannot believe I’m saying this out loud, but it’s true…it had too much power. I know, I know everyone is thinking or asking…isn’t that a good thing? Are you crazy? Well, not if you need to punch the gas to get out of the way, or need to make a move in traffic and the streets/pavement is wet or slightly slick in any way. For me it really was a safety issue, as I had a hill getting out of my work (where a person really needs max grip and go, otherwise a person could get hit). Plus, even when it was bone dry, a person could hear it “clawing at the asphalt” with the rear window down (it was constantly cutting its own power to regain traction). So, again a person had to anticipate to switch on 4WD before a person needed it (because a person cannot just turn it on at the top of the hill, a person has to turn ON the 4WD long enough beforehand to engage and be effective)…but by then…it was usually too late. Also, the 5.7L pretty much got 12.8-13.2 MPG except one time it got 19.1 MPG all freeway (otherwise on the highway it would normally get 17.5-18.4. It was also very tall…again, not as practical for 90% of our needs (and yes I’d installed a QuickStep to get in and out of the bed). 8 - 2013 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab TRD 4x4 - We had a lot of problems with this truck, 3 rear ends in it, my 2013 Toyota Avalon also had lots of Quality Control issues squeaks and rattles...those things drive me NUTS (both our 2013 Toyota’s seemed very Un-Toyota like). Our Toyota Dealer was great, but Toyota Corp treated us horrible…at that point I’d purchased $385K in Toyotas to date (cars not listed here). Anyway, the Taco was noisy, uncomfortable seating position, back seat was way too small except for our two Miniature Dachshunds (and they are small). 😉 Then it was the same thing again with a traditional 4x4 transfer case…by the time a person needs traction it’s too late to engage the 4x4 system for well over 90% of real world driving (at least for us and our needs)…again, situations where a person needs to get out of the way…or at an incline/hill needed to merge out into traffic. Plus our Taco only averaged 12.4 MPG…we thought it would do much better than our 2011 Tundra for MPG (it was a big ole NOPE for us). The Taco was more nimble and sporty to drive into corners…it felt more like my 2008 Toyota Highlander (which I did not list in detail here). I had a 2007 RAV4 V6 at one point, as well...and just for the record I’ve had 33 cars, trucks and SUVs overall…I’m a car nut. 😜🤪😎 9 - 2017 Honda Ridgeline RTS AWD - We bought it for $33,440…again I took OFF the IMHO terrible stock Firestone tires…and you guessed it…I put on Michelin LTX M/S. Honestly, we finally feel like we found the Goldilocks “Truck”, at least for us (its within 1/2 inch in width to our 2011 Tundra, but it’s way easier to maneuver and park). A person can punch the throttle Full Power, even if the road is wet, or if a person is on a pile of leaves in the Fall, or Snow on the road…and this sucker just puts the power down and moves (it does NOT cut power, if figures out how to put the power down). And if a person wants some serious fun, switch it to “Sand Mode”…this turns it into much more than a fast truck…it’s like a “Ridiculous Mode”…it will launch from the line like a Lion after a gazelle. Sand Mode moves the Drive By Wire (DBW) throttle to borderline “Bat Out of Hell”; the transmission Shifting Map is way higher; the AWD goes to Max Rear Bias; and AWD Vectoring gets Turned OFF (just like ‘Mud Mode’); and the VSA dials up (all of which makes for a thrill, if others are interested). There is a great chart on the modes I found…here is the link jalopnik.com/heres-how-the-2017-honda-ridgelines-trick-off-roading-m-1775651261. Just super simple modes instead of how we used to have to premeditate turning on a 4x4 and/or choosing 4WD Hi or Lo (with all my other trucks we had NEVER used 4WD Low). But again that is just my/our personal experience, because I know others need or “want” that ability. Now that I’m older...I think maybe I was "conditioned" to think think that I needed something because that’s what I’d certainly heard and been told by the vast majority of peers and articles from my first 50 years of life. Anyway, the Ridgeline is super quite…it gets 26.3 MPG on the highway (very consistent and again, I always calculate at the pump for all my vehicles). It gets 18.1 MPG most other times. I’m 6’-5” and I can sit in the back seat or passenger seat and not hit my elbows against the driver, nor do my knees hit against the dash either. Sorry to say, but I have good friends with new F-150’s and my knees touch their dash when I sit in the passenger seat (but again I’m long legged at 6’-5”). And I’ve owned all the brands, except a Nissan Truck. But anyway, for us, the Ridgeline bed it actually very useful with being able to reach over the edge…my wife uses it WITHOUT having to hook up a trailer. Our Taco had a 6ft bed, but we can get way more in the Ridgeline (it's much wider). We've had 27 boxes in the bed, bed trunk, and back seat (22"x16"x14" Boxes - 9 in the back seat, 2 in the trunk and 16 in the bed). And yes it pulls the Malibu Response LX Competition Ski Boat w/a tandem axle trailer with no problem loaded to 4,500 lbs of camping gear. So for us, we simply love it…it’s now the longest SUV/Truck that we have ever owned (besides the ’99 2WD 4Runner that had gotten totaled). The way it can send torque around to any wheel…it has never sat there and spun just one wheel for more than a few moments when it’s been off onto old logging roads in Oregon (for us it’s done everything we needed with good Michelin tires). Again, I sold our Firestones on Craig’s List with 191 miles on them. So the Michelin LTX M/S really did not cost much more...to get a much better tire that works for our needs and use…MUCH better than the stock Firestones! I know this is a novel…but I hope it helps someone else coming from a detailed perfectionist who appreciates and notices lots of the lil’ details that make up an entire “experience”. Everyone stay safe out there!
I’ve been really tempted to trade my Ridgeline for a Wrangler. But after watching this video I think I’ll just hang onto the Honda for a while, after all how often due I go off road. Thanks for your video.
Gen1 Honda Ridgeline is one hell of a truck. She got a good workout yesterday launching and pulling out our 24' Ranger Tritoon on the fantastic weather.. water was down at the lake so the ramp was a lot steeper than usual; so much so we actually had to get the back tires in the water to get the trailer far enough down to take out.. yikes, but engaged the locking rear diff (yes, Gen 1 had that!!) and she climbed right up. They're real trucks guys (coming from a former Ram and Jeep owner, love those too btw). And yeah Honda please add an offroad package!
Yer absolutely right...it was never designed as an offroad vehicle....meant for the road ..towing smaller trailers..pickup drywall etc. I Take a 2000lb trailer to Algonquin on regular basis...don't notice it...carried 15 sheets of drywall = very handy. Handles great and comfortable.
I'm on my second Ridgeline, pulling a 3000# Minnie Drop. I've taken the first one (2009 model) over 12,000ft passes in Colorado. It's perfect for camping. My new one has the 9-speed transmission, which is even better for towing. No mountains yet, but the MPGs are much better. I've hauled 1,300# of cement with it, and have taken it through some pretty rough trails (sand mode is best for a pseudo-rear-locking situation)... but I certainly wouldn't choose it as an off-road vehicle. If that was my primary activity, I would shop for a Tacoma or Gladiator.
I pull an 18 foot coleman bunkhouse. It sleeps 5, has all the amenities, and weighs 4100 fully loaded and tanks full. Leaves enough for the family, dogs, and gear not kept in the trailer. Still get 13mpg towing.
There is a UA-camr (Asian guy) that has a modified Ridgeline (lifted and better tires...) You should see if he would loan you his for these trails. I would love to see how much of a difference it would make. Plus what would be more expensive to modify, Ridgeline vs. competition?
Ray, I think you are talking of JonDZ and his Honda Passport. I just watched his group and there was a Ridgeline in it. Fun to watch the 'JonDZ' group do off-road with Honda, Subaru,....
Ray, I think you are talking of JonDZ and his Honda Passport. I just watched his group and there was a Ridgeline in it. Fun to watch the 'JonDZ' group do off-road with Honda, Subaru,....
The Ridgeline continues to impress. For most suburban uses it is ideal. If you really WORK your truck then you would need to step up. For all the rest the Ridgeline is very nice.
I sure appreciate the TFL guy's and their reviews...thanks for all you boys do!!! I’ve personally owned nine (9) SUV & Trucks, all purchased new (except 2)…1 Chevy Suburban; 1 Used Ford F-150; 1 Dodge Cummins 2500; 1 Used Toyota 2WD 4Runner (yes 2WD); 4 New Toyotas (3 Tundra’s & 1 Taco); and 1 Honda. Tires and whatever the 4x4/AWD system is makes a MASSIVE difference from everything I’ve observed over the many years (still young at 51)! Read on if you’re a detail person who likes novels, and I hope I don’t give anyone any eyestrain, but rather helpful information…as I’ve owned them all (excepts for a Nissan product, but I have a friend that owns a last gen Titan). 😉 Listed In Order of our Purchases - Each SUV/Truck - 1 - ’94 Suburban 2500 - w/a 454 7.4L & 4.10 Rear End. I got stuck multiple times because it would sit and spin 1 wheel (ticked me off when I’d thought I bought the biggest baddest family hauler ever when I was in my 20’s). Chevy bought it Back because it had many other problems, having nothing to do with the 4x4 system. It was literally in the shop 4 months out of the 11 months we had it (34 Service Records)…and I knew 4 other business owners that had theirs bought back that same year, too (so we opted to get our money back rather than chance another lemon). Plus, it got 9 MPG no matter what we did…well it did get 13.3 MPG (that was a one time trip that was all down hill from Lassen to Redding, CA ). 😉 2 - Used ’92 Ford F-150 - that we bought after the Suburban fiasco…the Ford was the complete opposite of the Suburban...it was the 4.9L Straight Six, 5-Speed Manual, and it had 92K miles. It was really great util it hit 103,000 miles…then every month it was about a $1,000 repair (electrical problems, computer problems and etc). It would get about 14-15.2 MPG. Anyway, it also would only spin one (1) wheel. 3 - ’97 Dodge Cummins 2500 - We loved it until it needed a new transmission at 32,000 miles (it never shifted right after that). This was also back when Diesel fuel was actually cheaper (and no extra cost for the BlueDEF stuff that is another expense to Diesel trucks now days). Our ’97 Cummins got 21-22 MPG everywhere we went…and it got 16 MPG pulling a Malibu Response Competition Ski Boat. We put Michelin LTX M/S on it, and its 4x4 System was MUCH better than either our previous Chevy or Ford…but still a person had to think ahead. Meaning a person could not just punch the throttle or a person might be sliding on wet pavement, or on leaves on the road on a Fall day….the system would bind up…and it was huge, heavy (7,200 lbs empty) and tall…not very easy to get a washing machine up in the bed to take to a repair shop. But the Cummins felt sooooo cheap to operate, its 36 gallon tank went 800 miles (were the Suburban would empty 3/4 of its 42 gallon tank just to go to the lake and back...ouch). 😳 4 - Used ’99 Toyota 4Runner (2WD) w/86K Miles…it worked great for 6 years before it got totaled by our son. It was driven mostly by my wife (who grew up with horses and is big with gardening…and dirt in general, she is awesome). 😇 Anyway, I put Michelin LTX M/S tires on it right away…and it actually did better than all our previous 4x4s (serious it was lite weight, fairly easy to turn around). I personally found it uncomfortable to ride in (I was glad it was not my daily driver). Yet, it would get 22 MPG going over the Cascades from the Willamette Valley to the High Deserts of Oregon…but mostly it got 16 mpg (again keep in mind it was only a 2WD). 5 - 2000 Tundra Access Cab 4x4 - We bought this shortly after buying the used 2WD 4Runner above…I put ‘E’ Load Rated Michelin LTX M/S, and it never got stuck...but the 2000 Tundra was just too small in the back seat with a growing family. 6 - 2005 Tundra Double Cab 4x4 - Again, I put ‘E’ Load Rated Michelin LTX M/S…this truck was notably wider in the cab and the bed, as it was 4 inches wider than previous Tundras (much more inline with other “Full Sized Trucks”, the first for Toyota). Anyway, it never got stuck, BUT I HATED the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) it would come on for every lil’ thing. It was a BAD Nanny…if a ‘Road Cornering Sign’ said 25 MPH…it would NOT let you go 26 MPH around the corner without hitting the ABS brakes making thing kind of dangerous at times (I really did hate that, and it could NOT be turned OFF). Best MPGs it ever got was 19.8 MPG on a road trip around Oregon were we were off road / off pavement at least 50 miles each day. Other than that, it averaged 15.1 MPG (always hand calculated at the pump). (The Paul Harvey "The Rest of the Story" is below...)
@@cdbuiles Hi Daniel...my novel was so long I had to post a 2nd entry. 😉 But now I can paste my Paul Harvey "The Rest of the Story" here below. Blessings...and stay safe! 7 - 2011 Tundra Crew Max 5.7L 4x4 TRD w/Dual TRD Exhaust - This truck was a Beast…it sounded GREAT (would always make my daughters giggle with its V8 marvelous sound under an overpass). 😀 Again, I put Michelin LTX M/S on right away. It never got stuck, but we also never really tested it too much off pavement…BUT it actually, ahem I cannot believe I’m saying this out loud, but it’s true…it had too much power. I know, I know everyone is thinking or asking…isn’t that a good thing? Are you crazy? Well, not if you need to punch the gas to get out of the way, or need to make a move in traffic and the streets/pavement is wet or slightly slick in any way. For me it really was a safety issue, as I had a hill getting out of my work (where a person really needs max grip and go, otherwise a person could get hit). Plus, even when it was bone dry, a person could hear it “clawing at the asphalt” with the rear window down (it was constantly cutting its own power to regain traction). So, again a person had to anticipate to switch on 4WD before a person needed it (because a person cannot just turn it on at the top of the hill, a person has to turn ON the 4WD long enough beforehand to engage and be effective)…but by then…it was usually too late. Also, the 5.7L pretty much got 12.8-13.2 MPG except one time it got 19.1 MPG all freeway (otherwise on the highway it would normally get 17.5-18.4. It was also very tall…again, not as practical for 90% of our needs (and yes I’d installed a QuickStep to get in and out of the bed). 8 - 2013 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab TRD 4x4 - We had a lot of problems with this truck, 3 rear ends in it, my 2013 Toyota Avalon also had lots of Quality Control issues squeaks and rattles...those things drive me NUTS (both our 2013 Toyota’s seemed very Un-Toyota like). Our Toyota Dealer was great, but Toyota Corp treated us horrible…at that point I’d purchased $385K in Toyotas to date (cars not listed here). Anyway, the Taco was noisy, uncomfortable seating position, back seat was way too small except for our two Miniature Dachshunds (and they are small). 😉 Then it was the same thing again with a traditional 4x4 transfer case…by the time a person needs traction it’s too late to engage the 4x4 system for well over 90% of real world driving (at least for us and our needs)…again, situations where a person needs to get out of the way…or at an incline/hill needed to merge out into traffic. Plus our Taco only averaged 12.4 MPG…we thought it would do much better than our 2011 Tundra for MPG (it was a big ole NOPE for us). The Taco was more nimble and sporty to drive into corners…it felt more like my 2008 Toyota Highlander (which I did not list in detail here). I had a 2007 RAV4 V6 at one point, as well...and just for the record I’ve had 33 cars, trucks and SUVs overall…I’m a car nut. 😜🤪😎 9 - 2017 Honda Ridgeline RTS AWD - We bought it for $33,440…again I took OFF the IMHO terrible stock Firestone tires…and you guessed it…I put on Michelin LTX M/S. Honestly, we finally feel like we found the Goldilocks “Truck”, at least for us (its within 1/2 inch in width to our 2011 Tundra, but it’s way easier to maneuver and park). A person can punch the throttle Full Power, even if the road is wet, or if a person is on a pile of leaves in the Fall, or Snow on the road…and this sucker just puts the power down and moves (it does NOT cut power, if figures out how to put the power down). And if a person wants some serious fun, switch it to “Sand Mode”…this turns it into much more than a fast truck…it’s like a “Ridiculous Mode”…it will launch from the line like a Lion after a gazelle. Sand Mode moves the Drive By Wire (DBW) throttle to borderline “Bat Out of Hell”; the transmission Shifting Map is way higher; the AWD goes to Max Rear Bias; and AWD Vectoring gets Turned OFF (just like ‘Mud Mode’); and the VSA dials up (all of which makes for a thrill, if others are interested). There is a great chart on the modes I found…here is the link jalopnik.com/heres-how-the-2017-honda-ridgelines-trick-off-roading-m-1775651261. Just super simple modes instead of how we used to have to premeditate turning on a 4x4 and/or choosing 4WD Hi or Lo (with all my other trucks we had NEVER used 4WD Low). But again that is just my/our personal experience, because I know others need or “want” that ability. Now that I’m older...I think maybe I was "conditioned" to think think that I needed something because that’s what I’d certainly heard and been told by the vast majority of peers and articles from my first 50 years of life. Anyway, the Ridgeline is super quite…it gets 26.3 MPG on the highway (very consistent and again, I always calculate at the pump for all my vehicles). It gets 18.1 MPG most other times. I’m 6’-5” and I can sit in the back seat or passenger seat and not hit my elbows against the driver, nor do my knees hit against the dash either. Sorry to say, but I have good friends with new F-150’s and my knees touch their dash when I sit in the passenger seat (but again I’m long legged at 6’-5”). And I’ve owned all the brands, except a Nissan Truck. But anyway, for us, the Ridgeline bed it actually very useful with being able to reach over the edge…my wife uses it WITHOUT having to hook up a trailer. Our Taco had a 6ft bed, but we can get way more in the Ridgeline (it's much wider). We've had 27 boxes in the bed, bed trunk, and back seat (22"x16"x14" Boxes - 9 in the back seat, 2 in the trunk and 16 in the bed). And yes it pulls the Malibu Response LX Competition Ski Boat w/a tandem axle trailer with no problem loaded to 4,500 lbs of camping gear. So for us, we simply love it…it’s now the longest SUV/Truck that we have ever owned (besides the ’99 2WD 4Runner that had gotten totaled). The way it can send torque around to any wheel…it has never sat there and spun just one wheel for more than a few moments when it’s been off onto old logging roads in Oregon (for us it’s done everything we needed with good Michelin tires). Again, I sold our Firestones on Craig’s List with 191 miles on them. So the Michelin LTX M/S really did not cost much more...to get a much better tire that works for our needs and use…MUCH better than the stock Firestones! I know this is a novel…but I hope it helps someone else coming from a detailed perfectionist who appreciates and notices lots of the lil’ details that make up an entire “experience”. Everyone stay safe out there!
That is one comprehensive review. I want a truck. Usually a ford guy but you may have interested me into a Ridgeline. People seem to love them and I will never rock crawl. I was interested in Tacoma’s, but time after time people say they are uncomfortable, big deal breaker for me with two teens.
That Honda is actually kinda neat they should offer a more off-road worthy version the AWD system seems capable and being Independent suspension it'll never be able do hard core stuff but it could go through most trails in comfort both on and off road
I saw a first-gen Honda Ridgeline in North Carolina driven by a construction worker that looked like it had been rolled off a cliff and recovered, not repaired, driving on the road. Ever since then I have looked at the Ridgeline in a different light.
The problem with the gladiator is the rubicon is the only version of it with lockers front and back and sway bar disconnect. The vast majority don’t have any of that.
Joshua Eaton not trying to correct but there is no such thing as a Sahara Gladiator I think you meant Overland model but good point I bought Rubicon Gladiator but most people like the Max tow package because it gives you the same axles but not the lockers
IMO there is no point to having a Wrangler or Gladiator if it isn't a Rubicon. Buying used and adding lockers is one thing, but if you're spending the money new, it should be more capable than a Ridgeline.
@@daniels2761 I disagree, buying a new sport and modifying it to your needs would be the best. You have to remember that used wranglers hold their value too good.
@@Kferler If you are going to keep it long term, upgrades would definitely be better than a stock Rubicon. But if you're concerned about it holding value, I think the Rubicon will hold value better, especially considering it is very hard to get money out of aftermarket upgrades if you sell or trade in.
I’d gladly give them my 2018 Ridgeline with a leveling kit and 265 18R60 Cooper AT3’s on it and see how it does. I’ve been places my buddies use a 3/4 ton truck in and are shocked when I roll in with my Ridgeline
After a solid rain it’s a good 5 miles of thick mud. It never happens. Just because your truck was bolted to your frame and mine was welded, doesn’t make it any less of a truck. My Ridgeline doesn’t however have “truck nuts” like yours. So I guess your “truck” does have me beat ...
For my usage, score one for the Ridgeline. Looks like it is fine for mild 4WD (ok AWD!) off-road duty if you throw some skidplates and A/T tires on it.
I sure would like to see it with some more meaty tires and some better underbody protection. I have a Pilot, and I am so amazed at how well that AWS system works, I just end up abusing it, lol. Already broke sway bar linkage.
I totally agree.... BUT my Special Edition 2015 Winter X Edition Wrangler would eat it's lunch off road. But in the end I went back to a Honda because the Jeep was just way beyond what I need for the off road. Loved it but now I think I'm falling in love with the Ridgeline...… oops forgot, I went back to a hybrid Honda..... but that's for another day & time! :)
I’ve taken my ridgeline up much more difficult terrain than that. They’re more capable than most people think. I own a tundra and a 4 runner but my ridgeline is the best vehicle I’ve owned.
I really wish they would buy a Willys edition or just a Sport with a limited slip wrangler JL. Less than 40k price tag and pin that against the best from competition.
So while the Honda is a good suburbanite and get you to the dirt roads, it is obviously not a proper truck out of the factory off the pavement. And we don't need no arguments for it otherwise by loyalists. Because it has no underside protection or proper tires. TFL was brave to test this thing this much. Kudos guys. Good presentation of the differences.
It's a pseudo truck for ppl that never owned a truck or think they are buying a real truck. Its not. For price Honda Is asking ..ppl be much better off with a real midsize truck!!
David Klimmek, i’m guessing you’ve never owned a Ridgeline either. because people that make those type of comments are just lemmings(saying what everybody else says). It’s not like the Ridgeline is claiming to be a full-size truck or anything. In my opinion, that’s an ignorant statement you made. I have owned a lot of trucks, however my Ridgeline is my favorite out of all of them. I would never say the Ridgeline is “not a real truck”.
Shane Bouton agreed. People that claim the Ridgeline isn’t a real truck are usually trying too hard to be tough and manly. If the Ridgeline had some good off-road tires and skid plates, it more than likely would have done everything as good as the others. But Honda knows what they are doing, and they know 95% of buyers just want something to haul crap around in and won’t be going up mountains and other things of that nature.
@@dp4auburn if they knew what they were doing they would sell more. Ford just came out with the ranger and it outsells the sideline 3 to 1. It's obvious ford knows trucks better than honda
@@PCSPITTER4NY Of course Ford knows trucks better than Honda. In other news, gasoline still burns. It would be interesting to see what portion of Ford's sales are fleet. They get a lot of their revenue from commercial customers. Honda, not so much.
I own a twin locked FJ40 Land Cruiser for off roading, but my daily driver is a Honda Ridgeline with 238K miles and I love it. So spacious, smooth, reliable, and practical.
This video holds a medium weight in my view. I need the Canadian to be part of this. He is the (off road) truck professional, in my opinion. Mr. Truck, is the one to listen to about towing.
Also the Honda Ridgeline may not be an actual truck but for people that need a car most of the time but have the need for a bed in some scenarios it seems to be a good vehicle.
It is fair as long as they all are using the factory installed tires this particular truck came out with.
4 роки тому+2
I think they brought that up. If I'm not mistaken I think they said Honda wouldn't let them change tires. I'm not sure but I thought that's what they said.
I never liked the design of the 1st gen Ridgeline but I like the newer style of the 2nd gen. If I didn't have my Chevy Colorado I would have got a Ridgeline.
LOL they stuffed Tommy in the truck of the Ridgeline! Sales are gonna go thru the roof now that we know you can haul around a spare Tommy in the trunk!!!!
Great video! Recently purchased the exact ranger in white and I can say that watching these videos had a direct correlation with my decision to get the Ranger over the gladiator. You can get some great discounts right now as well.
How much of a discount would you be expecting if buying a ranger now? Might pick one up this weekend if dealer still open and papers can be signed virus free...
Matthew Marlowe I received almost 12K off MSRP. It’s a 2019 were trying to move anything they could, especially the 19’s when they have a lot full of 20’s. I’m on the east coast in a very expensive zip code so maybe my experience will be a lil different but right now dealerships are practically doing anything they can to make a sell. Also, my buying experience was great. Showed up, test drove, traded in, signed the paperwork and out the door I went. Now though you can pretty much do everything from home. Some dealerships are delivering vehicles to you. Best of luck. PS: I love mine!
I have a 2010 Pilot..sort of a Ridgeline. It's wearing BLIZZAKS and they make a huge difference in off road driving. Several years back I killed an elk and my old F-150's battery decided to die the same day. I retrieved my quartered elk with the PIlot. Had to be careful with clearance, but it did the job. On the road in snow or ice, especially with proper tires, the Ridgeline would perform very well. I'm approaching 200K with the Pilot, my next daily driver will be a new Ridgeline. All most of us need.
So the ranger is the ultimate in between vehicle for the mid size class, it’s got the power, it’s got comfort, it has some off-road capability, seems like it’s a good all round vehicle
I can’t believe that in these days, they still can’t / won’t produce a truck that puts drive to the only wheel with traction. My 25 yr-old Land Cruiser 80 would have waltzed up those so-called ‘obstacles’ without a wheel breaking grip, without the aid of gismo super-computer modules, not even any ECUs. It’s got 3 dash controlled diff-locks, and doesn’t need anything else. Love it 🤣👍🏻🇷🇴🇬🇧
I have an request. Take each brand and rule out thier off road version. Like Ram rebel, power wagon, raptor ect. And take just that brand like Ram and test the off road package group But VS the ENGINES. 3.6 vs 5.7 vs 3.0 ect. Then do that with the others brands and then the winner of each group vs each other and give it the Best engine award. Would love to see a whole series on this!!! Please oh please!
I guess the term “their is a as$ for every seat”. Definitely fits here. If you want to just hit some dirt, throw things in the bed and a good ride Ridgeline, if you want some of those same things but a little more off road FX4 Ranger, Ranger and Ridgeline not great on towing. If only towing and off-road are important Gladiator but not for comfort or on road characteristics.
Nick Nadeau I could be completely wrong but I thought the FX4 off-road package had a much lower towing capacity then the 7500lb 2wd model. I reached out to TFL since they have one right now
@@scotturich Hmm, not actually sure, I have a 2019 xlt but I have the tow package. So its 7500 ibs with the the tow package, but I think it may be 6500ish without it, not sure.
The Ridgeline tailgate and trunk both lock and unlock remotely. With a bed-topper I think the Ridgeline would make a damned fine snow truck. With studded tires it would go anywhere. And there are heated seats and steering wheel on some models, as well as standard remote ignition with automatic climatization and defrost when the computer detects freezing temperatures or high humidity. The Ridgeline is nearly a self-driver too! I just drove one in Houston traffic and the Lane Keep Assist, Blindspot Warnings, and Adaptive Cruise Control make it an absolute dream to drive in traffic. Just a finger or knee on the steering wheel is all you really need **if you're a professional driver on a closed course** 😉😉
@@williamparker7823 I hear ya but Jeep aren't a luxury premium vehicles so there isn't a big demand for them to have them standard all the trims. Plus the LED aftermarket options are way better and cheaper to get for Jeeps. It's like getting floor mats via dealer/manufacturer vs getting aftermarket custom fit one. both works well but you'll pay premium price to the dealer.
Looked at the new Tacoma, Colorado, ridgline, ford ranger and Jeep gladiator but way too expensive so I just went with a ranger. Love the engine power out of the bunch and I got more features for it and cost way less than the others with blind spot , rear cross traffic, front sensors, Apple CarPlay. Lane keep ast. Front emergency breaking/warning. All that with the sports appearance package for $25,101. Only thing I dislike about the truck is the small gas tank but other than that, almost 17,000 miles and no issues so far
Ok, but seriously the ridgeline would be the ultimate tailgate party truck or late night camping with friends hangout. Whip out your cooler of beverages from the trunk feature, turn on those lights, play some music while setting out blankets and some large pads or pillows for cushioning, and make hot dogs with a charcoal grill or watch the stars from the bed...
Sean Phillips for real he’s boring af needs to chill tf out he’s always snapping at his dad and being a little control freak I had to dislike a few videos because he’s just too much sometimes.
As usual, greatly appreciate you guys continuing to make videos. Glad to see something on my suggested that's not related to the madness. Bless yall.
Perfect tires on Rigy to get slipped off the hill in a ditch and kiss the trees lol, and looks like such a bad ground clearance for these roads, it needs at least cheap 3" spacers lift and awesome tires then i would take it there if it was my truck.
“Old School Ranger” okay buddy
I’d have a Ridgeline. They serve a purpose, and that is to transport you in more comfort than a traditional truck, while still offering a load bed for trips to the hardware store etc. And that AWD system is clearly good enough to tackle most of what other trucks will do anyway. Plus, fit a suspension spacer lift kit and some All-Terrain tyres and it’d be highly capable off-road. Don’t get why people hate on these. 🤷♂️
Yeah it would be a good overlander.
The first gen Ridgelines were cery capable.
Blah blah blah
@@harrybaulz666 eh?
@@harrybaulz666 Shut up, knob-head.
Ridgelines are badass
These guys always include the Ridgeline in their test which is awesome for comparison….and they always come away impressed and make a strong case to buy the Honda for most people. I had a 2019 lifted Tacoma manual for comparison and am now buying the Ridgeline
All my boys with their lifted trucks stop talking shit when I crack open the cooler-trunk at the tailgate.
that is the coolest thing ever , but I will take the Ranger all day every day.
All three capable, all three proportional in performance to their mission and all three too darn expensive.
Worth noting that all 3 of these trucks are almost fully loaded. Trucks are only as expensive as you make them.
It would be interesting to see more base models, or less packaged off-road versions tested
@@riva2model64 I agree. I've only ever owned regular cab, long bed, no BS, work trucks. Do you know how hard it is to find good reviews on regular cab, long bed trucks?? They do all of these towing and hauling reviews with decked out crew-cab trucks when its the regular cabs that tow and haul the most! That's like hiring Mitch Trubisky to run your kid's quarterback camp when Tom Brady is available. Sure, it'll do the job, but not nearly as well.
Chuck Grenci That’s why the frontier exist as the cheaper alternative.
Darth Nimler no thanks. I’ll pass on that Nissan
Me looking out the window at my red 93 Ranger : Guess you're not even old school any more
yeha I have no idea why they called it "old school"
I have the same thing is it the stx trim model
@@halflife103I imagine it’s just because it’s the oldest model of the three? Like Rangers have been around longer than the other two? Only thing I can think of.
Strangely, this video makes me want to get a lifted ridgeline
I have a lifted Pilot. I love it...
Honda just needs to make an offroad ridgeline.
Can you please share more about your lifted Pilot? Did you go with the dealer J Sport option or full aftermarket? I’m looking to do something to my 2nd-gen.
A lifted ridgeline is gonna look funny
Just put a 2 inch lift and bigger falcon wildpeak at3w tires on Ridgeline it helps out a bunch.
I love these guys. These guys love Jeeps. I love Jeeps. There’s no way the Ridgeline was getting a fair shake. Giving credit where credit is due... the Honda did amazing.
No it didn't, a donut doesn't cut it with a truck.
My buddy got 2" front/1" rear lift kit and oversized AT tires on his Ridgeline.. It off roads EXCEPTIONALLY well. Excellent fuel economy, towing and super quiet, comfy and roomy interior.
As a proud owner of a 2004 Pilot, Hondas can be 'froaders too. Full stock, I've taken it through mud pits. Road tires.
Also, I have been driving down the interstate in a sleet storm, and felt the VTM-4 system save my life repeatedly. AWD FTW, it just needs a fair shake.
@@James-il3tq
Any idea what your friend gets for average MPG after the slight lift and larger tires in his Honda?
@@James-il3tq Any videos on UA-cam of your buddy's set up? Would love to see it working in the wild.
I just bought a 2020 Ridgeline. I don’t off-road, I don’t tow anything, and I needed something with decent gas mileage as I drive an hour one way for work. I needed something for trips to the lumber yard, Home Depot, and yard work. No point in over compensating like 90% of most trucks owners and overpaying for things I don’t need. This truck is perfect for me and I love it
When Tommy made the comment about the tailgate... He turned into his dad for a moment. 😄
You could literally see it.
I have a gen1 ridgeline with a 2inch lift and falken at3w tires(makes a world of a difference).. seeing you guys give a ridgeline credit for alot of things makes me happy! Keep it up! Always watching you guys!
A lift on a UNIBODY? Why not get a real midsize truck..in design /features i mean. I've got a new Ranger XLT FX4 crew cab (black on black). 9k mis so far & love this truck! Phenomenal powertrain/refined/tons of tech/features. 300hp/310lbft TQ - 22mpg *average*. Best truck I've owned yet. Recommend a test drive!
A guy near me drives a gen 1 RLine that is lifted and I absolutely love the way it looks.
If you don't mind saying, what is involved for your RLine to be lifted?
David Klimmek why you such a Ridgeline hater bruh
Shane Bouton because he’s trying to justify to himself why he spent so much money on a Ranger 😂😂
Chip LeVan ifs basically just a spacer kits.. bigger tires and some trimming... honestly has not affected my mpg or comfort and i didt go too agressive on the AT TIRES
FYI: I had $$ down a year ago on both a Nissan and Ranger (waiting for the 1st to appear). I saw this video and my local dealer was rolling off a Ridgeline. I was in the right place at the right time and I haven't looked back. We camp and pull a trailor routinely, and I use as a backup truck for landscaping. I love and tbh never really considered it before.
Chuck Norris mode: when you don't drive over the mountain, the mountain moves out of your way!
You guys do a great job. For me the Ridgeline is perfect.
Nice to see more Ridgeline videos, keep it up!
You guys always ask what mode you should put the Ridgeline in. I suggest you open the manual and see what the modes actually do. For what you guys do you need sand mode. It puts 70% power to the rear wheels and locks the rear diff at slow speeds, but you never use that mode.
Mike McLean they are traditional truck guys, they struggle with technology. See their videos on navigation systems or EV reviews. lol
The Ranger has more tech than the others combined.
Mike McLean I offroad my Honda Passport quote a bit. I actually find Mud Mode is the best for mostly all offroad situations. It splits the torque 40 front, 60 rear and has a much more controllable throttle map. It lets you crawl when the pedal is lightly pushed, but will also let you give it the beans when you press a little harder. In sand mode, a tap of the pedal is waaaaaaaay too sensitive. Hope you find the tip useful!
Actually these guys did a tfl slip test on the Honda pilot and in that video Tommy even mentioned that sand mode is the most aggressive mode but I guess he forgot about it in this video
Ajaya Kumar I 100% agree, sand mode is the most aggressive, but it’s not the best for the terrain they tackled. They were in the right mode. Mud or normal is the best for most offroad situations. Sand is great for actually sand.
Thank you for including a Honda Ridgeline in this video! It really helped me make my buying decisions 👍 A two inch lift and off road tires would work great with Honda’s AWD system
Yep, there are videos of a lifted Passport with off-road tires on UA-cam, and a lifted Ridgeline with off-road tires should be comparable. Some of the suspension components are beefier on the Ridgeline than that of the Passport and Pilot as well.
@@1MarkKeller I own a Passport and I’ve been waiting for a more off road worthy Ridgeline, right now the Passport has 0.5” more clearance. And suspension components are interchangeable across all vehicles based on the Odyssey chassis including the MDX
@@ScreenTalker I own a Passport too.
It still lacks locking axles. However is good enough for daily driving I’m sure. I want a Ridgeline. Man why are they so expensive.
@@swiftaudi In sand mode the rear differential on the Ridgeline locks.
The ridge line is that truck that becomes more and more desirable every year with all its awesome features, but you will never buy it because you don’t wanna lose your man card
The 2021 refresh makes the Ridgeline look a little more manly now. And if you put on a 2 inch lift kit with beefier tires ... I think most "truck" guys (not the super hardcore ones, but everyone else) would give it a serious look.
I would drive a Ridgeline. I really don't care if it made me "lose my man card"
It really needs a more aggressive look and it will swoop up a lot of interested buyers.
Yep it's impressive. All around
@@jasonbranning7071
I got one, too. I buy a vehicle for my needs, not other people's. With the guys saying it's not a "real" truck, that's just the insecurity talking. The Ridgeline is the right truck for what I do. When I go off-pavement, it's usually to take an un-maintained rough dirt road up to a desert trailhead. I've been doing a lot of hiking in areas that I tried to get to in my crossover-SUV and it didn't make it. It's been fun to revisit those areas in a vehicle that's much better suited and gets up there. I'm not saying that the Ridgeline can hang with the crazy hardcore off-roaders but it's been working great for what I do. I've been impressed with some of the hills that I've gotten up in the Ridgeline. I had a couple of failures and it worked great after putting it in sand mode, so I need to keep that in mind.
honda/acura AWD system is simply one of the best.
@Ezra Redgwell he did say one of the best........
Ezra Redgwell he said it’s one of the best, he never it’s the best. Subaru symmetrical all wheel drive is the best in my opinion, followed by Honda SH all-wheel-drive.
Awd is for minivan soccer moms!
@Ezra Redgwell Nah a ridgeline, my dad drives a real truck. F150
@Ezra Redgwell she puts her purse and tampons in the bed compartment
Great review. I am a Ridgeline owner but like all 3 of these.
Best off-road, Gladiator without a doubt. Good for fun.
Best on-road/street, Ridgeline. Good for family and weekend warriors.
Best of both, the Ranger. Good for a work truck.
Ron Dail ranger also got the best Powertrain
The Jeep is really good on road too, it's got Ram's new rear suspension setup. That plus the slightly longer wheel base give it a nice ride. Now if only you could get with it with Hemi out of the 1500.
Ridgeline torque vectoring does kick ass on the ice and snow even with those crappy tires.
ecoboost reliability cant be beat
OMG the all seasons are gonna hit a rock! 4:06 lmao that Ridgeline would have walked up those rocks with a better driver/spotter combo
@mynamesjeff nah the ridge line just plain sucks
With more ground clearance the Ridgeline AWD would have negotiated that way better than the Ranger.
I know, right. They had to force that ranger up those rocks after multiple attempts just to make a point that it was so much better than the ridgeline. Besides, for 99.9% of the people that own the fully loaded ranger they won't even get it dirty, pull a trailer, and will only haul some mulch. I'll take the Honda as a daily driver.
Would be cool to put the same tires on all three and run it again.
That would be a real comparison
They explained that they dont let them modify the vehicles
@@jamievilla1814 I know, "would be cool" if someone did so it would be a more equal comparo.
Two things. They don’t own any of these vehicles and they are the way they are from the factory.
@@Al-yc4cn Then go ahead and do it then.
I'd like to see that Ridgeline with better tires. Great video as usual.
I had Honda Ridgeline 2019 and love it!!
I might be the only person on earth but i love the way Andre says "dude". "deute"
evilz33 Andre brings so much personality lol wouldnt be the same without him
I’d like to tie Andre’s arms to see if he can still speak 😁
No, no, no. The song is "Summertime" ... Two miles an hour so everybody sees you
there's an air of love and of happiness
and this is the Fresh Prince's new definition of summer madness!
Possibly my all-time favorite song! Thanks for all you guys do!!
Had our Ridgeline for 2 years now and the closest it has been to off road is parking on the dirt shoulder of a road.
if im not going rockclimbing, the ridgline is clearly the best
Take my 19 Ridgeline on muddy , rutted logging roads in Maine all fall and never had issues. Put Nokia’s Rotiva AT tires in larger size and pulls though mud holes just fine. It doesn’t have the ground clearance of the Gladiator but still does fine if you pick your lines. Owned full size 4 X 4’s prior to this and don,t see this as being any less a truck than they were. Besides, I will take the ride and longevity over harsh ride and maintenance bills any day of the week. As they say, don’t knock it until you tried it.
Honda really needs to take advantage of how good their AWD system is and just go all out with a better offroad setup
Gavin Norris Yes, at least a limited edition.
Maybe, MAYBE an offroad package, but most of Honda's target market would never go offroad.
@@jamesmiller7911 neither do any of the bro-dozers driving around my town...
Love my Ridgeline so much I had to get one for my wife so she would stop driving mine all the time!
i liked my wife's so much, i stole hers and bought her a new one. best truck made.
Any downsides? Ive got a Subaru Forester now but I miss having a truck. I’m 6’1 the Tacoma has a cabin that is too small for me and the tundra is too big. This video has me looking into the ridge line. I also commute to work a good bit.
@@Ivan_Luna.mp4 I'm 6'4" /260. Interior is spacious and comfortable. Tons of storage.
@@CLP2102 I appreciate it! Not going to lie, I was looking into getting a full size truck again with a big beefy engine but I don’t need that for what I do. Going to look more into these and see if works out for me. Thanks
@@Ivan_Luna.mp4 I came from a ram to Ridgeline, no regrets, not one
Great video as usual! To summarize; the Ridgeline is the cheapest by far, most comfortable, best tailgate/bed, did excellent with these off-road tests (even with stock all season tires) until you came close to a tree, except a little less ground clearance? Not to mention that 99.99% of people will never take their $40k+ truck on a road like the one you're testing on. With the price difference, could lift the Ridgeline, buy some really nice AT tires, and still be cheaper. For the rest of us, leave it as is and have the perfect commuting truck. Sounds like the obvious winner to me.
I agree. My last four All Wheel drive vehicles have never been off road but once, nor have I had to change a tire in on any in the past 15 years. My air pump will usually get me to the tire shop or at least home if it's too late.
Agreed
You made a good point: unless each truck has the same off-road tires you may be comparing tires rather than vehicles.
Yeah, but I'd guess they are all loaner trucks from the manufacturers... You'd think that when they receive a load request from TFL, they'd take 15minutes and put decent tires on them
They're all good vehicles suiting to different uses and people.
Love the Honda truck!! I think you guys should buy one and modify it just enough for "off road" worthiness! Also, with the 9 speed trans, if you lock in 1st gear, it has an incredibly low craw ratio! want to see you guys do an Off road Ridgeline!! What a great video it would be... you know... skid plate, bigger wheels/tires, exhaust... maybe beefier axles ect...
tires make all the difference and get none of the attention
HA.HA. GoodMeme honestly. Put shittt all seasons on the jeep and it’d be struggling too.
To be fair, they're using the stock tires to compare offroad performance you'd get from the factory. They've talked about tires enough to know the impact they make. However, I would definitely be curious to see how well a Ridgeline could do on AT's or MT's
They said honda wouldn't let the modify the tires
If Honda wants to compete they need better tires. But it was still impressive nonetheless.
@@lawnmowerdude Honda doesn't need to compete with any other brand for "off-roading" Honda didn't make the ridgeline to be a serious off-roader, it doesn't need to be, and everyone knows the mission of this truck and why you would buy one.
Very helpful video. I own a Jeep TJ wrangler and have driven the new gladiator. Your video has helped me to make a decision on my next vehicle purchase. The gladiator cabin is too confining for me and the ride is typical Jeep. I’m like the vast majority of Jeep owners who seldom get to real off roading. I’ll just keep my old TJ and go for the Honda as a perfect all around vehicle and daily driver for comfort, truck bed and overall reliability. And I’ve never owned a Honda vehicle before but I’ll be looking to get a Ridgeline soon.. Thanks!
Honda AWD is the best. I had an 05 Pilot and we were out four-wheeling in mud with an S-10 pickup and it got stuck like Chuck in a second with good all terrains on it too. The VTM4 system is bad ass too. Locks the rear diff solid up to 20 mph. Put some decent skins on those rims and the Ridgeline will go anywhere. It always amazed me that Honda never thought their system was worthy of off-roading the manuals all say don't take it offroad but they literally are only lacking those skid plates.
Can you do Ford AWD Transit vs. Mercedes 4x4 Sprinter on this trail? That would be epic for people looking to choose which one for adventurous van life. PLEASE!!!
The ridgeline is the CAITLYN JENNER of Trucks!!!!
Perhaps someday it will go back to being a man , with a solid frame :)
Ok so not a fan of the ridgeline at all, but did you see how instant the awd system was at stopping the slipping wheel? I'm super impressed. With a lift and some underbody protection honda could have a serious competitor in the midsize PU category
The Will Smith song is “Summertime.”
Brian Austin will smit also made welcome to Miami. His best song
@@Offshore1977 They song Andre was referencing is Summertime- Fresh Prince ft. DJ Jazzy Jeff
Thanks saved me some typing
Brian Austin yes dude! I had that single on cassette. Haha. Remix on the B side. Got me through a whole summer around 7th grade
I was overwhelmed with the amount of caucasianess in this piece of the video lol
I’d like to see a Ridgeline with upgrades, off road tires, lift kit , skid plates
YESSSS, there are videos of Honda Passports like that on UA-cam, can't wait to see them for the Ridgeline all dressed up to play off-roads better.
I want a Honda Ridgeline, I've always loved the design and it's my dream vehicle
The Ridgeline always gets ragged one and to be honest, the second gen Ridgeline is made more for the average city person but the gen one is exceptional to say the least. I have an 08 and am at 200k miles and have hauled trailers, sheep, a steer, gravel, sheep, hay, a ton of pellets, wood, coal, climbed fire roads, gone camping, fishing and carry all my tools in the trunk. The vehicle is amazing.
That Honda was SUPER impressive. Wow! That AWD system seems better than Subaru, Porsche and Audi.
It's front biased able to send 70% to rear vectoring axle, they also using it for steering aid. But mostly for road and light offroad use. I wish they would put this in some better offroad and crawl capable vehicle
Recently bought a ridgeline and love it comfy and decently quick and system is amazing
All of them are great. It just depends on your needs and personal taste. Awesome video as always guys, keep up the good work.
I sold my Ridgeline and bought a ranger, there are things that Ridgeline offers that I miss very much.
I owned two ridgelines and in deep snow they were unstoppable. I’ve owned two lancruisers(91 and 93) and currently drive an FJ (14) and a 1794 Tundra. It performed as good if not better than all of them. That and they both were trouble free.
7 - 2011 Tundra Crew Max 5.7L 4x4 TRD w/Dual TRD Exhaust - This truck was a Beast…it sounded GREAT (would always make my daughters giggle with its V8 marvelous sound under an overpass). 😀 Again, I put Michelin LTX M/S on right away. It never got stuck, but we also never really tested it too much off pavement…BUT it actually, ahem I cannot believe I’m saying this out loud, but it’s true…it had too much power. I know, I know everyone is thinking or asking…isn’t that a good thing? Are you crazy? Well, not if you need to punch the gas to get out of the way, or need to make a move in traffic and the streets/pavement is wet or slightly slick in any way. For me it really was a safety issue, as I had a hill getting out of my work (where a person really needs max grip and go, otherwise a person could get hit). Plus, even when it was bone dry, a person could hear it “clawing at the asphalt” with the rear window down (it was constantly cutting its own power to regain traction). So, again a person had to anticipate to switch on 4WD before a person needed it (because a person cannot just turn it on at the top of the hill, a person has to turn ON the 4WD long enough beforehand to engage and be effective)…but by then…it was usually too late. Also, the 5.7L pretty much got 12.8-13.2 MPG except one time it got 19.1 MPG all freeway (otherwise on the highway it would normally get 17.5-18.4. It was also very tall…again, not as practical for 90% of our needs (and yes I’d installed a QuickStep to get in and out of the bed).
8 - 2013 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab TRD 4x4 - We had a lot of problems with this truck, 3 rear ends in it, my 2013 Toyota Avalon also had lots of Quality Control issues squeaks and rattles...those things drive me NUTS (both our 2013 Toyota’s seemed very Un-Toyota like). Our Toyota Dealer was great, but Toyota Corp treated us horrible…at that point I’d purchased $385K in Toyotas to date (cars not listed here). Anyway, the Taco was noisy, uncomfortable seating position, back seat was way too small except for our two Miniature Dachshunds (and they are small). 😉 Then it was the same thing again with a traditional 4x4 transfer case…by the time a person needs traction it’s too late to engage the 4x4 system for well over 90% of real world driving (at least for us and our needs)…again, situations where a person needs to get out of the way…or at an incline/hill needed to merge out into traffic. Plus our Taco only averaged 12.4 MPG…we thought it would do much better than our 2011 Tundra for MPG (it was a big ole NOPE for us). The Taco was more nimble and sporty to drive into corners…it felt more like my 2008 Toyota Highlander (which I did not list in detail here). I had a 2007 RAV4 V6 at one point, as well...and just for the record I’ve had 33 cars, trucks and SUVs overall…I’m a car nut. 😜🤪😎
9 - 2017 Honda Ridgeline RTS AWD - We bought it for $33,440…again I took OFF the IMHO terrible stock Firestone tires…and you guessed it…I put on Michelin LTX M/S. Honestly, we finally feel like we found the Goldilocks “Truck”, at least for us (its within 1/2 inch in width to our 2011 Tundra, but it’s way easier to maneuver and park). A person can punch the throttle Full Power, even if the road is wet, or if a person is on a pile of leaves in the Fall, or Snow on the road…and this sucker just puts the power down and moves (it does NOT cut power, if figures out how to put the power down). And if a person wants some serious fun, switch it to “Sand Mode”…this turns it into much more than a fast truck…it’s like a “Ridiculous Mode”…it will launch from the line like a Lion after a gazelle. Sand Mode moves the Drive By Wire (DBW) throttle to borderline “Bat Out of Hell”; the transmission Shifting Map is way higher; the AWD goes to Max Rear Bias; and AWD Vectoring gets Turned OFF (just like ‘Mud Mode’); and the VSA dials up (all of which makes for a thrill, if others are interested). There is a great chart on the modes I found…here is the link jalopnik.com/heres-how-the-2017-honda-ridgelines-trick-off-roading-m-1775651261. Just super simple modes instead of how we used to have to premeditate turning on a 4x4 and/or choosing 4WD Hi or Lo (with all my other trucks we had NEVER used 4WD Low). But again that is just my/our personal experience, because I know others need or “want” that ability. Now that I’m older...I think maybe I was "conditioned" to think think that I needed something because that’s what I’d certainly heard and been told by the vast majority of peers and articles from my first 50 years of life. Anyway, the Ridgeline is super quite…it gets 26.3 MPG on the highway (very consistent and again, I always calculate at the pump for all my vehicles). It gets 18.1 MPG most other times. I’m 6’-5” and I can sit in the back seat or passenger seat and not hit my elbows against the driver, nor do my knees hit against the dash either. Sorry to say, but I have good friends with new F-150’s and my knees touch their dash when I sit in the passenger seat (but again I’m long legged at 6’-5”). And I’ve owned all the brands, except a Nissan Truck. But anyway, for us, the Ridgeline bed it actually very useful with being able to reach over the edge…my wife uses it WITHOUT having to hook up a trailer. Our Taco had a 6ft bed, but we can get way more in the Ridgeline (it's much wider). We've had 27 boxes in the bed, bed trunk, and back seat (22"x16"x14" Boxes - 9 in the back seat, 2 in the trunk and 16 in the bed). And yes it pulls the Malibu Response LX Competition Ski Boat w/a tandem axle trailer with no problem loaded to 4,500 lbs of camping gear. So for us, we simply love it…it’s now the longest SUV/Truck that we have ever owned (besides the ’99 2WD 4Runner that had gotten totaled). The way it can send torque around to any wheel…it has never sat there and spun just one wheel for more than a few moments when it’s been off onto old logging roads in Oregon (for us it’s done everything we needed with good Michelin tires). Again, I sold our Firestones on Craig’s List with 191 miles on them. So the Michelin LTX M/S really did not cost much more...to get a much better tire that works for our needs and use…MUCH better than the stock Firestones!
I know this is a novel…but I hope it helps someone else coming from a detailed perfectionist who appreciates and notices lots of the lil’ details that make up an entire “experience”. Everyone stay safe out there!
I’ve been really tempted to trade my Ridgeline for a Wrangler. But after watching this video I think I’ll just hang onto the Honda for a while, after all how often due I go off road. Thanks for your video.
Gen1 Honda Ridgeline is one hell of a truck. She got a good workout yesterday launching and pulling out our 24' Ranger Tritoon on the fantastic weather.. water was down at the lake so the ramp was a lot steeper than usual; so much so we actually had to get the back tires in the water to get the trailer far enough down to take out.. yikes, but engaged the locking rear diff (yes, Gen 1 had that!!) and she climbed right up. They're real trucks guys (coming from a former Ram and Jeep owner, love those too btw). And yeah Honda please add an offroad package!
The ridgeline would make a good camping truck. It probably would pull a teardrop no problem.
Yer absolutely right...it was never designed as an offroad vehicle....meant for the road ..towing smaller trailers..pickup drywall etc.
I Take a 2000lb trailer to Algonquin on regular basis...don't notice it...carried 15 sheets of drywall = very handy.
Handles great and comfortable.
I'm on my second Ridgeline, pulling a 3000# Minnie Drop. I've taken the first one (2009 model) over 12,000ft passes in Colorado. It's perfect for camping. My new one has the 9-speed transmission, which is even better for towing. No mountains yet, but the MPGs are much better. I've hauled 1,300# of cement with it, and have taken it through some pretty rough trails (sand mode is best for a pseudo-rear-locking situation)... but I certainly wouldn't choose it as an off-road vehicle. If that was my primary activity, I would shop for a Tacoma or Gladiator.
5000 lbs i believe, and the huge trunk is a real bonus
I pull an 18 foot coleman bunkhouse. It sleeps 5, has all the amenities, and weighs 4100 fully loaded and tanks full. Leaves enough for the family, dogs, and gear not kept in the trailer. Still get 13mpg towing.
There is a UA-camr (Asian guy) that has a modified Ridgeline (lifted and better tires...) You should see if he would loan you his for these trails. I would love to see how much of a difference it would make. Plus what would be more expensive to modify, Ridgeline vs. competition?
Link?
Ray, I think you are talking of JonDZ and his Honda Passport. I just watched his group and there was a Ridgeline in it.
Fun to watch the 'JonDZ' group do off-road with Honda, Subaru,....
Ray, I think you are talking of JonDZ and his Honda Passport. I just watched his group and there was a Ridgeline in it.
Fun to watch the 'JonDZ' group do off-road with Honda, Subaru,....
Thank you Ron. I’ll look him up. 😊
So if that were to happen they could put it up against a modified Ranger and Gladiator as well??? My money would still handily be on the Gladiator!!!
The Ridgeline has a reinforced frame in it’s midsection for extra strength and stiffness. It is not purely unibody.
The Ridgeline continues to impress.
For most suburban uses it is ideal.
If you really WORK your truck then you would need to step up.
For all the rest the Ridgeline is very nice.
I sure appreciate the TFL guy's and their reviews...thanks for all you boys do!!!
I’ve personally owned nine (9) SUV & Trucks, all purchased new (except 2)…1 Chevy Suburban; 1 Used Ford F-150; 1 Dodge Cummins 2500; 1 Used Toyota 2WD 4Runner (yes 2WD); 4 New Toyotas (3 Tundra’s & 1 Taco); and 1 Honda. Tires and whatever the 4x4/AWD system is makes a MASSIVE difference from everything I’ve observed over the many years (still young at 51)! Read on if you’re a detail person who likes novels, and I hope I don’t give anyone any eyestrain, but rather helpful information…as I’ve owned them all (excepts for a Nissan product, but I have a friend that owns a last gen Titan). 😉
Listed In Order of our Purchases - Each SUV/Truck -
1 - ’94 Suburban 2500 - w/a 454 7.4L & 4.10 Rear End. I got stuck multiple times because it would sit and spin 1 wheel (ticked me off when I’d thought I bought the biggest baddest family hauler ever when I was in my 20’s). Chevy bought it Back because it had many other problems, having nothing to do with the 4x4 system. It was literally in the shop 4 months out of the 11 months we had it (34 Service Records)…and I knew 4 other business owners that had theirs bought back that same year, too (so we opted to get our money back rather than chance another lemon). Plus, it got 9 MPG no matter what we did…well it did get 13.3 MPG (that was a one time trip that was all down hill from Lassen to Redding, CA ). 😉
2 - Used ’92 Ford F-150 - that we bought after the Suburban fiasco…the Ford was the complete opposite of the Suburban...it was the 4.9L Straight Six, 5-Speed Manual, and it had 92K miles. It was really great util it hit 103,000 miles…then every month it was about a $1,000 repair (electrical problems, computer problems and etc). It would get about 14-15.2 MPG. Anyway, it also would only spin one (1) wheel.
3 - ’97 Dodge Cummins 2500 - We loved it until it needed a new transmission at 32,000 miles (it never shifted right after that). This was also back when Diesel fuel was actually cheaper (and no extra cost for the BlueDEF stuff that is another expense to Diesel trucks now days). Our ’97 Cummins got 21-22 MPG everywhere we went…and it got 16 MPG pulling a Malibu Response Competition Ski Boat. We put Michelin LTX M/S on it, and its 4x4 System was MUCH better than either our previous Chevy or Ford…but still a person had to think ahead. Meaning a person could not just punch the throttle or a person might be sliding on wet pavement, or on leaves on the road on a Fall day….the system would bind up…and it was huge, heavy (7,200 lbs empty) and tall…not very easy to get a washing machine up in the bed to take to a repair shop. But the Cummins felt sooooo cheap to operate, its 36 gallon tank went 800 miles (were the Suburban would empty 3/4 of its 42 gallon tank just to go to the lake and back...ouch). 😳
4 - Used ’99 Toyota 4Runner (2WD) w/86K Miles…it worked great for 6 years before it got totaled by our son. It was driven mostly by my wife (who grew up with horses and is big with gardening…and dirt in general, she is awesome). 😇 Anyway, I put Michelin LTX M/S tires on it right away…and it actually did better than all our previous 4x4s (serious it was lite weight, fairly easy to turn around). I personally found it uncomfortable to ride in (I was glad it was not my daily driver). Yet, it would get 22 MPG going over the Cascades from the Willamette Valley to the High Deserts of Oregon…but mostly it got 16 mpg (again keep in mind it was only a 2WD).
5 - 2000 Tundra Access Cab 4x4 - We bought this shortly after buying the used 2WD 4Runner above…I put ‘E’ Load Rated Michelin LTX M/S, and it never got stuck...but the 2000 Tundra was just too small in the back seat with a growing family.
6 - 2005 Tundra Double Cab 4x4 - Again, I put ‘E’ Load Rated Michelin LTX M/S…this truck was notably wider in the cab and the bed, as it was 4 inches wider than previous Tundras (much more inline with other “Full Sized Trucks”, the first for Toyota). Anyway, it never got stuck, BUT I HATED the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) it would come on for every lil’ thing. It was a BAD Nanny…if a ‘Road Cornering Sign’ said 25 MPH…it would NOT let you go 26 MPH around the corner without hitting the ABS brakes making thing kind of dangerous at times (I really did hate that, and it could NOT be turned OFF). Best MPGs it ever got was 19.8 MPG on a road trip around Oregon were we were off road / off pavement at least 50 miles each day. Other than that, it averaged 15.1 MPG (always hand calculated at the pump).
(The Paul Harvey "The Rest of the Story" is below...)
where is the rest of the story ?
@@cdbuiles Hi Daniel...my novel was so long I had to post a 2nd entry. 😉 But now I can paste my Paul Harvey "The Rest of the Story" here below. Blessings...and stay safe!
7 - 2011 Tundra Crew Max 5.7L 4x4 TRD w/Dual TRD Exhaust - This truck was a Beast…it sounded GREAT (would always make my daughters giggle with its V8 marvelous sound under an overpass). 😀 Again, I put Michelin LTX M/S on right away. It never got stuck, but we also never really tested it too much off pavement…BUT it actually, ahem I cannot believe I’m saying this out loud, but it’s true…it had too much power. I know, I know everyone is thinking or asking…isn’t that a good thing? Are you crazy? Well, not if you need to punch the gas to get out of the way, or need to make a move in traffic and the streets/pavement is wet or slightly slick in any way. For me it really was a safety issue, as I had a hill getting out of my work (where a person really needs max grip and go, otherwise a person could get hit). Plus, even when it was bone dry, a person could hear it “clawing at the asphalt” with the rear window down (it was constantly cutting its own power to regain traction). So, again a person had to anticipate to switch on 4WD before a person needed it (because a person cannot just turn it on at the top of the hill, a person has to turn ON the 4WD long enough beforehand to engage and be effective)…but by then…it was usually too late. Also, the 5.7L pretty much got 12.8-13.2 MPG except one time it got 19.1 MPG all freeway (otherwise on the highway it would normally get 17.5-18.4. It was also very tall…again, not as practical for 90% of our needs (and yes I’d installed a QuickStep to get in and out of the bed).
8 - 2013 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab TRD 4x4 - We had a lot of problems with this truck, 3 rear ends in it, my 2013 Toyota Avalon also had lots of Quality Control issues squeaks and rattles...those things drive me NUTS (both our 2013 Toyota’s seemed very Un-Toyota like). Our Toyota Dealer was great, but Toyota Corp treated us horrible…at that point I’d purchased $385K in Toyotas to date (cars not listed here). Anyway, the Taco was noisy, uncomfortable seating position, back seat was way too small except for our two Miniature Dachshunds (and they are small). 😉 Then it was the same thing again with a traditional 4x4 transfer case…by the time a person needs traction it’s too late to engage the 4x4 system for well over 90% of real world driving (at least for us and our needs)…again, situations where a person needs to get out of the way…or at an incline/hill needed to merge out into traffic. Plus our Taco only averaged 12.4 MPG…we thought it would do much better than our 2011 Tundra for MPG (it was a big ole NOPE for us). The Taco was more nimble and sporty to drive into corners…it felt more like my 2008 Toyota Highlander (which I did not list in detail here). I had a 2007 RAV4 V6 at one point, as well...and just for the record I’ve had 33 cars, trucks and SUVs overall…I’m a car nut. 😜🤪😎
9 - 2017 Honda Ridgeline RTS AWD - We bought it for $33,440…again I took OFF the IMHO terrible stock Firestone tires…and you guessed it…I put on Michelin LTX M/S. Honestly, we finally feel like we found the Goldilocks “Truck”, at least for us (its within 1/2 inch in width to our 2011 Tundra, but it’s way easier to maneuver and park). A person can punch the throttle Full Power, even if the road is wet, or if a person is on a pile of leaves in the Fall, or Snow on the road…and this sucker just puts the power down and moves (it does NOT cut power, if figures out how to put the power down). And if a person wants some serious fun, switch it to “Sand Mode”…this turns it into much more than a fast truck…it’s like a “Ridiculous Mode”…it will launch from the line like a Lion after a gazelle. Sand Mode moves the Drive By Wire (DBW) throttle to borderline “Bat Out of Hell”; the transmission Shifting Map is way higher; the AWD goes to Max Rear Bias; and AWD Vectoring gets Turned OFF (just like ‘Mud Mode’); and the VSA dials up (all of which makes for a thrill, if others are interested). There is a great chart on the modes I found…here is the link jalopnik.com/heres-how-the-2017-honda-ridgelines-trick-off-roading-m-1775651261. Just super simple modes instead of how we used to have to premeditate turning on a 4x4 and/or choosing 4WD Hi or Lo (with all my other trucks we had NEVER used 4WD Low). But again that is just my/our personal experience, because I know others need or “want” that ability. Now that I’m older...I think maybe I was "conditioned" to think think that I needed something because that’s what I’d certainly heard and been told by the vast majority of peers and articles from my first 50 years of life. Anyway, the Ridgeline is super quite…it gets 26.3 MPG on the highway (very consistent and again, I always calculate at the pump for all my vehicles). It gets 18.1 MPG most other times. I’m 6’-5” and I can sit in the back seat or passenger seat and not hit my elbows against the driver, nor do my knees hit against the dash either. Sorry to say, but I have good friends with new F-150’s and my knees touch their dash when I sit in the passenger seat (but again I’m long legged at 6’-5”). And I’ve owned all the brands, except a Nissan Truck. But anyway, for us, the Ridgeline bed it actually very useful with being able to reach over the edge…my wife uses it WITHOUT having to hook up a trailer. Our Taco had a 6ft bed, but we can get way more in the Ridgeline (it's much wider). We've had 27 boxes in the bed, bed trunk, and back seat (22"x16"x14" Boxes - 9 in the back seat, 2 in the trunk and 16 in the bed). And yes it pulls the Malibu Response LX Competition Ski Boat w/a tandem axle trailer with no problem loaded to 4,500 lbs of camping gear. So for us, we simply love it…it’s now the longest SUV/Truck that we have ever owned (besides the ’99 2WD 4Runner that had gotten totaled). The way it can send torque around to any wheel…it has never sat there and spun just one wheel for more than a few moments when it’s been off onto old logging roads in Oregon (for us it’s done everything we needed with good Michelin tires). Again, I sold our Firestones on Craig’s List with 191 miles on them. So the Michelin LTX M/S really did not cost much more...to get a much better tire that works for our needs and use…MUCH better than the stock Firestones!
I know this is a novel…but I hope it helps someone else coming from a detailed perfectionist who appreciates and notices lots of the lil’ details that make up an entire “experience”. Everyone stay safe out there!
@win2008workstation Thanks for your kind words...glad other are enjoying my "novel" ;-) ...and I totally agree with you, as well! Blessings!
That is one comprehensive review. I want a truck. Usually a ford guy but you may have interested me into a Ridgeline. People seem to love them and I will never rock crawl. I was interested in Tacoma’s, but time after time people say they are uncomfortable, big deal breaker for me with two teens.
@@brandonhumbert4946 Glad my personal experience and expense was of some help to you! ;-) Thanks for your kind words, too!
Just bought 2023 Ridgeline RTL LOVE!!!!
That Honda is actually kinda neat they should offer a more off-road worthy version the AWD system seems capable and being Independent suspension it'll never be able do hard core stuff but it could go through most trails in comfort both on and off road
I saw a first-gen Honda Ridgeline in North Carolina driven by a construction worker that looked like it had been rolled off a cliff and recovered, not repaired, driving on the road. Ever since then I have looked at the Ridgeline in a different light.
The problem with the gladiator is the rubicon is the only version of it with lockers front and back and sway bar disconnect. The vast majority don’t have any of that.
Joshua Eaton not trying to correct but there is no such thing as a Sahara Gladiator I think you meant Overland model but good point I bought Rubicon Gladiator but most people like the Max tow package because it gives you the same axles but not the lockers
IMO there is no point to having a Wrangler or Gladiator if it isn't a Rubicon. Buying used and adding lockers is one thing, but if you're spending the money new, it should be more capable than a Ridgeline.
Everyone remember when they took the gladiator rubicon to rubicon? It's fell on its ass.. It's not meant to be on that trail.
@@daniels2761 I disagree, buying a new sport and modifying it to your needs would be the best. You have to remember that used wranglers hold their value too good.
@@Kferler If you are going to keep it long term, upgrades would definitely be better than a stock Rubicon. But if you're concerned about it holding value, I think the Rubicon will hold value better, especially considering it is very hard to get money out of aftermarket upgrades if you sell or trade in.
The Honda Ridgeline is the best truck money can buy, period.
Can't tow my tool trailer with it (5600lbs), so no. Lol
I’d gladly give them my 2018 Ridgeline with a leveling kit and 265 18R60 Cooper AT3’s on it and see how it does. I’ve been places my buddies use a 3/4 ton truck in and are shocked when I roll in with my Ridgeline
I bet they laugh at you when your transmission overheats too. The ridgeline isnt a real truck. Its a pilot with a bed.
After a solid rain it’s a good 5 miles of thick mud. It never happens. Just because your truck was bolted to your frame and mine was welded, doesn’t make it any less of a truck. My Ridgeline doesn’t however have “truck nuts” like yours. So I guess your “truck” does have me beat ...
LRulesTheWorld ...or an Odyssey with a bed.
Badgers29 ‘ Your Ridgeline isn’t a truck.
B C 08 Are you the “truck Jesus?” He has risen!!! Praise to you Lord Truck Jesus!
man yall find some cool public lands florida is mostly private fenced off where im at enjoy it. yall be living
Man that Ridgeline is just outstanding
For my usage, score one for the Ridgeline. Looks like it is fine for mild 4WD (ok AWD!) off-road duty if you throw some skidplates and A/T tires on it.
An inch more ground clearance on the Honda and it would really be the winner here.
smart one with that donut spare, no low range and no way to mount a winch? Negative
I sure would like to see it with some more meaty tires and some better underbody protection. I have a Pilot, and I am so amazed at how well that AWS system works, I just end up abusing it, lol. Already broke sway bar linkage.
I totally agree.... BUT my Special Edition 2015 Winter X Edition Wrangler would eat it's lunch off road. But in the end I went back to a Honda because the Jeep was just way beyond what I need for the off road. Loved it but now I think I'm falling in love with the Ridgeline...… oops forgot, I went back to a hybrid Honda..... but that's for another day & time! :)
They were so tender with that Ridgeline.
Love everything about the honda except how the front end looks
And the rake of the infotainment screen. Can be washed out by the sun and gets a glare at times
True dat, the front end looks like it would be at home on a mini van. At least the previous version was different.
I’ve taken my ridgeline up much more difficult terrain than that. They’re more capable than most people think. I own a tundra and a 4 runner but my ridgeline is the best vehicle I’ve owned.
Would love to see you all test sport versions of the Gladiator and Wrangler.
F2F Tech agreed. TFL, do what you can... 60k is too darn much!
I've got a sport Gladiator, it is equipped well enough to handle medium duty offroading. If you want more out of it you'll need better tires.
Techguy a video review from TFL is what I was looking for. That would also be my plan for subtle upgrades.
I really wish they would buy a Willys edition or just a Sport with a limited slip wrangler JL. Less than 40k price tag and pin that against the best from competition.
Yas Yup. I have a JL Sport with and LSD. Would love to see how it compares.
So while the Honda is a good suburbanite and get you to the dirt roads, it is obviously not a proper truck out of the factory off the pavement. And we don't need no arguments for it otherwise by loyalists. Because it has no underside protection or proper tires. TFL was brave to test this thing this much. Kudos guys. Good presentation of the differences.
honestly i like the honda simply for that storage area in their bed...dont really care about the dampened tailgate tbh
It's a pseudo truck for ppl that never owned a truck or think they are buying a real truck. Its not. For price Honda Is asking ..ppl be much better off with a real midsize truck!!
David Klimmek, i’m guessing you’ve never owned a Ridgeline either. because people that make those type of comments are just lemmings(saying what everybody else says). It’s not like the Ridgeline is claiming to be a full-size truck or anything. In my opinion, that’s an ignorant statement you made. I have owned a lot of trucks, however my Ridgeline is my favorite out of all of them. I would never say the Ridgeline is “not a real truck”.
Shane Bouton agreed. People that claim the Ridgeline isn’t a real truck are usually trying too hard to be tough and manly. If the Ridgeline had some good off-road tires and skid plates, it more than likely would have done everything as good as the others. But Honda knows what they are doing, and they know 95% of buyers just want something to haul crap around in and won’t be going up mountains and other things of that nature.
@@dp4auburn if they knew what they were doing they would sell more. Ford just came out with the ranger and it outsells the sideline 3 to 1. It's obvious ford knows trucks better than honda
@@PCSPITTER4NY Of course Ford knows trucks better than Honda. In other news, gasoline still burns. It would be interesting to see what portion of Ford's sales are fleet. They get a lot of their revenue from commercial customers. Honda, not so much.
I own a twin locked FJ40 Land Cruiser for off roading, but my daily driver is a Honda Ridgeline with 238K miles and I love it. So spacious, smooth, reliable, and practical.
This video holds a medium weight in my view. I need the Canadian to be part of this. He is the (off road) truck professional, in my opinion.
Mr. Truck, is the one to listen to about towing.
Also the Honda Ridgeline may not be an actual truck but for people that need a car most of the time but have the need for a bed in some scenarios it seems to be a good vehicle.
Helicopter Dad yes I know about those trucks
Helicopter Dad but they were also body on frame, which is why people don’t like the ridge lines
It is unfair to use all seasons tires for Ridgeline and off road tires with the other vehicles.
Honda should put better tires on its minivan... I mean truck. Stock vs stock.
@@ajakelife You are another snowflake whose sense of worth and manliness is tied to a vehicle. Sad. You hate to see it.
@@seruresto1386 Wow, talk about being easy to trigger! Yet I'm the snowflake. Sorry not sorry 😘
It is fair as long as they all are using the factory installed tires this particular truck came out with.
I think they brought that up. If I'm not mistaken I think they said Honda wouldn't let them change tires. I'm not sure but I thought that's what they said.
Excellent video, fun, informative. You guys pair well together!
I never liked the design of the 1st gen Ridgeline but I like the newer style of the 2nd gen.
If I didn't have my Chevy Colorado I would have got a Ridgeline.
The new refresh for 2021 makes it look even more "truck-like"
The Ridgeline isn't even designed for off-road and it handled the test pretty well
Yall call that an ‘old school’ ranger while drooling over that soi bois Honda. 🤦♂️ your such sweet lil bois.😘
LOL they stuffed Tommy in the truck of the Ridgeline! Sales are gonna go thru the roof now that we know you can haul around a spare Tommy in the trunk!!!!
Great video! Recently purchased the exact ranger in white and I can say that watching these videos had a direct correlation with my decision to get the Ranger over the gladiator. You can get some great discounts right now as well.
That Ranger trim is absolutely beautiful! Nice choice 👌
How much of a discount would you be expecting if buying a ranger now? Might pick one up this weekend if dealer still open and papers can be signed virus free...
Matthew Marlowe I received almost 12K off MSRP. It’s a 2019 were trying to move anything they could, especially the 19’s when they have a lot full of 20’s. I’m on the east coast in a very expensive zip code so maybe my experience will be a lil different but right now dealerships are practically doing anything they can to make a sell. Also, my buying experience was great. Showed up, test drove, traded in, signed the paperwork and out the door I went. Now though you can pretty much do everything from home. Some dealerships are delivering vehicles to you. Best of luck. PS: I love mine!
I have a 2010 Pilot..sort of a Ridgeline. It's wearing BLIZZAKS and they make a huge difference in off road driving. Several years back I killed an elk and my old F-150's battery decided to die the same day. I retrieved my quartered elk with the PIlot. Had to be careful with clearance, but it did the job. On the road in snow or ice, especially with proper tires, the Ridgeline would perform very well. I'm approaching 200K with the Pilot, my next daily driver will be a new Ridgeline. All most of us need.
Time to give up my old 86 Toyota 2wd long bed yard queen and get a Honda Ridgeline.
Romeo Roze Big mistake
@@Offshore1977 it was a joke my friend.
😂
So the ranger is the ultimate in between vehicle for the mid size class, it’s got the power, it’s got comfort, it has some off-road capability, seems like it’s a good all round vehicle
I can’t believe that in these days, they still can’t / won’t produce a truck that puts drive to the only wheel with traction.
My 25 yr-old Land Cruiser 80 would have waltzed up those so-called ‘obstacles’ without a wheel breaking grip, without the aid of gismo super-computer modules, not even any ECUs.
It’s got 3 dash controlled diff-locks, and doesn’t need anything else. Love it 🤣👍🏻🇷🇴🇬🇧
Your 1995 Land Cruiser has an ECU and a TCU (Transmission Control Unit).
I have an request. Take each brand and rule out thier off road version. Like Ram rebel, power wagon, raptor ect. And take just that brand like Ram and test the off road package group But VS the ENGINES. 3.6 vs 5.7 vs 3.0 ect. Then do that with the others brands and then the winner of each group vs each other and give it the Best engine award. Would love to see a whole series on this!!! Please oh please!
Andre, the song you we thinking of is “Summertime” by Will Smith. Awesome song!
The honda ridgelines rear cargo area is badass. That would be so useful
I guess the term “their is a as$ for every seat”. Definitely fits here. If you want to just hit some dirt, throw things in the bed and a good ride Ridgeline, if you want some of those same things but a little more off road FX4 Ranger, Ranger and Ridgeline not great on towing. If only towing and off-road are important Gladiator but not for comfort or on road characteristics.
117 Vlog ranger ties for first in tow rating for mid size trucks with the new gladiator gas engine of course.
Yeah ranger is the best mid tier truck in regards to towing, minus any diesel engines.
Nick Nadeau standard versions yes very similar
Nick Nadeau I could be completely wrong but I thought the FX4 off-road package had a much lower towing capacity then the 7500lb 2wd model. I reached out to TFL since they have one right now
@@scotturich Hmm, not actually sure, I have a 2019 xlt but I have the tow package. So its 7500 ibs with the the tow package, but I think it may be 6500ish without it, not sure.
Tailgate wars - one thing missing is whether they lock electronically. Great video TFL!
The Ridgeline tailgate and trunk both lock and unlock remotely.
With a bed-topper I think the Ridgeline would make a damned fine snow truck. With studded tires it would go anywhere. And there are heated seats and steering wheel on some models, as well as standard remote ignition with automatic climatization and defrost when the computer detects freezing temperatures or high humidity.
The Ridgeline is nearly a self-driver too! I just drove one in Houston traffic and the Lane Keep Assist, Blindspot Warnings, and Adaptive Cruise Control make it an absolute dream to drive in traffic. Just a finger or knee on the steering wheel is all you really need **if you're a professional driver on a closed course** 😉😉
@@nathansharp3193 my ranger does all that too
You would think for 55k they are asking for the Jeep that it would have LED headlights
jmc6000 or you can throw some plug in play aftermarket lights after you buy it.
@@DarthNero for 55k I shouldn't have to add anything after purchase
@@williamparker7823 I hear ya but Jeep aren't a luxury premium vehicles so there isn't a big demand for them to have them standard all the trims. Plus the LED aftermarket options are way better and cheaper to get for Jeeps. It's like getting floor mats via dealer/manufacturer vs getting aftermarket custom fit one. both works well but you'll pay premium price to the dealer.
They're going to milk your pockets every way they can. Trucks have the highest profit margins for companies
Looked at the new Tacoma, Colorado, ridgline, ford ranger and Jeep gladiator but way too expensive so I just went with a ranger. Love the engine power out of the bunch and I got more features for it and cost way less than the others with blind spot , rear cross traffic, front sensors, Apple CarPlay. Lane keep ast. Front emergency breaking/warning. All that with the sports appearance package for $25,101. Only thing I dislike about the truck is the small gas tank but other than that, almost 17,000 miles and no issues so far
Great video. However, the song you’re talking about is “Summer time”
Ok, but seriously the ridgeline would be the ultimate tailgate party truck or late night camping with friends hangout. Whip out your cooler of beverages from the trunk feature, turn on those lights, play some music while setting out blankets and some large pads or pillows for cushioning, and make hot dogs with a charcoal grill or watch the stars from the bed...
There is even a tent made for the bed. Never seen such versatility.
Tommy always seems exasperated. Live a little man, enjoy the moment
He's a millennial, don't forget, hahaha.
But he's a great kid, love the father-and-son videos they make on TFL. 👍
Sean Phillips for real he’s boring af needs to chill tf out he’s always snapping at his dad and being a little control freak I had to dislike a few videos because he’s just too much sometimes.
A D 💯
He has ptsd from the time he wrecked the Tesla
Man the music really makes the production lol. Imagine this without the music!
Spoilers: the Ridgeline isn’t a truck