So, the RIdgeline does 95% of what the Colorado and Tacoma do, but also has way more storage, a wider bed (wide enough for a jon boat or plywood), and drives much better. You guys are so hung up on what to call it. Truck, car, SUV, some type of hybrid. Who cares? It is a vehicle that does more things well than any midsize truck on the market. I greatly prefer the styling of the Colorado. But if you are that obsessed with the manliness of your car, you probably have some other more serious shortcomings as a man.
That's not true at all. at least where I'm from our trucks are used as trucks. we have extremely rugged roads, deep snow, deep mud, and if you need something moved you need to be able to do it yourself. I like the ridgeline, but it would never be realistic outside of the city. I own a 1/2 ton 4wd truck. I don't tow as often as some of my buddies, but when I do its usually upwards of 7500lbs. the bed is always full of junk, wood, tools, or trash.. (out here we actually have to take our trash to the dump). I use my 4wd a few times a week, these are the reasons I have a truck. I'd like to save gas and have a little honda civic, but I need a truck. I'd like to have a jeep, but I need a truck. and I think that's the case for a lot more Americans than just me. sure I think the ridgeline would be a cute car for my wife, but it would be a in addition to the fact I already own a real truck.
You are comparing the Ridgeline to your 1/2 full size truck, they are not in the same class. The Ridgeline is competing with the Colorado and Tacoma. If you need a full size truck, get a full size truck. If you need a mid-size truck, then it would be smart to consider the Ridgeline because it has so many advantages. The Ridgeline's payload is 1584, which is only 40 pounds less than the body-on-frame competitors (one bag of mulch). But the Ridgeline has a much bigger bed and more storage (almost every quad cab Colorado/Tacoma I see is a short bed, which is shorter AND narrower). It also drives nicer, gets better gas mileage, and is likely more reliable. What the Ridgeline does not do, is tow as much weight or have 4WD. If you have reason for those features (most people don't, but you do) then the Ridgeline is not for you. But let's be honest here, how many midsize truck owners are towing over 5,000 pounds or going mudding? Hell, most FULL size truck owners could accomplish everything they need to in a minivan. I see Sierra Denalis rolling around here all the time, clean as a whistle, nothing in the bed, not a scratch on the bedliner.
+Nick C your right, there are some truck owners out there that really don't use there truck. I guess what I was getting at is if I were to trade my truck in for a mid size I'm sure I could get by with the tacoma. i could probably exceed it's capacity here and there on rural back roads and and it would be fine. 2nd choice I feel the colorado would be okay too, I just feel like the ridgeline really wouldn't hold up to abuse as well. irs (independent rear suspension) sucks for a truck and so does not having a transfer case. it's more in the class of that subaru baja that they only made for a couple years. I see it's usefulness in urban areas, but it's just not a truck in my eyes. you are right about it having adequate bed space, but I would be interested in seeing some durability tests. I am looking forward to seeing one of these ridgelines person.
Clearly Honda is not going after truck buyers at all with the Ridgeline and that is OK. People will be trading in cars and crossovers for the Ridgeline. It will be just like what they are used to, except it can haul things. No one is going to buy it expecting to conquer Moab, but it will be very much at home in a driveway on a cul-de-sac. I am sure Honda knows exactly who they are selling it to.
TheRuler OfAll I believe I said just what you did. The Ridgeline is aimed at the casual truck user and is well suited for that. Not sure why you felt the need to insult me. Maybe you should be a little less eager to be offended.
No doubt! Perfect truck if you live in the 'burbs, have season tickets to your fav NFL team. It's a Pilot with tailgating toys....which is fine by me. My Pilot has never once been in the shop in the 5 years I've owned it.....great truck 👍
@@fasteddie617 a buddy of mine bought a new ridgeline because of his wife's pilot. Although I dislike both. Good vehicles just dont like them. He used to have gmc full size trucks.
The ridge line is growing on me. I love having the storage to keep whatever in the trunk, will tow my atv without any issue and perfect for hunting. I miss having a truck and am use to my tdi mileage so if I could have something to use camping, biking, hunting, 4 wheeling and room to throw everything in with out playing Tetris in the back. Gas mileage is great and perfect for the family. I think this is going to be big for Honda.
loving the new Ridgeline and I own a Silverado. I just see how this is most the truck I would need! Way to be Honda and not just be like everyone else and go for what's "normal" that's why you are the company of dreams! You see it and go after it and 99% of the time are successful!
Toyota still hasn't changed that horrible seating position. Sat in one at a dealer and felt like an instant recipe for a backache. My 2008 F-150 with vinyl seats feels much more comfortable even though it's just a base work truck.
Getting tired of TFLT subtly bashing the ridgeline because it doesn't follow the archaic "manly" formula that trucks have stuck to for decades. A truck is a style of vehicle, with a cab and a bed, so the confusion they seem to suffer from as to whether or not it qualifies as a truck is ridiculous. Yes, they make positive remarks but continue to disregard it for not having a transfer case or brake controller, or off road model etc. The Ridgeline offers many features one or more of the others don't have. Best in class fuel economy, widest bed, in bed trunk, dual action tailgate, heated steering, in bed audio, power sliding rear window with defrost, most comfortable and largest cabin, memory seats. Fact is, if I'm shopping for a truck for working on a job site, heavy hauling/towing, I'm going to look at a full size or something like the Taco. However, I, like I suspect many others, fall in the category of occasional hauling/towing, mostly city/highway driving (not offroading) and a winter capable vehicle, the ridgeline would be the best choice by far. People need to move past the "image" of what a truck should be and take advantage of the practicality a truck like the Ridgeline offers
If they could’ve designed it with a more accord like face instead of the odyssey it’d look a bit more rugged, flat faced, I wouldnt even consider any other truck. For the majority of people that buy trucks, this is the best one out there. The looks keep me weighing my options though...😔
Precisely. I have an Avalon, but I bought it before my needs changed. I like the idea of a pickup that makes a very comfortable vehicle for my daily commute and long road trips, yet can haul a small camper or lug some plywood home from the lumber yard (unlike many pickups, it can carry a sheet of plywood or drywall flat in the bed.
I wanna see the ridgline on an offroad test... cause I don't really see how the ridgeline wouldn't work for anything you need it to do.... other then offroading, if your towing more the 5k lbs you should really think of a full 3/4 ton with diesel most of the time, but for mid-size pickup its perfect
I was referring to more than 5k lb load on a regular basis... when you could the size of the trailer... always safer to not have your trailer not be able to steer you and pull you around too much
+Chris Rowlison yup, I couldn't agree with more. I checked out all 3 of these today and also the Frontier and the RL is by far the nicest. Overall fit and finish, general maintenance seems pretty easy and ride and handling for everyday use is awesome. I will definitely buy myself a RL. Only reason to buy a Tacoma if I was into off roading which I am not.
I find it funny how so many people hate the previous and redesigned Ridgeline. I had a 2006 Ridgeline and it is funny how many people said to me that is not a real truck; however, once they had an opportunity to ride and drive it their opinions changed. The original Ridgeline was unique and the current Ridgeline is more truck-looking. If I needed a medium to heavy duty truck I would not look in the midsize market. I enjoyed my Ridgeline and am looking forward to seeing the new one in person. I believe the Ridgeline will check most boxes for many, but the fact that it is FWD and is not body-on-frame will make many not consider it a viable choice. In the end it is not going to work for everyone, but if given the chance it probably could work for many.
Same thing happened with me i hate hondas for a long tine, but after driven a Honda civic type R ep3 jdm factory 220 ps this was a japanese domestic market one straight imported from japan with 9000 rpm redline it was the best car ive ever owned after that i start to like hondas theyre really the best car maker
I have a 2007 Ridgeline and that's been my experience too. I think people realize how great it is to have the "car" features along with the truck aspects. It's not perfect and it's not about being bad ass or manly, but damn it sure does kick ass for most applications a small truck is needed for and beyond!
I don't why you keep saying it is not a work truck. I have an 06 ridgeline I use to run my cabinet business and it is awesome I tow kitchens with it, carry all my tools and pick-up sheets of plywood. You never mentioned that it is the only midsize truck that has more than 48" in between the wheel wells (thus the only one that can carry sheets of plywood flat which is one of the things that makes a truck a truck). It seems you don't know how to consider a truck for work, with the trunk, bed and back seat the ridgeline has the most usable storage than any other midsize truck. Oh by the way I also go off-road with my ridgeline.
This review is a bit biased against Ridgeline and favoring Colorado. Trucks of future will be unibody and fuel efficient without compromise on capability. I'm sold on torque vectoring. Good job Honda!
The new Ridgeline is the practical choice for 90%+ of midsize truck buyers. Only a tiny % of people actually will push their midsize trucks beyond the offroad or towing capabilities of the Honda. But what Honda forgot is that most people buy trucks to compensate for their small willies. They made a practical vehicle for the most impractical audience.
I just with they'd fix the front end. uni body doesn't bother me if I'm getting cool features and decent capability along with best in class fuel. front end is ugly on a truck though.
+larry Spiller Even the front end sacrifices tradition for practicality. It's shorter and sloped to allow for greater fuel efficiency and visibility from the drivers seat. Also, the shorter front allows for a larger cab and truck bed for the same wheelbase. People fall in love with Honda's from the driver's seat not from the outside.
Roman....your struggling to find things to hate about the RL aren't you? The tire....The volume knob???! The no-asst lift gate?! Bahahaha! After driving the other trucks, you nearly wet yourself in excitement as you open the door of the RL. Looks comfy huh?!
Dictionary says otherwise. You don't need to be able to go off-roading in the dunes for something to be a truck. It is more powerful then an SUV, it has a bed, it's bigger and wider then the Tacoma and Colorado plus extra storage in the bed. Sounds like you are just stuck in your ways there little man.
Roman! The point of this truck is that it's not a truck! Get the net! So when you want an f150 and your wife wants an explorer.....compromise. Let's face it, most people never ever ever ever tow or haul anything. Most suv's never go off road. At least with this, you could get away with 90% of what people need a truck for.....mulch from lowes. I wish it was a bit more aggressive looking (less wimpy) because it makes a lot of sense
I grew up with light, high revving, high performance honda coupes. Currently I drive a '06 Ridgeline that was handed down to me from my father. I don't call it a truck. The Ridgeline is a spacious car with more torque and clearance. If you're not pulling or hauling very heavy things, the Ridgeline has a good balance of handling and comfort of all medium sized suvs/trucks. Instead of big knobby tires, I plan to go with larger and lighter rims with sportier tires.
I'm not sure if you've ever noticed but the reason that the seating position is odd is because the body is intentionally tucked up to keep the rockers away from the ground. Its an odd compromise, but it sure is nice to have off road.
can't wait to see your next video, so far I'm hooked on the ridgeline. I don't haul or tow but I want a truck, you made it very easy for me to choose. thanks roman.
Honestly, for most people I think the ridge line would be the best option. Most people don't tow, or go offroading. the Ridgeline can do both of those relatively well, but I think it stands out as a truck that can truly be used as a car. I personally think I like the Tacoma the best, but if I were looking for a daily driver to not off-road in, I'd pick the Honda or Chevy. Honda and Toyota are also well known to be the most dependable vehicles on the road.
Coming from a full size truck, the Honda Ridgeline fits me best. I don't fit in the Toyota very well as I felt like I was sat on the floor but my head was touching the roof. The Chevy feels tight but the seating position was better. I liked the Tacoma interior quality but I got a very strong sence of 'Pontiac Grand Am' while sat in the Colorado. Very cheap? I'm sure both are fine trucks but just not for me. The Honda Ridgeline feels as large inside as my full size truck but rides like our minivan. I don't 'off road' so the AWD is just for getting up my driveway in winter, I need 4 doors and a truck bed to occasionally haul lumber, a quad and maybe some tools or other crap. The Ridgeline is truck enough for 95% of the people out there and it's perfect for my needs now.
I had the 1st gen Ridgeline. It was a great city truck. AWD made is a great wintertime driver. I could load bags of mulch, tow a bass boat, and carry people in comfort. Enuff said.
Starting to love the honda, i can see the black edition with better off road tires and i think this will be a capable truck that 80% of the casual off roadies could definitely accomplish. 👌 I enjoy how comfortable and convenient the honda is.
Well, I like all three, & and a few more, but I bought Ridgeline. It’s a matter of needs & price! I’m happy with my choice, hope the rest of you are just as happy!
Saying that the Ridgeline is not a truck because it is too quiet, too sophisticated, bla, bla, bla, it is like saying that a girl is not a girl because she is not that complicated
This was actually a good review. You are right in that it depends on what you are trying to achieve. I recently transferred from an Accord to a truck (2016 Colorado) cause I was looking for that introductory truck that would give give me the best of all worlds (commute, towing, off-road). If Ridgeline was available, I might have chosen that since it was closer to a car - but I think Colorado offers more for my Renaissance personality. Great job!
If your looking for a "mans truck" you are going full size especially when you see how much more you get for your money. If your looking for a versatile truck for recreation and weekend jobs any of these will work. The Honda would be a great choice if you can only have a truck and no second car. Most of my peers would take the Honda because it is more than livable all the time, BUT if someone could do what Honda did AND make it look good, that would be the real winner. Looks definitely go to the Chevy and Toyota. By the way Roman, you were pretty impressed with the off road ability of the Honda Pilot which this truck is based off of.
I test drove all of these except Ridgeline as it is not out yet. I test drove F150, and Tundra. I did not consider Ram or Silverado after horrific IIHS crash test safety rating. From full size I liked F150 the most but it was a bit too big for my needs. I did not like Tacoma seating position or ride, and engine seemed to be hunting for gears. Colorado rides better but GM quality is questionable (I used to own GM vehicles and had bad experience with them), and rear seat does not have sufficient space. A friend owns 1st Generation Ridgeline and I test drove it and it was great. Rides like a car, maneuverable, quiet, yet is able to tow and carry a load of 1500 pounds. My friend REALLY abused that Ridgeline (2010) loading it up to over capacity, towing 5500 pounds+ for years. He has 190k+ miles on the clock and nothing but regular maintenance. Rear seat was the best in class. i have to see the 2nd Generation Ridgeline in person, but I am 90% sold on this vehicle and will likely buy one this summer. I also own two other Honda's (Odyssey and Accord both 2009) and nothing but regular maintenance (with the exception of Odyssey needing at $80k miles 1 new engine mount/regular not active, and right CV axle replacement). I also want to buy Gen 2 Ridgeline with the 6-speed auto they will come in before Honda starts putting 10 speed auto (likely next year) in their cars (stupid CAFE/fuel economy b.s.). I think anything over 6 speed is b.s. (ok, perhaps 8 speed auto is kind of acceptable but I still believe unnecessary) and more gears in a small tranny housings will lead to more problems in the future (not just with Honda but with all). Honda has a good diesel engine they sell in Europe and can be modified for Truck use. So does Toyota. RAM has already "imported" a very reliable JTD Fiat diesel engine and placed it in RAM trucks. Diesels are ideal for midsize trucks and GM putting Duramax in Canyon was a good move.
Just bought a ridgeline, love when people hate on it until they actually ride in it and drive it. Also if you are on a flat enough highway for the cylinder deactivation to do its magic, you can get 7.8L/100km (30 mpg)!
Almost non they mostly but the bells and whistles to drink a beer in thier driveways and brag to their neighbor about what thier truck can do but never use it for what it’s built for lol
Dude i was just going to comment on whether they even made a new frontier lol. Nowhere to be seen, though it kind of sucks, because it's not too terrible of a truck, just needs a major refresh.
why is everyone so pissed over Honda having a touch capacitive volume control on the stereo instead of a knob? Its not hard to use and if you don't like it use the steering wheel controls.
You can feel and use a volume knob while driving without taking your eyes off the road. You can't do the same with a touch-sensitive control unless you have steering wheel controls which costs extra. There is no feedback with the touch control so you do not know if you are controlling the volume unless you hear it getting louder or lower. You an easily accidentally push a different touch sensitive control (change station, gps, etc.) when trying to adjust the volume.
Correct me if I am wrong. But if you get a base model you get the stereo that has a knob. if you get a higher model it has the all touch and steering wheel controls. I'm fairly certain, steering wheel controls are standard on all Honda models at least for 2016. Anyway I have no issues using the touch capacitive volume control in our HRV and any of the test drive videos I see of people complaining about it there is steering wheel controls. If you want the knob get the base mode!
Yeah GM kinda screwed up with some of the decisions with the Colorado; hopefully the ZR2 makes up for the lack of offroadability on the out going models. The Tacoma looks nice; I almost bought one but went with a Colorado instead. I'm hoping that a good tune and lift will remove some gripes I have with my Colorado when I'm out exploring trails and shit.
Roman, braking performance and braking durability are real measurable things that benefit the consumer, not whether they are disks, drums, air, or other wise. Toyota engineers prioritize what works above what journalists want to see. Keep in mind that the Tacoma stops faster than the Colorado, even given it's 4 wheel disk brakes. I can assure you that cutting cost was not their intention. There is actually a costly upgrade to the drum brakes themselves and the entire braking system on the new Tacoma. It's really not fair to viewers who don't know this to dog on the Tacoma for drum brakes. So next time, please make mention of why Toyota uses them. Thanks man. Otherwise, excellent review and I agree with your assessment about these 2 trucks and one "car with a bed on the back".
Nice video Roman! The new Colorado & Tacoma are missing the driver side A-pillar handles. One of my favorite features on my 2014 Tacoma. I use it every time I get in/out.
The volume snobs have done away with the volume knobs, in favor of touch buttons and graphical sliders. I say "Why mess with a good thing." However, apparently, the analog knob has been deemed too old school of a technology. No longer will the protruding mushroom violate the clean plastic lines of the center console. The real question is: Can you operate the touch controls with (Isotoner)gloves on?
Assuming that you're someone who doesn't need to tow anything, having a truck is great when you need the ability to haul something that you either wouldn't want to throw in the back of an an SUV...or something that is too tall / long. But is having that ability worth the trade-offs of owning a truck which are typically lower fuel economy, limited (or uncomfortable) passenger space, and a truck-like ride? For some people it clearly is but for a lot of folks it isn't. I think that's probably why out of all the families that I know, I'd say less than half own a pickup truck. They either drive two sedans or a sedan and an SUV / van. Plus if you buy a truck and you want to securely store items you either get a locking tonneau cover (the fiberglass ones are a pain to remove) or you get a truck with in bed storage solutions like an Avalanche (which is no longer manufactured) or a Ram with the RamBox which is what I personally own. With every vehicle you have compromises and trade-offs...so what's the big deal? It sounds like the Ridgeline will fit the needs of a lot of drivers and if it makes sense for certain people then why wouldn't they purchase it? All of the commenters thumping their chests and moaning about how this isn't a "real" truck sound like a bunch of insecure adolescents with inflated egos.
Our kids are grown and we are now a one car/truck family. As soon as my wife sat in the Ridgeline, I knew I could forget the others. We are 85% on road and that thing may as well be a Lexus, so I;m OK with it.
it is so up with the seating position because under all the panels and such the truck has the same skeleton. the cabin is exactly of the previous generation. I had the truck and I can guarantee you that. if they did build it from scratch they would have addressed it
The rear drum brakes on Tacoma was kept to prevent sand etc getting to the rear brakes and rotors. If you get stuck in sand it's usually the rear that digs down and gets the rear brakes covered in sand which is bad for your rotors..
As a former Tacoma owner I can't get on board with the new styling, it looks to funky. I've got to see I would probably go for the chevy with the 4cyl turbo diesel.
I was in the market for a midsize truck and after my research and personal experience this is what I can say The Tacoma is to me the most agressive truck it drives like a well a truck, and if you want Reliability, Off road ruggidness and the Amazing resale value go for the Tacoma The Ridgeline is the most Suv/Crossover truck, I hate to debate the "Its not a truck or It is a truck" so lets leave it there. When I test drove it it reminded me of my first vehicle "its a minivan" and it kinda drived like that, I also want to point out that if you like technology theres a hell of a lot in here. So if you want a more "Car/Suv/Crossover" driving experience with your truck and all the cool features then go for the Ridgeline. The Canyon Denali is how do I say this umm the most truckish but also kind of Suv like driving experience. Its like a mix of the Ridgeline and Tacoma, I wasnt really impressed with the "Denali" trim of the Canyon I expected more to be honest, It has everything you need if you just want a regular american truck. So if you
I respect those people that want trucks for hauling trailers and "off-roading", but I'm more interested in a small 4 cylinder truck with decent gas mileage, light duty freight hauling (500 lbs or less) and something that rides nicely on a long highway drive. The old late 90s Tacomas were really good in this arena. I hope that these new ones are as durable and that the 4cyl versions get decent mileage. The Honda is way out of my price range and I have trust issues with GM products.
@@jeffk464 the gm 3.6 is a great motor actually. I dont have any first hand experience but the numbers are impressive and reviews favorable. Also some of the new Cadillac sedans look really nice.
My 2013 handles great around town and takes care of the trips to Lowe's without a problem. Towing a boat or the other toys is doable but is more like the little train that could. The Ridgeline will go to my son but I'll get another Tundra or something else.
Had a 2018 Tacoma 4wd, hated the way it drove; just felt so antiquated and unrefined. I sold it and got an awesome old T100 before having a chance to steal a Ridgeline for an amazing deal. Went for it as a "what the hell" because I thought I'd just resell it for a profit after a few months....aaannnd no way...I am not selling this truck. I fell in love. The torque transfer system AWD is amazing on the slopes, and going over Santiam pass during winter here in Oregon was just a breeze; that's saying something. Never considered the Ridgeline until serendipity put it in my lap and there's no way I'm giving it up. Best truck I've had in 25 years.
Somebody referred to the Ridgeline as a city truck. Sounds bout right to me. I do think it will sell and find a niche. But for me theirs others I'd rather have.
I mean you can use it on virtually all rural properties. It can't tow insane industrial shit and it can't climb rocks and steep inclines, but that doesn't mean it's all of sudden city focused. It's designed to handle the gross majority of rural/working truck related tasks. Do you think farmer joe is climbing mt everest to get his bags of chicken grain?
Honda has dragged the truck out of the 1950s and into the twenty-first century. All they've got to do now is drag the Real Truck Guy out of the 1950's and into the twenty-first century‼️😜😜😜
pretty accurate I'd say. there's nothing wrong with applying what is traditionally car technology to a truck. it all comes down to FWD and that's the only reason people are bitching, realistically. If anyone was serious about a "real truck hurrdurr" they would be driving something ancient. manual trans with no synchros, manual hubs, zero frills, no AC machine. sure, it'd be fun but probably not everyday.
colormesarge Just like with cars, FWD is all most drivers require. What they want is comfort and economy. You don't need locking diffs and crawler gears when you're buying peat-free compost from the local garden centre.
Consumer reports ranked the Ridgeline the #1 midsize pickup, and I believe it also has the most American content either very close to or tied with the F150 for " Most American"
Oddly enough the Ridgeline does something I wanted for a long time. I grew up during the "Sport Truck" era, the GMC Syclone, Ford Lightning, Silverado 454 SS, S10 Xtreame, Tacoma X-Runner. What do all them old trucks have in common? They suck off road but are great on road trucks that handle pretty well. Growing up with that, naturally I want a truck that's awesome on road (since I could care less about off road since I don't off road at all). It's a market that's all but dead, and to me it looks like Honda may be tapping into that market. (Though the Ridgeline lacks the sporty look) The on road ability is really appealing to me. Just may take a test drive in one soon to see for myself how it handles.
Full disclosure: I am an unabashed Honda hater that thinks they make the most boring vehicles known to man. Now with that being said, simply sticking a bed on the back of a car does not a truck make. I can only see the Ridgeline being purchased by yuppie Honda fans that think taking home a bookshelf from Ikea is what having a truck is all about. El Caminos are more truck than the Ridgeline. I have used a couple year old kinda baseline model Tacoma to haul around little more than a half bed load of sand on several occasions. It was struggling to do anything and the rear leaf springs were maxed out. It didn't have the TRD suspension (or any suspension upgrades for that matter. I'm not sure if there are more options in between the 2 ends of the spectrum), so I don't know how well it would have faired if that were the case. It was far too soft and the suspension was way too bouncy without any payload in it. I haven't ever driven a Colorado/Canyon, so I can't really comment on that. I have seen a couple Colorados/Canyons with a 4" lift on them and they look pretty awesome and capable. Whether they are or not, I still wouldn't know. I am glad that there are starting to really be more smaller truck options other than giant full-size trucks. I miss the days of the tiny little Datsun/Nissan trucks of the late 80s-early 90s. Thats what I learned to drive in and I remember them being far more capable than even the baseline Tacoma of today. If someone starts making a kick-ass little truck like those again that can actually truck stuff, I'm totally down.
+Waffaw e It appears that you didn't read past the first line of my post before you got butthurt and stopped reading. In no way did I mention liking Toyotas in anyway, form or fashion. I actually talked about how pathetic of a truck the Tacoma was in my experience. Typical Honda yuppie. Enjoy crying into your mocha-chocko-latte you just picked up from starbucks while you struggle to assemble your new Ikea dresser with the screwdriver you had to borrow from your neighbor because you don't own any of your own tools. You brought this response on yourself.
I thought you would go with the Tacoma exclusively. Well, at least you were good about the Ridgeline. I have a first-generation Ridgeline. If the thing was totaled tomorrow I would buy another one without a second thought. Keep in mind, I wanted a Tacoma as a first choice, but the Ridgeline was what was the great used buy. There's a sidenote, it is funny that Ford's ad campaign in 1970 was, "it drives like a car…" Now Honda has achieved the goal, and is criticized for that very thing Ford saw as a positive. Hopefully this Ridgeline stays in production and people don't just dismiss it like the first generation run. I love mine, I thought the trunk was a gimmick, was critical of it, and now I wonder why more pickups don't have one.
I have previous generation Ridgeline. I test drove the Frontier, Taco, and others when I went shopping. The Ridgeline drove and rode so much better. The trunk is what sold it for me. The lockable trunk just kicks butt. So handy to throw things in there. I love my Ridgeline and want the new one now. My 70 year old parents don't mind sitting in the backseat of the Ridgeline. I am sure they would not have liked the other models, because when we tried those they felt like a stiff bench. That said, I do not like some of the changes in drivetrain and the stereo set (i want a volume knob as well) of the new ones. I think the towing should have been increased over the last generation. Also like the center armrest setup of the last generation. I don't like the minivan armrests of the new ones. Not sure on the new one but the swing out tailgate is actually annoying some times. It doesn't open fully perpendicular to the bumper, so it can be in the way at times which forces you to lower the tailgate instead.
My last pickup I own for 15 years, a base 2wd nissan with a stick. I drove it all over the place in Oregon, Utah, and California, helped a million friends move stuff -it was indestructible - finally gave it way for free to a poor buddy. I watch this guys whining about no locking diff or can't connect my iPod my eyes roll back inside my head 10 feet. Then I hear about adaptive cruise control and lane assist and I think "man you should no even be behind the wheel if you need that shit".
How would a fwd truck that gets best in class by far mpg, and has the best bed material ever that is very durable, and can fit a 5 ft piece of dry wall, I don't think any of the trucks in this class can do that. They are trying to approach a group of people that don't own a truck because it's not as nice as a pilot or accord. Now they have this... I love this truck
I thought that by going with drum brakes on the Tacoma, it wasn't about a cost cutting. I think it's important to remember the use case scenarios that the manufacturers had in mind when designing their truck. There are benefits to drum brakes over disc brakes and I think if you look at the advantage of drum brakes, and the disadvantages of disc brakes, during certain scenarios, that might explain why Toyota decided to use two drums on the rear. I'm thinking about when I saw a Tacoma use crawl control to get off its belly, witb all 4 wheels buried in the sand....
In my condo complex in south Texas there are 3 Tacomas owned by two women and one man, with an average age of about 70. The trucks never show signs of being off road. Tacomas must have some appeal you are missing.
Well I just bought one 3 weeks ago. So for you people saying it's not a truck like people are used to, well chill out. Think about this, not all vehicles are for all people. This is America where we have the freedom to make our own decisions. The Ridgeline is not for everyone. Well neither is the Tundra, Tacoma, F150, Titan, Z71, Ram. Get the point? We all have different needs and uses. I work with several guys that have these other trucks I mentioned and the bed still looks new, no scratches or dents. They bought their Truck as you call it, simply because they have low testosterone. Spent several thousand dollars on lift kits, and big off road tires, and are afraid to take it in the mud or climb up a hill. I bought my Ridgeline RTL because of Comfort, Power, and Use. The trunk will hold my fishing tackle, life jacket, anchor, paddle for my kayak. Then load the kayak, strap it in the bed and put fishing rods in the cab. So I have a comfortable ride to and from the lake or work, haul what I need, good gas mileage, and a radio with a nob and buttons. Heated leather seats for those cool mornings. So who spent their money more wisely? I have owned a 79 Ford F100, 2000 F100, Nissan Frontiers , two of them, along with a couple of Nissan Pathfinders. I am not knocking any of these vehicles or any that anyone else has or has owned. This Ridgeline is, I feel the best for me and my needs, simply put.
+The Fast Lane Truck sorry Roman, no bias here however, your claim to have no bias is unfounded in you Honda review videos. Disclaimer; My current profile picture is of a Honda product however, I also own a Toyota "Truck", I've also owned products from GM, Ford and a Chrysler.......So the only horse in the race that I have.....is to hope for an unbiased and honest review....I don't believe we got that here. While the Ridgeline may have not have the tow rating of the other two "Trucks", you failed to mention that the Ridgeline has a better payload, the 5' bed actually measures 5'-4" and during the product review you attended, there was absolutely no damage from the load of riverstone they dropped in the bed.......Really doesn't sound like a "Car" to me......and if it does to you.....What the hell type of "Car" are you driving? While Honda is attempting to bring a new segment to the market for what's to be considered a pickup "Truck"........with it's reinforced unit-body and front wheel/all wheel drive system, it still is a Pickup "Truck"....And if it makes you less of a man to own one.......well then that's a personal issue. I've watched TFLC and TFLT for quite some time......even before Andre "the Russian mechanic" spoke english.....so I've been around awhile and almost always.......you (Roman) are far more critical (even bias) against Honda products.....than any other brand you've reviewed.......Nathan on the other hand, seems to bring a more genuine review of all products. Again.....I'm just pointing out an honest observation.
Ridgeline is and always will be the Swiss Army SUV. If you don't need to tow large things or go hardcore 4x4ing over rocks, but rather need to commute and handle home owner types of tasks, this is your SUV (with truck-like features).
These would sell so much more if they made the bed width inside the wheels wells 48". the Toyota bed is literally 47". They could easily make it 48" which allow people to load sheetrock and plywood and other lumber allowing it to lay flat in the bed...come on.
I think an additional Ridgeline value proposition should be a strip down model with only a key entry, key engine start, radio, navi and AC starting at under 20k$..Oh let's not forget a hybrid engine option as well while we are at it..
Don't forget, Honda has a 9 speed auto that it can still throw into the Ridgeline. Not to mention the fact that they're starting to tinker with turbos. That said, I'll take the Ridgeline out of the 3.
I almost went with the ridgeline. The donut inside the truck bed is a huge deal breaker. 1st, murphy's law. Imagine hauling 1000 lb of cargo, you get a flat in the middle of nowhere. I guess Honda expects me to unload the cargo to get at the donut. Same for the "trunk". I guess no refreshments until the cargo has been unloaded.
Roman, for being so hung up on towing capability, I know you like the Raptor, but it's soft suspension compromises its tow rating, and I haven't heard you complain about it. Every vehicle has compromises in that the designers have goals they intend to meet...different companies have different goals. The RL compromises some of the offroad and towing specs for a more comfy ride. Nothing wrong w/ that. I'd like to see a drag race between all of these too. I'm willing to bet the RL awd smokes the other trucks in 0-60. Also, using your logic, a Raptor or F150 Platinum/Denali/Big Horn aren't 'real' trucks either...leather interior w/ comfy ride and cooled seats are for sissies...anything less than a 1 ton diesel w/ 4wd and vinyl flooring could be argued as a 'car'. Try to be more open minded and fair, please.
Yeah but the Raptor has the 6.2 liter V8 which goes together with an american truck like peanut butter and jelly or apply pie and ice cream or...dang, i'm hungry gotta run!
In regards to the Colorado, "everything feels expensive" my foot. Me and Roman must have sat in two different trucks because there is definitely acres of hard black plastic all over the cab of that truck. Now, that's not necessarily a bad thing as that makes it very easy to clean, but let not get carried away with the use of that "expensive" word.
I only know 3 people who have dedicated work vehicles for their small businesses. All 3 have very large vans. 2 turbo diesels and 1 a gas burner. For their personal vehicles 2 have SUVs and 1 has a new ridgeline. The guy with the ridgeline just traded in his full size gmc and it surprised me as I dislike the ridgeline and his response was he realized he really came to love his wife's pilot and that he was never using anywhere near the capabilities of his full size truck. What he told me is that what he needs a truck for is hauling home stuff for the house from menards or home depot, occasionally trailering home a motorcycle he buys from out of state and helping friends move from time to time. He said actually his wife's pilot could do all of those things but just that having a bed was a bit more convenient for the house stuff vs folding seats down in the pilot. He came from full size gmc trucks. He bought 2 in the last 15 years but the first threw a rod out the block and the second had a transmission failure. He always hated jap crap but he said his wife's last 2 pilots changed his viewpoint. I told him though his wife's pilots run well because she does the maintenance. He does none. Told him his ridgeline will probably have a failure also the way he treats his vehicles. He puts about 30k miles a year on his personal vehicles and he never once changed the transmission fluid in over 200k miles. Oil changes were once a year aka at 30k miles. He would just add oil as needed during that year and would complain that he would have to add over a quart a month. Long story short is his point is unless you do some real off roading, tow over 5k pounds and need to have I think he said 2k pounds in the bed the ridgeline will get it done for you. I still dislike the ridgeline and believe the problems he had with his pick up trucks was his own fault. Now that I think about it he has complained to me he has either had to replace or repair his transmission in his work van twice now. Twice in probably 10 years or so. I'm sure the work van probably sees the same abuse.
That being said I actually have another friend who has an older late 90s chevy full size pick up with over half a million miles. V8 gas engine. He has had it over 10 years and put on 400k of those miles and he changes the oil religiously every 5k miles however he does something a bit crazy. His wife has during that time period has always had suburbans and she always has him change her oil every 3k miles and what he does is save her used oil and oil filter and then he reuses it and puts it in his truck. No joke. He always buys the supertec walmart full synthetic oil and oil filter and says the oil and oil filter are supposed to be good for 10k miles so he says after his wife puts 3k miles on the oil and oil filter and he puts on 5k they are still only at 8k miles. As crazy as it sounds it seems to work. He even saves whatever left over oil he has from changing his kids oil and left over oil from his wife oil changes and uses that mix to top off his oil. I dont know how or what he does when it comes to trans fluid. Just didn't want to make it seem like I was bashing on gm in my previous post. And for full disclosure one of the 2 other guys had a trans failure at only 100k miles on his ford escape so no GM hate.
Very well done video. When i think about any kind of truck these are the three that i look at because i don't need a full size truck. the RL certainly would be better for day to day activities and overall commuting. Even for going to the lake or beach on the weekend its a good choice. The taco is the real truck of the three. Great choice for people in the country or those who regularly travel off road. The Chevy is in the middle just like they said as it can do everything just not as well as the others. All in all its just personal preference on three great choices.
The Honda Ridgeline is the best choice for most people who want a Pick up Truck!
This impartial review supporting the Honda brought to you by "HondaPro Jason"
So, the RIdgeline does 95% of what the Colorado and Tacoma do, but also has way more storage, a wider bed (wide enough for a jon boat or plywood), and drives much better.
You guys are so hung up on what to call it. Truck, car, SUV, some type of hybrid. Who cares? It is a vehicle that does more things well than any midsize truck on the market.
I greatly prefer the styling of the Colorado. But if you are that obsessed with the manliness of your car, you probably have some other more serious shortcomings as a man.
Haha my thoughts exactly.
Yea. I would really prefer the Ridgeline over any truck.
That's not true at all. at least where I'm from our trucks are used as trucks. we have extremely rugged roads, deep snow, deep mud, and if you need something moved you need to be able to do it yourself. I like the ridgeline, but it would never be realistic outside of the city. I own a 1/2 ton 4wd truck. I don't tow as often as some of my buddies, but when I do its usually upwards of 7500lbs. the bed is always full of junk, wood, tools, or trash.. (out here we actually have to take our trash to the dump). I use my 4wd a few times a week, these are the reasons I have a truck. I'd like to save gas and have a little honda civic, but I need a truck. I'd like to have a jeep, but I need a truck. and I think that's the case for a lot more Americans than just me. sure I think the ridgeline would be a cute car for my wife, but it would be a in addition to the fact I already own a real truck.
You are comparing the Ridgeline to your 1/2 full size truck, they are not in the same class. The Ridgeline is competing with the Colorado and Tacoma. If you need a full size truck, get a full size truck. If you need a mid-size truck, then it would be smart to consider the Ridgeline because it has so many advantages.
The Ridgeline's payload is 1584, which is only 40 pounds less than the body-on-frame competitors (one bag of mulch). But the Ridgeline has a much bigger bed and more storage (almost every quad cab Colorado/Tacoma I see is a short bed, which is shorter AND narrower). It also drives nicer, gets better gas mileage, and is likely more reliable.
What the Ridgeline does not do, is tow as much weight or have 4WD. If you have reason for those features (most people don't, but you do) then the Ridgeline is not for you.
But let's be honest here, how many midsize truck owners are towing over 5,000 pounds or going mudding? Hell, most FULL size truck owners could accomplish everything they need to in a minivan. I see Sierra Denalis rolling around here all the time, clean as a whistle, nothing in the bed, not a scratch on the bedliner.
+Nick C your right, there are some truck owners out there that really don't use there truck. I guess what I was getting at is if I were to trade my truck in for a mid size I'm sure I could get by with the tacoma. i could probably exceed it's capacity here and there on rural back roads and and it would be fine. 2nd choice I feel the colorado would be okay too, I just feel like the ridgeline really wouldn't hold up to abuse as well. irs (independent rear suspension) sucks for a truck and so does not having a transfer case. it's more in the class of that subaru baja that they only made for a couple years. I see it's usefulness in urban areas, but it's just not a truck in my eyes. you are right about it having adequate bed space, but I would be interested in seeing some durability tests. I am looking forward to seeing one of these ridgelines person.
Clearly Honda is not going after truck buyers at all with the Ridgeline and that is OK. People will be trading in cars and crossovers for the Ridgeline. It will be just like what they are used to, except it can haul things. No one is going to buy it expecting to conquer Moab, but it will be very much at home in a driveway on a cul-de-sac. I am sure Honda knows exactly who they are selling it to.
TheRuler OfAll I believe I said just what you did. The Ridgeline is aimed at the casual truck user and is well suited for that. Not sure why you felt the need to insult me. Maybe you should be a little less eager to be offended.
+1guyin10 WOW!! I "clearly" clicked on the wrong name, my comment was for sum1 wayyyyy below you're name. Ima delete it, mybad....
No doubt! Perfect truck if you live in the 'burbs, have season tickets to your fav NFL team. It's a Pilot with tailgating toys....which is fine by me. My Pilot has never once been in the shop in the 5 years I've owned it.....great truck 👍
@@fasteddie617 a buddy of mine bought a new ridgeline because of his wife's pilot. Although I dislike both. Good vehicles just dont like them. He used to have gmc full size trucks.
bingo cul-de-sac Ridgeline
he really likes the ridgeline but just doesn't want to admit it LOL
The ridge line is growing on me. I love having the storage to keep whatever in the trunk, will tow my atv without any issue and perfect for hunting. I miss having a truck and am use to my tdi mileage so if I could have something to use camping, biking, hunting, 4 wheeling and room to throw everything in with out playing Tetris in the back. Gas mileage is great and perfect for the family. I think this is going to be big for Honda.
loving the new Ridgeline and I own a Silverado. I just see how this is most the truck I would need! Way to be Honda and not just be like everyone else and go for what's "normal" that's why you are the company of dreams! You see it and go after it and 99% of the time are successful!
The RL has actually grown on me. I'd actually consider this when I'm looking for a new truck. Well done lol
same here
Toyota still hasn't changed that horrible seating position. Sat in one at a dealer and felt like an instant recipe for a backache. My 2008 F-150 with vinyl seats feels much more comfortable even though it's just a base work truck.
Getting tired of TFLT subtly bashing the ridgeline because it doesn't follow the archaic "manly" formula that trucks have stuck to for decades. A truck is a style of vehicle, with a cab and a bed, so the confusion they seem to suffer from as to whether or not it qualifies as a truck is ridiculous. Yes, they make positive remarks but continue to disregard it for not having a transfer case or brake controller, or off road model etc.
The Ridgeline offers many features one or more of the others don't have. Best in class fuel economy, widest bed, in bed trunk, dual action tailgate, heated steering, in bed audio, power sliding rear window with defrost, most comfortable and largest cabin, memory seats. Fact is, if I'm shopping for a truck for working on a job site, heavy hauling/towing, I'm going to look at a full size or something like the Taco. However, I, like I suspect many others, fall in the category of occasional hauling/towing, mostly city/highway driving (not offroading) and a winter capable vehicle, the ridgeline would be the best choice by far. People need to move past the "image" of what a truck should be and take advantage of the practicality a truck like the Ridgeline offers
Minivan with a bed.
@@patb9375 minivans have sliding doors. Try again.
If they could’ve designed it with a more accord like face instead of the odyssey it’d look a bit more rugged, flat faced, I wouldnt even consider any other truck. For the majority of people that buy trucks, this is the best one out there. The looks keep me weighing my options though...😔
@@dakotamise2625 check out the 2021!!!
Precisely. I have an Avalon, but I bought it before my needs changed. I like the idea of a pickup that makes a very comfortable vehicle for my daily commute and long road trips, yet can haul a small camper or lug some plywood home from the lumber yard (unlike many pickups, it can carry a sheet of plywood or drywall flat in the bed.
Ridgeline is the first choice of me dude.
I wanna see the ridgline on an offroad test... cause I don't really see how the ridgeline wouldn't work for anything you need it to do.... other then offroading, if your towing more the 5k lbs you should really think of a full 3/4 ton with diesel most of the time, but for mid-size pickup its perfect
+Chris Rowlison Please stay tuned. We are editing a Ridgeline off-road video review just now.
+The Fast Lane Truck please edit out any drivel commentary!
More than 5,000 lbs need a 3/4 ton? Heck no my friend, a 1/2 ton can do that no problem!!
I was referring to more than 5k lb load on a regular basis... when you could the size of the trailer... always safer to not have your trailer not be able to steer you and pull you around too much
+Chris Rowlison yup, I couldn't agree with more. I checked out all 3 of these today and also the Frontier and the RL is by far the nicest. Overall fit and finish, general maintenance seems pretty easy and ride and handling for everyday use is awesome. I will definitely buy myself a RL. Only reason to buy a Tacoma if I was into off roading which I am not.
I find it funny how so many people hate the previous and redesigned Ridgeline. I had a 2006 Ridgeline and it is funny how many people said to me that is not a real truck; however, once they had an opportunity to ride and drive it their opinions changed. The original Ridgeline was unique and the current Ridgeline is more truck-looking. If I needed a medium to heavy duty truck I would not look in the midsize market. I enjoyed my Ridgeline and am looking forward to seeing the new one in person. I believe the Ridgeline will check most boxes for many, but the fact that it is FWD and is not body-on-frame will make many not consider it a viable choice. In the end it is not going to work for everyone, but if given the chance it probably could work for many.
amen
Same thing happened with me i hate hondas for a long tine, but after driven a Honda civic type R ep3 jdm factory 220 ps this was a japanese domestic market one straight imported from japan with 9000 rpm redline it was the best car ive ever owned after that i start to like hondas theyre really the best car maker
I have a 2007 Ridgeline and that's been my experience too. I think people realize how great it is to have the "car" features along with the truck aspects. It's not perfect and it's not about being bad ass or manly, but damn it sure does kick ass for most applications a small truck is needed for and beyond!
I like the new ridgeline. I don't need a "truck" but could use the functionality it offers
I don't why you keep saying it is not a work truck. I have an 06 ridgeline I use to run my cabinet business and it is awesome I tow kitchens with it, carry all my tools and pick-up sheets of plywood. You never mentioned that it is the only midsize truck that has more than 48" in between the wheel wells (thus the only one that can carry sheets of plywood flat which is one of the things that makes a truck a truck). It seems you don't know how to consider a truck for work, with the trunk, bed and back seat the ridgeline has the most usable storage than any other midsize truck. Oh by the way I also go off-road with my ridgeline.
Nice minivan with a bed.
@@patb9375 minivans have sliding doors but thanks for playing.
This review is a bit biased against Ridgeline and favoring Colorado. Trucks of future will be unibody and fuel efficient without compromise on capability. I'm sold on torque vectoring. Good job Honda!
The ridgeline is literally a pilot with a truck bed
@@youngmoonyohnj1099 Nope: ua-cam.com/video/PNAsXWnFtic/v-deo.html
The ridgeline fuel economy is marginally better than the competition. It's relatively not that impressive.
The new Ridgeline is the practical choice for 90%+ of midsize truck buyers. Only a tiny % of people actually will push their midsize trucks beyond the offroad or towing capabilities of the Honda. But what Honda forgot is that most people buy trucks to compensate for their small willies. They made a practical vehicle for the most impractical audience.
Damn! I couldn't agree more with you!
+yogiyoda uh no try again
I just with they'd fix the front end. uni body doesn't bother me if I'm getting cool features and decent capability along with best in class fuel. front end is ugly on a truck though.
Sir, you are one smart individual, kudos. I can't agree more.
+larry Spiller
Even the front end sacrifices tradition for practicality. It's shorter and sloped to allow for greater fuel efficiency and visibility from the drivers seat. Also, the shorter front allows for a larger cab and truck bed for the same wheelbase. People fall in love with Honda's from the driver's seat not from the outside.
Roman....your struggling to find things to hate about the RL aren't you? The tire....The volume knob???! The no-asst lift gate?! Bahahaha! After driving the other trucks, you nearly wet yourself in excitement as you open the door of the RL. Looks comfy huh?!
lol
You nailed it, dude!
Dude you work for the Honda company??? That Ridgeline looks and performs like shit
+Fara N No, I work for a golf company.
Love my Ridgeline........best truck I ever drove...
Dictionary says otherwise. You don't need to be able to go off-roading in the dunes for something to be a truck. It is more powerful then an SUV, it has a bed, it's bigger and wider then the Tacoma and Colorado plus extra storage in the bed.
Sounds like you are just stuck in your ways there little man.
Roman! The point of this truck is that it's not a truck! Get the net! So when you want an f150 and your wife wants an explorer.....compromise. Let's face it, most people never ever ever ever tow or haul anything. Most suv's never go off road. At least with this, you could get away with 90% of what people need a truck for.....mulch from lowes. I wish it was a bit more aggressive looking (less wimpy) because it makes a lot of sense
I grew up with light, high revving, high performance honda coupes. Currently I drive a '06 Ridgeline that was handed down to me from my father. I don't call it a truck. The Ridgeline is a spacious car with more torque and clearance. If you're not pulling or hauling very heavy things, the Ridgeline has a good balance of handling and comfort of all medium sized suvs/trucks. Instead of big knobby tires, I plan to go with larger and lighter rims with sportier tires.
I'm not sure if you've ever noticed but the reason that the seating position is odd is because the body is intentionally tucked up to keep the rockers away from the ground. Its an odd compromise, but it sure is nice to have off road.
can't wait to see your next video, so far I'm hooked on the ridgeline. I don't haul or tow but I want a truck, you made it very easy for me to choose. thanks roman.
Honestly, for most people I think the ridge line would be the best option. Most people don't tow, or go offroading. the Ridgeline can do both of those relatively well, but I think it stands out as a truck that can truly be used as a car. I personally think I like the Tacoma the best, but if I were looking for a daily driver to not off-road in, I'd pick the Honda or Chevy. Honda and Toyota are also well known to be the most dependable vehicles on the road.
Coming from a full size truck, the Honda Ridgeline fits me best. I don't fit in the Toyota very well as I felt like I was sat on the floor but my head was touching the roof. The Chevy feels tight but the seating position was better. I liked the Tacoma interior quality but I got a very strong sence of 'Pontiac Grand Am' while sat in the Colorado. Very cheap? I'm sure both are fine trucks but just not for me. The Honda Ridgeline feels as large inside as my full size truck but rides like our minivan. I don't 'off road' so the AWD is just for getting up my driveway in winter, I need 4 doors and a truck bed to occasionally haul lumber, a quad and maybe some tools or other crap. The Ridgeline is truck enough for 95% of the people out there and it's perfect for my needs now.
I had the 1st gen Ridgeline. It was a great city truck. AWD made is a great wintertime driver. I could load bags of mulch, tow a bass boat, and carry people in comfort. Enuff said.
Starting to love the honda, i can see the black edition with better off road tires and i think this will be a capable truck that 80% of the casual off roadies could definitely accomplish. 👌 I enjoy how comfortable and convenient the honda is.
Well, I like all three, & and a few more, but I bought Ridgeline. It’s a matter of needs & price! I’m happy with my choice, hope the rest of you are just as happy!
Saying that the Ridgeline is not a truck because it is too quiet, too sophisticated, bla, bla, bla, it is like saying that a girl is not a girl because she is not that complicated
This was actually a good review. You are right in that it depends on what you are trying to achieve. I recently transferred from an Accord to a truck (2016 Colorado) cause I was looking for that introductory truck that would give give me the best of all worlds (commute, towing, off-road). If Ridgeline was available, I might have chosen that since it was closer to a car - but I think Colorado offers more for my Renaissance personality. Great job!
It'll sell great....it's a family based midsize suv with a bed. Bigger back seat for those insanely huge kids seats.
If your looking for a "mans truck" you are going full size especially when you see how much more you get for your money. If your looking for a versatile truck for recreation and weekend jobs any of these will work. The Honda would be a great choice if you can only have a truck and no second car. Most of my peers would take the Honda because it is more than livable all the time, BUT if someone could do what Honda did AND make it look good, that would be the real winner. Looks definitely go to the Chevy and Toyota. By the way Roman, you were pretty impressed with the off road ability of the Honda Pilot which this truck is based off of.
I test drove all of these except Ridgeline as it is not out yet. I test drove F150, and Tundra. I did not consider Ram or Silverado after horrific IIHS crash test safety rating.
From full size I liked F150 the most but it was a bit too big for my needs. I did not like Tacoma seating position or ride, and engine seemed to be hunting for gears. Colorado rides better but GM quality is questionable (I used to own GM vehicles and had bad experience with them), and rear seat does not have sufficient space.
A friend owns 1st Generation Ridgeline and I test drove it and it was great. Rides like a car, maneuverable, quiet, yet is able to tow and carry a load of 1500 pounds. My friend REALLY abused that Ridgeline (2010) loading it up to over capacity, towing 5500 pounds+ for years. He has 190k+ miles on the clock and nothing but regular maintenance. Rear seat was the best in class.
i have to see the 2nd Generation Ridgeline in person, but I am 90% sold on this vehicle and will likely buy one this summer. I also own two other Honda's (Odyssey and Accord both 2009) and nothing but regular maintenance (with the exception of Odyssey needing at $80k miles 1 new engine mount/regular not active, and right CV axle replacement).
I also want to buy Gen 2 Ridgeline with the 6-speed auto they will come in before Honda starts putting 10 speed auto (likely next year) in their cars (stupid CAFE/fuel economy b.s.). I think anything over 6 speed is b.s. (ok, perhaps 8 speed auto is kind of acceptable but I still believe unnecessary) and more gears in a small tranny housings will lead to more problems in the future (not just with Honda but with all).
Honda has a good diesel engine they sell in Europe and can be modified for Truck use. So does Toyota. RAM has already "imported" a very reliable JTD Fiat diesel engine and placed it in RAM trucks. Diesels are ideal for midsize trucks and GM putting Duramax in Canyon was a good move.
Just bought a ridgeline, love when people hate on it until they actually ride in it and drive it. Also if you are on a flat enough highway for the cylinder deactivation to do its magic, you can get 7.8L/100km (30 mpg)!
how many people actually buy a brand new truck to go off roading ?
i would, the purpose of a trd, and it would be under warranty
That's the real test of a off road worthy truck.
Hardly any. Same can be said with towing or hauling.
Almost non they mostly but the bells and whistles to drink a beer in thier driveways and brag to their neighbor about what thier truck can do but never use it for what it’s built for lol
I bought my TRD off-road brand new last year and within a week it was off road on the trails but I can see where people might be hesitant too.
Roman, I agree with that seating position. It is actually really uncomfortable. I am 6'4" and can't stand it, the same for Tundra.
the poor Nissan fronter wasn't even invited
screw it
it wasbecause it want recently refreshed cough cough Nissan bastards cough cough
Dude i was just going to comment on whether they even made a new frontier lol. Nowhere to be seen, though it kind of sucks, because it's not too terrible of a truck, just needs a major refresh.
Bingo Alpha Exactly. The truck was great, but it's outdated. Needs a big refresh like the Taco and Ridgeline got.
When they refresh the truck from looking like it's 2004 then they'll be allowed to play.
Colorado/Canyon takes the cake for me. Especially the diesel. Love my '08 Canyon.
why is everyone so pissed over Honda having a touch capacitive volume control on the stereo instead of a knob? Its not hard to use and if you don't like it use the steering wheel controls.
You can feel and use a volume knob while driving without taking your eyes off the road. You can't do the same with a touch-sensitive control unless you have steering wheel controls which costs extra. There is no feedback with the touch control so you do not know if you are controlling the volume unless you hear it getting louder or lower. You an easily accidentally push a different touch sensitive control (change station, gps, etc.) when trying to adjust the volume.
Correct me if I am wrong. But if you get a base model you get the stereo that has a knob. if you get a higher model it has the all touch and steering wheel controls. I'm fairly certain, steering wheel controls are standard on all Honda models at least for 2016. Anyway I have no issues using the touch capacitive volume control in our HRV and any of the test drive videos I see of people complaining about it there is steering wheel controls. If you want the knob get the base mode!
Thanks for another great mashup boys.
Yoda TRD! May the taco be with you.
Yeah GM kinda screwed up with some of the decisions with the Colorado; hopefully the ZR2 makes up for the lack of offroadability on the out going models. The Tacoma looks nice; I almost bought one but went with a Colorado instead. I'm hoping that a good tune and lift will remove some gripes I have with my Colorado when I'm out exploring trails and shit.
Roman, braking performance and braking durability are real measurable things that benefit the consumer, not whether they are disks, drums, air, or other wise. Toyota engineers prioritize what works above what journalists want to see. Keep in mind that the Tacoma stops faster than the Colorado, even given it's 4 wheel disk brakes. I can assure you that cutting cost was not their intention. There is actually a costly upgrade to the drum brakes themselves and the entire braking system on the new Tacoma. It's really not fair to viewers who don't know this to dog on the Tacoma for drum brakes. So next time, please make mention of why Toyota uses them. Thanks man. Otherwise, excellent review and I agree with your assessment about these 2 trucks and one "car with a bed on the back".
Nice video Roman!
The new Colorado & Tacoma are missing the driver side A-pillar handles. One of my favorite features on my 2014 Tacoma. I use it every time I get in/out.
IF GM makes the Colorado 2.8 duramax diesel with the ZR2 model coming out next year it will be the king of offroad ability.
Don't forget about the 2017 TRD Pro Tacoma...
Meh, diesels are heavy. Also, I don't understand who takes an expensive new truck offroad...
+leadnsteel will it come equipped with that beautiful low hanging airdam?
+guy proulx no the ZR 2 will not have the air dam. It way to take off anyway.
Unlike the Taco's at least the front air dam won't rust.
www.reuters.com/article/us-toyota-settlement-idUSKBN1370PE
The volume snobs have done away with the volume knobs, in favor of touch buttons and graphical sliders.
I say "Why mess with a good thing." However, apparently, the analog knob has been deemed too old school of a technology. No longer will the protruding mushroom violate the clean plastic lines of the center console.
The real question is: Can you operate the touch controls with (Isotoner)gloves on?
Assuming that you're someone who doesn't need to tow anything, having a truck is great when you need the ability to haul something that you either wouldn't want to throw in the back of an an SUV...or something that is too tall / long. But is having that ability worth the trade-offs of owning a truck which are typically lower fuel economy, limited (or uncomfortable) passenger space, and a truck-like ride? For some people it clearly is but for a lot of folks it isn't. I think that's probably why out of all the families that I know, I'd say less than half own a pickup truck. They either drive two sedans or a sedan and an SUV / van. Plus if you buy a truck and you want to securely store items you either get a locking tonneau cover (the fiberglass ones are a pain to remove) or you get a truck with in bed storage solutions like an Avalanche (which is no longer manufactured) or a Ram with the RamBox which is what I personally own. With every vehicle you have compromises and trade-offs...so what's the big deal? It sounds like the Ridgeline will fit the needs of a lot of drivers and if it makes sense for certain people then why wouldn't they purchase it? All of the commenters thumping their chests and moaning about how this isn't a "real" truck sound like a bunch of insecure adolescents with inflated egos.
Our kids are grown and we are now a one car/truck family. As soon as my wife sat in the Ridgeline, I knew I could forget the others.
We are 85% on road and that thing may as well be a Lexus, so I;m OK with it.
You guys should do a more fair comparison of the Ridgeline, El Camino and Ranchero?
My 76 year old step mom loves her 2017 Ridgeline! (Serious)
Tacoma is king. My 2007 has 225,000km, and have only had to change fluids and filters. Not a single component has failed. Amazing!!
ikr, that's Toyota..!! king of reliability.
it is so up with the seating position because under all the panels and such the truck has the same skeleton. the cabin is exactly of the previous generation. I had the truck and I can guarantee you that. if they did build it from scratch they would have addressed it
The rear drum brakes on Tacoma was kept to prevent sand etc getting to the rear brakes and rotors. If you get stuck in sand it's usually the rear that digs down and gets the rear brakes covered in sand which is bad for your rotors..
As a former Tacoma owner I can't get on board with the new styling, it looks to funky. I've got to see I would probably go for the chevy with the 4cyl turbo diesel.
+Jeff K
got to say
I was in the market for a midsize truck and after my research and personal experience this is what I can say
The Tacoma is to me the most agressive truck it drives like a well a truck, and if you want Reliability, Off road ruggidness and the Amazing resale value go for the Tacoma
The Ridgeline is the most Suv/Crossover truck, I hate to debate the "Its not a truck or It is a truck" so lets leave it there. When I test drove it it reminded me of my first vehicle "its a minivan" and it kinda drived like that, I also want to point out that if you like technology theres a hell of a lot in here. So if you want a more "Car/Suv/Crossover" driving experience with your truck and all the cool features then go for the Ridgeline.
The Canyon Denali is how do I say this umm the most truckish but also kind of Suv like driving experience. Its like a mix of the Ridgeline and Tacoma, I wasnt really impressed with the "Denali" trim of the Canyon I expected more to be honest, It has everything you need if you just want a regular american truck. So if you
Tacoma is the only one with a manual transmission option. That's all I need to know.
Colorado has a diesel with a manual.
+Tungsten23 yup 👍
Also for those saying it's another Honda with a truck style on it you are wrong! it's has 50% of its own components that no other Honda has!
I respect those people that want trucks for hauling trailers and "off-roading", but I'm more interested in a small 4 cylinder truck with decent gas mileage, light duty freight hauling (500 lbs or less) and something that rides nicely on a long highway drive. The old late 90s Tacomas were really good in this arena. I hope that these new ones are as durable and that the 4cyl versions get decent mileage. The Honda is way out of my price range and I have trust issues with GM products.
Does that Chevy have a Briggs and Stratton motor? Sounded like it.
+Troy Strain
No the 3.6L its a good engine, but I would be happier driving with it in a Cadillac ATS or Camaro.
@@jeffk464 the gm 3.6 is a great motor actually. I dont have any first hand experience but the numbers are impressive and reviews favorable. Also some of the new Cadillac sedans look really nice.
Listen to the way the Shitrolet sounds. Sounds amazing doesn't it?
Honda; HANDS DOWN!
My 2013 handles great around town and takes care of the trips to Lowe's without a problem. Towing a boat or the other toys is doable but is more like the little train that could. The Ridgeline will go to my son but I'll get another Tundra or something else.
Had a 2018 Tacoma 4wd, hated the way it drove; just felt so antiquated and unrefined. I sold it and got an awesome old T100 before having a chance to steal a Ridgeline for an amazing deal. Went for it as a "what the hell" because I thought I'd just resell it for a profit after a few months....aaannnd no way...I am not selling this truck. I fell in love.
The torque transfer system AWD is amazing on the slopes, and going over Santiam pass during winter here in Oregon was just a breeze; that's saying something.
Never considered the Ridgeline until serendipity put it in my lap and there's no way I'm giving it up. Best truck I've had in 25 years.
if i already had a workhorse truck i could see myself picking up a RL rather than a car.
+morfeeis W You get the point, RL is a car, a pick-up and a SUV. A little bit of everything.
Somebody referred to the Ridgeline as a city truck. Sounds bout right to me. I do think it will sell and find a niche. But for me theirs others I'd rather have.
I mean you can use it on virtually all rural properties. It can't tow insane industrial shit and it can't climb rocks and steep inclines, but that doesn't mean it's all of sudden city focused. It's designed to handle the gross majority of rural/working truck related tasks.
Do you think farmer joe is climbing mt everest to get his bags of chicken grain?
The best option for Colorado is the Diesel engine version.. That is the real deal when it comes to a great balance of power and fuel efficiency. IMO.
I have had a diesel pick up truck, and it is not that expensive... Well, at least where I live...
Honda has dragged the truck out of the 1950s and into the twenty-first century. All they've got to do now is drag the Real Truck Guy out of the 1950's and into the twenty-first century‼️😜😜😜
pretty accurate I'd say. there's nothing wrong with applying what is traditionally car technology to a truck. it all comes down to FWD and that's the only reason people are bitching, realistically. If anyone was serious about a "real truck hurrdurr" they would be driving something ancient. manual trans with no synchros, manual hubs, zero frills, no AC machine. sure, it'd be fun but probably not everyday.
colormesarge Just like with cars, FWD is all most drivers require. What they want is comfort and economy. You don't need locking diffs and crawler gears when you're buying peat-free compost from the local garden centre.
Consumer reports ranked the Ridgeline the #1 midsize pickup, and I believe it also has the most American content either very close to or tied with the F150 for " Most American"
Why does no one use the TRD Off Road for Tacoma reviews? It's THE package.
Nothing compares to it.
Because no one wants stickers on their truck that sound out the word turd.
Oddly enough the Ridgeline does something I wanted for a long time. I grew up during the "Sport Truck" era, the GMC Syclone, Ford Lightning, Silverado 454 SS, S10 Xtreame, Tacoma X-Runner. What do all them old trucks have in common? They suck off road but are great on road trucks that handle pretty well. Growing up with that, naturally I want a truck that's awesome on road (since I could care less about off road since I don't off road at all). It's a market that's all but dead, and to me it looks like Honda may be tapping into that market. (Though the Ridgeline lacks the sporty look) The on road ability is really appealing to me. Just may take a test drive in one soon to see for myself how it handles.
Full disclosure: I am an unabashed Honda hater that thinks they make the most boring vehicles known to man. Now with that being said, simply sticking a bed on the back of a car does not a truck make. I can only see the Ridgeline being purchased by yuppie Honda fans that think taking home a bookshelf from Ikea is what having a truck is all about. El Caminos are more truck than the Ridgeline.
I have used a couple year old kinda baseline model Tacoma to haul around little more than a half bed load of sand on several occasions. It was struggling to do anything and the rear leaf springs were maxed out. It didn't have the TRD suspension (or any suspension upgrades for that matter. I'm not sure if there are more options in between the 2 ends of the spectrum), so I don't know how well it would have faired if that were the case. It was far too soft and the suspension was way too bouncy without any payload in it.
I haven't ever driven a Colorado/Canyon, so I can't really comment on that. I have seen a couple Colorados/Canyons with a 4" lift on them and they look pretty awesome and capable. Whether they are or not, I still wouldn't know.
I am glad that there are starting to really be more smaller truck options other than giant full-size trucks. I miss the days of the tiny little Datsun/Nissan trucks of the late 80s-early 90s. Thats what I learned to drive in and I remember them being far more capable than even the baseline Tacoma of today. If someone starts making a kick-ass little truck like those again that can actually truck stuff, I'm totally down.
I love how you say Hondas are the most boring cars known to man, yet you like Toyotas.
+Waffaw e It appears that you didn't read past the first line of my post before you got butthurt and stopped reading. In no way did I mention liking Toyotas in anyway, form or fashion. I actually talked about how pathetic of a truck the Tacoma was in my experience. Typical Honda yuppie. Enjoy crying into your mocha-chocko-latte you just picked up from starbucks while you struggle to assemble your new Ikea dresser with the screwdriver you had to borrow from your neighbor because you don't own any of your own tools.
You brought this response on yourself.
my money is on the tacoma, and so I bought one a month ago, it's just a real truck for work and play off road.
Colorado sounds like my leaf blower
+kyle reese the only reason I arrowed down into the comments was to see if I was the only one thinking that
got to have the Tacoma
Tacoma all the way. Were you testing the 2017 models?
the chevy looks cheese,tacoma looks macho,the ridgeline slick
No it just looks gay
thanks for the video. you guys put together great comparisons. keep up the good work!
you failed to mention that the Tacoma has the option of a manual with the v6 models while the Colorado can only have a manual with the 4cyl.
Which is a misleading statement as he doesn't point out that the Colorado only has a manual option with the 4cyl engine
nope, just thought I'd mention it because someone might want to know
that's what I would do
No real mention of the Duramax for the Colorado. Okay.
Add $4000.00 for that useless option on a small truck.
I thought you would go with the Tacoma exclusively. Well, at least you were good about the Ridgeline. I have a first-generation Ridgeline. If the thing was totaled tomorrow I would buy another one without a second thought. Keep in mind, I wanted a Tacoma as a first choice, but the Ridgeline was what was the great used buy. There's a sidenote, it is funny that Ford's ad campaign in 1970 was, "it drives like a car…" Now Honda has achieved the goal, and is criticized for that very thing Ford saw as a positive. Hopefully this Ridgeline stays in production and people don't just dismiss it like the first generation run. I love mine, I thought the trunk was a gimmick, was critical of it, and now I wonder why more pickups don't have one.
I have previous generation Ridgeline. I test drove the Frontier, Taco, and others when I went shopping. The Ridgeline drove and rode so much better. The trunk is what sold it for me. The lockable trunk just kicks butt. So handy to throw things in there. I love my Ridgeline and want the new one now.
My 70 year old parents don't mind sitting in the backseat of the Ridgeline. I am sure they would not have liked the other models, because when we tried those they felt like a stiff bench.
That said, I do not like some of the changes in drivetrain and the stereo set (i want a volume knob as well) of the new ones. I think the towing should have been increased over the last generation. Also like the center armrest setup of the last generation. I don't like the minivan armrests of the new ones. Not sure on the new one but the swing out tailgate is actually annoying some times. It doesn't open fully perpendicular to the bumper, so it can be in the way at times which forces you to lower the tailgate instead.
My last pickup I own for 15 years, a base 2wd nissan with a stick. I drove it all over the place in Oregon, Utah, and California, helped a million friends move stuff -it was indestructible - finally gave it way for free to a poor buddy. I watch this guys whining about no locking diff or can't connect my iPod my eyes roll back inside my head 10 feet. Then I hear about adaptive cruise control and lane assist and I think "man you should no even be behind the wheel if you need that shit".
+John Baker
So what you are recommending is drive a fun car and have friends with pickups.
I had a 2wd, 93 Nissan hardbody. Loved it. That's when Nissan made good vehicles. Now, not so much.
How would a fwd truck that gets best in class by far mpg, and has the best bed material ever that is very durable, and can fit a 5 ft piece of dry wall, I don't think any of the trucks in this class can do that. They are trying to approach a group of people that don't own a truck because it's not as nice as a pilot or accord. Now they have this... I love this truck
I thought that by going with drum brakes on the Tacoma, it wasn't about a cost cutting. I think it's important to remember the use case scenarios that the manufacturers had in mind when designing their truck. There are benefits to drum brakes over disc brakes and I think if you look at the advantage of drum brakes, and the disadvantages of disc brakes, during certain scenarios, that might explain why Toyota decided to use two drums on the rear. I'm thinking about when I saw a Tacoma use crawl control to get off its belly, witb all 4 wheels buried in the sand....
In my condo complex in south Texas there are 3 Tacomas owned by two women and one man, with an average age of about 70. The trucks never show signs of being off road. Tacomas must have some appeal you are missing.
Well I just bought one 3 weeks ago. So for you people saying it's not a truck like people are used to, well chill out. Think about this, not all vehicles are for all people. This is America where we have the freedom to make our own decisions. The Ridgeline is not for everyone. Well neither is the Tundra, Tacoma, F150, Titan, Z71, Ram. Get the point? We all have different needs and uses. I work with several guys that have these other trucks I mentioned and the bed still looks new, no scratches or dents. They bought their Truck as you call it, simply because they have low testosterone. Spent several thousand dollars on lift kits, and big off road tires, and are afraid to take it in the mud or climb up a hill. I bought my Ridgeline RTL because of Comfort, Power, and Use. The trunk will hold my fishing tackle, life jacket, anchor, paddle for my kayak. Then load the kayak, strap it in the bed and put fishing rods in the cab. So I have a comfortable ride to and from the lake or work, haul what I need, good gas mileage, and a radio with a nob and buttons. Heated leather seats for those cool mornings. So who spent their money more wisely? I have owned a 79 Ford F100, 2000 F100, Nissan Frontiers , two of them, along with a couple of Nissan Pathfinders. I am not knocking any of these vehicles or any that anyone else has or has owned. This Ridgeline is, I feel the best for me and my needs, simply put.
Roman.....please don't review Honda products anymore......your bias is beyond obvious!
It's getting old.
+Tony Iacona Roman says that your comment shows you are the one that's bias. We have no horse in this race but what about you?
+The Fast Lane Truck sorry Roman, no bias here however, your claim to have no bias is unfounded in you Honda review videos.
Disclaimer; My current profile picture is of a Honda product however, I also own a Toyota "Truck", I've also owned products from GM, Ford and a Chrysler.......So the only horse in the race that I have.....is to hope for an unbiased and honest review....I don't believe we got that here.
While the Ridgeline may have not have the tow rating of the other two "Trucks", you failed to mention that the Ridgeline has a better payload, the 5' bed actually measures 5'-4" and during the product review you attended, there was absolutely no damage from the load of riverstone they dropped in the bed.......Really doesn't sound like a "Car" to me......and if it does to you.....What the hell type of "Car" are you driving?
While Honda is attempting to bring a new segment to the market for what's to be considered a pickup "Truck"........with it's reinforced unit-body and front wheel/all wheel drive system, it still is a Pickup "Truck"....And if it makes you less of a man to own one.......well then that's a personal issue.
I've watched TFLC and TFLT for quite some time......even before Andre "the Russian mechanic" spoke english.....so I've been around awhile and almost always.......you (Roman) are far more critical (even bias) against Honda products.....than any other brand you've reviewed.......Nathan on the other hand, seems to bring a more genuine review of all products.
Again.....I'm just pointing out an honest observation.
+Shackles sorry but, no one asked your opinion however.....Romans "ADJECTIVE" should lend himself to be the least bit "PREJUDICE".
+Shackles right wise guy....You were the one who interjected on MY THREAD.
No Butt Hurt sweetheart.
+Tony Iacona
So your saying I interrupted yours and Romans conversation by getting between the both of you.
Ridgeline is and always will be the Swiss Army SUV. If you don't need to tow large things or go hardcore 4x4ing over rocks, but rather need to commute and handle home owner types of tasks, this is your SUV (with truck-like features).
Great job as always guys! Very detailed review - thank you.
These would sell so much more if they made the bed width inside the wheels wells 48". the Toyota bed is literally 47". They could easily make it 48" which allow people to load sheetrock and plywood and other lumber allowing it to lay flat in the bed...come on.
Anyone else think the rear portion especially the tail lights of the ridge line looks like a RAM?
YES.
my first thought exactly
At first, I thought it was a ram in the back
Looks good, just wish they got rid of that ugly front...
What is that Civic doing there at 12:29 lol?
I think an additional Ridgeline value proposition should be a strip down model with only a key entry, key engine start, radio, navi and AC starting at under 20k$..Oh let's not forget a hybrid engine option as well while we are at it..
Don't forget, Honda has a 9 speed auto that it can still throw into the Ridgeline. Not to mention the fact that they're starting to tinker with turbos. That said, I'll take the Ridgeline out of the 3.
I just hope they don't decide to stick a CVT in it. I'd be pissed!
I almost went with the ridgeline. The donut inside the truck bed is a huge deal breaker. 1st, murphy's law. Imagine hauling 1000 lb of cargo, you get a flat in the middle of nowhere. I guess Honda expects me to unload the cargo to get at the donut. Same for the "trunk". I guess no refreshments until the cargo has been unloaded.
FOUND IT!
Its a Subaru Baja. A total of 30k were sold over 4 years.
Roman, for being so hung up on towing capability, I know you like the Raptor, but it's soft suspension compromises its tow rating, and I haven't heard you complain about it. Every vehicle has compromises in that the designers have goals they intend to meet...different companies have different goals. The RL compromises some of the offroad and towing specs for a more comfy ride. Nothing wrong w/ that. I'd like to see a drag race between all of these too. I'm willing to bet the RL awd smokes the other trucks in 0-60. Also, using your logic, a Raptor or F150 Platinum/Denali/Big Horn aren't 'real' trucks either...leather interior w/ comfy ride and cooled seats are for sissies...anything less than a 1 ton diesel w/ 4wd and vinyl flooring could be argued as a 'car'. Try to be more open minded and fair, please.
Yeah but the Raptor has the 6.2 liter V8 which goes together with an american truck like peanut butter and jelly or apply pie and ice cream or...dang, i'm hungry gotta run!
In regards to the Colorado, "everything feels expensive" my foot. Me and Roman must have sat in two different trucks because there is definitely acres of hard black plastic all over the cab of that truck. Now, that's not necessarily a bad thing as that makes it very easy to clean, but let not get carried away with the use of that "expensive" word.
I only know 3 people who have dedicated work vehicles for their small businesses. All 3 have very large vans. 2 turbo diesels and 1 a gas burner. For their personal vehicles 2 have SUVs and 1 has a new ridgeline. The guy with the ridgeline just traded in his full size gmc and it surprised me as I dislike the ridgeline and his response was he realized he really came to love his wife's pilot and that he was never using anywhere near the capabilities of his full size truck. What he told me is that what he needs a truck for is hauling home stuff for the house from menards or home depot, occasionally trailering home a motorcycle he buys from out of state and helping friends move from time to time. He said actually his wife's pilot could do all of those things but just that having a bed was a bit more convenient for the house stuff vs folding seats down in the pilot. He came from full size gmc trucks. He bought 2 in the last 15 years but the first threw a rod out the block and the second had a transmission failure. He always hated jap crap but he said his wife's last 2 pilots changed his viewpoint. I told him though his wife's pilots run well because she does the maintenance. He does none. Told him his ridgeline will probably have a failure also the way he treats his vehicles. He puts about 30k miles a year on his personal vehicles and he never once changed the transmission fluid in over 200k miles. Oil changes were once a year aka at 30k miles. He would just add oil as needed during that year and would complain that he would have to add over a quart a month. Long story short is his point is unless you do some real off roading, tow over 5k pounds and need to have I think he said 2k pounds in the bed the ridgeline will get it done for you. I still dislike the ridgeline and believe the problems he had with his pick up trucks was his own fault. Now that I think about it he has complained to me he has either had to replace or repair his transmission in his work van twice now. Twice in probably 10 years or so. I'm sure the work van probably sees the same abuse.
That being said I actually have another friend who has an older late 90s chevy full size pick up with over half a million miles. V8 gas engine. He has had it over 10 years and put on 400k of those miles and he changes the oil religiously every 5k miles however he does something a bit crazy. His wife has during that time period has always had suburbans and she always has him change her oil every 3k miles and what he does is save her used oil and oil filter and then he reuses it and puts it in his truck. No joke. He always buys the supertec walmart full synthetic oil and oil filter and says the oil and oil filter are supposed to be good for 10k miles so he says after his wife puts 3k miles on the oil and oil filter and he puts on 5k they are still only at 8k miles. As crazy as it sounds it seems to work. He even saves whatever left over oil he has from changing his kids oil and left over oil from his wife oil changes and uses that mix to top off his oil. I dont know how or what he does when it comes to trans fluid. Just didn't want to make it seem like I was bashing on gm in my previous post. And for full disclosure one of the 2 other guys had a trans failure at only 100k miles on his ford escape so no GM hate.
Toyota is the best. That's why I'm buying a Tacoma TRD PRO. Nothing beats the reliability and quality of Toyota vehicles.
The Honda had the best sounding engine
Totally agreed. Ridgeline is the boss of each truck.
Very well done video. When i think about any kind of truck these are the three that i look at because i don't need a full size truck. the RL certainly would be better for day to day activities and overall commuting. Even for going to the lake or beach on the weekend its a good choice. The taco is the real truck of the three. Great choice for people in the country or those who regularly travel off road. The Chevy is in the middle just like they said as it can do everything just not as well as the others. All in all its just personal preference on three great choices.