I own a 2022 Ridgeline Sport and have put 55,000km (33,000 miles) on it with no issues. I previously had full size trucks but as we get older and our lifestyle changes we didn't see the need for a full size truck anymore. I drove and researched every mid size truck and they are all decent vehicles with each having different strengths and also shortcomings. The Honda clearly had the best on road comfort and handling but as stated falls short with ground clearance. We enjoy camping, kayaking, hiking, snowmobiling etc (my snowmobile fits in the back with the tailgate down) so although we don't go down any "off road" only style trails ( we use our Suzuki King Quads for that) we do use many bush roads and dirt trails that don't require extra ground clearance. It's has easy egress and ingress and i can easily load and tie down our kayaks despite being short in stature. It's very comfortable on long road trips for driver, passengers and with the flip up seats our Husky 🐺enjoys it as well. The hidden under bed storage gets used often and the dual opening tailgate is great for those of us with a short reach. It has very good acceleration and passing ability and is decent on fuel. I switch to winter snow tires and rims and it handles the winter weather very well, with great stability and confidence inspiring traction in pretty much every condition. Overall it's been a great "truck" and if it's used within it's intended purposes i think most owners will be very happy with their purchase. Improvements I'd like to see: larger fuel tank (highway range is up to 750km or 450 miles in good weather) another inch or so of clearance, updated software for the driving monitor system, more powerful hvac system (it gets cold up here -40) and I'd rather have an actual gear shift selector instead of the current trend of push button gear selection. Would i buy another Ridgeline? In a heartbeat! Would i also check out the other mid size trucks again? Absolutely! They've all received significant updates since my purchase so it'd be foolish not to. Thanks for another great review Ryan, happy motoring!
I'm not surprised to hear about the disappointing heat from the HVAC system. Honda tried to get away with an undersized system in the CRV and Civic a few years back. Search the article "'Try not to stop and start' while driving, Honda tells owners stuck with cars not fit for winter." They also put undersized batteries in the Fit. The new HRV has under the hood windshield wipers that you can't lift up to scrape under when the wipers are frozen, without turning the car off to put the wipers into a special maintenance mode, which is not what you want to do when it's very cold out. It has the HVAC integrated into the remote starter, but that doesn't include the heated wiper feature. That only works if you go turn on the car manually and then wait, which defeats the use of the remote starter. When it comes to cold weather, I think Honda just puts in the parts to check off the necessary boxes, without ever checking that the design is executed practically.
@dariuschicic8141 i do remember those low heat issues but thought it applied to the 1.5 litre turbo engine. The ridgeline gets warm enough but you rarely have to turn the heat down because it's too warm. On my Ram Hemi the HVAC system was great in all seasons!
I have a 23 and like to go camping and travel many of Georgia’s forest service roads either no issues. I drive around atlanta a lot for work and it is great on the highways and surface roads. Great for someone that doesn’t go the extreme 4x4 adventures
It's likely more than capable enough for 90% of people, but with a TrailSport badge, it should have another 1.5 to 2 inches of ground clearance. It would really go a long way in this vehicle.
@@liamcarp7113 It doesn't need to be a hardcore offroader. It has a capable AWD system and decent tires. Just give it a bit more ground clearance, at least in the TrailSport trim.
@@jeffer1101 Exactly. It's ground clearance doesn't match it's other capabilities. I'd buy one immediately if it had more ground clearance. Vectoring AWD is awesome for off road!
I recently purchased a 2025 Ridgeline Black Edition in sonic gray pearl. I’ve owned many, many trucks in my life, but nothing as comfortable, quiet and well made as this Honda RL. It’s my everyday driver, and with the AWD system, and torque vectoring, it’s fun to drive. There’s very little body roll, so going hot into curves is like driving a sports car. Love it.
Thank you Driving sports Tv for reviewing honda ridgeline on the snow. You’re one of the few car review channel if not the only one this year as others do not consider honda ridgline significant in truck market .
A lot of these review channels never even drive the vehicle it seems, they blabber on about what a window sticker says, and never actually show the vehicle doing anything other than sitting there. Which to me is like well yeah, any vehicle can sit in a parking lot and look cool, but can it actually do anything other than that LOL.
For off-road, I agree. I personally bought the Ridgeline for its low ground clearance. I have a serious back injury and having a capable vehicle that I can get into without hurting myself is fantastic. I’m not aware of any other 4x4 or AWD truck sits as low as the RL. What would be nice is if Honda offered the “trailsport” version with a bit of a lift.
7.6 is an embarrassment, but I knew when I bought my 2021 I’d need to lift it and upsize the tires before it could handle any more than a basic forest service road.
I just got a used 2021 ridgeline RTL with 32k miles on it at $29,000. I love it, don’t go offroad like rock crawling so it does its job. Only camping or fishing and every day stuffs. Most of my friends with their Tacoma with those rock crawling modes, they don’t even use it as it was made for. I just love that the ridgeline can be on AWD on rainy days and be in controll. Unlike my rare wheel sedan that will spin out during rainy days.
I just bought a Ridgeline 2024, really happy with the ride & comfort and I also believe that it is much better than other trucks in terms of Space and Ride. I really like that when taking backpacks, going to the supermarket, bags & luggage, there is enough space to have it either in the trunk or below the backseat and not having to have it on the people or “handy” on the bed.
@@wildbill23c true but you can't haul kitchen appliances or toss a jon boat in the bed in your Camry. Ridgeline does what it aims to do, give people a comfortable, usable passenger vehicle with occasional light duty truck capability.
@ I've seen people do some crazy stuff to haul things home on or in their Civics and other similar cars LOL....almost like they must have been dared to do it or something LOL.
Great review! Being a 2024 owner of a Honda Ridgeline TrailSport and a Ridgeline owners since 2006. I agree, Honda could do something more to offer better clearance on their TrailSport model. Living in the Northeast, the Honda handles everything I use it for. If I could add a wish list. Step up the tow weight to a flat 6k. Other than that Honda does what it does best, be in the middle of the road. Not a true off roader like Toyota, Not a Hauler like Chevy. But the truck everyone wants to drive day in and day out for everyday things.
@@joefratianni8693the 9 speed doesn’t run hot like the 6 speed did. The 6 speed was also much better when people followed the manual and locked it into D4 to prevent hunting. My 9 speed has done a little over 5,000lbs up multiple 6%+ grades in the Southwest summers with literally zero issues. Just monitor temps like you should with any truck towing and don’t drive it like a tractor pull, and it’s fine. I think it could probably do 6K as it sits, but Honda’s LPL said they picked 5K because it covered the vast majority of all towing needs and they wanted the novice to be able to do it with no issues. I can say that it tows the full 5K with absolutely no stress.
@@joefratianni8693 yes, I always run a temperature monitor when towing. On my first max tow, I wanted to see how it would do up a 6% grade right near where they do the SAE cert. June summer temps in AZ, up a 6% grade at 80MPH with the truck at max GCVWR and the temps never went above 210*. As soon as I slowed down to a reasonable speed, they came back down. You probably could overheat it, but I don’t think it would be an issue unless your speeds are way higher than they should be. I’ve towed max weight all over the Southwest and had no issues with temperatures. High drag profiles like a box trailer or camper will probably run hotter, but should still be manageable.
I have a 2023 RTL-E. Great truck. I am looking at options (there are several) to add a 2" lift, because I will do stupid things. I tow a camper, pickup lumber, stone, and furniture with the bed, and drive long distance for work. Love this truck.
Seems to be the consensus for the Honda CUV's/Ridegeline AWD models for offroading: Needs more ground clearance and improvements to approach and departure angles, terrain cams, more skid-plating, and AT tires. The Pilot got the newest i-VTM4 first with the Trailsport trim, which was mostly cosmetic other than the AWD system, then the Passport-->Ridgeline. From what I've seen so far of the 2026 Passport Trailsport, Honda is taking the steps to remedy pretty much all of those deficiencies, plus more. Love the channel and the in-depth reviews for doing some mild offroading on models like this and the Passport, it really does help to make a more informed buying decision and shows what they can and cannot do.
Pilot critically got a full-size spare, which even the new Passport won't have- unless for extra you mount it in cargo area. And it's ridiculous Honda produces a pickup with a compact spare.
Thanks for the great review. I daily a 23 RTL and I enjoy it. I’m still running the stock tires and it drives smooth and safe in the snow. No off roading me, and that’s okay.
I own one, and I love it! But the ground clearance is its biggest downfall. As long as you don’t drive it like a normal pickup truck in off road situations you will be fine. But the minute you forget it’s just a Ridgeline and get careless you will scrape something for sure. So far I have given the exhaust a few scars and surprisingly the rear lower control arms. And that’s not really any serious off roading. I wouldn’t try any urban off-roading either like curb hopping, etc. But like he said, number one complaint and maybe my only complaint is ground clearance
I recently bought a Ridgeline and could not be happier! Once you get past the gotta drive a macho truck phase and become wiser you realize that the Ridgeline is the best truck for the average buyer. If you don't believe me go drive one!
If I didn't need to tow frequently a small truck would definitely be great for that occasional trip to the box store for building materials, and with most of the smaller trucks you can at least tow a small utility trailer to haul those materials which is my preferred method even with a full size truck, I still haul building materials on my trailer because I can just park the trailer where I'm working and work off the trailer and not have to unload everything in order to use the truck for other tasks during the week.
@@wildbill23c what are you towing?? a house? as a non-american I seriously do not understand the obsession some people and Americans have with oversized ladder frame trucks when much smaller cheaper and more fun utes or what americans call "small trucks" (still not small to be honest) can do everything 99% of owners already do.
@@xan2242 Tractors, and other equipment....guess you don't realize how heavy that stuff is. I'm sure you probably could tow 10k+ behind that Ridgeline....once...you can get it moving but you won't be able to control it or stop it.
The ridgeline has always been interesting to me, I don’t need all the capabilities of a truck, I just need the bed and honestly it makes a lot of sense for someone like me. The main reason I’ve got a highlander is because it’s what fits modern rear facing car seats comfortably, and can still make it up my driveway. That said, I don’t have to haul around car seats forever; a ridgeline may very well be my choice in the next decade
At least the new 2026 passport trailsport has over 9 inches of ground clearance. And looks really good. Also kept the NA v6 in 2026. Great choice honda
That's good that Honda kept the N/A engines, so many automakers have jumped on the turbocharged tiny engine bandwagon, and it is terrible for people who keep their vehicles for 20+ years, and with today's car prices you really need to be able to keep a vehicle for much longer than its dismal warranty period.
@mikeeslinger4879 my bad I miss spoke for a diff vehical Yea your right. Be nothing to put a 1.5" lift on it really make it sit up there. Idk why they keep them so low. Be a way more capable ride if it sat at 10. 10.5"
@@REDNECKROOTS They're low because most of these mini-trucks are based on either a car/crossover, or smaller SUV platform. Plus being independent suspension its more expensive to lift them.
Best awd in the market. I've had the pleasure of still owning my 2017 RTL Awd since Aug 2016. Mine is equipped with the Truxxx leveling kit (first company then that had one available in the market) along with an inch hub centric wheel spacer and 30.5" All Terrains (w/3PMSF). The best vehicle I've ever owned. Low maintenance, very comfortable on long drives, great mpg amd very reliable......
The Gen2 Ridgelines are pretty darn good. The great thing about the rear seats folding up is that it is easy to load a folding wheelchair back there. Early Gen2s didn't have the doors open too wide, but later ones give better access. The fix of earlier ones is just to get the arm thing from a few years later and swap them out. No need for any hinge swaps or any other adjustment. The AWD system is very competent and with the right tires is probably the best out there for snow and ice. It's not a lock-all-4 off road system, but if you are needing that, go with a custom built Jeep.
The forthcoming redesigned 2026 Honda Passport looks fantastic, saw it at the Philly Car Show. The Ridgeline, which shares the same platform, would benefit substantially sharing the redesign and make it much more capable off road.
No the current Ridgeline does not share the same platform as the upcoming 2026 Passport. It does not share platform with the current 4th Generation Pilot 2023-2025. It shares platform with 3rd Generation Pilot and 2nd Generation Passport. This is why I'm not buying current Ridgeline. I was waiting for fully redesign last year or this year now. It's time for me to buy new vehicle. I decided on 2025 Pilot Elite. We have 1st Gen 07 Ridgeline in family. So I've kept up with Ridgeline happenings for years. Great vehicle but slow updating it. They've always treated Ridgeline like the Red-Headed step child in the Honda family. The current Ridgeline platform was designed for Ridgeline but MDX and Pilot used it first.
@ Im hoping they move the ridgeline to that new passport platform. I’ll wait until 2027. If not who knows what’s next for me. I’ll keep what I have and just get something new as an everyday
Says a lot about Honda. Less than ideal tires, suspension, clearance...will get 95% of the people where they need to go (and that wasn't even pushing the rental) And to boot, it has useful truck bed and good road manners! I'm impressed.
As somebody else has already mentioned the IVTM-4 system is the best out there. But there’s a balance between plowing through and damaging a vehicle and going so slow as to try and get it stuck. I’ve lived with one of these for 5 years now in upstate NY. We get lots of snow and this thing goes through it all without breaking a sweat. Even with the “limited” ground clearance as you mentioned many times.
@@drivingsportsI live near Vancouver BC and I put my Ridgeline through “all kinds”. I wouldn’t do much with it if i hadn’t put on a lift, skid plates and bigger tires though. My skid plates are beat up, as is my muffler.
Looks matter to pickup truck buyers. Most want trucks that look tough. If Honda gave this truck 3-4 more inches of ground clearance and made the styling more aggressive, they would sell these in far greater numbers. The engine, transmission, and ride quality are all excellent. As is, the current model only appeals to "old/smart enough not to care about looks" buyers.
I bought a ‘24 2 months ago after ~30 years of full size trucks. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. I upgraded the rear sway bar to tighten up body roll. Other than that, it’s near perfect. We drive 350 miles round trip several times a month. 90 mph and ~20 mph highway, in comfort. The flip up back seats are perfect for our dogs. For humans they’re actually comfortable.
As an owner of 2 RLs- 1st an 08 which my son finally talked me into selling to him in 21- and now a 21, I have long strongly wished that Honda would give us another inch or 2 of ground clearance and some skid plates. 7.6" is just pathetic for anything that ever goes off road or sees significant snow depths. Though that is my opinion, after watching your test, I am once again simply amazed at how well that RL does in all but the most severe conditions. First time I was amazed was when truck King took it and a Maverick Tremor with probably 2 more inches of ground clearance into their mud pits. Did the Maverick do better? In most testing, YES! But amazingly, the RL ended up going everywhere they took the Tremor, sometimes performing even better. More often worse, of course, but it still got thru. Now here you come today putting it on a steep snow course that has been VERY challenging to every hard core vehicle you have thrown at it, defeating some of them. And the result is: not too shabby! I-VTM4 is amazing, as are the over all results. This confirms my opinion- after having owned old(84 solid axle front with Torsen difs)Runners, and an 87( or 1st year model) Pathfinders, Ford Explorers and Isuzu Troopers, etc, my 2 stock RLs have been the best vehicles I have used on icy roads and snow of moderate depth, say 6 to 8" or less. In all cases with stock tires. Put some snow tires or traction aids on the RL, and it would be a champion unless the snow got deep and soft enough to bury it. And it would obviously run out of clearance quicker than almost anything else. Come on, Honda, make a model available that solves these issues! Don't make us wait 2 more years!
I drive 90% on the road but like the open deck to carry odd size cargo. Drive like a car and carry like a pickup (not too much heavy stuff). It works great for me.
Thanks for the video. 100 percent on the ground clearance. To put it in perspective, the 2023+ Honda Pilot Trailsport (which is what the next Passport/Ridgeline is/will be based on) has 8.3 inches of ground clearance. The 2017+ Honda CRV AWD, had 8.4. The 9speed will be missed as it is more refined and smooth then Honda's 10speed in our Pilot Trailsport. Would be nice for a oem dealer lift option.
@@JRs-guitars exactly. Give it an inch and a half more from the factory, and these things would sell like crazy. As it is now, I’m looking at one, but I know I’ll be installing an aftermarket lift kit.
@@mikeeslinger4879better to go aftermarket anyway. Odds are Honda wouldn’t develop their own lift anyway. There are already dealers that will sell you a Ridgeline with an HRG or Traxda lift and offer factory warranty.
Agree with the ground clearance, I have been driving a F150 eco boost for the last 7 years, and I looking to downgrade because I just do not need the full-size pickup. for the price, the TWO things I would love to see are 360 cameras, and it hurts me to say it, but after getting used to my eco boost with its low-end torque, after driving three ridgelines, it needs a better low-end torque power planet, not saying it's slow, it rips, but you need to always kick in that V Tec.
There's so much to love about this truck, and I really want to love it in general, but the ground clearance is just killer. With the Trailsport Trim, it really needs a few more inches (at least 8.5", ideally 9.5"). If it had that clearance, paired with the skidplate, it'd be a beast!
For now, I'm still in the Full Size truck camp for towing capability, but I respect the Ridgeline and have recommended it to family members looking for a small truck. There are two drawbacks though: 1. fuel economy (even Frontier's optional 3.7L V6 engine delivers up to 22 MPG highway and I can get above 20 in most FSTs too) and 2. bed depth (always seems kinda shallow). But still pretty easy to recommend.
Thankfully there are some decent aftermarket lift kits that will get it to 9+ inches of clearance. Maybe now that Honda is merging with Nissan, they can use some of the latter's exterior designers to beef up the Ridgeline's look. The Frontier is a handsome-looking truck after all.
I plan on buying the 2026 honda passport trailsport elite when it comes out later this year. And i can't wait to see your review, and hear your opinion. I understand it's not as off road seeing your 4Runner vids, but it has its own special effects for itself. Once again, great video, do you have an off road vehicle that you actually use heavily? Because you show a lot of skill and experience
my old 2006 RTL, 207K miles, is pretty beat but it's point and go in the snow and ice. went thru 12" this winter easy easy. we're still rolling long patches of melting ice.
I'll echo everyone else's thoughts on this - This would be a really nice package with another inch or two of ground clearance, that seems to be the missing ingredient.
Luckily there are a few companies making lifts for the Ridgeline. No stock vehicle is good enough to go where that vehicle “is meant to go”. Pretty rare to see a stock Wrangler or Tacoma on the BC Trails, so I fully expected to build out my Ridgeline for backcountry adventures.
It seems to be a 21st version of the old El Camino or Ranchero, which were capable and popular in their day, at least until they bloated. I had a ’66 Ranchero that I remember fondly. Its payload is similar to other mid size trucks. The trunk in the bed is nifty. So it’s useful. It will handle most forest service roads. However, having been on fishing trips with friends who have either a Ridgeline or a new Frontier, I don’t really see all that much difference in passenger comfort between the Ridgeline and Frontier, though I did sit in the front of each. The Ridgeline is pricey so you pay a lot for a bit more comfort. Don’t get me wrong. I like it, but I’m not sure that I see the value. Subaru should come out with an Outback ute.
I bought mine during the crazy pandemic prices and managed to buy it under msrp back in 2021. No issues in 4 years. You can buy a used one for way cheaper. A 3 year old can easily go for under 30 grand.
As a Ridgeline owner, it has taken me everywhere I’ve ever wanted to go Offroad. Even through much sketchier stuff that I had intended. The awd system is very capable to handle almost everything you throw at it. Now Honda just needs to match the rest of the truck to its capabilities similar to what they are doing in the new passport
This is why aftermarket lifts from Traxda and others (I put on a 2" lift..best all around lift) have a purpose. While it certainly doesn't change the ridgeline into a TRD pro, it addresses the biggest concern such that soft roading isn't an issue.
I'd like to see an all time 4wd instead of awd. Also would like to see it have a true low range gear. Maybe that and a tiny nit more clearance. Then it would be an absolute banger of a truck.
Can the 2023 Ridgeline handle a larger tire on the same wheel? I feel like the tires don't fill the wheel opening properly and give the truck an odd look.
I have a 2022 Black Edition. I really like my Ridgeline but I will say the price is getting too high. The Frontier is much cheaper but not as nice in and out of the Ridgeline. The Ranger and especially the Ranger Raptor are looking really good now.
I've seen a video where a Honda Pilot with its rear end in deep soupy mud. It has Goodrich TA KO2s and got our pretty easily. The New AWD systems seem quite good and especially for how they're really used 95% of the time.
Merci Ryan pour cet essai doublé en français, véhicule très intéressant avec une bonne fiabilité Honda, en ce qui concerne la colline tu peux la nommée La Vallée Blanche comme celle qui est à Chamonix Mt Blanc👍👍👍
Does its variant have a single cab, and how much will it cost as it will be for commercial use? Kinder heads up, and will honda make it happen for that kind of trim.
If I didn't need the ground clearance or a proper 4x4 I'd have considered the ridgeline. For a light duty utility vehicle it's got a lot of things I like. AWD and V6. But I have a Frontier Pro-4X because it's got exactly what I was looking for and need. Plus we want to go places the ridgeline wouldn't be able to go. For flickability....well...I have a short showing that 😂
I believe AOA said that sh-awd has more aggressive tuning while ivtm4 is more touring oriented, i would hope Honda would actually use the aggressive tuning for "trail" sport versions besides better clearance, 2" lift would be amazing edit: also you can disable traction control by holding the stability assist button so it might would allow some more rear wheels fun
I don’t get Honda with their Trailsport Ridgeline. Isn’t that thing $46000 msrp? Honda couldn’t put a 1.5” lift and maybe modify the bumpers for more clearance?
The honda Ridgeline. A modern El' Camino perfect car for the road. It's intended use. No turbo no cvt. Honda quality . It would be nice to have body on frame option.
The ground clearance ended up being one of the deciding factors when I was cross shopping wilderness-edition subarus with the pilot trailsports. The trailsports are otherwise really interesting vehicles
At $47k, you can have lift installed for more ground clearance. It’s a great truck for those who only need an open bed to move taller objects. Get AT 3 peaked tires for better snow performance. With all those upgrades, you’re still less than $50k. With na V6 bullet proof engine and ZF transmission, you are gtg
@@yudanov13 JSport, which is what Honda uses on their company Motorsport program vehicles has agreements with many Honda dealers to install their 1.5”F/.75”R lift kit without voiding the warranty.
Yeah it’s really the multi tool of the automotive sector. Like being a jack of all trades, which I feel is a positive attribute for the majority of drivers.
It needs full redesign so hopefully get new 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport treatment. Upgraded IVTM4 Torque Vectorng AWD System. The limited number of trims like Passport TrailSport 3 interior will be updated infotainment instrument cluster lighting. Retain key features in-bed trunk flat floor storage.
agreed about ground clearance. And I think that's done for reason - Honda doesn't want their trucks to be abused off-road, and this generation shines on public roads... So the priority is to use it as a daily driver for whatever reason people buy it. For me - Passport is a more capable off-roader with 8.1 inch clearance.
I’m shocked that my Hyundai Santa Cruz has more ground clearance. I’ve heard great things about Hondas new AWD system and it’s a shame that the truck is limited by the clearance.
If I were looking for a small pick up truck, I'd get this Honda over any other ones, including Tacoma. The price for the true non turbo V6 is just fine.
I had a 2006! It was the first year of the Ridgeline. Well, my ownership didn't go well. After I took it in for the first oil change. There was a puddle of oil in the garage. Took it back to the dealership! They said it was a stripped oil pan bolt. Then, they put me in an old CRV with a quarter of a million miles on it. Pick it up when they got it fixed. Another puddle of oil in the garage. Took it back again and was put in a different high mileage POS. They called when it was done charging the oil pump this time. Parked in the garage, still oil. Went to a different Honda dealership that was closer to me. They inspected it and said it needed an oil pump. I said the oil pump was just replaced. They said that is what the technician said it was. I said okay, and they put me in loaner. Well, at least it was new, LOL! Picked it up, still leaking oil. Got pissed and took it to my buddy's high-end hotrod shop. Told him what was going on, and he puy dye in the motor oil. The aluminum block was cracked. Took it back to the closer dealer and told them what my buddy told me. After they looked at it, they said your buddy didn't know what he's talking about. So, I called him! Told him what they said, and he told me he was coming to the dealership. We'll he made them look like asses! They said they had to replace the short-block. I said it has under 4K on it, put me in a new one. They refused! So I Lemon Lawed it! After they got it fixed, electrical stuff started to go. The vehicle spent more time in their garage than mine. It took three and a half years to settle the Lemon Law case. Honda's attorney appealed every time they lost in court. The judge told them that if they appeal his buy back ruling. To have cashier check in hand or he would hold Honda in contempt of court. They blew off his ruling and they went to jail. He add $20K on top of the cost of the Ridgeline for inconvenience. That was my last dealing with Honda. I will never own a Honda product again..........
Honda should go with an auto4WD setting, and add high and low lock modes, kind of like what Ford had in the Explorers before they went AWD only in them. I had an 08 Explorer with the 4.6L V8 and the auto4WD setting was great, but what was nice was you could select 4WD High if you were in deeper snow/mud conditions where the auto setting was struggling, or was engaging and disengaging too much....the only pitfall with that system was it also used the clutch pack in the low range setting, where some other systems had the 4WD system mechanically locked in high and low part time settings. The trouble with most of today's crossovers and the growing number of SUV's trying to be pickups is they are trying to make them a car and they keep the ground clearance as low as possible, great if all you do is drive on a dry highway all the time, but I guess the automakers have designers who have never driven in snow which makes for a fun adventure in itself, but when you run out of ground clearance, you run out of movement capability, at that point it don't matter what tires you have or how good the AWD system is when none of the tires are touching the ground.
I put the better part of 200k on a Gen1 ridgeline in central montana. it was the best snow and Ic vehicle I ever owned. Lots of offroad in mud and snow, never got stuck. to the contrary I pulled stuck full-sized SUVs with ease.
Great video! Hope you'll be testing out the '26 Passport Trail sport too! Also, any chance, you'll be testing out the Ford Maverick Tremor? I know you extensively tested the Ford Maverick FX4, but I would be interested in seeing you push the Maverick's most "off-road capable" trim to its limits.
Very good review with some good suggestions for Honda, however for about $48K, it is surprising that Honda does not offer their “360-degree,” Multi-View Camera System (MVCS) on this truck. At the present time, I believe the only model Honda offers this option is on the Pilot. This does not make sense. This is one of the best safety options for a pickup truck. Honda…wake up!
I own a 2022 Ridgeline Sport and have put 55,000km (33,000 miles) on it with no issues. I previously had full size trucks but as we get older and our lifestyle changes we didn't see the need for a full size truck anymore. I drove and researched every mid size truck and they are all decent vehicles with each having different strengths and also shortcomings. The Honda clearly had the best on road comfort and handling but as stated falls short with ground clearance. We enjoy camping, kayaking, hiking, snowmobiling etc (my snowmobile fits in the back with the tailgate down) so although we don't go down any "off road" only style trails ( we use our Suzuki King Quads for that) we do use many bush roads and dirt trails that don't require extra ground clearance. It's has easy egress and ingress and i can easily load and tie down our kayaks despite being short in stature. It's very comfortable on long road trips for driver, passengers and with the flip up seats our Husky 🐺enjoys it as well. The hidden under bed storage gets used often and the dual opening tailgate is great for those of us with a short reach. It has very good acceleration and passing ability and is decent on fuel. I switch to winter snow tires and rims and it handles the winter weather very well, with great stability and confidence inspiring traction in pretty much every condition. Overall it's been a great "truck" and if it's used within it's intended purposes i think most owners will be very happy with their purchase. Improvements I'd like to see: larger fuel tank (highway range is up to 750km or 450 miles in good weather) another inch or so of clearance, updated software for the driving monitor system, more powerful hvac system (it gets cold up here -40) and I'd rather have an actual gear shift selector instead of the current trend of push button gear selection. Would i buy another Ridgeline? In a heartbeat! Would i also check out the other mid size trucks again? Absolutely! They've all received significant updates since my purchase so it'd be foolish not to. Thanks for another great review Ryan, happy motoring!
A small tip regarding heat output, if you use face setting, tons of heat, floor or defrost or auto it disappears. From the great white north…
I'm not surprised to hear about the disappointing heat from the HVAC system. Honda tried to get away with an undersized system in the CRV and Civic a few years back. Search the article "'Try not to stop and start' while driving, Honda tells owners stuck with cars not fit for winter." They also put undersized batteries in the Fit. The new HRV has under the hood windshield wipers that you can't lift up to scrape under when the wipers are frozen, without turning the car off to put the wipers into a special maintenance mode, which is not what you want to do when it's very cold out. It has the HVAC integrated into the remote starter, but that doesn't include the heated wiper feature. That only works if you go turn on the car manually and then wait, which defeats the use of the remote starter. When it comes to cold weather, I think Honda just puts in the parts to check off the necessary boxes, without ever checking that the design is executed practically.
Thank you kindly! That's the one setting i didn't try 😆@@D-bk7lc
@dariuschicic8141 i do remember those low heat issues but thought it applied to the 1.5 litre turbo engine. The ridgeline gets warm enough but you rarely have to turn the heat down because it's too warm. On my Ram Hemi the HVAC system was great in all seasons!
I have a 23 and like to go camping and travel many of Georgia’s forest service roads either no issues. I drive around atlanta a lot for work and it is great on the highways and surface roads. Great for someone that doesn’t go the extreme 4x4 adventures
It's likely more than capable enough for 90% of people, but with a TrailSport badge, it should have another 1.5 to 2 inches of ground clearance. It would really go a long way in this vehicle.
Why ? It’s not a meant to be a hardcore off roader bro.
@@liamcarp7113 It doesn't need to be a hardcore offroader. It has a capable AWD system and decent tires. Just give it a bit more ground clearance, at least in the TrailSport trim.
@@jeffer1101 Exactly. It's ground clearance doesn't match it's other capabilities. I'd buy one immediately if it had more ground clearance. Vectoring AWD is awesome for off road!
@@ZenEnduranceWhat are you currently driving?
@@donwarner6925 2020 Ram
I recently purchased a 2025 Ridgeline Black Edition in sonic gray pearl. I’ve owned many, many trucks in my life, but nothing as comfortable, quiet and well made as this Honda RL. It’s my everyday driver, and with the AWD system, and torque vectoring, it’s fun to drive. There’s very little body roll, so going hot into curves is like driving a sports car. Love it.
Thank you Driving sports Tv for reviewing honda ridgeline on the snow. You’re one of the few car review channel if not the only one this year as others do not consider honda ridgline significant in truck market .
A lot of these review channels never even drive the vehicle it seems, they blabber on about what a window sticker says, and never actually show the vehicle doing anything other than sitting there. Which to me is like well yeah, any vehicle can sit in a parking lot and look cool, but can it actually do anything other than that LOL.
It's a shame they don't give these vehicles more clearance. The systems shifting power around seem really really good.
I agree, however the new Landcruiser only has 1" more of clearance.
For off-road, I agree.
I personally bought the Ridgeline for its low ground clearance. I have a serious back injury and having a capable vehicle that I can get into without hurting myself is fantastic.
I’m not aware of any other 4x4 or AWD truck sits as low as the RL.
What would be nice is if Honda offered the “trailsport” version with a bit of a lift.
Yeah they can shift power around, but what good is that when you are high centered because they gave it the same ground clearance as a Honda Civic.
7.6 is an embarrassment, but I knew when I bought my 2021 I’d need to lift it and upsize the tires before it could handle any more than a basic forest service road.
I just got a used 2021 ridgeline RTL with 32k miles on it at $29,000. I love it, don’t go offroad like rock crawling so it does its job. Only camping or fishing and every day stuffs. Most of my friends with their Tacoma with those rock crawling modes, they don’t even use it as it was made for. I just love that the ridgeline can be on AWD on rainy days and be in controll. Unlike my rare wheel sedan that will spin out during rainy days.
I just bought a Ridgeline 2024, really happy with the ride & comfort and I also believe that it is much better than other trucks in terms of Space and Ride. I really like that when taking backpacks, going to the supermarket, bags & luggage, there is enough space to have it either in the trunk or below the backseat and not having to have it on the people or “handy” on the bed.
One of the best car review channels on UA-cam. Real world testing and talking about things that aren’t just surface level
That storage compartment doubling as a cooler is actually bad ass. I’d use every opportunity to utilize that.
These are great in the snow with the right winter tires.
Most vehicles are that way when you put the right tires on them. Even a front wheel drive car does great in snow with winter tires LOL.
@@wildbill23c I live in the mountains 1/2 the year. You’d be surprised how many morons come up here with bald summer tires.
@@wildbill23c true but you can't haul kitchen appliances or toss a jon boat in the bed in your Camry. Ridgeline does what it aims to do, give people a comfortable, usable passenger vehicle with occasional light duty truck capability.
@ I've seen people do some crazy stuff to haul things home on or in their Civics and other similar cars LOL....almost like they must have been dared to do it or something LOL.
Great review! Being a 2024 owner of a Honda Ridgeline TrailSport and a Ridgeline owners since 2006. I agree, Honda could do something more to offer better clearance on their TrailSport model. Living in the Northeast, the Honda handles everything I use it for. If I could add a wish list. Step up the tow weight to a flat 6k. Other than that Honda does what it does best, be in the middle of the road. Not a true off roader like Toyota, Not a Hauler like Chevy. But the truck everyone wants to drive day in and day out for everyday things.
6k would open up next-level towing. Would love to see that as well.
I think the frame can do 6k now, but the brakes are too small and the transmission gets too hot, even with the cooler.
@@joefratianni8693the 9 speed doesn’t run hot like the 6 speed did. The 6 speed was also much better when people followed the manual and locked it into D4 to prevent hunting.
My 9 speed has done a little over 5,000lbs up multiple 6%+ grades in the Southwest summers with literally zero issues.
Just monitor temps like you should with any truck towing and don’t drive it like a tractor pull, and it’s fine.
I think it could probably do 6K as it sits, but Honda’s LPL said they picked 5K because it covered the vast majority of all towing needs and they wanted the novice to be able to do it with no issues.
I can say that it tows the full 5K with absolutely no stress.
@ I agree except for the temps. Have you run a temp gauge? I'd like to see the temps now. I plan on towing about 4k across country when I move.
@@joefratianni8693 yes, I always run a temperature monitor when towing. On my first max tow, I wanted to see how it would do up a 6% grade right near where they do the SAE cert. June summer temps in AZ, up a 6% grade at 80MPH with the truck at max GCVWR and the temps never went above 210*. As soon as I slowed down to a reasonable speed, they came back down. You probably could overheat it, but I don’t think it would be an issue unless your speeds are way higher than they should be.
I’ve towed max weight all over the Southwest and had no issues with temperatures.
High drag profiles like a box trailer or camper will probably run hotter, but should still be manageable.
Love your reviews Ryan you put these vehicles to the test! People can see exactly what they’re getting for the money.
I have a 2023 RTL-E. Great truck. I am looking at options (there are several) to add a 2" lift, because I will do stupid things. I tow a camper, pickup lumber, stone, and furniture with the bed, and drive long distance for work. Love this truck.
again and again the best videos. feels like a real full budget show
Seems to be the consensus for the Honda CUV's/Ridegeline AWD models for offroading: Needs more ground clearance and improvements to approach and departure angles, terrain cams, more skid-plating, and AT tires. The Pilot got the newest i-VTM4 first with the Trailsport trim, which was mostly cosmetic other than the AWD system, then the Passport-->Ridgeline. From what I've seen so far of the 2026 Passport Trailsport, Honda is taking the steps to remedy pretty much all of those deficiencies, plus more. Love the channel and the in-depth reviews for doing some mild offroading on models like this and the Passport, it really does help to make a more informed buying decision and shows what they can and cannot do.
Pilot critically got a full-size spare, which even the new Passport won't have- unless for extra you mount it in cargo area. And it's ridiculous Honda produces a pickup with a compact spare.
Thanks for the great review. I daily a 23 RTL and I enjoy it. I’m still running the stock tires and it drives smooth and safe in the snow. No off roading me, and that’s okay.
Excellent job as always, Ryan. Always enjoy your vehicle reviews and insights. Thank you!
I own one, and I love it! But the ground clearance is its biggest downfall. As long as you don’t drive it like a normal pickup truck in off road situations you will be fine. But the minute you forget it’s just a Ridgeline and get careless you will scrape something for sure. So far I have given the exhaust a few scars and surprisingly the rear lower control arms. And that’s not really any serious off roading. I wouldn’t try any urban off-roading either like curb hopping, etc. But like he said, number one complaint and maybe my only complaint is ground clearance
I recently bought a Ridgeline and could not be happier! Once you get past the gotta drive a macho truck phase and become wiser you realize that the Ridgeline is the best truck for the average buyer. If you don't believe me go drive one!
If I didn't need to tow frequently a small truck would definitely be great for that occasional trip to the box store for building materials, and with most of the smaller trucks you can at least tow a small utility trailer to haul those materials which is my preferred method even with a full size truck, I still haul building materials on my trailer because I can just park the trailer where I'm working and work off the trailer and not have to unload everything in order to use the truck for other tasks during the week.
@@wildbill23c The Ridgeline will tow 5000lbs
@@txhawk2380 About 4k shy of my towing needs.
@@wildbill23c what are you towing?? a house? as a non-american I seriously do not understand the obsession some people and Americans have with oversized ladder frame trucks when much smaller cheaper and more fun utes or what americans call "small trucks" (still not small to be honest) can do everything 99% of owners already do.
@@xan2242 Tractors, and other equipment....guess you don't realize how heavy that stuff is. I'm sure you probably could tow 10k+ behind that Ridgeline....once...you can get it moving but you won't be able to control it or stop it.
The ridgeline has always been interesting to me, I don’t need all the capabilities of a truck, I just need the bed and honestly it makes a lot of sense for someone like me.
The main reason I’ve got a highlander is because it’s what fits modern rear facing car seats comfortably, and can still make it up my driveway.
That said, I don’t have to haul around car seats forever; a ridgeline may very well be my choice in the next decade
At least the new 2026 passport trailsport has over 9 inches of ground clearance. And looks really good. Also kept the NA v6 in 2026. Great choice honda
That's good that Honda kept the N/A engines, so many automakers have jumped on the turbocharged tiny engine bandwagon, and it is terrible for people who keep their vehicles for 20+ years, and with today's car prices you really need to be able to keep a vehicle for much longer than its dismal warranty period.
The 2026 Passport Trailsport has 8.3 inches of clearance, certainly not over 9 inches (although it would be much better over 9 inches).
@mikeeslinger4879 my bad I miss spoke for a diff vehical Yea your right. Be nothing to put a 1.5" lift on it really make it sit up there. Idk why they keep them so low. Be a way more capable ride if it sat at 10. 10.5"
@@REDNECKROOTS They're low because most of these mini-trucks are based on either a car/crossover, or smaller SUV platform. Plus being independent suspension its more expensive to lift them.
Best awd in the market. I've had the pleasure of still owning my 2017 RTL Awd since Aug 2016. Mine is equipped with the Truxxx leveling kit (first company then that had one available in the market) along with an inch hub centric wheel spacer and 30.5" All Terrains (w/3PMSF). The best vehicle I've ever owned. Low maintenance, very comfortable on long drives, great mpg amd very reliable......
Would love to see pictures of your set up!
Great review. Covered all the bases with this one. Thanks for sharing!
The Gen2 Ridgelines are pretty darn good. The great thing about the rear seats folding up is that it is easy to load a folding wheelchair back there. Early Gen2s didn't have the doors open too wide, but later ones give better access. The fix of earlier ones is just to get the arm thing from a few years later and swap them out. No need for any hinge swaps or any other adjustment.
The AWD system is very competent and with the right tires is probably the best out there for snow and ice. It's not a lock-all-4 off road system, but if you are needing that, go with a custom built Jeep.
When my elderly handicapped mother was living several times we put wheel chair in backseat area with 60/40 seat folded up.
The forthcoming redesigned 2026 Honda Passport looks fantastic, saw it at the Philly Car Show. The Ridgeline, which shares the same platform, would benefit substantially sharing the redesign and make it much more capable off road.
Agreed!! I have a 2018 and am waiting for the 3rd gen to hit. I’m hoping it’s late 2026…
No the current Ridgeline does not share the same platform as the upcoming 2026 Passport. It does not share platform with the current 4th Generation Pilot 2023-2025.
It shares platform with 3rd Generation Pilot and 2nd Generation Passport.
This is why I'm not buying current Ridgeline. I was waiting for fully redesign last year or this year now.
It's time for me to buy new vehicle. I decided on 2025 Pilot Elite. We have 1st Gen 07 Ridgeline in family. So I've kept up with Ridgeline happenings for years. Great vehicle but slow updating it. They've always treated Ridgeline like the Red-Headed step child in the Honda family.
The current Ridgeline platform was designed for Ridgeline but MDX and Pilot used it first.
@
Im hoping they move the ridgeline to that new passport platform. I’ll wait until 2027. If not who knows what’s next for me. I’ll keep what I have and just get something new as an everyday
You are going to get a compliance engine in new Passport. Same as new Pilot. You lose VTEC. It has ten speed transmission that shifts too often.
Says a lot about Honda. Less than ideal tires, suspension, clearance...will get 95% of the people where they need to go (and that wasn't even pushing the rental) And to boot, it has useful truck bed and good road manners! I'm impressed.
Your content is really excellent!
As somebody else has already mentioned the IVTM-4 system is the best out there. But there’s a balance between plowing through and damaging a vehicle and going so slow as to try and get it stuck. I’ve lived with one of these for 5 years now in upstate NY. We get lots of snow and this thing goes through it all without breaking a sweat. Even with the “limited” ground clearance as you mentioned many times.
You can't plow through ice ridges. We get that a lot in the PNW mountains.
@@drivingsportsI live near Vancouver BC and I put my Ridgeline through “all kinds”. I wouldn’t do much with it if i hadn’t put on a lift, skid plates and bigger tires though. My skid plates are beat up, as is my muffler.
Looks matter to pickup truck buyers. Most want trucks that look tough. If Honda gave this truck 3-4 more inches of ground clearance and made the styling more aggressive, they would sell these in far greater numbers. The engine, transmission, and ride quality are all excellent. As is, the current model only appeals to "old/smart enough not to care about looks" buyers.
I can't get over how weird these things look.
I bought a ‘24 2 months ago after ~30 years of full size trucks. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. I upgraded the rear sway bar to tighten up body roll. Other than that, it’s near perfect. We drive 350 miles round trip several times a month. 90 mph and ~20 mph highway, in comfort. The flip up back seats are perfect for our dogs. For humans they’re actually comfortable.
As an owner of 2 RLs- 1st an 08 which my son finally talked me into selling to him in 21- and now a 21, I have long strongly wished that Honda would give us another inch or 2 of ground clearance and some skid plates. 7.6" is just pathetic for anything that ever goes off road or sees significant snow depths. Though that is my opinion, after watching your test, I am once again simply amazed at how well that RL does in all but the most severe conditions. First time I was amazed was when truck King took it and a Maverick Tremor with probably 2 more inches of ground clearance into their mud pits. Did the Maverick do better? In most testing, YES! But amazingly, the RL ended up going everywhere they took the Tremor, sometimes performing even better. More often worse, of course, but it still got thru.
Now here you come today putting it on a steep snow course that has been VERY challenging to every hard core vehicle you have thrown at it, defeating some of them. And the result is: not too shabby! I-VTM4 is amazing, as are the over all results.
This confirms my opinion- after having owned old(84 solid axle front with Torsen difs)Runners, and an 87( or 1st year model) Pathfinders, Ford Explorers and Isuzu Troopers, etc, my 2 stock RLs have been the best vehicles I have used on icy roads and snow of moderate depth, say 6 to 8" or less. In all cases with stock tires. Put some snow tires or traction aids on the RL, and it would be a champion unless the snow got deep and soft enough to bury it. And it would obviously run out of clearance quicker than almost anything else. Come on, Honda, make a model available that solves these issues! Don't make us wait 2 more years!
Thanks for testing out the OffRoad capabilities with the Ridgeline!!
I drive 90% on the road but like the open deck to carry odd size cargo. Drive like a car and carry like a pickup (not too much heavy stuff). It works great for me.
i have a 2022 ridgeline its the best most useful truck i have ever owned. Its nearly perfect.
Wonderful job, sir. thank you.
Love my 2021 ! Wish it had more ground clearance !
Thanks for the video. 100 percent on the ground clearance. To put it in perspective, the 2023+ Honda Pilot Trailsport (which is what the next Passport/Ridgeline is/will be based on) has 8.3 inches of ground clearance. The 2017+ Honda CRV AWD, had 8.4. The 9speed will be missed as it is more refined and smooth then Honda's 10speed in our Pilot Trailsport. Would be nice for a oem dealer lift option.
8.3 inches of ground clearance is still a joke
@@JRs-guitars exactly. Give it an inch and a half more from the factory, and these things would sell like crazy. As it is now, I’m looking at one, but I know I’ll be installing an aftermarket lift kit.
@@mikeeslinger4879better to go aftermarket anyway. Odds are Honda wouldn’t develop their own lift anyway. There are already dealers that will sell you a Ridgeline with an HRG or Traxda lift and offer factory warranty.
Agree with the ground clearance, I have been driving a F150 eco boost for the last 7 years, and I looking to downgrade because I just do not need the full-size pickup. for the price, the TWO things I would love to see are 360 cameras, and it hurts me to say it, but after getting used to my eco boost with its low-end torque, after driving three ridgelines, it needs a better low-end torque power planet, not saying it's slow, it rips, but you need to always kick in that V Tec.
There's so much to love about this truck, and I really want to love it in general, but the ground clearance is just killer. With the Trailsport Trim, it really needs a few more inches (at least 8.5", ideally 9.5"). If it had that clearance, paired with the skidplate, it'd be a beast!
For now, I'm still in the Full Size truck camp for towing capability, but I respect the Ridgeline and have recommended it to family members looking for a small truck. There are two drawbacks though: 1. fuel economy (even Frontier's optional 3.7L V6 engine delivers up to 22 MPG highway and I can get above 20 in most FSTs too) and 2. bed depth (always seems kinda shallow). But still pretty easy to recommend.
Great Review on snow
If you don't wonna traditional body on frame truck, this is for you especially with N/A engine. Great off road review. Greetings
Thankfully there are some decent aftermarket lift kits that will get it to 9+ inches of clearance. Maybe now that Honda is merging with Nissan, they can use some of the latter's exterior designers to beef up the Ridgeline's look. The Frontier is a handsome-looking truck after all.
I plan on buying the 2026 honda passport trailsport elite when it comes out later this year. And i can't wait to see your review, and hear your opinion. I understand it's not as off road seeing your 4Runner vids, but it has its own special effects for itself. Once again, great video, do you have an off road vehicle that you actually use heavily? Because you show a lot of skill and experience
To be honest with you, I feel like that traction technology is just as good as my Jeep. It's VERY good.
$47,000?! Thanks but no thanks
my old 2006 RTL, 207K miles, is pretty beat but it's point and go in the snow and ice. went thru 12" this winter easy easy. we're still rolling long patches of melting ice.
I'll echo everyone else's thoughts on this - This would be a really nice package with another inch or two of ground clearance, that seems to be the missing ingredient.
Luckily there are a few companies making lifts for the Ridgeline. No stock vehicle is good enough to go where that vehicle “is meant to go”. Pretty rare to see a stock Wrangler or Tacoma on the BC Trails, so I fully expected to build out my Ridgeline for backcountry adventures.
I bought a 2008 smashed by a falling tree then bought a 2006 I love it. Got out of 6 inches of snow with all terrain tires
I really like the idea of the Ridgeline and or the new passport but i really wish it had more ground clearance
It seems to be a 21st version of the old El Camino or Ranchero, which were capable and popular in their day, at least until they bloated. I had a ’66 Ranchero that I remember fondly. Its payload is similar to other mid size trucks. The trunk in the bed is nifty. So it’s useful. It will handle most forest service roads. However, having been on fishing trips with friends who have either a Ridgeline or a new Frontier, I don’t really see all that much difference in passenger comfort between the Ridgeline and Frontier, though I did sit in the front of each. The Ridgeline is pricey so you pay a lot for a bit more comfort. Don’t get me wrong. I like it, but I’m not sure that I see the value. Subaru should come out with an Outback ute.
I bought mine during the crazy pandemic prices and managed to buy it under msrp back in 2021. No issues in 4 years. You can buy a used one for way cheaper. A 3 year old can easily go for under 30 grand.
As a Ridgeline owner, it has taken me everywhere I’ve ever wanted to go Offroad. Even through much sketchier stuff that I had intended. The awd system is very capable to handle almost everything you throw at it. Now Honda just needs to match the rest of the truck to its capabilities similar to what they are doing in the new passport
big fan of the ridgeline, think it is a very underrated truck, and is a bargain compared to similarly equipped trucks on the market
I just bought one two months ago and I have owned 30 cars and crossovers SUVs. This is better than any of them on a scale from one to 10 a 10.
This is why aftermarket lifts from Traxda and others (I put on a 2" lift..best all around lift) have a purpose. While it certainly doesn't change the ridgeline into a TRD pro, it addresses the biggest concern such that soft roading isn't an issue.
I'd like to see an all time 4wd instead of awd. Also would like to see it have a true low range gear. Maybe that and a tiny nit more clearance. Then it would be an absolute banger of a truck.
The hill should be called Silent Hill 😅
Can the 2023 Ridgeline handle a larger tire on the same wheel? I feel like the tires don't fill the wheel opening properly and give the truck an odd look.
I have a 2022 Black Edition. I really like my Ridgeline but I will say the price is getting too high. The Frontier is much cheaper but not as nice in and out of the Ridgeline.
The Ranger and especially the Ranger Raptor are looking really good now.
I really like this pick up!
It does have a timing belt. Big additional cost so look into that
I've seen a video where a Honda Pilot with its rear end in deep soupy mud. It has Goodrich TA KO2s and got our pretty easily. The New AWD systems seem quite good and especially for how they're really used 95% of the time.
Outside of Land Rover, IVTM-4 is the best AWD system in the business in my opinion
I agree. And with 3 peak all weather tires on it you can go almost anywhere without much effort. Ground clearance is the only issue.
Definitely not, but it did pretty well in this test.
Recently discovered this channel, very informative and great content.
Merci Ryan pour cet essai doublé en français, véhicule très intéressant avec une bonne fiabilité Honda, en ce qui concerne la colline tu peux la nommée La Vallée Blanche comme celle qui est à Chamonix Mt Blanc👍👍👍
Does its variant have a single cab, and how much will it cost as it will be for commercial use? Kinder heads up, and will honda make it happen for that kind of trim.
The Ridgeline has only every been available in a single cab configuration. Like you see here.
If I didn't need the ground clearance or a proper 4x4 I'd have considered the ridgeline.
For a light duty utility vehicle it's got a lot of things I like. AWD and V6.
But I have a Frontier Pro-4X because it's got exactly what I was looking for and need. Plus we want to go places the ridgeline wouldn't be able to go.
For flickability....well...I have a short showing that 😂
I'd LOVE to buy this truck. ...In about 5 years on the used market. 😥
...you can already do that...
I believe AOA said that sh-awd has more aggressive tuning while ivtm4 is more touring oriented, i would hope Honda would actually use the aggressive tuning for "trail" sport versions besides better clearance, 2" lift would be amazing
edit: also you can disable traction control by holding the stability assist button so it might would allow some more rear wheels fun
There is a super-secret handshake on these to completely defeat TC and really have some fun.
I don’t get Honda with their Trailsport Ridgeline. Isn’t that thing $46000 msrp? Honda couldn’t put a 1.5” lift and maybe modify the bumpers for more clearance?
Trailsport is certainly an embarassment. Better to buy a lower trim level and spend your savings on a lift, bigger tires and skid plates.
The honda Ridgeline. A modern El' Camino perfect car for the road. It's intended use. No turbo no cvt. Honda quality . It would be nice to have body on frame option.
Are the rear seats comfortable?
I like the colour, and it looks better in person.
Maybe Honda wanted to keep the truck low to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
The ground clearance ended up being one of the deciding factors when I was cross shopping wilderness-edition subarus with the pilot trailsports. The trailsports are otherwise really interesting vehicles
i think im going to wait for a redesign. hopefully it looks like the new passport!
Wish the bed was about 8" longer to accommodate my bikes.
The problem with this and the Maverick is they aren't allowed on USFS 4x4 trails.
Another great review.
At $47k, you can have lift installed for more ground clearance. It’s a great truck for those who only need an open bed to move taller objects. Get AT 3 peaked tires for better snow performance. With all those upgrades, you’re still less than $50k. With na V6 bullet proof engine and ZF transmission, you are gtg
Aftermarket has a few lift available from 1 or 2.5 inches. Al least we have an option....
You can get up to 4.5” now.
@@willie6961 nice way to void a warranty on a 50k truck...
@yudanov13 Honda dealership are doing installation of the lift. You can check if you want ....
@@yudanov13 JSport, which is what Honda uses on their company Motorsport program vehicles has agreements with many Honda dealers to install their 1.5”F/.75”R lift kit without voiding the warranty.
Love the videos thanks can you do the nissan armada pro 4 x and test drive it thanks 🙏✌️
The soft snow pulled you off?!?! lol 😁
Yup, that's my story and I'm sticking to it. 😂
I don't think Honda should change a thing. The Rigdeline is perfect the way it is. A SUV with a truck bed.
Yeah it’s really the multi tool of the automotive sector. Like being a jack of all trades, which I feel is a positive attribute for the majority of drivers.
You’re both incorrect. Keep the V6 naturally aspirated, but integrate it with a hybrid system. THEN it’ll be perfect.
Ok dummy
It needs full redesign so hopefully get new 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport treatment. Upgraded IVTM4 Torque Vectorng AWD System. The limited number of trims like Passport TrailSport 3 interior will be updated infotainment instrument cluster lighting. Retain key features in-bed trunk flat floor storage.
agreed about ground clearance. And I think that's done for reason - Honda doesn't want their trucks to be abused off-road, and this generation shines on public roads... So the priority is to use it as a daily driver for whatever reason people buy it.
For me - Passport is a more capable off-roader with 8.1 inch clearance.
I have been using the long pedal to the right and modulated it with my foot
Name suggestion:
Heartbreak Slope or Heartbreak Hill
I’m shocked that my Hyundai Santa Cruz has more ground clearance. I’ve heard great things about Hondas new AWD system and it’s a shame that the truck is limited by the clearance.
If I were looking for a small pick up truck, I'd get this Honda over any other ones, including Tacoma. The price for the true non turbo V6 is just fine.
some steel skid plates would increase confidence too...
I am not sure if you have already used the name for that new hill but what about the Sidewinder?
C
Thinking of buying 2024/25 Chevy traverse can you test that suv?
Chevy has yet to send one up. No ETA.
@drivingsports ok
I had a 2006! It was the first year of the Ridgeline. Well, my ownership didn't go well. After I took it in for the first oil change. There was a puddle of oil in the garage. Took it back to the dealership! They said it was a stripped oil pan bolt. Then, they put me in an old CRV with a quarter of a million miles on it. Pick it up when they got it fixed. Another puddle of oil in the garage. Took it back again and was put in a different high mileage POS. They called when it was done charging the oil pump this time. Parked in the garage, still oil. Went to a different Honda dealership that was closer to me. They inspected it and said it needed an oil pump. I said the oil pump was just replaced. They said that is what the technician said it was. I said okay, and they put me in loaner. Well, at least it was new, LOL! Picked it up, still leaking oil. Got pissed and took it to my buddy's high-end hotrod shop. Told him what was going on, and he puy dye in the motor oil. The aluminum block was cracked. Took it back to the closer dealer and told them what my buddy told me. After they looked at it, they said your buddy didn't know what he's talking about. So, I called him! Told him what they said, and he told me he was coming to the dealership. We'll he made them look like asses! They said they had to replace the short-block. I said it has under 4K on it, put me in a new one. They refused! So I Lemon Lawed it! After they got it fixed, electrical stuff started to go. The vehicle spent more time in their garage than mine. It took three and a half years to settle the Lemon Law case. Honda's attorney appealed every time they lost in court. The judge told them that if they appeal his buy back ruling. To have cashier check in hand or he would hold Honda in contempt of court. They blew off his ruling and they went to jail. He add $20K on top of the cost of the Ridgeline for inconvenience. That was my last dealing with Honda. I will never own a Honda product again..........
Honda should go with an auto4WD setting, and add high and low lock modes, kind of like what Ford had in the Explorers before they went AWD only in them. I had an 08 Explorer with the 4.6L V8 and the auto4WD setting was great, but what was nice was you could select 4WD High if you were in deeper snow/mud conditions where the auto setting was struggling, or was engaging and disengaging too much....the only pitfall with that system was it also used the clutch pack in the low range setting, where some other systems had the 4WD system mechanically locked in high and low part time settings.
The trouble with most of today's crossovers and the growing number of SUV's trying to be pickups is they are trying to make them a car and they keep the ground clearance as low as possible, great if all you do is drive on a dry highway all the time, but I guess the automakers have designers who have never driven in snow which makes for a fun adventure in itself, but when you run out of ground clearance, you run out of movement capability, at that point it don't matter what tires you have or how good the AWD system is when none of the tires are touching the ground.
Are you going to test the ram rho in the snow?
No RHOs in our local fleet yet.
It's a shame they didn't at least give it the same treatment as the Pilot with increased clearance and full-size spare.
I put the better part of 200k on a Gen1 ridgeline in central montana. it was the best snow and Ic vehicle I ever owned. Lots of offroad in mud and snow, never got stuck. to the contrary I pulled stuck full-sized SUVs with ease.
Great video! Hope you'll be testing out the '26 Passport Trail sport too! Also, any chance, you'll be testing out the Ford Maverick Tremor? I know you extensively tested the Ford Maverick FX4, but I would be interested in seeing you push the Maverick's most "off-road capable" trim to its limits.
Ford didn't send us one to test in the PNW. Hoping they do for 2025.
Crossing my fingers we see the redesign with the Passport’s front end in ‘26. That and a little more ground clearance would be perfect.
Honda should update to the newer styling of the pilot or 2026 passport.
Agreed, I think the aged interior really lets down a very cool vehicle.
Very good review with some good suggestions for Honda, however for about $48K, it is surprising that Honda does not offer their “360-degree,” Multi-View Camera System (MVCS) on this truck. At the present time, I believe the only model Honda offers this option is on the Pilot. This does not make sense. This is one of the best safety options for a pickup truck. Honda…wake up!