I’ve been driving my 2019 Ridgeline for 28,000 miles and 16 months. Very pleased with the vehicle. Comfortable, quiet, drives like a nice sedan not a bubba truck. No rattles, shimmies or shakes like you get in a conventional truck. It’s a great truck for those of us with white collar jobs that need a truck for our hobbies, not our jobs. I towed a 24’ go-fast boat from Baltimore to SC. About 3300 pounds all up weight for boat and trailer. No problems, tracked straight, the Lane keep assist did its job well while towing. I would NOT have bought a conventional truck as I hate the way they drive. Also they are bigger than I needed and are a PITA to park. The Ridgeline checks all the boxes for me. If you don’t need a Big Bubba Truck to reinforce your masculinity, aren’t towing more than 5000# and don’t need to go hardcore off roading to get to your construction job the Ridgeline might be a good choice.
@jimbailey1122
4 жыл бұрын
Those "bubba" trucks are called "brodozers" in these parts
@sej4323
4 жыл бұрын
Hard core off reading means you lost your glasses in the truck?
@Coquina17
4 жыл бұрын
SEJ I’ve had it happen. 😉
@squidusn71
4 жыл бұрын
If I'm white collar, I'd be driving a Raptor for my hobbies and a 911 Turbo for daily lol. I wouldn't even think about a Ridgeline, which I happen to own.
@_DrDrakeRamoray
4 жыл бұрын
I am a financial advisor and I drive a 2020 Ram 1500 Crew Cab Laramie and it kicks A over your mini van with a bed. There are no rattles or shimmies with my luxury truck.
@pocillipora
4 жыл бұрын
I just traded my 2018 Tacoma off-road,that I never used for off-road for a ridgeline. I was so up in the air weather or not I should do it, but I’m glad I did. I was tired of putting up with the unsure feeling on road in corners, the horrible transmission shifting,slipping, and lugging, bump steering, no room in the cabin, etc. All this, I was told is normal by Toyota. Best decision I’ve made in a while, Ridgline offers so much more of what I need a truck for. I was the second owner of the Tacoma with under 14,000km on that pos
@biggetl1319
4 жыл бұрын
I have a Tacoma and I hate it! What do you mean, bump steering??
@pocillipora
4 жыл бұрын
biggetl the steering wheel moved when you hit a pot hole, bump in the road with one tire
@williamdykes2750
4 жыл бұрын
I'm thinking of trading my Frontier in on a new RL Black Edition, although for my question, the trim level doesn't mean anything. With the dual opening tailgate, in the normal tailgate down position, do you think it would work to carry a couple of kayaks in the back for a hundred miles or so? I'm wondering about stress on the tailgate. I do that all the time with my Frontier without difficulity.
@chadjzyk7136
4 жыл бұрын
Thank for your comments, I have a 4runner, was looking at the Tacoma as I was unsure about leaving Toyota but am leaning towards a ridgeline.
@alexduey7868
4 жыл бұрын
tacoma is so expensive to
@darinpearson2554
4 жыл бұрын
The bed is not covered in a composite material. The bed is a composite material.
@DLNix
4 жыл бұрын
112k miles on my 2017 with 22" wheels on 265"s. Hands down best Daily vehicle i have ever owned. Did the rear door mod which is a must for 17 - 19s and cheap to do.
@chrisrobles2012
4 жыл бұрын
Derek Nickrent , any videos of your 22” wheels? Seems like it would hit/rub. What brand of tires/style? BFG /All season/mudding?
@DrJWB008
4 жыл бұрын
Very nice review, thank you. I disagree with your comments about other trucks looking better. The Ridgeline is much more sophisticated looking than some of the other "bricks with wheels".
@frankmorris4790
3 жыл бұрын
Always have had Honda's since my first CIVIC in 76' Currently own two CRV's here on our ranch. IF Honda ever gets around building a real work worthy truck, I'll be first in line!!!
@bn9983
4 жыл бұрын
Just got one. My wife is 4'11" and can get in and out much easier than other trucks we looked at. Also rear seat room is great, i can spilt fold with my kids booster back there.
@GeeLee1957
4 жыл бұрын
I had a 2006 for 14 years and it never gave me trouble. Now I have a 2019 and loving it even more. The 280hp really is nice compared to the old 247hp. Well done Honda.
@alexduey7868
4 жыл бұрын
yeah not a bad bump in HP plus fuel millage to boot
@jaytee6889
4 жыл бұрын
After putting 183,000 miles on my 2017 Ridgeline yes that’s a lot of miles for 2 1/2 years I fix appliances and I drive an average of 150 to 200 miles a day fixing appliances I have had zero issues with my Ridgeline gets great gas mileage comfortable ride it pulls a trailer I’ve carried dirt in the back of it I pulled a bobcat behind it as it does anything that my F150 could’ve done your thing with American trucks don’t do is they don’t give you the luxury ride and all the sensors you have to pay like really extra I mean come on people really a Silverado $75,000 this ridiculous van but as I know American trucks won’t go to 150 thousand miles with zero maintenance on the Ridgeline has gone over 180,000 miles have hadNo issues other than basic maintenance
@chrisb8593
4 жыл бұрын
awesome
@brianreno6600
3 жыл бұрын
Holy shit, 180.000 miles less then 3 years? Dayum
@tl4633
4 жыл бұрын
I just bought the RTL-E and I am not looking back. I had my heart set on the Tacoma but after driving each one the choice was easy to make. I agree that this vehicle does not look tough but I believe that the features and function of this truck will suit the needs of about 95% of truck owners and the comfort level is unmatched by any other mid size truck.
@avavanpelt926
4 жыл бұрын
Im in the same boat. Was looking at Tacomas but came across the Ridgeline. Going for a test drive tomorrow to see if its all that. Might get the Black edition. My Uncles are gonna take the piss on me about owning this car. But you know what. Fuck em. I got it for me not them.
@biggetl1319
4 жыл бұрын
Nice review! Now that I'm retired there is no reason for me to have two vehicle. I thinking about trading the Tacoma and the A4 in for a Ridgeline. I can still haul stuff if I need, and the wife still gets a decent quiet ride! I test drove one last summer and it seems very nice. I just wish they would man up the looks a little bit.
@berjyacoubian6173
4 жыл бұрын
I have a 2017 Black Edition with all the hacks, honda hack infotainment and then some... 75000 miles and going strong
@gmanxeero
4 жыл бұрын
Berj Yacoubian how many hacks are needed besides the door?
@berjyacoubian6173
4 жыл бұрын
@@gmanxeero the locking tailgate
@_DrDrakeRamoray
4 жыл бұрын
@@berjyacoubian6173 Why would a locking tailgate be considered a hack. Pretty standard across all Truck lines these days. I wouldn't care the Ridgeline a truck though.
@Sig721Tau
4 жыл бұрын
@@berjyacoubian6173 You don't need an electric locking tailgate when you can lock it manually with a key. Lazy people. Smh...
@richdunaj8898
3 жыл бұрын
Nothing but troubles with my 2017, 30,000 miles..oil leak, gas leak, front brake issues, computer issues...
@bobgreen9768
4 жыл бұрын
Saw your video on the rear door fix and did it on my 2017 model ,also installed a lock on the the tailgate with a after market kit which works with the power lock system. Thanks for your videos.
@brianpetersen3429
4 жыл бұрын
Excellent comprehensive review. If I ever have to replace my 2008 4Runner, this will be my choice.
@gmanxeero
4 жыл бұрын
Brian Petersen Toyota? It’s gonna be a while... (which is a good thing)
@stephendpersaud
4 жыл бұрын
I have a 2019 ridgeline and have the 8 inch infotainment system. Nobody mentions that there are volume controls on the steering wheel. That's what I use and I dont miss the volume knob.
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
That's what Honda assumed and why they took off the knobs to begin with (with all of their cars) only to realize people do acutally use it so they brought it back.
@mowcowbell
4 жыл бұрын
I have the same infotainment unit in my Honda Clarity. I think the steering wheel controls work perfectly. Also don't miss the volume knob.
@smdanny1
4 жыл бұрын
yea it's just a habit thing, like how microsoft removed the start button in Win8 and people's mind exploded
@samlung2724
4 жыл бұрын
I don't even use the volume knob on my 08 Accord. I use the steering wheel controls
@kevinnorris6558
4 жыл бұрын
I use the volume knob on my 2018 WRX. I only use the steering wheel for changing the radio station.
@yesman3709
4 жыл бұрын
Does it have paddle shifters? Now, the biggest annoyance is the plastc infotainment without a volume knob. Another reviewer said it's hard to clean fingerprints off of that plastic screen. Consider volume knobs and glass screens Honda. Wish Honda offered cloth seats on the upper trims. Love this truck though. Waiting to see if the 2021s have volume knobs and turbo-charged engine options (Type R?). Nice review. Enjoyed the reviews of your 2017 Ridgeline too.
@truth959
3 жыл бұрын
That locking rear differential is gonna make offroaders very happy.
@MarkRVillano
4 жыл бұрын
I totally agree with you about the transmission. I'm a firm believer that six gears are plenty, and will always be more dependable and efficient in the long run. That said, I've heard that Honda makes the absolute best 10 speed automatic transmission in the entire world, but for some reason they keep using these problematic 9 speed ZF units across the vast majority of their non-CVT lineup. I was told that this is because they already had a contractual agreement with ZF to purchase a ton of these transmissions, and are obligated to keep using them until that contract has been satisfied.
@johnlopez3001
4 жыл бұрын
Still waiting for Honda to give the Ridgeline a more Truck like aggressive appearance . In the meantime I'll continue to drive my 2008 Ridgeline awhile longer .
@squidusn71
4 жыл бұрын
I hope Honda continue to make it look like NOT a truck...after all, it isn't a real truck so to speak.
@jimbailey1122
4 жыл бұрын
Silly remark. See Toyota Hilux.
@revilsdr
3 жыл бұрын
So I previously commented on this video that I would never buy this truck but I recently purchased a 2021 and I have to say it does everything that I need it to do. Now you’ll probably get a little razzing from your other truck loving friends but I’m OK with that. I’ll have the last laugh when my truck is still on the road at 200,000+ miles. I went from a full-size truck to a Ridgeline and I will say this truck does not sit up very high you do feel like you’re driving a car but that’s not always a bad thing. I miss that feeling of being in a truck which other midsize such as the Ranger,Colorado and Tacoma have that clearance the Ridgeline lacks. But with that said it’s the most comfortable truck like vehicle I’ve ever driven especially if this is your daily driver. The push button shifter is annoying I wish they wouldn’t went with that but it’s not a deal breaker for me. Going from a Nissan titan to the Ridgeline I will say the Ridgeline is in a class of its own. I would not consider it a work truck or a off-road vehicle but for most city guys and gals your handymen/women this is really all you’re going to need PLUS you’re going to get excellent gas mileage,dependability,comfortable ride and a amazing resell value. It’s nice to finally own a truck that you enjoy riding in or if you’re going somewhere folks actually wants to take it because it’s not too uncomfortable, noisy and crowded.
@user-pl4eu5jc5w
4 жыл бұрын
I like that they got rid of the old style shifter. It is not needed in this day of drive by wire and the stick is just an obstruction that just gets in the way. Glad they modernized it.
@RJ-er3gv
4 жыл бұрын
I had a 2006 Ridgeline and loved it. Only ever seen the dealer bay for regular maintenance. We traveled 380km, 200km of that pulling our 24ft ultralight RV trailer. Seriously considering a 2020 Ridgeline again. I really miss the trunk and tailgate swing door. Just not sure the new 9 speed transmission would pull the RV. Maybe you could do a review pulling its max load.
@alexduey7868
4 жыл бұрын
supposedly it feels great up until 4,000
@PNW_Sportbike_Life
4 жыл бұрын
I own a 2006 with 140K miles. It's still going strong. The Ridge is easily the best day to day runner. It's great for camping, but not so great for towing. It's solid for light off-roading/snow with all-terrain tires. The trunk is an incredible feature as well. I was going to sell it and get something more aggressive looking, but realized there are just too many killer features I'd miss on the Ridge.
@PapiDoesIt
4 жыл бұрын
I bought a 2019 RT-L and love it. I tow with it occasionally and the trunk is a great place to stow my hitch and tools. But the new transmission and lack of a real shifter would have been deal breakers for me. The 6 speed is a proven design. Not too sure about the 9 speed.
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
I like the older shifter and 6 speed better for sure...
@mariamiller1770
4 жыл бұрын
Nailed it.
@henryhonda8408
4 жыл бұрын
Having a real shifter would be a deal breaker for me....... to each his own.
@alzeal
4 жыл бұрын
Im still loving my 1st gen 2007 Ridgeline. 238k miles and no issues. Still shifts like butter. Might consider the 6 speed 2nd gen RL in a few years once they go down in price, or if I find a project.
@allanfernandez9015
4 жыл бұрын
My new 2020 ridgeline have a whistling noise coming from the passenger front side window or vent when driving on the highway. Took it back to the dealer and they could not find the problem. Test drove another 2020 ridgeline and had the same problem.
@rondail5675
4 жыл бұрын
Allan, Thanks. I am thinking of upgrading from a 2019. I will make sure it doesn't have the problem. How do you like the 9-speed?
@allanfernandez9015
4 жыл бұрын
@@rondail5675 I have a RTL and the 9 speed is OK. you can still feel the shifting speeds but not as bad as the whistling noise that I hear while driving on the open highway. I did have a 2019 loaner while they were checking on the noise and I did not hear the whistling noise, Good luck and let me know if and when you upgrade about the wind noise.
@davidhoesly
4 жыл бұрын
I wish Honda would include cooled seats and power folding side mirrors, (that the Pilot has on the upper trims), on the Ridgeline.
@jjoncm1
4 жыл бұрын
Pretty sure other countries (such as Canada) get those features on the ridgeline, idk why usa gets screwed
@davidhoesly
4 жыл бұрын
You are correct! (I found a Canadian online brochure when searching for a US version.) I bet the Canadian models are built on the same assembly line as the US models.
@thomashughes6807
4 жыл бұрын
I AGREE!!!! Come on Honda, step it UP!
@henryhonda8408
4 жыл бұрын
@@davidhoesly yes the Ridgeline is NOT assembled in Canada...... only the CR-V and Civics are.
@crimglory
4 жыл бұрын
Nice review!! I wish Honda put in ventilated seats and wireless charging this year
@illuminated2438
4 жыл бұрын
Stunning that they don't have ventilated seats.
@cadreamin45
4 жыл бұрын
I think Honda really underestimated how much truck buyers care about looking tough. They could sell a ton of these if the front didn't look like a minivan.
@jimbailey1122
4 жыл бұрын
By that logic, then the best selling truck in the world, the Toy Hilux (which looks a lot like a RL) isn't "tough"?
@Plee92
4 жыл бұрын
I want one. That hidden trunk is so good.
@danvalleskey
4 жыл бұрын
That trunk is of no use to me. I looked in there when the salesman showed it, not touched it since. Why put something in the trunk, then put stuff in the bed that keeps you from getting at the trunk. Total waste, far as I am concerned. Would much rather have the bed set a few inches lower. Shit blows out of the bed. Never happened in my Taco.
@justinfontaine9953
4 жыл бұрын
I prefer the traditional shifter and 6 speed in my 2019
@thomasdragosr.841
4 жыл бұрын
Yeah, that thing looks like someone left the TV remote on the console.
@mariamiller1770
4 жыл бұрын
Agreed.
@King1277
4 жыл бұрын
No way! I traded my ‘19 on a ‘20. The 9 speed trans is SO much better. Matches revs to speed and load. Really good improvement. ‘20 is a much quieter ride and I’d say more comfortable. Gas consumption is not as,good but I expect it to improve as I clock the miles. Only 1000 miles as,of now.
@rondail5675
4 жыл бұрын
@@King1277 , thanks this is something I am considering. Any other differences worth considering? I wish it didn't have Stop/Start feature.
@King1277
4 жыл бұрын
Ron Dail There is a large defeat button for the Stop/Start mode, right on the shift console. Very easy to disengage.
@JRS2248
4 жыл бұрын
I love my 2007 Ridgeline that is turning 200,000 miles. I don't want to change. Did I say i love my Ridgline!
@blandry021
2 жыл бұрын
Biggest complaint I had with the older Ridgeline I have, 2011, which was fixed was the windshield wipers, could not be lifted off the windshield. Cleaning the snow off the windshield during the winter or just cleaning the complete windshield during the rest of the year. Waiting for my 2022.
@_DrDrakeRamoray
4 жыл бұрын
Man I thought I made a huge mistake when I purchased a GMC canyon instead of a full size but damn this would be a instant regret. I have since traded the Canyon for a full size. Best move ever.
@frixrules
4 жыл бұрын
I really like Hondas for their engines and overall quality, however am on the fence on these. The front does look exactly like an suv, which does not need to be. Why not make it look like a truck from the front? They could put to rest the “el camino” argument. Nice review BTW very well done.
@Demosthenas
4 жыл бұрын
Looks so much better than the first gens. Now it will be more diffcault for me to choose a truck for my next purchase. the Tacoma, Ranger and Colorado are all looking great as well.
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
Good luck!
@deaneng8540
4 жыл бұрын
Test drove a 2019 RL and a 2017 Taco yesterday. Hands down the RL more pleasurable to drive but I can't get over the shallow bed size for my needs.
@HaywoodHomestead
4 жыл бұрын
Love this truck! I either want this as my next ride or an Acura RDX. I need room to haul larger things.
@autumnstar3467
4 жыл бұрын
Very good review! I thank Jesus so much because I’ll be buying a white one very soon 👍✨💖
@glennalexon1530
4 жыл бұрын
I don't understand why you are emphasizing that the Honda is 'midsize'; the dimensions are almost identical to a Ford F150, which is always described as 'full-size'.
@russianrouletteracing
4 жыл бұрын
Fixed a few key things. Now they need to have a proper strong and accessible tow hook/recovery point on the front end! Bolt through bumper into the frame would do.
@Cerby1979
4 жыл бұрын
The Ridgeline is great. The one negative is that the infotainment screen is seriously outdated.
@alexduey7868
4 жыл бұрын
it is on every mid size truck though.
@willholsappel5385
4 жыл бұрын
I have a 2017 and it's awesome. I had a 'real truck' Tacoma... this truck is a way better daily driver, honda engineering, smooth, quiet, roomy interior, lift up rear seats, flat floor, rear trunk, honda sensing tech. I could keep going, there is no other truck that gives you the tech for the price as this truck. That being said I'm not too impressed with the 9-speed ZF transmission, I have that in my Pilot and not really impressed. I prefer my 6-speed in my 2017 Ridgeline.
@rondail5675
4 жыл бұрын
I am thinking of upgrading from a 2019. Good and bad issues with the 9-speed?
@edtappel6076
3 жыл бұрын
Love the ridgeline. Best truck I have ever owned
@ingenunis5003
3 жыл бұрын
Your reviews are enjoyable and very informative.
@petermchenry8185
4 жыл бұрын
My favorite pickup, but the clearance issue is a blocker. I can go farther on dirt roads in a Subaru Outback. In Utah the rocks and ruts on forest service and county roads make the Ridgeline a high risk option. Honda dealers frown on lift kits and underbody protection.
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
You can go with a 1.5" lift...had it on my ridgeline for 2 years now..no issues.
@petermchenry8185
4 жыл бұрын
Two dealers saif that would impact my warranty and there is not transmission protection that is $200 on a Subaru.
@jimbailey1122
4 жыл бұрын
@@petermchenry8185 not if dealers install 1.5" max lifts.
@MrsKristyD
4 жыл бұрын
Nice work on the review!! It’s the first in-depth review I’ve seen on KZitem so far. I’ve seen all of your other videos and like the look of your personal Ridgeline with the lift kit and aftermarket wheels and tires. I like that Honda fixed the rear doors to open wider and being able to lock the tailgate with the key fob but hate that they added the 9 speed transmission and push button gear selector. I also don’t like the START/STOP feature either which you mentioned but didn’t go into detail about in your review. What’s your opinion on the START/STOP feature. Did you like/dislike it? Is it a smooth transition when it stops and starts again? Thanks for taking the time to make and share your reviews on the Ridgeline. Keep up the good work!! 👍🏻
@jimbailey1122
4 жыл бұрын
You can disable it, there's a button on the sift console, the catch is you have to do every time you start
@thomasdragosr.841
4 жыл бұрын
@@jimbailey1122 Friend of mine has a new BMW with the start/stop feature. It is totally a pain in the a** even with the disable feature that you have to use every time. I think they make it that way so you will get tired of switching it off constantly and let it operate on it's own.
@jimw544
4 жыл бұрын
Great video and thank you! I have a 2017 RTLE just like the one you are driving. Except for the wheels, 9 speed and locking tail gate I see no differences. I truly love my RTLE and after 34k miles I still get a trill when I drive it. My dealer has loaned me a Pilot with a 9 sped twice. I like it. Not sure I would pay extra for it. I have noticed the 9 speed keeps the engine at and below 2k RPMs virus 2500 to 3,000 with the 6 speed. other than that with normal driving I can not tell the difference. Oh, the lack of gear shift took me a few minutes to get used to. I found I have a habit of holding the gear shift while I drive and it just wasn't there. Knobs??? that's also a change. But for the driver just use the button on the left of the steering wheel. I tried the volume slider a few times and found just tapping the +/- works better for me. For you guys that just can't live without knobs, check out the Tesla. Knobs are mechanical and are quickly leaving the seen. I love the wide bed as I do carry 4'x8' plywood at times. But that wider bed also carries over to the cab, from and back seats. While in the driver seat, in driving position, raise you right elbow as to get something from the back of the console. You'll notice you didn't poke the wife. :) For power and handling I'd put a RL against a Taco any day. Yes the Tacoma has more ground clearance by 1.5" or so. But who in their right mind is going to take a $40k truck stump jumping. Mud & Snow?? I would put money on the AWD of the RidgeLine. For you guys, and ladies, that plan to haul the family around think about that during heavy rain and slick roads. There is no shifting in or out of All Wheel Drive (AWD), it's there, always.
@Al-yc4cn
4 жыл бұрын
Great truck... Fantastic on snow n icy roads with SHAWD.
I vacation in the Smokies and the 2020 ZF9-speed transaxle with paddle shifting is superior to my old 2019 6-speed. In the mountains, proper engine breaking is necessary to prevent burning out the disk brakes. The L and D4 transaxle options on the old 6-speed were vastly inadequate. With the lower gearing on the 9-speed, the complaints about the overheating experienced with the 6-speed have pretty well gone away. The ZF9 shifts nicely through the friction plate clutching on gears 1 - 4, and gears 5 - 8. Many complaints have been filed against the dog plate clutching to/from gears 4 - 5, and 8 - 9. Those two shifts have longer delays associated with an electronic synchronizer, which can produce a shuddering feeling if you aren’t experienced with the proper shift points in the manual sport mode. Overall, the ZF9 has a nice manual transaxle feeling to it that many users haven’t felt in decades. In heavy snow, using sport shifting to manually lock in lower gearing rather than just a L option can prevent overheating the clutch packs in the transaxle. The concept would apply to towing if you wanted to avoid the dog plate clutching into 5th gear. The D/S push button is poorly positioned for those wanting to use this feature. Shift by wire needs to be on the steering wheel or a more accessible console like the CR-V. Also, the initial push on D/S only displays S? I’d much rather know what gear I’m already in, as opposed just a S indicator. Once an up shift/down shift is selected on the paddle, only then does it begin to display the active gear number. Also, selecting the D/S initiates a downshift even if all you want to do is prepare for manual shifting. My biggest complaint is the Ridgeline always being one release year behind the Pilot and Passport. We shouldn’t have to wait an additional year to obtain features already present on two models produced in the same Lincoln, Alabama plant. Likewise, an Elite Edition trim level would be nice as well. The key fob locking trunk is activated by a manual toggle switch in the glovebox; while the key fob locking tailgate is activated from the infotainment. It would be nice if these were consolidated into a singular location within the infotainment. The tailgate still doesn’t unlock by proximity using the key fob, only the doors respond to key fob by proximity. The additional 11% opening on the rear doors is a huge improvement. When the rear seats are upright, I’d like to have a 100% flat surface without the raised channel to improve functionality. Some pet owners remove that channel to better accommodate their pets. USB type C is an industry standard now, so it’s time to remove the legacy slow charging USB ports that operate below 3.1 AMP. Most pickup trucks are lacking in this area as well. The dampened tailgate feature is still oddly missing, which is desperately needed for family friendly safety. Ridgeline has one of the heaviest tailgate in its class, due to additional hardware to accommodate the swing functionality. I don’t feel Ridgeline needs to compete against TRD or Rubicon, but 8.5” should probably be the minimum ground clearance at squat weight. The longer wheelbase as compared to the Pilot or Passport makes a bit more clearance needy. Most off-road suspension packages overly plush and worsen the top heaviness of pickup trucks; very few midsized pickup trucks tow over 4K lbs once raised under SAE benchmarks. Door tags for towing are only for base models before accessory weight. Ridgeline is purposefully functional at 5k lbs towing and anything over 5k lbs probably belongs on a wider axle available on a full sized chassis. The Tonneau cover unfortunately blocks the LED in-bed lamps when raising the trunk lid. Getting items out of the trunk in the dark is inconvenient. Without the Tonneau cover, these LED lamps are adequately positioned. I’d still prefer to have the traditional under-mounted trunk lid lamp. I absolutely hated my 2019 halogen to LED styling mixture, as they failed to visually mix at all. The all LED lighting on the 2020 front is styled so much better. The optional upgrade to a carbon fiber honeycomb grill (Passport appearance) should have been the standard appearance option. A variation of a chrome grill should have been the upgrade option. The glitchy infotainment 2019 & 2020 both desperately need a soft reboot option that doesn’t require power cycling the vehicle as a whole. The “USB device not found” gets annoying after a while, again updating from legacy USB would probably help here. Ridgeline and Gladiator are the only two vehicles in the midsize class offering tri-zone climate control and Ridgeline includes humidity control with theirs as well. I have three kids in the back seat on a regular basis, so this is a must have for a hot/humid Summer vacation in Florida or visiting family in Michigan during the Winter. The humidity control does a great job of reducing window fogging as well. The oversized short-bed (largest in class) holds a 1.5 cubic yard bucket of mulch/compost from a front-loader or Bobcat. I level it off with a garden rake and all the product fits without any spillover. I recommend using a tarp as a liner to avoid jamming the channel for opening the trunk, and Ridgeline has a larger gap between the trunk and tailgate than a normal pickup truck.
@kilroyfrills3084
4 жыл бұрын
I used to trash talk the RL and was a fanboy for ford. I don’t really have use for top line off reading accessories or towing capacity so this actually does seem the most practical.
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
Its thr most practical and comfortable truck out there. I I daily drive one.
@rondail5675
4 жыл бұрын
Jawboi, test drive one. They really are nice driving. Does everything most people do and want. But the Ranger and Tacoma are better off-road. Good luck.
@mikedardutube
4 жыл бұрын
Almost purchased the Honda tailgate key lock kit and handle for my 2017, per your fantastic video on how to do it! But I just finished watching your 2020 review for the Ridgeline and you show off the Honda new electric tailgate lock. Do You have the Honda part#'s, so we can install them instead? Keep up the best reviews and how to's on the internet!
@GentlemanAmerican
4 жыл бұрын
Nice review. Thanks. The Ridgeline is not a traditional truck, but in some ways that is a good thing. It looks comfortable and that tough composite material bed is one of the features I like.
@jimbailey1122
4 жыл бұрын
More like a modern El Camino or Ranchero
@GentlemanAmerican
4 жыл бұрын
@@jimbailey1122 Actually, more like a Jeep Grand Cherokee or the current Ford Explorer, which also have unitized construction. It has a rigid frame like a traditional truck, but it is integrated into the body instead of being bolted on.
@dadaUnts
4 жыл бұрын
For all the safety features and tech...I noticed the signal lights are broken, you haven't used them for all the recorded turns you made =)
@Stephen-er4bi
4 жыл бұрын
Very informative review. This is looking like my next ride.
@alexp.6145
4 жыл бұрын
Have to pass if it has timing belt. Not crazy about pushbutton shifter either.
@bigdogpete43
4 жыл бұрын
Does it have Auto Start Stop? If so, you either fix it where it doesn't die at every red light or you can keep it.
@Al-yc4cn
4 жыл бұрын
Great review. Still no vented seats for US models? I dont get it.
@raymondlegault8278
4 жыл бұрын
The touring have Ventilated front seats
@Al-yc4cn
4 жыл бұрын
@@raymondlegault8278 I just looked on the US site and couldn't find it any place. I could be blind?
@brianmurphy8592
4 жыл бұрын
I have a 2020 and I have to agree, I hate the shiftier. It's not organic at all. I would prefer a standard shiftier.
@DCSPORTSTER
4 жыл бұрын
It would be nice if the shifter was on the steering column where it’s out of the way and give you more Console space like the original ridgelines
@crimglory
4 жыл бұрын
Have you heard any news at all regarding 2021 Ridgeline regardless of how minor? Hate to get a 2020 if 2021 is gonna be significantly changed....
@Earl_VTEC
4 жыл бұрын
Honda ridgeline is so nice ♥️🎌🥰
@hondafan20111
4 жыл бұрын
I have push button shifter in my accord and love it. It did take a few months to get use to though.
@plmn93
4 жыл бұрын
A shifter shouldn't take months to get used to. Not sure why every manufacturer feels the need to reinvent the wheel these days.
@guillermoortiz1492
Жыл бұрын
Would you recommend the 2017 -2019 over the 20+ ? You lived with the 6spd. . would you upgrade?
@Al-yc4cn
4 жыл бұрын
Honda Pilot gets a volume knob but not the RL....
@Cerby1979
4 жыл бұрын
Infotainment screen is outdated. Older than the outdated screens on the Civic, Fit, HR-V, and CR-V.
@leebuck180
4 жыл бұрын
Volume button is on the steering wheel.
@Jackal_Blitz
4 жыл бұрын
@@leebuck180 He said knob, not buttons.
@anewguy08
4 жыл бұрын
Pilot and Odyssey got updated infotainment system, RL got an obsoleted part!
@Tony-yl1yo
3 жыл бұрын
Question, does this 9 speed transmission make the 2020 and up a deal breaker? I have read some terrible reports regarding these new 9 speed transmissions. Even read about a lawsuit against Honda over this ZF transmission. Blows my mind why Honda would put this thing in the Ridgeline with the known issues it has in the Pilot and Odyssey. Let me know what you think! Great review regardless!
@orangef3802
4 жыл бұрын
If only this came with a manual transmission, I would have bought it years ago!
@wurly164
4 жыл бұрын
Orange F never
@kslvlkdfhkvhkfviwehbhjhj
4 жыл бұрын
Good review. Can you permanently disable the auto start / stop?
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks. Unfortunately not.
@peterah7957
4 жыл бұрын
I like it
@tonymontana3742
4 жыл бұрын
Honda's has been become more complicated and they don't have the reliability of days gone by. I like it, but a long term warranty would be on my list of needs.
@jimbailey1122
4 жыл бұрын
This and the Taco are the two most reliable mid-sizers since 2007. I agree though on extending the warranty, esp for the electronics. $4500 for a nav head unit in my 2012 TL, if not under warranty.
@funfreq9282
4 жыл бұрын
I like the tailgate out swing and trunk in the bed! The interior is nice lots of creature comforts but it still looks like a mini van with a truck bed WHY? The competition all look like trucks with a sporty take. So why does honda insist on trying to make a truck look like a car. The other question is how does it sit after a long ride? I owned a Civic once and it sat like the seats were made out of concrete. 30 Minutes in that car and I was ready to get out. My 09 Tacoma TRD Sport 4.0 is a great truck it may not have all of the new tech and some of the features the ridgeline has but it looks like a truck.
@Bigben-pz8bx
4 жыл бұрын
Ridge line is a nice crossover with a bed. It isn’t really a pickup truck. If you don’t need the capacity of a truck it’s probably a good crossover.
@fat1234568
4 жыл бұрын
But it does have the capacity. Not the towing, but the payload is right up with the others, about 1,600lbs.
@alrensha7479
2 жыл бұрын
How did you get the connections with the dealership so they would lend you the car for this review?
@daveh6856
4 жыл бұрын
I've had many trucks - from a Mazda to an F150 and a Tacoma and now a 2018 Ridgeline RTLE. All had their pluses and minuses but I believe the Ridgeline is better than the others by far. I like the looks and I think the missing volume control is a small issue since the steering wheel controls work perfectly. As for the 5000 pound towing capacity, that's plenty for me (I tow a 3700 pound travel trailer) and if I wanted to tow more than that I'd buy a full size pickup with a tow package. The Mazda had better gas mileage but was gutless. The F150 could tow more but was falling apart at 90,000 miles and the resale value was a joke. The only thing my Tacoma had over the Ridgeline is that it had a transfer case so you could but it in 4 wheel low but I owned it for 11 years and never needed it. One more thing I don't hear anyone talk about is the all wheel drive Intelligent Variable Torque Management system available on the RTLE and Black Edition. I've driven it in snow up to 12" deep and it drove surprisingly well - far better than the 4WD Tacoma would have.
@wilfriedgronau5052
4 жыл бұрын
what is the wining about the v knob it looks so much better without
@robmacdow
4 жыл бұрын
The Ridgeline will be getting some competition soon in the Hyundai Santa Cruz. Hopefully Hyundai has done their homework.
@GhostOfAMachine
4 жыл бұрын
Imagine a Santa Cruz N vs a Honda Ridgeline type R
@plmn93
4 жыл бұрын
Santa Cruz is much smaller. Closer to a Subaru Baja. More toy than truck.
@GhostOfAMachine
4 жыл бұрын
@@plmn93 hopefully its smaller ute, then I would like it even better. Subaru Baja 5 spd mt was really and still is awesome. Ridgeline is just too big
@Cast_Iron_Carnivore
4 жыл бұрын
Nice test drive through Morton arboretum, good call!
@IamGroot786
4 жыл бұрын
Glad to see Honda fixed a couple of the shortcomings on the Ridge. But why go with that gear selector? It's another step backwards I think. Thanks to your videos, I fixed both the rear doors narrow opening and the non-locking tailgate on my 2017. Forget the knobs on that infotainment, they should just replace the system. It's just too slow especially at startup.
@tgegan1
4 жыл бұрын
Good review. You would have thought with upgraded transmission they would have move parking brake off floor to console like in their other vehicles. I was in a 2020 few days ago and the brake pedal is a safety issue for my size shoe and frame. 6’3” size 14. My foot and leg is almost always touching brake. Had similar issue on our 08 odyssey but there was more open floor to move away but I vowed to never but another vehicle with small area with floor break our 18 civic no floor break and my size has great leg room. Go figure I want an Ridgeline but will see what happens for 2021 model.
@whippersnappercc
4 жыл бұрын
I am 6'4" and size 14. I own a 2020 and the floor brake has not been a problem for me at all. I never bump it while driving.
@Nikephorus
4 жыл бұрын
If they had an extended cab with a longer bed I'd probably consider the ridgeline. That's my only complaint, but I certainly understand honda's choice to offer only the crew-cab.
@johnfranktullo3463
4 жыл бұрын
Extended cab ? Ohh like if it had 4 doors ?
@flyingjeff1984
4 жыл бұрын
@@johnfranktullo3463 No, an extended cab. 4 doors equals crew cab.
@johnfranktullo3463
4 жыл бұрын
I had a 08 ridgeline I had no issues with the interior space if u need a crew cab then u need a f150 or bigger
@Nikephorus
4 жыл бұрын
@@johnfranktullo3463 extended cab is smaller then a crew-cab.
@squidusn71
4 жыл бұрын
It would look weirder than it is because it has a slanted short hood but I get what you're saying. I wish it has a 6 foot and a deeper bed.
@windanthonystream
4 жыл бұрын
When I got in the Ridgeline it felt as I was sitting in a minivan and was the lowest truck I’ve ever got in. It didn’t feel high at all almost no effort to climb in. Also I don’t know why they went with the ZF 9 speed instead of the wonderful new 10 speed that’s in the Odyssey. That 9 speed has been a problematic transmission for Honda.
@squidusn71
4 жыл бұрын
No effort to climb in on a truck is a very good thing for us older folks lol. I think, for the most part, the Ridgeline is for those who had multiple body on frame trucks before mainly due to the ride quality, mpg, and interior space for its class. Also the 9 speed were troublesome on the 2016 Pilot but Honda/ZF got the bug figured out by the 2018 model year. I have a 2017 Pilot with the 9 speed and now has 30k mi, no issues. My coworker has a 2016 Pilot 9 speed with 60k mi, no issues.
@jimbailey1122
4 жыл бұрын
They went with the 9 speed for better towing pull in the lower gears. Also full manual shift control via the paddles.
@rondail5675
4 жыл бұрын
I watched all your older videos. Last winter I bought a 2019 RTL-E. Love it. I am thinking of upgrading to a 2020 when 0% financing is released. Do you like the 6-speed over the 9-speed? Am I better off keeping my 2019?
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
Honestly if you already did the door mod and tailgate mod on a 2019, there is no reason to upgrade. I like the 6 speed better and I like the older shifter better too :).
@jerrylawrence5402
4 жыл бұрын
Drivers Only looking to get a ridge line myself, but like the 6 speed better. We currently have a 2017 pilot with the 9speed and it’s not as smooth during slow driving speeds.
@CommanderCronus
3 жыл бұрын
Why doesn't anyone make affordable, low-to-the-ground street trucks anymore? Chevy S-10 used to rule that genre.
@jimvanderwood3094
4 жыл бұрын
2 quick questions. Has your personal Ridgeline had any reliability issues? Also, do you approve of the functioning of this test Ridgeline’s adaptive cruise control - and is it full stop? (I guess that’s 3 questions!). Thanks - good videos!
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
Zero issues on mine. Yes the adaptive cruise control is full stop but you can only engage after a certain speed. I dont ever use mine.
@iamlim5197
4 жыл бұрын
i wish you would compare btw 1st gear of 6 and 9 speeds crawl
@jimbailey1122
4 жыл бұрын
First has a lower ratio in the 9 as opposed to the 6.
@ctvwrest
4 жыл бұрын
And it looks like I'm waiting for the 10sp that's in the odyssey... Get rid of this 9sp Honda. Also I'm sure he means RTL-E, not RTE-L...
@futbol1972
Жыл бұрын
I only need a truck once or twice a year. Like right now I wish I had a truck. Need to buy 3 security doors and some trees for back yard. If I get ridgline it will be my daily driver l, I will be driving 40 miles Monday trhough friday to go to work. Iam afraid the gas will be abother car payment a month??🙄🙄 about how many miles do you think I can get out of the gas tank?? So I will be driving about 800 miles a month A dealer is selling me a 2020 rtl with 19000 miles for $30000
@hby7768
4 жыл бұрын
What is the actual mpg you get vs the listed mpg? Please consider presenting mpg during real world scenario for example city stop and go vs freeway in your reviews
@leebuck180
4 жыл бұрын
23 mpg combined.
@hby7768
4 жыл бұрын
@@leebuck180 How much do you get in the city and how much do you get in the freeway? That "combined" mpg is very dependent on terrain, stop and go traffic, and sustained speed.
@leebuck180
4 жыл бұрын
@@hby7768 the 23 mpg is what I get on my commute which is back roads, 20 miles state highway, 5 stop signs and a few miles through 2 towns. I haven't yet checked the mileage on the freeway.
@hby7768
4 жыл бұрын
@@leebuck180 okay thanks
@beezletrip6
4 жыл бұрын
leebuck180 I can get 28 on cruise control at 65-70 mph on the highway with no traffic. 32 with good winds on that day. City driving I get about 19-22 I drive a 2019 black edition
@jd9386
4 жыл бұрын
Ridgeline or Frontier? price is important
@henryhonda8408
4 жыл бұрын
Get the Nissan if you prefer low resale/trade-in value and high maintenance bills.
@reidjones6357
4 жыл бұрын
I have yet still to see a reviewer’s take on the paddle shifters on the steering column (not the buttons on the console). I am curious to see how they feel and how responsive they are. I am not expecting miracles, it is a Ridgeline after all. I am just interested to see how is the delay from pulling the paddle to gear shift.
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
I've tested them...shifts when expected no delays from the paddle shifters.
@markcesena4670
3 жыл бұрын
Hi can you help,just got a 2020, but can't just turn on the top,long DRL's ,do you know how to turn them on? Thanks
@tombley8731
4 жыл бұрын
You forgot to mention the two highest trim levels get low beam LED headlights.
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
My bad!
@tombley8731
4 жыл бұрын
@@DriversOnly It's all good, thank you for your review!
@danvalleskey
4 жыл бұрын
I can NOT drive at night. I use wife car after dark. BIG fail.
@jskaggs8188
4 жыл бұрын
If it only had style.
@userbosco
4 жыл бұрын
Excellent review! Freaking hate my infotainment system on my 2017. Made by Clarion, and its junk. I put an Amazon Alexa in my truck to deal with the crap stereo functionality.
@catzqaun3046
4 жыл бұрын
I lOvE tHe rIdgElIne
@jerrygundrum1
4 жыл бұрын
For people who don't really need a truck
@seruresto1386
4 жыл бұрын
Very few people that buy trucks actually need them. And this covers nearly all the needs of those who do. But people buy image more often than they buy needs. (And yes yes, I know, you and all your friends haul 10'000lbs trailers every weekend and go 20 miles off road everyday to get to work. Most people dont.)
@macbookpro57
4 жыл бұрын
I’m pretty sure the ridgeline doesn’t have a locking rear differential lol. I could be wrong, but I’ve never seen that on anything besides trucks/SUV’s with a frame and an actual 4wd transfer case. I’m looking at replacing my 2012 tundra with a ridgeline or a Tacoma. I really only want the Tacoma for the looks and the off road capability tbh. I know the ridgeline drives so much better on road, but I don’t know if I could live with the look :/
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
Electronically locked rear diff for the ridgeline
@franimal007
4 жыл бұрын
I like it, much better than our CR-V....
@MrAndycm
4 жыл бұрын
Is this a minivan with the back cut down?
@squidusn71
4 жыл бұрын
Yes it is...a Honda Pilot.
@VIVADUDE07
3 жыл бұрын
no. Google it
@petertamburro6578
4 жыл бұрын
Nice job with the review.
@DriversOnly
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@miyabi19850709
4 жыл бұрын
リアシートのザメン跳ね上げはウチのFitと同じくなんだな。 座面裏の収納はないんか?
@stevesohn5436
4 жыл бұрын
Looking to get a Ridgeline, but wanting to have my own Head Unit (Infotainment system) that I purchase. Know if anyone has been able to keep the backup camera and in bed audio going on this?
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