2011 Honda Ridgeline

Honda Ridgeline

2011 Honda Ridgeline Review
The 2011 Honda Ridgeline. The Sport Utility Truck is a dying breed, and the Ridgeline maybe going down with the class. In a class of only three trucks (the Cadillac Escalade EXT and the Chevrolet Avalanche are the other two), the Ridgeline has the lowest towing capacity, the cheapest interior and the least-powerful engine, according to reviewers. While there are other trucks and SUVs that outperform the Honda Ridgeline in almost every way, reviewers say that the "Ridgeline" provides the best compromise between a truck, sport-utility vehicle and city cruiser.

Finally, the Ridgeline’s relatively comfortable ride and above-average fuel economy make it an acceptable vehicle for daily commuting, as well as kid-hauling, trailer-towing and mild off-roading. The Chevrolet Avalanche provides 3,100 pounds more towing capacity, but starts out about $7,000 more than the Ridgeline.

The mid-size Honda Ridgeline is like no other pickup truck available. The Ridgeline features an easy-to-reach, locking storage box under its bed.

The Honda Ridgeline is the first mainstream pickup with fully independent rear suspension, which improves ride quality considerably. Other pickup trucks have traditionally been built with a separate nose section, cab section, and cargo bed, bolted to a separate ladder frame. Ridgeline's rigid design is more resistant to twisting and bending than traditional pickups.

The Honda Ridgeline is sold in three different trim levels, RT, RTS, and RTL. All Ridgelines are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 250 horsepower, with a five-speed automatic transmission and Honda's VTM-4 all-wheel-drive system. Ridgeline also incorporates a limited-slip differential with lock feature.

Ridgeline RTL ($34,430) upgrades to leather upholstery, heated front seats, power lumbar support for the driver, power moon roof, compass and Home Link remote integrated into the rear-view mirror, heated side mirrors, 115-volt power outlet, XM Satellite Radio, and 18-inch machine-finish alloy wheels. It includes multi-stage front airbags and side-impact airbags for front passengers, front and rear side curtain airbags for head protection, active front head restraints, and LATCH child-seat anchors for the three rear seats. The Honda Ridgeline's uniqueness starts with its appearance. A tubular aluminum cargo bed extender is available for longer loads. The storage trunk, even more than the tailgate, distinguishes Ridgeline from other pickups. The Ridgeline offers as much comfort, space and convenience as any half-ton pickup available. Bucket seats come standard in front with a center console. All models feature illuminated vanity mirrors for the driver and front-seat passenger. The Ridgeline's unusual exterior design reduces outward visibility.

Driving Impression
The Honda Ridgeline delivers a truly pleasant driving experience, for a truck. With four doors, five seats, all-wheel drive, and independent front and rear suspension, the Ridgeline is a relatively heavy vehicle, but the 250-hp V6 engine is generally up to the task. Overall, Ridgeline impresses with its tightness and smoothness. If you're contemplating a multi-use or commuter pickup, the Honda Ridgeline should top the shopping list.