2014 Honda Ridgeline: A Detailed Overview
The 2014 Honda Ridgeline carved out a unique niche in the pickup truck market, offering a blend of SUV-like comfort and car-like handling with genuine truck utility. This mid-size pickup was designed for those who needed the practicality of a truck bed but preferred a more refined and comfortable driving experience.
Highlights
- Engine and Performance: At the heart of the 2014 Ridgeline was a robust 3.5-liter SOHC VTEC V6 engine. This powerplant delivered a healthy 250 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving and moderate hauling. It was exclusively paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission featuring Grade Logic Control, which helped prevent unnecessary shifting on inclines. The Ridgeline's standard all-wheel-drive (VTM-4) system, featuring a locking rear differential, provided excellent traction in various conditions, from rain and snow to light off-roading.
- Safety Features: Honda prioritized safety in the Ridgeline. Standard safety equipment included:
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA): This electronic stability control system helps drivers maintain control during oversteer or understeer situations by automatically applying brakes and reducing engine power.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Brake Assist: Detects emergency braking situations and applies maximum braking force.
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD): Optimizes brake pressure distribution between the front and rear wheels based on vehicle load.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Alerts the driver when tire pressure is critically low.
- Front and side curtain airbags: Providing comprehensive protection for occupants.
- Daytime Running Lights (DRLs): Enhance visibility to other motorists.
- Trim Summary: The 2014 Ridgeline was offered in three distinct trim levels, each building upon the previous:
- RT: The base model, still well-equipped with essential features for comfort and convenience.
- RTS: Added features like alloy wheels, a premium audio system, and a multi-function remote.
- RTL: The top-tier trim, included leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, a power-sliding rear window, and a rearview camera.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Integrated Trailer Hitch: A standard feature on all trims, making towing ready from the start.
- In-Bed Trunk: A signature feature of the Ridgeline, this lockable, weather-resistant storage compartment is integrated into the truck bed floor, offering secure and out-of-sight storage.
- Dual-Action Tailgate: The tailgate could either swing open like a traditional tailgate or fold down, facilitating easier loading and unloading.
- Comfortable Ride: The Ridgeline's independent rear suspension, borrowed from Honda's SUV lineup, contributed to a much more comfortable and car-like ride compared to traditional body-on-frame trucks.
- Spacious Interior: The cabin offered a generous amount of passenger space, particularly for rear-seat occupants, making it a practical choice for families.
What to Expect
Owning a 2014 Honda Ridgeline typically means a reliable and practical ownership experience. Honda's reputation for durability extends to the Ridgeline, meaning you can generally expect fewer unexpected mechanical issues with regular maintenance. Routine maintenance will involve standard oil changes, tire rotations, fluid checks, and brake inspections. Due to its car-like construction, some maintenance tasks might be slightly different than traditional trucks, but generally, parts and labor are readily available through Honda dealerships and independent mechanics. Insurance costs are typically in line with other mid-size SUVs and trucks, influenced by factors like your driving record, location, and chosen coverage.
Potential Considerations
While the 2014 Ridgeline offers many advantages, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Towing and Payload Capacity: Compared to its body-on-frame truck competitors, the Ridgeline had lower towing and payload capacities. While sufficient for many needs, those requiring heavy-duty towing or significant hauling might find it lacking.
- Fuel Economy: The V6 engine and standard AWD, while providing good performance, meant that fuel economy was not its strongest suit, generally falling below some of its more fuel-efficient competitors, especially in city driving.
- Off-Road Capability: While the VTM-4 system offered good traction in inclement weather and light off-road scenarios, the Ridgeline was not designed for extreme off-roading. Its unibody construction and lower ground clearance limited its capabilities in more challenging terrain.
- Bed Size: The 5-foot bed, while practical for many uses, is shorter than many traditional mid-size and full-size pickup trucks.
Overall Summary
The 2014 Honda Ridgeline stands out as a practical and comfortable choice for those seeking the utility of a pickup truck without sacrificing ride quality and interior refinement. Its standard AWD, unique in-bed trunk, and car-like handling make it a versatile option for everyday use, light towing, and carrying cargo. While not a heavy-duty workhorse, its blend of SUV comfort and truck capability cemented its appeal to a specific segment of the market.
