2020 Honda Ridgeline: A Crossover-Inspired Pickup Truck
The 2020 Honda Ridgeline stands out in the pickup truck segment by offering a unique blend of utility and refinement, leaning more towards a comfortable and car-like driving experience. Built on a unibody platform, shared with Honda's popular SUVs, it provides a more sophisticated ride and handling than traditional body-on-frame trucks. For 2020, Honda introduced some minor updates, including a new Sport trim and an updated infotainment system for certain models.
Highlights
- Engine: All 2020 Ridgeline models are powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth gear changes and contributing to the truck's refined demeanor.
- Safety Features: Honda is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the 2020 Ridgeline is no exception. It comes standard with the Honda Sensing® suite of driver-assistive technologies. Key features include:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): Helps brake the vehicle when it detects an oncoming collision with a detected vehicle or pedestrian.
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Can provide steering assistance to keep the vehicle in its lane or apply braking if it drifts off the road.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on highways.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Gently guides the vehicle back to the center of the lane if it begins to drift.
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and also warns of approaching vehicles from the sides when backing up.
- Trims: The 2020 Ridgeline offered in a well-equipped lineup:
- Sport: The new entry-level trim for 2020, the Sport boasts a distinctive look with black exterior accents, unique wheels, and red interior ambient lighting. It comes with desirable features like a multi-angle rearview camera and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- RTL: The RTL trim builds upon the Sport with added comfort and convenience features. It includes leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, a power moonroof, and a power-sliding rear window.
- RTL-E: Stepping up, the RTL-E enhances the premium feel with features like a premium audio system, wireless phone charger, LED headlights, and a heated steering wheel. It also gains advanced safety features like the Blind Spot Information System.
- Black Edition: The top-tier Black Edition exudes a bold and sophisticated presence with exclusive black exterior and interior accents, black leather seats with red accents, and unique badging.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- In-Bed Trunk: A signature feature of the Ridgeline, the lockable, in-bed trunk offers secure, out-of-sight storage and also doubles as a cooler or extra storage compartment.
- Dual-Action Tailgate: The tailgate can swing out to the side, allowing for easier access to the in-bed trunk and the truck bed itself, especially when towing.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Availability: While many trims come standard with front-wheel drive, Honda's intelligent AWD system is available on most trims and is standard on the RTL-E and Black Edition, providing excellent traction in various conditions.
- Car-like Ride and Handling: The unibody construction and independent rear suspension contribute to a more comfortable and composed ride, similar to that of an SUV, making it a pleasant daily driver.
What to Expect
Owning a 2020 Honda Ridgeline typically offers a positive and refined experience. Its car-like handling makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments and on highways, contrasting with the more truck-like driving dynamics of body-on-frame competitors. The interior is well-appointed, comfortable, and practical, with good visibility and a user-friendly infotainment system.
Maintenance: As with most Honda vehicles, the Ridgeline is generally known for its reliability and relatively affordable maintenance. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations, will follow Honda's recommended service schedule. The 3.5-liter V6 is a proven engine that generally holds up well with proper care.
Insurance: Insurance costs for the Ridgeline will vary based on factors such as your location, driving record, chosen coverage levels, and the specific trim you select. Given its safety features and general reputation for reliability, it's unlikely to be excessively expensive to insure compared to other mid-size trucks.
Potential Considerations
While the 2020 Honda Ridgeline excels in many areas, there are a few potential drawbacks buyers should be aware of:
- Towing and Payload Capacity: Compared to traditional body-on-frame trucks, the Ridgeline's towing and payload capacities are generally lower. While adequate for many lifestyle needs, it may not be the best choice for those who regularly haul very heavy loads or tow large trailers.
- Off-Road Prowess: While the available AWD system and decent ground clearance offer capability in light off-road situations and inclement weather, the Ridgeline isn't designed for serious off-roading. Its unibody construction and softer suspension tune make it less suited for rugged trails than more purpose-built off-road trucks.
- Styling: The Ridgeline's design is often described as more SUV-like than a traditional pickup truck. While some appreciate its sleeker appearance, others may find it lacks the rugged, imposing aesthetic of more conventional trucks.
Overall Summary
The 2020 Honda Ridgeline is an excellent choice for buyers who prioritize a comfortable, refined, and versatile pickup truck experience. It successfully bridges the gap between utility and everyday drivability, offering a comfortable ride, a host of modern safety features, and practical innovations like the in-bed trunk. While it may not match the raw towing or extreme off-road capability of some competitors, it excels as a well-rounded vehicle for those seeking a stylish, reliable, and user-friendly truck for a variety of tasks.