Honda Ridgeline (2025)
Smooth V6 power, SUV-like comfort, and innovative storage shine, though towing and tech lag behind.
The 2025 Honda Ridgeline is the midsize pickup for those who crave SUV-like comfort without sacrificing everyday practicality. Perfect for urban adventurers and light haulers, it boasts a refined 280-hp V6, an innovative lockable in-bed trunk, and clever dual-action tailgate that elevate cargo convenience. Experts and users alike praise its smooth ride and spacious cabin, though its modest towing capacity and somewhat dated tech temper rugged expectations. Offering solid value with standard AWD and thoughtful features, this Ridgeline stakes a confident claim as a polished workhorse—quietly practical but never dull in delivery. More feedback will sharpen the picture further.
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Benefits
Unibody construction and SUV-like suspension reduce vibration and fatigue on long drives.
Active Noise Cancellation and V6 refinement lower cabin noise, reducing stress and tension.
Standard Honda Sensing suite lowers collision risk, supporting psychological safety during daily commutes.
Lockable under-bed storage offers theft-resistant protection, reducing anxiety about gear and valuables.
5,000-lb towing and roomy cabin make adventures feasible, boosting mental health and social time.
Trade-Offs
Naturally aspirated V6 produces CO2 and NOx; less climate-friendly than hybrid or EV alternatives.
21 mpg combined improves on big trucks but trails hybrid midsize leaders' efficiency and emissions.
Payload lags some rivals, possibly forcing extra trips or risky overloading, increasing physical strain.
Shallow bed and heavy two-way tailgate can increase bending and manual lifting, stressing backs.
VCM cylinder deactivation adds efficiency but introduces long-term maintenance uncertainty and repair anxiety.
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Publications
5 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Billy Rehbock from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Honda Ridgeline as a well-rounded midsize truck that prioritizes comfort, practicality, and everyday usability over traditional ruggedness. Praising its unibody construction and independent suspension, the review emphasizes the Ridgeline’s smooth, car-like driving experience and clever features like the underfloor cargo storage that doubles as an ice chest. While the V-6 engine delivers quick acceleration, towing capacity and bed size lag behind competitors such as the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma. The TrailSport trim adds modest off-road enhancements but isn’t positioned as a hardcore off-roader. Interior updates for 2024 improve tech and storage, though the cabin shows signs of aging compared to newer rivals. Overall, the review conveys a moderately positive tone, appreciating the Ridgeline’s unique blend of truck and crossover qualities while acknowledging its limitations in towing and cargo space. It remains a practical choice for buyers valuing comfort and thoughtful design over maximum ruggedness.
By Billy Rehbock
Joe Lorio from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Honda Ridgeline as a practical and comfortable alternative in the mid-size truck segment, emphasizing its carlike ride and versatile design. The Ridgeline’s unibody construction and all-wheel-drive V-6 powertrain deliver smooth acceleration and confident handling, making it notably livable compared to traditional body-on-frame rivals. Unique features like the locking in-bed trunk, two-way tailgate, and spacious rear seating add to its everyday usability. While it lacks the rugged image and towing capacity of some competitors, its fuel efficiency and well-rounded equipment—especially in the RTL trim—offer strong value. The review balances praise for the Ridgeline’s comfort, clever cargo solutions, and safety tech with measured critiques on limited towing, bed size, and interior materials. Overall, the Ridgeline stands out as a refined, user-friendly pickup that suits buyers prioritizing versatility and comfort over hardcore off-road or heavy-duty capability.
By Joe Lorio
Kristen Brown from Autoblog highlights the 2025 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport as a surprisingly capable and versatile midsize truck that bridges the gap between SUVs and traditional pickups. Initially skeptical due to its unibody construction, modest towing capacity, and shared DNA with the Pilot SUV, Brown’s hands-on experience reveals a vehicle that excels in everyday utility, comfort, and clever design. She praises its thoughtful storage solutions, smooth ride quality on and off-road, and well-tuned AWD system, making it ideal for light trail use and family adventures. While it doesn’t match the ruggedness or towing power of larger trucks like the Ford F-150 or Toyota Tacoma, the Ridgeline offers a balanced package with premium features and a competitive price point. Brown sees it as a perfect “gateway” truck for those new to the segment or who want SUV comfort without sacrificing utility, concluding it’s a smart, practical choice for outdoorsy families and “truck curious” buyers.
By Kristen Brown
Andrew Ganz from The Car Connection highlights the 2025 Honda Ridgeline as a practical midsize pickup truck that excels in ride comfort, interior quality, and safety features, making it well-suited for everyday use rather than heavy-duty tasks. The Ridgeline’s crossover SUV roots shine through in its smooth, car-like suspension and roomy, comfortable cabin, especially in the back seat. While the truck offers a well-equipped lineup with standard all-wheel drive and advanced driver-assistance tech, it falls short in fuel economy and acceleration, with a 9-speed automatic transmission that often upshifts prematurely. The limited trim options simplify choices but restrict customization. The Ridgeline’s styling is understated and less rugged than competitors, appealing more to those prioritizing comfort and usability over off-road prowess or towing capacity. Overall, the review conveys a measured appreciation for the Ridgeline’s strengths while candidly addressing its compromises, recommending the RTL trim as the best value for most buyers.
By Andrew Ganz
Warren Clarke from CARFAX highlights the 2025 Honda Ridgeline as a compact truck that excels in comfort and everyday usability rather than rugged off-road capability or heavy towing. Praising its smooth, car-like ride, spacious and upscale cabin, and a strong 280-horsepower V6 engine, the review emphasizes the Ridgeline’s appeal for drivers seeking a refined, easy-to-handle pickup. Unique features like the lockable in-bed trunk with drain plug and versatile tailgate add practical value. However, Clarke notes the Ridgeline’s relatively high price and limited towing capacity compared to rivals, as well as its less off-road-friendly nature. The review balances enthusiasm for the truck’s driving dynamics and interior comfort with measured criticism of its shortcomings, ultimately portraying the Ridgeline as a well-rounded, user-friendly option for buyers prioritizing daily comfort and convenience over rugged utility.
By Warren Clarke
YouTube
14 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Truck KingTruck King praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport for its comfortable, SUV-like ride, strong payload capacity, and clever features like the in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate. While impressed by its capable AWD system and off-road suspension, the reviewer finds it lacks the emotional appeal and ruggedness typical of midsize trucks, calling it “boring” yet solid.
Car ConfectionsCar Confections praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport for its refined V6 powertrain, smooth 9-speed automatic, and standout comfort with SUV-like ride quality. They highlight unique features like the lockable in-bed trunk and practical interior updates but note the refresh feels modest amid strong midsize truck competition.
The Car Care Nut ReviewsThe Car Care Nut Reviews offers a measured yet appreciative take on the 2025 Honda Ridgeline, praising its smooth, refined ride, practical dual-action tailgate, and spacious, simple interior. While impressed by the familiar V6 engine and clever in-bed storage, he raises concerns about the engine’s old-school design, cylinder deactivation reliability, and the unlocked bed compartment—highlighting both its strengths and long-term maintenance caveats.
Ben HardyBen Hardy praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline for its smooth, car-like ride, spacious and well-equipped interior with features like heated seats and Honda Sensing®, and practical innovations such as the lockable in-bed trunk. While noting its lower torque and payload compared to the Toyota Tacoma, he highlights the Ridgeline’s comfort, reliability, and value for daily driving over heavy-duty use.
Sam CarLegionSam CarLegion offers a measured yet appreciative take on the 2025 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport, praising its smooth, SUV-like ride, innovative lockable in-bed trunk, and comfortable interior with heated seats and tri-zone climate control. However, he notes its outdated design, limited off-road capability, lack of power tailgate, and heavier tailgate as drawbacks, positioning it as a practical but less rugged midsize truck option compared to the Nissan Frontier and Ford Ranger.
Hawkeye RidesAnthony from Hawkeye Rides praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline RTL for its intelligent i-VTM4® all-wheel-drive system, practical in-bed trunk, and comfortable, spacious interior. He values its smooth ride and solid towing capacity but notes the naturally aspirated V6 feels dated compared to turbo rivals. Overall, he sees it as a versatile, everyday truck with strong value.
Automotive Anonymous Automotive Anonymous praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline for its practical, unpretentious design, spacious and innovative storage, smooth unibody ride, and strong V6 engine. He highlights its impressive payload capacity and comfort, especially rear seating, while acknowledging some engine concerns and styling quirks. Overall, he enthusiastically recommends test driving it.
Sean ChandlerSean Chandler praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline as a practical, comfortable unibody truck with class-leading interior space, innovative features like the in-bed trunk, and a smooth, SUV-like ride. He notes its competitive pricing and reliable V6 but critiques dated driver-assist tech, modest off-road capability, and a less aggressive look.
Not-So-Handy Car GuyNot-So-Handy Car Guy praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline’s comfortable, SUV-like ride, clever in-bed trunk, and practical tailgate design, highlighting its solid towing and fuel economy. However, he notes cramped rear seating, dated safety tech, and several reliability concerns—especially in earlier models—offering a balanced, experienced perspective for buyers.
Fuel ForceFuel Force critiques the 2025 Honda Ridgeline for its outdated design, uninspiring V6 powertrain, and lackluster off-road and towing capabilities. While praising its spacious interior and unique unibody construction, the review highlights a dull cabin, complicated controls, and limited practicality, ultimately advising buyers to await a future redesign.
ExoticCar PlayPlaceExoticCar PlayPlace enthusiastically recommends the 2025 Honda Ridgeline TrailSport for its reliable, naturally aspirated 3.5L V6, smooth i-VTM4® AWD, and practical features like the dual-action tailgate. While less powerful and with lower towing than some rivals, its refined ride, durability, and Honda’s reputation make it a standout midsize truck.
Buck Creek TV Buck Creek TV praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline RTL for its SUV-like comfort, practical in-bed trunk, and superior towing smoothness compared to the Toyota Tacoma. While noting the Ridgeline’s less rugged off-road ability and styling, he values its spacious bed, advanced safety features, and fuel efficiency for daily driving and light hauling.
PT Photo & Gear ReviewsPaul Phillips praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline for its practical midsize design, smooth ride, and standout features like the dual-action tailgate, lockable in-bed trunk, and automatic high-beam headlights. After 18 months, he highlights its reliable 280-hp V6, excellent towing for his boat, and user-friendly tech, while noting minor drawbacks like halogen headlights and limited rear legroom.
DIYBigGuyDIYBigGuy praises the 2025 Honda Ridgeline for its versatility and ease of customization, highlighting practical accessories like the Tyger trifold tonneau cover, bed mat protector, and AVS bug shield. He shares hands-on insights on installation and usability, noting minor trade-offs but overall strong satisfaction with the truck’s comfort and functionality.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Reddit users generally express a positive sentiment toward the 2025 Honda Ridgeline, praising its smooth ride, spacious and practical design, and reliability, especially for daily driving and light hauling. Many appreciate its comfort, usability of the bed and trunk, and fuel efficiency, though some note the bed’s shallower depth and limited towing capacity compared to competitors. The Honda Sensing safety features receive mixed reviews, with some finding them lacking compared to other brands. New shoppers often highlight the Ridgeline’s value and comfort over more rugged trucks, while upgraders acknowledge its practicality but desire improvements in tech and styling. Overall, the Ridgeline is seen as a versatile midsize truck that balances utility with comfort, though it may not satisfy those seeking aggressive styling or heavy-duty capabilities.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Refined V6 powertrainSmooth 280-hp V6 acceleration.
- •i‑VTM4 all‑wheel driveIntelligent torque-vectoring AWD system.
- •SUV-like ride comfortSmooth, composed handling and ride.
- •Lockable in‑bed trunk and tailgateLockable trunk plus two-way tailgate.
- •Spacious, practical cabinRoomy, comfortable five-passenger interior.
- •Class-competitive fuel economyApproximately 21 mpg combined real-world.
Considerations
- •Towing and payload limitsMax tow 5,000 lbs; lower payload.
- •Limited off-road toughnessTrailSport not a hardcore off-roader.
- •Aging driver-assist and infotainmentSafety tech lags newer rivals.
- •Powertrain age and complexityCylinder-deactivation raises maintenance questions.
- •Shallow bed depthBed is shallower than some rivals.
- •No hybrid or diesel optionOnly a gasoline V6 is offered.
While real-world impressions of the 2025 Honda Ridgeline are still gathering momentum, early signals point to a truck that blends thoughtful innovation with everyday practicality. Built on a unibody platform, it offers an impressively smooth 280-hp V6 that balances power and refinement without chasing brute force. Its standout i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system delivers traction confidence beyond mere pavement, while the cabin pampers occupants with SUV-like comfort and clever storage—most notably the lockable in-bed trunk paired with a versatile dual-action tailgate. Though its towing maxes out at 5,000 pounds—a modest figure among midsize peers—the Ridgeline’s real charm lies in how effortlessly it handles daily drives and weekend adventures alike. Fuel economy near 21 mpg combined keeps trips affordable without sacrificing capability. Whether you’re hauling gear for family fun or simply craving quiet sophistication over rugged bravado, this pickup aims to please—so buckle up as we explore what makes it tick under hood and behind wheel.
Engine Performance
The 3.5L SOHC V6 in the Ridgeline hums with a confident 280 hp and 262 lb-ft torque, delivering smooth yet spirited acceleration—around six seconds to highway sprint speed. Its Variable Cylinder Management™ adds fuel efficiency flair without sacrificing power, though some experts hint at an aging design beneath its polish. Users praise its reliability but note it’s no muscle truck contender. Overall, this engine balances everyday usability with respectable vigor, embodying Honda's ethos of practical performance wrapped in refined V6 powertrain, making it a solid choice for those valuing smoothness over brute force.
Ride Comfort and Handling
The Ridgeline drives like a midsize SUV masquerading as a pickup: unibody construction plus independent suspension deliver an impressively smooth ride that's both composed and quiet—a major crowd-pleaser among owners craving comfort without compromise. Reviewers often contrast this against traditional body-on-frame trucks' rough edges; here it's about reducing fatigue on long hauls while maintaining competent handling dynamics. Active Noise Cancellation™ further hushes cabin distractions, reinforcing Honda’s commitment to luxury-like refinement that defines the vehicle’s standout trait: genuine SUV-like ride comfort packed into truck utility.
Cargo-Bed Functionality (In-Bed Trunk, Dual-Action Tailgate)
Innovative cargo solutions elevate this pickup beyond standard hauling chores—the lockable in-bed trunk is not just clever storage but also secure enough to keep valuables under wraps even when parked outdoors overnight. The dual-action tailgate swings open sideways or folds down traditionally, offering flexible access rarely seen elsewhere in the segment. These features receive universal nods from reviewers appreciating convenience married to security; user anecdotes highlight real-world usefulness whether camping gear or groceries are involved—true hallmark innovations underpinning its reputation for thoughtful cargo-bed versatility.
All-Wheel-Drive System and Traction Management
Honda’s i-VTM4® AWD system stands out as a tech-savvy solution that intelligently shifts torque between wheels for optimum grip on varying terrain. Experts commend its seamless operation paired with TrailSport’s off-road tuned suspension and all-terrain tires—not hardcore off-roading gear but ample for weekend adventurers seeking confidence beyond pavement. User feedback echoes satisfaction with traction stability during light trail use or slick roads, highlighting the system's blend of sophistication and practicality that elevates the Ridgeline's daily drivability into something more than just ordinary intelligent traction management.
Towing and Payload Capacity
With max towing capped at 5,000 lbs and payload topping around 1,583 lbs depending on trim — notably less than some rivals —the Ridgeline isn't your go-to heavy lifter but rather caters well to light-haul needs like boats or ATVs common among outdoor enthusiasts.The trade-off favors ride quality over raw strength which resonates positively with buyers prioritizing daily comfort versus rugged extremes.Experts recognize these limits clearly yet applaud how smoothly it manages within them—delivering reliable capability without venturing into uncompromising territory of true workhorse toughness expected by others.
Conclusion
Peeling back the layers reveals a truck that champions smooth V6 performance without chasing raw muscle, perfectly paired with an all-wheel-drive system that delivers traction finesse rather than off-road bravado. Its ride comfort and handling blur lines between pickup grit and SUV grace, turning daily drives into quiet escapes. The cargo-bed’s lockable trunk and dual-action tailgate aren’t just clever tricks—they’re practical game-changers for those who prize versatility over brute force. While its towing and payload capacity won’t haul the heaviest loads, it strikes a thoughtful balance suited to weekend warriors more than worksite beasts. And thanks to smart engineering like cylinder deactivation, this midsize manages near-competitive fuel economy, keeping trips light on gas bills without sacrificing pep. If your priority is polished utility wrapped in everyday refinement rather than rugged excess, this Ridgeline quietly stakes its claim as a confident companion—solidly practical yet never dull in delivery.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Engine Power
4/5
Towing Capacity
4/5
Payload Capacity
3/5
Fuel Efficiency
4/5
Durability
4/5
Maintenance Ease
4/5
Value
Purchase Price
4/5
Total Cost of Ownership
4/5
Resale Value
4/5
Warranty Coverage
3/5
Design
Exterior Styling
3/5
Interior Comfort
4/5
Bed Utility
4/5
Visibility
4/5
Health
Interior Materials Safety
4/5
Cabin Air Quality
3/5
Noise Exposure
4/5
Safety
Crash Protection
4/5
Brake Performance
4/5
Electronic Stability Control
4/5
Driver Assistance Systems
4/5
Towing Safety Features
4/5
Sustainability
Operational Emissions
3/5
End-of-Life Recyclability
3/5
Materials Sourcing Transparency
3/5
Experience Style
Ease of Use
4/5
Customizability
3/5
Technology Integration
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
2 Questions
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