The 2021 Honda Ridgeline is not going to be the most popular truck in the market, but it is definitely one of the most interesting. There is no other truckmaker that offers its vehicle based on the unibody platform. The Ridgeline comes with a sporty ride, which is a major advantage over the competition. Nevertheless, truckers are looking for capabilities, so not too many of them are choosing this model. On the other hand, for these buyers looking for better handling and maneuvering, there is an SUV class with a similar towing capability.
Honda is working on new technologies and that is keeping the Ridgeline alive. No redesign is scheduled for the next season. However, big updates under the hood could draw more attention. On the other hand, all of the following rumors are just speculations. A hybrid truck is one of the options. Nevertheless, we must see the Pilot SUV with the PHEV technology first. Reportedly, reporters took a few spy photos of this model. Also, the sporty pickup might get a lighter engine choice. A four-cylinder option would bring some advantages, but it doesn’t seem like something that will improve the position of the 2021 Honda Ridgeline compared to its rivals.
Why Buy 2021 Honda Ridgeline?
If we take a look at the sales charts, we will see that Ridgeline is the worst-selling pickup in the USA. As said, truckers are looking for machines that can work. Honda’s pickup will haul, but its rivals are way more capable, offering 2,000 and more pounds of towing capacity above the Ridgeline’s 5,000 lbs limit. But, the Japanese carmaker didn’t aim this segment, but the driving impression. Trucks are not owned only for working, but also for showing off. The unibody architecture is going to provide a sportier ride. That is why the 2021 Honda Ridgeline is a much better choice than any other mid-size model in the class.
Also, a V6 the truck is using is proven as one of the most reliable units in the market. With 280 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, it provides enough juice for a comfortable ride. The cabin is spacious and some advanced options are available through additional purchases. The top of the line version is Black Edition, and it comes with unique styling, inside and out.
Specs, New Engine
Engineers are not going to touch the durable V6 engine. Honda is using a 3.5-liter displacement for all of its flagship vehicles, including Pilot and Passport SUVs. The truck can count on 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Although lighter than competitors built on the BoF platform, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline is not going to impress you with the gas mileage. If you select the front-wheel drive, the pickup will return 23 miles per gallon. All-wheel drive is optional and it consumes slightly more fuel. In both cases, a nine-speed auto gearbox pairs an engine. Engineers added the cylinder deactivation system which will save some fuel when the full power is unnecessary.
Another possibility for the mid-size truck is to get a four-banger. There are a lot of options here. One of them is a hybrid setup available for Accord and CR-V. But, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline will need more power. The naturally-aspirated engine would be good for 180 hp and it is on the line with other entry-level mid-size pickups. However, it would take away the only advantage of the 2021 Honda Ridgeline – sporty ride. So, a kind of a turbocharged four-pot unit is the only logical choice. But, at this point, the company is not releasing any further details.
2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R
We can call it a dream truck. The 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R would be a shocking therapy, which will become one of the most attractive options in the market. While Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 are off-road trucks, the Type R is going to boost the on-road performance of the Ridgeline pickup. Although the company never spoke about it, the expectations are high. Performance upgrades could be inspired by the Acura MDX Hybrid and a 3.0-liter engine. We can hear that engineers are thinking of the PHEV system that will boost the outputs to 400 ponies. That kind of a drivetrain is suitable for the Type R badge. The mid-size truck would lure more buyers if this model happens any time soon.
Release Date and Price
The 2021 Ridgeline will be out by the end of this year. However, without big changes on the exterior, there is no need for big announcements. On the other hand, the new engine might make the price drop under $30,000. Nevertheless, it all depends on the type of drivetrain. We can speak about the 2021 Honda Ridgeline Type R and its cost. This package is the most valuable and expects its price to start above $50,000. Until this happens, the Black Edition remains the most expensive option, priced about $45,000.