Trim Levels

• The Ridgeline is available in only one body configuration: a crew-cab pickup. Introduced in 2006 to North America, The Ridgeline was offered in three trim levels: the RT as the base model, the RTS as the mid-level and the RTL as the top model. Note all models offer the same power train with minimal cosmetic and luxury differences between the models.
  
  The RTX model was introduced in 2007 and came equipped with a tow hitch and wiring harness from the factory. While there was no additional RTX trim-specific towing equipment, all Ridgelines are equipped with heavy-duty radiators and transmission coolers.
  
  The RTL adds a power sunroof, fog lights, 18-inch wheels, heated leather seats and an available navigation system.
  
  

Unique Features

• The major unique feature of the Honda Ridgeline is that it is a unibody, but with welded-in frame rails, thus bridging the gap between traditional cars (unibody) and trucks (body-on-frame). The hybrid frame allows for independent suspension both front and rear. This provides the vehicle with superior on-road performance, while providing a pickup bed. The bed is made of a dent-proof polymer. In addition, the Ridgeline also features a large storage bin complete with drain plug under the rear bed.
  
  The Ridgeline RTX is available with a 247-horsepower, 3.5-liter all-aluminum V-6 coupled to a five-speed automatic. All Ridgelines are equipped with all-wheel drive and a locking rear differential. The Ridgeline can tow 5,000 pounds, and the bed is rated to carry 1,546 pounds.
  
  Although the vehicle is equipped with a V-6 and not a V-8, the fully boxed frame and unibody chassis is heavy and results in the Ridgeline weighing 4,504 pounds. It is rated at 15 miles per gallon city and 20 mpg on the highway.
  
  

Updates and Future Plans

• While an innovative vehicle, the Ridgeline has had relatively poor sales since introduction. For example, according to Honda, in 2010, only 1,256 Ridgelines were sold for the month of October, and this number is 16.2 percent less than the number of Ridgelines sold in October of 2009. It is believed that Honda expected to sell roughly 50,000 copies of the Ridgeline a year, but sales have hovered in the 15,000 to 17,000 range. Honda has made no announcements of whether a revised Ridgeline will be introduced in 2012.