2026 Honda Ridgeline Reviewed
Why It Matters
The Ridgeline’s blend of unique cargo solutions, city‑friendly size, and solid performance expands the appeal of midsize pickups to urban professionals, reshaping market expectations for utility vehicles.
Key Takeaways
- •Ridgeline marks 20 years, retains unique trunk and dual‑hinge tailgate.
- •TrailSport adds all‑terrain tires, underbody protection, but not hardcore off‑road.
- •Standard AWD, 280‑hp V6, nine‑speed automatic deliver smooth city performance.
- •Pricing starts at $42,000; TrailSport version begins near $46,000.
- •Compact dimensions aid urban parking, differentiating it from larger pickups.
Summary
The 2026 Honda Ridgeline celebrates two decades on the market, yet its design still feels fresh. Its short hood, fast‑rising windshield, and signature features—a lockable trunk beneath the bed and a dual‑hinge tailgate—remain distinctive in the midsize pickup segment.
The TrailSport trim adds all‑terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and a tuned suspension, but it stops short of competing with dedicated off‑road warriors like the Jeep Gladiator or Ford Ranger Raptor. Power comes from a standard 280‑horsepower V6 paired with a nine‑speed automatic, while all‑wheel drive is standard, delivering confident handling in both city streets and light gravel.
Pricing begins around $42,000 for the base model, with the TrailSport starting near $46,000, positioning the Ridgeline above traditional compact trucks yet below premium off‑road contenders. Its compact footprint makes it easier to maneuver in tight urban and suburban parking spaces, a practical advantage highlighted during the test drive.
For buyers seeking a versatile, comfortable pickup without the rugged extremes of competitors, the Ridgeline offers a unique blend of utility, refinement, and everyday usability, reinforcing Honda’s niche in the midsize market.
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