The 2017 Honda Ridgeline Touring edition is so versatile; it is like having a Swiss army knife that you can drive. Open the tailgate down or swing it open sideways and you have access to a durable steel reinforced composite box that is dent and corrosion resistant. Push a button, and the hatch pops up to reveal an in bed trunk. Now if I could only figure out where they put the toothpick?
Looks:
I had the pleasure of driving the Touring model, which included a truck bed audio system, great for tailgate parties or just singing in the rain. The Ridgeline’s new molded design is not only aerodynamic but stylish, and the swept back headlights blend seamlessly into the front fenders.
In the Cab:
There is seating for five, with lots of leg room in the back. The front seats are heated and are fully adjustable. The navigation system with its 8” touch screen is well positioned and is easy to reach and with the steering wheel mounted controls and voice recognition commands you should have no problem getting where you want to go.
Safety First:
The Ridgeline has many safety features including: side curtain airbags, front active head restraints, vehicle stability control, four-wheel anti-lock braking system with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, front and rear parking sensors, backup camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind spot alert, rear cross traffic alert and road departure warnings.
Power:
A 3.5 Litre V6 engine with 280 horses and 262 ft-lbs of torque power this truck. It also features variable valve timing and lifts electronic control (VTEC) technology as well as a dual-stage intake manifold. These systems work together to maximize torque and increase horsepower as your speed increases. The transmission is a six-speed automatic with grade logic control that locks in a lower gear when traveling down a hill. There is also an ECON button to help stretch your fuel budget a little further.
Pump Frequency:
Fuel economy numbers are impressive. 12.8/9.5 litres / 100 km (city/highway)
Warranty support:
Roadworthy:
Honda did nearly everything right with the Ridgeline. Car like traits are immediately noticeable, and the vehicle’s slightly heavy feel is mixed with considerable overall refinement. Performance is strong and confident, if not exactly blistering. The response is quick, easy and seamless from the engine and automatic transmission. The seats are firm and very supportive, and a large speedometer is easy to read.
The Ridgeline Baja Race truck made its debut this year. Strong finish considering a soccer mom was driving with three kids in the back screaming “are we there yet.”
Drivers can expect a smooth ride on good roads and a satisfying experience on rougher pavement. The Ridgeline stays reasonably flat in curves, but it’s not quite as surefooted as some SUVs on narrow twisty roads. It seems a little uncertain through some demanding turns.
Verdict:
Honda first introduced the Ridgeline to us in 2005 and had since improved, made changes, and listened to its customers on all aspects of this truck. Although not the first to offer this combination of an SUV and a pickup, they certainly stuck with it and cut out their own niche market
