2020 Honda Ridgeline | The IDEAL Daily Driver Pickup?
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- čas přidán 27. 02. 2020
- The Honda Ridgeline isn't like any other midsize pickup. It has an in-bed trunk, dual action tailgate, traditional independent suspension, unibody construction, AWD instead of 4x4, and it just completely different in so many ways yet it's probably the most practical option in this class for daily driving. The 2020 Honda Ridgeline gets a few changes for this year. Enjoy this 2020 Ridgeline RTL-E review!
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Of course, the Ridgeline isn't for all pickup buyers...but those looking for an easy to live with type of pickup with practical storage areas and a comfortable ride..this could be the one for you.
What midsize truck would you put your money on?
*Thanks for watching and have a great day!* 👍
Redgeline
I wish to have it in middle east
I drive the 2017 nissan titan XD 4x4 sv ,,,, love it would never let the thought of even considering the ridgeline but because of that I pay at each time at the pump ..... but it pulls my 32ft travel trailer gracefully ☮
For towing, yes, the Titan was a great pick!
For me, the Ridgeline check every box, beautifully! Both are great vehicles...
I can hardly wait, I want one but waiting on finishing paying for this vehicle then trade in
@@kathyzieger6207 Which is "This Vehicle" the dealerships always ask, how much you have to go in payments so that they offer you whatever its worth to them - whats left or some pay it for you...add that to the Next one you are looking to purchase.
For all the "it's not a truck" comments since introduction, that fact is that it covers 98% of needs of the average 1/2 ton pickup truck owners. Living in small town Wisconsin and its many rural truck buyers, it's more about perceived image than what is actually asked of the truck. Thank you Nolan for the continued content for us armchair enthusiasts to enjoy!
You’re absolutely right! Lots of ego going around the truck market lol and back where I grew up (rural South Dakota) it’s uncommon to see one probably for that exact reason...even truck buyers that don’t even tow or haul.
Thank you very much and I’m happy to hear that!
I bought a Ridgeline the first year it came out. Sold it a few years ago and it held it's value very well. Bought my second Ridgeline in 2018. I love the smooth, quiet ride , the two way tailgate and the underbed storage. The only complaint I had with my first Ridgeline was it got lousy mileage. The new one is much better - it actually gets better mileage than my Lexus RX350. If this is the type of truck you are looking for you can't go wrong with a Ridgeline.
How do you like the 6 speed?
I have the 2017 RTL-E. Love it... Just like yours.. sold it last year with 29000 miles mostly vacations miles And now waiting for 2021. Good resell value. I got good or advertise mileage. Currently own a Subaru Ascent ... Now I really missed it so much..... Can't wait to buy a 2021 Ridgeline. The best truck in my opinion.
I was just thinking about that, i consider this pick up for ocational hauling or heavy loads that can't fit in any regular SUV.. but at the same time is nonsense to buy a taco or F150 just to do that (bc you don't work with the truck). It's a niche pick up truck..
Just picked up a 2019 Ridgeline sport all-wheel drive. Glad I got the six speed and did not need all the bells and whistles of upper trims. This buggy will take me on many fun adventures. Sold on the unibody construction and ride.
My 2019 has towed my 23 foot Gulfstream Vintage Cruiser with ease. I didn't want to get a 2020 because of the new transmission.
@@PapiDoesIt I read a couple of times the 9 speed trany has issues and hat been used with other vehicles. Do you know what are the specific issues?
What I have on my Canadian Ridgeline that American Ridgeline doesn’t:
-Cooled seats
-Standard CD player
-Heated windshield
-Heated rear seats
-Power folding mirrors
-Rear climate control panel
-Rain-sensing wipers
Lou Giordano do you think it is feasible for US buyers to come to Canada to buy the Ridgeline and bring it back to the US?
Who listens to CD's?
@@dnlcast2 canadians. but why do they get cooled seats ??????
How is the windshield heated?
@@squidusn71 probably heated windshield washer fluid
Nice comprehensive review. I am an architect and general contractor and I own a 2018 RTL-E, otherwise identical to your test vehicle. I have loved my truck and everything you praise about it is spot on. May I also mention that the Ridgeline has the highest USA part content of all pick-ups sold in the US and is built in Alabama. I also own a 22’ boat that sits on a twin axle trailer, which weighs about 4,500 #s dry, combined. I have towed it 4 or 5 times on trips up to about 1,000 miles round trip. I have been very impressed as to how well the truck handled this load, including the acceleration and stopping power and the overall ride quality. All around, this is a great truck!
Trent, that is a great testament to the Ridgeline's capabilities! Also, the fact of it's assembly in AL is nice. Thanks for adding in your .02!
Well done. I bought one about 3 weeks ago and I love mine. I'm averaging about 26 MPG and have had to haul stuff to and from a storage unit about 15 miles away, and have taken it on a family vacation to the beach. Smaller items fit well in the in-bed trunk and in the passenger compartment of the cab. Mine is an RTL trim, so I don't have the rear seat charging ports, heated steering, or truck bed audio, but so far I really haven't missed it. I do have a sun/moon roof, which is nice and the towing capacity is fine for what I need. We took it on a 300 mile trip, with 2 rear seat passengers and they said it was very comfortable for the whole trip, as compared to a Silverado crew cab. As the review says, the Ridgeline a great daily driving truck.
Os thos ur daily driver?
Just bought one. Had it for 4 days. Agree with everything you mentioned in the review. So much advancement from what I am used too. Will take a while to learn all components. Luv lt! 😎
I really like this review - you hit everything I care about even all the little nuanced bits (ventilated seats, keyfob function, how the door works, etc) - nice job!
Thank you very much, glad to hear that! 😁👍
THANK YOU for the this review! Been waiting for your take on the new 2020.
Thanks for stopping by 😁👍
What I love most about the Ridgeline is the Executive Car like Comfort in a truck. Great job Honda.
I figured out what I like about your review so much, you don't follow a common script that ends up feeling really stale and potentially missing details from car to car. You grab the camera and record all the different aspects of experience in the car as if a new buyer would and hit all these little nuances that I find most reviewers skip right over because they've got their common script that they just follow. Really nice job
Thanks again! That’s my goal with these!
Just bought a 2020 RTL-E and absolutely love it! The ride is super refined, the interior is beautiful and it tows my 90 Civic hatch track car with ease.
How do you like the push button shifter? I'm not sure I could get used to that lol.
why i am purchasing one, being a dude, hobbyist. motorcycles. carpentry etc. im not towing huge trailers, campers or boats. im not worried about the image of "tough" (stupid). awd at all times. IRS front and back. good mpg. flip up rear seats. bed truck. etc
Exactly why I bought my 06...
Already my favorite pickup truck!
Great review. I have a 2018 RTL and it’s interesting to see the changes and tweaks Honda made. I love mine but need to do the long rear door checker mod. Also not giving up my volume knob! Also, I’ve been in friends’ other midsize pickups and can’t believe how loud and rough of a ride they are no matter where you’re sitting.
The rougher ride of a body-on-frame is not due to increased stiffness, just the opposite. The ladder frame with rubber mounts lets the frame, cab and bed all flex independently, which can amplify and sustain disturbances from bumps. Unibody is stiffer, which uses the entire mass of the vehicle to oppose bumps in unison. It is also why the Ridgeline can't tow as much, because trailer loads stress the joints between bed, cab and frame.
I'm very happy after 6,000 miles with my 2020 RTL-E. By the way, that 9-speed is much more fun in Sport mode. In Drive, it's letting the computer do all the EPA fuel economy optimization stuff. Sport also allows semi-manual gear selection, which is also useful for some truck stuff, such as holding speed downhill with a trailer.
I had 25 pallets of pavers, that my wife wanted me to bring home in my pick up. Guess what, I told Menards to deliver to my house. I really didn’t give a damned, who’s pickup I used. Sometimes you have to use your common sense. There is no truck that will do it all, and for $40,000 - $50,000, you can do a lot of delivery charges, or hire someone to contract the Project. Pickups are expensive and need to be taken care of, not abused! Love my 2020 Sport Ridgeline!
I'll be picking up a 2020 RTL-E very soon
Great review on an underrated vehicle! I love when 'pickup guys' look down on the Ridgeline. Yet the Ridgeline has what 95% of US truck buyers actually want; automatic transmission with creature comforts. And the few times they actually use the bed or tow, the Ridgeline is more than capable.
Looks at all the reviews for any other midsize truck, all they ever talk about is interior space and on-road ride quality. Heck, full size trucks are more luxury these days.
Thank you! For sure...there’s a lot of ego out there with trucks but like you said this can do what a lot of people need 👍
I'm sold with this truck, and you are right this pick up will do what majority of people need to do with it and don't want to overspend with a taco or f150. Most of people barely use the bed for loads that doesn't fit in a SUV or for hauling once in a blue moon.
I like your review. Very informative. I have a 2018 Sport Ridgeline and I love it.
Thank you! Glad to hear it 👍
Great video! Congratulations on a job well done. Thank you.
I love these. I have an Accord now. I was going to buy this as my next vehicle because basically I’m a guy who doesn’t need a truck but wants one and this is perfect.
It’s perfect for that! Got the comfort and ride of a comfy vehicle but practicality of a pickup 😁
You're exactly what the Honda Marketing folks are aiming for. 👍🏻
Russell C Exactly. That’s why I hope they sell enough to continue producing them.
@@TodayWithDustin Honda needs to listen/read the negative comments and act on it soon or the other makes will sell more when they finally introduce one like Hyundai/Kia.
Honda did listen to the narrow rear door opening and no locking tailgate complaints.
Very informative, great review.
Excellent looking vehicle, plan on getting one next year
I just bought my honda ridgeline 2020 touring this is the Canadian version of rtle. So far, i like it. We just got our first winter storm last night here in Ontario and I will see how good it is tackling the winter condition.
Probably the best review I've seen
Thank you!
I also love the push buttons to shift. It's a nice change up from a traditional shifter. Puls I feel so face with it there
Great review! Thank you.
Thank you!
They cost more than similar trucks but the quality of Honda is worth it.
Have you seen the price of similar trucks? For a midsized truck that loaded, you'd probably be paying at least the same if not more.
Awesome review, thanks!
Thank you!
Love my 19 rtl.e, perfect truck for me, interior is very nice, the side opening tailgate is great, makes accessing the bad a breeze for an old geezer like me
Excellent review. I'm sold, it will be my next vehicle. Thanks.
Thank you Brian! Glad you stopped by 👍. It’s a seriously practical vehicle for inside the cab and the usability of the bed/trunk.
Enjoy it when you get it 😁👍
Hello all. I bought my 2017 RTL e in December 2016. Just turned 51,000 miles. Emission System Problem light came on. Called dealer and brought it in that day. Turned out to need new fuel injectors for $1300. They had May 2019 Technical Service bulletin (18-025) identifying the defect. I contacted Honda America that day requesting they pay for the repair due to a recognized defect (case #10324719). They declined noting the warranty expired. I feel deserted by Honda. Their warranty expired but their responsibility to customers did not. This was a defect they knew of and should repair without charge. Hope you do not experience the same lack of care from Honda. William
@@williamvoyles8323 yeah honda sucks with covering known defects. I had a tacoma with an emission valve issue that cost me 600 for the part. I bought the part but installed it myself. It would be 12-1300 dollars if dealer did it including part. Weeks later, i found out that the valve is a known issue on Tacomas and Tundras. Toyota refunded me the 600 and also sent a letter that if it happens again, theyll pay for the part and all I have to do is show the letter to a dealership and they'll give me the part for free. My Tacoma was out of warranty when the emission valve stopped working.
With that said, i would pick the Ridgeline any day lol.
Never understood why the rear doors didn't open all the way on the previous years. Glad they fixed that. But I'm glad I got a 2019 and not a 2020 because I really don't like the pushbutton shifter and I'm not sure how well the 9 speed will hold up to towing.
You can change something on the rear doors to what is on the Pilot to get the 2019 doors to open further.
I just picked up the 2020 Sport, and there is enough bells & whistles on it to keep me reading the Manual! Drive, read! It’s very comfortable & quite enough to carry on a conversation with everyone in the vehicle. It’s easy to get in & out of, and large enough for 3 car seats, or raise the rear seats, and you hav a 2’ wide storage area. That’s very handy for grandma’s wheel chair or walker, without it getting wet or dirty! And leave one seat down, and there is still room in the back, for an actual adult size person! With the bed trunk, still room for shopping 🛍 bags. I’ll be able to hook up my lawnmower trailer, by myself, without help. That’s about all the towing I’ll do, but I am able! I can only hall what I can lift, to load or unload. The Milage, is a blessing, and so is the 19 gallon fuel tank. I don’t have to fill up so often, standing in the cold 🥶 this Winter! Don’t think I’m going to be getting my hands smelly, filling up my tank, with the cap less filler. I’m not saying it’s the best & only truck, but for me it is! Loving it so far!
Nice review.
Full review please and thank you.
This is the exact truck most people should buy that will satisfy every need they have, but they worry too much about other people's perceptions, which is silly. Get the features and amenities and forget other people's opinions.
I'm not a Honda fan boy, but if I did "cheat" on my preferred manufacturer it'd probably be a Honda. This rig is pretty darn close to what many would need. I just can't get over the van/crossover front end. I'm hoping the redesign they move further away from that.
Russell C I can understand that! I've heard a few insider rumors that indicate that'll be the case with the coming redesign. If they nail it, I think it'll really sell well.
You got it backwards because the people that criticize this vehicle are the ones that doesn't like it lol.
Very well done Sir! I like the Ridgeline, but it needs an interior redesign. A traditional console and revamped infotainment layout mainly. A week long review would be nice including real world fuel economy.
Thank you Lance! For sure, that interior is definitely getting dated lol. I hope I can get one!
Great review. You commented (as other reviewers have), that it seems reluctant to downshift when faster acceleration is needed. I noticed it has paddle shifters. If you review again, please demo the transmission in sport mode using the paddles to downshift. Thanks.
I bought a 2019 honda ridgeline in November and I love it. Not a real truck and that's what I like about it. Super comfortable ride for 8-10 hour long trips.
i also bought one in november got about 2000 miles on it. does yours make a slight pop sound in the front end area when you shift from reverse to drive and then take off?
potato salad it was not doing that until I have my Truxxx leveling kit installed. It doesnt bother me at all.
Nice review. Currently have a 2014 Frontier, but leaning toward a Tacoma 4x4. I'm wondering how long the electronics (ie power rear window)/navigation system will work before breaking down. I like simple - don't need headed steering wheels, side view mirrors - more things to break/go inop. I like the rear seat that lifts up for storage. I'd use that all the time.
Can’t go wrong with either one, I guess it would depend on how each would fit your needs. I hear ya, I’m a fan of simplicity too. Thanks for stopping by!
The main reason I love Honda is they're fun to drive. Excellent practicality and reliability as well. My only request for this model is redesign the front end, make it more boxed looking. Great review by friend 👍
I agree 100%! Honda does a great job at all of that. Same with that friend end too...I wish it stood out more from the pilot. Oh well. Have a great weekend man!
YT channel Driver's Only installed a Leveling kit and larger tires on his RIDGELINE which gave it a more masculine look .
Except for the front end , I like the truck.
Ridgeline offers an OEM upgrade option to their carbon fiber grill (Passport styling), which replaces the existing chrome grill (Pilot styling). It runs just under $400 at most dealerships’ parts department.
Supposedly, the 2021 Ridgeline will run off the Passport assembly interval, rather than the Pilot interval (Lincoln, AL); which means future Ridgeline will more closely resemble Passports over their former Pilots.
Can you show how to turn on those top rap around LED DRL 's ,just can't turn mine on?
Cool space!!!!
I hope to get one soon
Very good video. It helps me get through the day at work. Accounting is so boring sometimes.
Thanks Leo! I can imagine lol...do you do more personal or business accounting?
Prime Autotainment I am CPA for the government by Seattle but don’t hold it against - they need lots of help. 🙃🙃🙃🤨🤓🤓. I wish I worked for the FBI or CIA as a spy though - oh well.
Leo the short guy haha that’s still awesome! You’re definitely a huge asset to them!
I'm thinking about picking one of these up later this year. My wife mentioned that she always liked the idea of having a small truck that we could use around the house, and since neither of us are "truck people" this would probably work out the best for us. We don't need to tow anything, and even hauling duties wouldn't be that extensive; this would mostly be a daily driver during the summer (when I don't want to use my sports car), and also my primary driver in the winter. Taking all this into account, I'm thinking the Ridgeline would be my best choice.
BTW, when you were doing the acceleration tests during the driving portion of the video, did you have the transmission in Sport mode? I believe you activate it by tapping the "D" button twice, and from what I gather it is supposed to make a difference in acceleration.
Can someone please explain this to me... Transmission gains THREE additional gears and loses one mpg on the highway over the 6 speed. Am I missing something here?
I would like a Ridgeline just driving around and traveling. I like trucks in general ever since my brother got his Ram last year and seeing the evolution of the exterior and interior up close changed my perspective on them! Would be my first choice since, like I said, just want to drive with no toeing.
Wolgore Wildrunner you’ll get clowned for driving this vehicle
@@hahahafunny9419 Whelp honestly, I have been clowned all my life and have been forced down a career path that I haven't enjoyed. So meh I guess. Atleast I will be driving something from a brand that is known for long lasting vehicles (currently driving a 2005 Honda Accord, hardly no problems).
Wolgore Wildrunner lmao if you ignore them I’d say you’d enjoy the ridge line as it’s a nice vehicle
@@hahahafunny9419 I would honestly. It would fit my needs well since I won't be towing much or at all and off roading wouldn't be a thing either.
I love the Ridgeline, but the halogen turn signals is a really big turn off, but hey that's what replacement bulbs are for.
Another thing is that the refresh rate of the speedometer is a bit sketchy and it keeps dimming and stuff, kinda weird
Do the paddle shifters help with response time in the delay of power when used? I've heard the 6 speed was faster in power delivery than the 9 speed engine.
Honda Ridgeline is my Truck for 2020.
I have a 2019 Ridgeline. I want to try the nine speed very badly. Why? The lowest gear ratios are more aggressive. The six speed does struggle just a little with low speed towing.
Also, at 7:29 ... that is the space for the optional CD player. Don't call it storage, lol.
answer: YES!!
If anybody "wonders why they would want the tailgate to open to the side like that" than you might be challenged. It is the most usable and convenient feature that any truck should have. I've had my Ridgeline for a year and have rarely opened the tailgate the old way. Duh
is this a good family car? is it good on mpg and are the seats in the back conforable for long trips with 4 or 5 adult, what's the used year to buy?
Great job. I am from the Caribbean and I really do love the Ridgeline. The problem in my country is the vehicles are right hand drive. Wish if Honda can manufacture Right Hand Drive Ridgeline and ship it to the Caribbean.
I've owned several pickup trucks over the past 30 years. The most recent truck I sold was a Ford F350 diesel 4x4 that I used to tow a heavy fifth wheel camper. Each vehicle I've owned was a tool to do a job. I only bought that diesel, for example, because it was big, heavy, and had massive torque. Those are things you want when towing a big trailer and it performed that specific job flawlessly. Because that's what it was designed for. When I wasn't towing the fifth wheel the truck wasn't doing what it was really designed for and it was terrible at everything else. Terrible at driving without a full load due to the stiff suspension, terrible at parking, terrible on forest roads, terrible in the snow, terrible ride quality on bumpy dirt roads, and very expensive to work on when things broke.
My Tacoma was far more reliable and easier to park in the city but it rode like a brick too. But hey, it was also a tool that I needed because I wanted to do some hard-core wheeling on the weekends. This truck is regarded by most people as the best off-road pickup there is and with good reason. IF you want to do serious off-roading. I didn't mind the fact that it had a terrible factory stereo, didn't ride very well, had a cramped interior, no storage, somewhat dated looks, (though not as bad as the Frontier), and had a lot of road noise. These days I have ATV's and dirt bikes to go off-road with and the Ridgeline tows my 4,000-pound trailer full of toys like butter thanks to the nearly 300 HP and 9-speed transmission. So now all I care about is having a truck bed to get stuff at the local hardware store once a month (like most people) and one with a quiet interior, a really nice stereo, a plush ride like a Cadillac, great passing power, reliability, and really good gas mileage. All of those boxes were ticked when I test drove the 2020 Ridgeline. I bought this truck after test driving the 2020 Ranger, Colorado, and Tacoma. I felt the Ridgeline interior was substantially wider (it is, by 4") and the overall ride quality and road noise were FAR better than the competition. (no contest) But the truck "trunk" was the number one selling point for me though because I like to carry a lot of gear in the truck and don't want to worry about it getting stolen. We all know thieves will break in if they see any gear in the backseat. They'll also break into truck toolboxes really easily. But most people don't even know the Ridgeline truck trunk exists. It's under the bed by the tailgate, and it's massive. I keep 2 motorcycle helmets, a pair of jackets, 2 pairs of gloves, riding boots, tie-down straps, a hiking backpack full of gear, 4 hiking poles, a tackle box, and 2 fishing rods in that trunk and lock it then close the tailgate. People walk by the truck, see nothing in the bed, nothing in the seats, and move on. Call it a truck, call it a car with a bed, I don't care. I wouldn't attempt to do any serious off-roading in this vehicle but I can say it handles snow and mud on forest roads and mountain trails really well and I've never gotten stuck. As far as what I want from a truck nowadays, there's just nothing else on the road that comes close to this Ridgeline. It does everything it was designed to do VERY well. Do like I did, right before you buy the truck you think you want, test drive the Ridgeline. It will change your mind. That's what happened to me. LOL
They hold there value well. Cant find a used one under $20,000. Great review as usual 😃
No kidding, they’re hard to come by and for good reason!
Thanks so much!
I have a 2007 ridgeline love its not as fancy as the new ones but it gets the job done 170k now still going strong and everything still works on it the new looks to soft for me not aggressive enough still nice though i love the locking trunk
The 1st gen look isn't all that lol.
I bought an F150 in the last year because I wanted the room in the back for kids. Ridgeline would have been my next choice.
Maybe after the F150 is done, I'll look back into the ridgeline, when I don't have to worry about car seats anymore (assuming there is still a version out there).
The 9-speed is so smooth, you can only feel the first couple of shifts, then it upshifts without being noticeable. Knowing Honda, it is likely to be very durable just like the 6-speed.
Ridgeline owners Is it a comfortable ride? My explorer is very comfortable
Why are there no video reviews or walkaround on 2019 or 2020 sport everyone shows you a rtle? I want to see a base model video in America
Nice review. I’m looking to get one of these. A little concerned about how the 9 speed will drive and a little confused as to why Honda changed from a 6 speed if this 9 speed causes a loss of gas mileage. I’d definitely like to watch a review of a week with the Ridgeline.
The transmission change and MPG really puzzled me. I know right away the 9 speed in the pilot got a lot of grief, but Honda actually retuned it last year so hopefully it’s more pleasing. Hopefully I can get one for more time to really assess it. Thank you!
I test drove both and wound up buying a slightly used 2019 RTL-E. I didn't like the 2020 9-speed transmission... After a few weeks with the 2019 I couldn't be happier with the choice. The drive selector on the 2020 was also a little awkward.
For those who tow light duty campers or boats or heavy payloads frequently would often experience transaxle overheating.
The lower gears in the 9-speed transaxle don’t typically experience the overheating issue. My 2019 Ridgeline never overheated, but I also didn’t tow with it either. On the freeway, 9th-gear around 70 MPH averages around 27.8 MPG on my new 2020 Ridgeline. My 2019 got upwards of 26 MPG on freeways.
Three additional transaxle gears and additional accessories to accommodate the Honda Sensing Safety Suite probably added static payload that mitigated the 9-speed’s ability to show off its true MPG benefits. Also, the 6-speed doesn’t offer a paddle shifting option which has become pretty standard across the Honda fleet and many competitors.
After a long run I could sit in that tub in the truck bed filled with ice water!!!😅
How does it compare to high end Toyota Tacoma ?
Hello I am from Switzerland and will try to import a Ridgeline Black Edition 2020. Unfortunately, the Ridgeline does not exist in Europe.
Sales did not do well. Many left over 2019 models still available. I picked one up with a huge discount and 0.9 x 72 financing. Traded in my 06 4x4 Sequoia. I prefer AWD, gas mileage, and performance of the V6 Honda vs V8 Sequoia. Trunk, bed, tailgate, on road characteristics are superior to other pickups. In addition it's a Honda!
72 month financing?! I pray you are making double payments.
@@codeman99-dev I can pay when I want. It's only $800 in total interest payments. Putting money in a CD and stock to make money. Other areas provide a better ROI. Honda resale value is not an issue. I pamper my vehicles and keep them for years. As stated my last was an 06.
Great mid-size truck! I test drove the 2019 and it felt like I was driving a sedan and also seemed quite low - I had to get out and check it against my Grand Cherokee Jeep and I think it’s actually taller (it doesn’t seem that way at all). Two wishes still 1. Greater towing capacity and full size spare tire (as I’ve said before - if your pulling a trailer you can’t use a donut tire while pulling a trailer). P.S. the Canadian top two levels have vented front seats - odd as you think southern US states might need this feature more?
That was one wish I had on my 2020. Vented front seats will absolutely spoil you, especially in South Carolina summers.
I have a 2019....Black Edition... becoz of Covid, I have not been out driving as much we could have been, less then 3,000 kilometres....This is my FIRST truck, I highlight that as I really want to have the 2020, having come from a VERY FUN and sporty auto... Mecedes AMG, 375 horse power and paddle shifters....FUN, however this TRUCK puts a smile on my face, 282 HP is Good enough to get you in trouble with the LAW but not in a driving sense... ALWAYS feels under control, pulling out of corners and going into them, corners like a Honda Sports Car... then the ROOM, and storage capacity...it's the LARGEST car....( yes ) It drives like a well tuned machine....and I have had machines... The Truck, although ALL BLACK, keeps me out of trouble, My RED Mercedes...ticked all the boxes the police are looking for...the Truck almost has people thinking its an UNMARKED vehicle.... FUN, practical, I wish I had the 20" Passport Tires and DUAL Exhaust...but the hidden compartment.... comes in so handy. GREAT REVIEW... the pickup and exhaust note sounds amazing, not the AMG but...while decelerating....it's ALL torque if you kept your foot on the gas, it just keeps going.... 9 speed makes the changes although I do not feel them 9 would probably be even more seamless.... PADDEL shifters are just EXTRA FUN... I want a 2020...... Great Truck!
Thank you! That’s awesome to hear. I’m glad you’re enjoying it. It’s a very underrated vehicle and deserves a lot of respect, hope you continue to enjoy it!
Maybe hold out for the 10 speed to work its way into the Ridgeline around 2022.
Paddle shifting on the ZF9 has long shift delays when compared to other Honda products. Also transaxle shuddering is sometimes an issue on the dog plate clutching shift points: 4th - 5th, and 8th -9th. The friction plate clutching feels much better 1st - 4th, and 5th - 8th. The D/S shift by wire button isn’t functionally positioned to make quick nor efficient use of the paddle shifting. I still prefer the 9-speed over the 6-speed while utilizing engine breaking in the Smokies. The 2021 Ridgeline will have the updated Passport infotainment with volume knob and supposedly the Passport’s rugged grill rather than the Pilot’s appearance package (2017 -2020).
Whats the MPG?
Rather than a tachometer, I would rather have an oil pressure gauge and an ammeter (especially since Hondas and Acuras seem to be plagued with parasitic drains caused by failure of their Bluetooth and relay components). Also hope that the new transmission is as durable and functional as the six speed I am used to. Sort of a "if it ain't broke, don't fix it!" Not a fan of push button man-machine interface with transmission. I found the previous shifters in the SUVs a comfortable place to rest my hand, and I liked to downshift on hills to save the brakes. Overall, looks like a good vehicle that would be functional and comfortable. Thanks for the review!
Thanks for the interesting vid! I'm in the consideration phase of changing vehicles and this is one of the highest in my list. My daughter owns an Odyssey and loves it-recently traded it for the newer model with all the newer bells and whistles. Her reason for the Honda over other minivans was for child hauling--it has the best overall child-seat capability. For me, though, I love her minivan because we've tried other minivans and the Odyssey far and away drives with much better stability. Everything I've seen/heard/read about the Ridgeline follows through with this same, higher stability/comfort over the other vehicles in its class. My question to you, have you seen this to be true in your testing of other vehicles? Is Honda typically one of the best handling of vehicles in its class? Your opinion would be helpful to me. Thanks.
Hi Mark, I definitely feel the same way about the Ridgeline and Honda vehicles in general. They all have a bit of a playful nature with a very easy to drive type of demeanor. When looking at other midsize trucks, it hands down drives better in terms of ride quality mainly because it’s built completely different with its structure than competitors. Any other specific vehicles you’re considering?
@@PrimeAutotainment , mostly considering the mid-size pickups. I've driven convertibles for over 15 years now and THINK I'm ready to move into something a bit more practical. As an older man, I still enjoy the fun things in life, but would like some practicality as well. I have little/no interest in the SUVs of the day since I see them mostly as tall station wagons.
Gotchya, that’s awesome. From a practicality standpoint, it’s hard to beat the Ridgeline. The comfort, storage areas, in bed trunk, and ride quality...the Ridgeline does great. The Ranger has a taught but comfortable ride for a truck, but you can definitely tell it’s stiff. Same with Colorado. Tacoma is a little sloppier in terms of driving dynamics..kinda springy and looser steering but it feels very solid.
I attempted to buy a Colorado. My wife and I test drove it on a 90+ degree day and we almost melted in the back seat. The A/C is only available on the front seats and their blower is absurdly loud without any benefit to rear seated passengers. It had an 8-speed transmission that shifted smoothly, but upshifted so much that it felt sluggish. Chevy offers a great variety of options and engine configurations. Their in-line 4-cylinder Diesel engine had best in class fuel economy. Their Z71 and ZR2 packages look great. I have three daughters in the back seat though and won’t expose them to inadequate ventilation and heating/cooling. Add safety and tri-zone climate control and gain a stronger family base.
The Tacoma also lacked tri-zone climate control and I’m too tall at 6’1” to do a test drive. They had me look at some Tundra, but I really wanted to park inside my garage and don’t want to hit every neighboring vehicle that parks too close to me.
The Ranger looks great outside but isn’t all that great inside, and also doesn’t offer functionality in the back seat in terms of folding up/down. I didn’t test drive due to no tri-zone climate control and too costly for lack of amenities.
The Gladiator and Ridgeline are the only two in-class vehicles that currently offer tri-zone climate control for rear seated passengers. Also, both are former SUV turned pickup truck. There’s a gaudy looking gasoline flume that consumes a considerable amount of back-bed space in the Gladiator. The Gladiator test drove well, but the removable panel doors are thin and offers nothing in the way of noise cancellation, especially with grittier all-season tires. The back-bed is awkwardly narrow and the overall length of the vehicle makes it appear out of proportion. The Gladiator would remain my 2nd choice due to the tri-zone climate control. The Gladiator has the worst MPG and is excessively priced at low trim levels with poor infotainment options and creature comforts. Baseline features on all Ridgeline trim levels 2020 would require an additional $20k Rubicon trim on the Gladiator to match safety and infotainment already available on Ridgeline. I felt the Overland trim on the Gladiator probably offered the best overall value above their base trim but avoiding the Rubicon/Mojave price tag. The Overland also offers the best off-road package while only dropping to 6k lbs of towing capacity.
Ram is supposedly preparing to relaunch their Dakota for 2022. The panoramic roof looks amazing on existing Ram. It’ll likely be a wider bodied version of their Gladiator. Jeep might also offer an unibody Comanche pickup truck based off their Grand Cherokee platform, in a few years.
My youngest is a toddler and her car seat installs very easily in both of the Ridgeline that I’ve owned. I appreciate that the Ridgeline overwhelmingly achieves the highest in class crash rating of any pickup truck sold in the US. Toyota Tacoma came in a distant 2nd place. The Ridgeline currently has no US competitors in the crash testing categories. The added standardized Honda Sensing package for 2020 and later Ridgeline models helps to keep Honda dominant as a safety leader.
The only thing I dislike about this truck is that it takes forever for these trucks to become available. It is going on four months now for my Black Edition I want from a Dealership in Michigan to arrive..
That is the color I want to buy!!! That interior color is also the color I want!! I just can’t afford paying $36,000. for a Mid-Size truck for that amount.
Could probably find a good used one for a decent price, but they hold their value pretty well
Prime Autotainment, I agree about them not losing their value. It’s that new transmission they just put in that keeps them at the top of their game.
The Ridgeline is the ideal truck for me. Love the features and the the executive luxury that comes in a truck. However it's not in the Caribbean. Hope it will reach our shores one day. Or what are the possibilities of purchasing a Ridgeline living in the Caribbean.
That’s a shame, I didn’t know that! If you pay for my vacation down there maybe I can sneak one into an airplane or ship 😁
Much better review then the sharks ...... ✅
Hey man thanks for this review! I've always liked the Ridgeline. It seems to do a lot of things very well. It definitely has its place in the pickup segment. And Honda was very smart for having such a unique vehicle in that segment. I'd like for you to do a full week review if you can get your hands on one. I'm one of those guys that doesn't really need a full sized pickup & this would be the 1st one I'd take a look at. A job well done!
Thank you Tran! I really like the uniqueness of it too. Hopefully I can, Ive been scheduled for a few Honda’s lately but they change things up so often. We shall see!
There's a Ridgeline club on FB. You can join there and ask all the questions you want before buying. Most of those members are prior f150, Ram, Tacoma owners.
I like ridgelines my next will be that truck
I notice the speedo fades out at times, I have seen this on a few reviews
Most automotive LEDs appear to flicker or periodically dim on video, because they're actually being switched on and off rapidly. It's a video issue - you don't see it with the naked eye.
Defies good choice in a midsized pickup if you don’t mind the minivanish look. One thing I just don’t understand is the spare tire under the bed floor. What happens if you have a bed load of stuff and get a flat?
Ya know I always wondered why it was there lol. That would really stink if that happened! I’m guessing the bed trunk is so low that it wouldn’t fit underneath but that’s a shame
Prime Autotainment Good point. Can’t wait to see what you think of the Kicks!
Tigerfan 82 glad to hear it! Might be a couple of weeks before it’s out though. Tiguan coming soon, maybe a palisade 5 likes, crv hybrid, and possible Nissan Titan off roadinn and towing👍. Subaru dealer is officially being built in town so I’m going there ASAP once they have staff!!!!!!
there is a mount point in the box for the spare.
More times than not, the truck bed is empty.
Love everything about the 2020 Honda ridgeline, except my new ridgeline while driving on the highway, there is a very noticeable wind noise coming in from the passenger front window/windshield. I took it back to the dealer and they heard the noise but could not find out where it was coming from. Also, contacted the main Honda Care representative and he told me that that's the way these vehicles are made. Nothing they can do. Anyone notice the wind noise? Thanks
Don't have that on my 2019
@@williamvantassel2773 Yes, I know, I had a 2019 as a loaner and did not hear the noise.
Vented seats would be nice for hotter climates. And the gauges look like an afterthought. Unless off-roading a lot this truck is fine for the average person who hauls, tows, or needs for house projects like gravel and gardening once in a while or camping/beach. Will compare new Frontier when available. Probably won’t see ventilated seats until Hyundai or Kias truck comes out which is benchmarked against the ridge line.
The dial blows. My job has dodges with the dial and I've thrown it in reverse many times while merging into major roadways just trying to raise the AC.
I have a 2019. Great vehicle. Glad I got the 6 speed. More responsive.
Definitely!
I only need a truck once or twice a year. Like right now I wish I had a truck. Need to buy 3 security doors and some trees for back yard. If I get ridgline it will be my daily driver l, I will be driving 40 miles Monday trhough friday to go to work. Iam afraid the gas will be abother car payment a month??🙄🙄 about how many miles do you think I can get out of the gas tank?? So I will be driving about 800 miles a month
A dealer is selling me a 2020 rtl with 19000 miles for $30000
can you tell me which one you preferred between this Ridgeline and the ford ranger you tested? I know they both sound very quiet in the cab which i like, but how refine is the ride between those two? and which of those two did you have the most fun driving?
Devo OS the Ridgeline definitely has a smoother and more car like ride. The Ranger is still smooth for truck standards, but not nearly like the Ridgeline since they have completely different frame/constructions. As for fun, hard to say. They feel different since one is turbo and one isn’t so that’s kinda tricky, the Ranger initially feels a little sportier and zippier but the Ridgeline handles better so probably the Ridgeline
@@PrimeAutotainment those are my top two choices that I'm looking into. I like to watch your ford ranger test drive from inside the cab, it does look fun to drive, but the Ridgeline's more civilized and comfort ride from what I hear, is pulling on my curiosity more and more. Thanks for the feedback
If you "turn off" the auto start/stop, will the Ridgeline remember that "off" status forever (i.e. after you turn off the truck)? Or do you have to hit that option everytime you start the truck?
It will default to always being “on” so you’d have to turn it off every time after you start it unfortunately
@@PrimeAutotainment I know and it's my least favorite thing about my truck.
The under bed storage seems like a cool idea until you need something from there while you have the bed loaded with stuff. It looks so tiny compared to the profile of the original ridgeline.
No its huge trust me. I just test drove one yesterday and I love it. It one of the main reasons I want to get one.
If you think about it, how many times is the bed fully loaded. The same complaint can be made for changing the spare. Unless your truck is for work purposes (which you would need a full sized not a midsized), this truck is ideal.
Only complaint I have is how shallow the bed is otherwise perfect truck.
Why do you prefer the 6 speed vs the 9 speed in the Ridgeline?
The 9 speed didn’t seem very responsive and had some odd shifts. There have been complaints about this 9 speed in the pilot so it makes me nervous. I didn’t have very much time with it though unfortunately
Disable Earth Dreams ECO Green button so that i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) won’t operate as a 3 or 4 cylinder engine. This will force a 6 cylinder mode for better acceleration performance. Also, the engine idle stop feature can be disabled for faster off the line performance. I typically just stay in ECO mode, as a little extra throttle reactivates all 6 cylinders pretty quickly.
For the acceleration testing, expect longer transaxle delays when dog clutching 4th - 5th and 8th - 9th. All other gears use the much faster friction clutching method. The ZF9 paddle shifters have a history of transaxle shuddering when dog clutching on the fly (often blamed on an electronic synchronizer); it’s best to manually select the D/S button before using the paddle shifting option. The ZF9 feels and shifts more like a stick shift with mild delays between gears. It’s less prone to overheating and offers superior engine breaking when compared to the old 6-speed. However, it shouldn’t be paddle shifted on the fly like my CR-V which has a (CVT) continuously variable transaxle.
SAE benchmarks for towing capacity typically won’t exceed 4k lbs towing with off-road packages moving the center of gravity higher and more plush suspension packages and less durable tire to rim balancing. Towing capacity for door tags are only for off the production line prior to optional upgrades. Yes, lower trim models are pushing 7.5k lbs towing in the midsized pickup truck market. The Ridgeline is basically down the middle of the line at 5k lbs towing. I believe the newer Gladiator- Overland and Colorado - Bison are now reaching 6k lbs with an off-road package. Ridgeline used to have the best in class payload until Gladiator and Ranger recently released.
Ridgeline comes pre-equipped with a tow package (not tow off bumper as seen from competitors) and composite bed-liner, which are upgraded operations with most dealers.
I defend the Ridgeline against naysayers, but there's still some small things I can't figure out. I prefer a shifter handle, but if it's gotta go then replace it with a knob in a smaller area. All that area where they put the shift buttons could've been used for storage.
13:51 v-tec kicked in I think
What's the real fuel economy... I just want the space for Groceries and small machines.. I have a Civic coupe... loads a lot with towing hitch... I get 40 mpg or more.. I get people up ass all the time so I bought the washable Air Filter
Seems like it would be good for grocery hauling and gardening. I think most will want a real truck though.
And plywood fits between the wheel wells on the floor.
Why do auto manufacturers keep putting turn signals low on the front bumper. It’ll be difficult for other drives to see! At least make them led instead have the square ugly incandescent turn signal housing!
agreed!
agree. its one of my biggest dislikes on mine
This is your car/truck. I kinda like it. I still think it looks like a minivan front 🤣
The idea is great. But yes, looking like the Pilot/Odyssey isn't a good thing. And those are built off the Accord. Hope the redesign takes it a step further away from the car/van/crossover look.
After buying one it really grew on me. I think it looks great in my garage and looks sportier once you begin to disassociate it from the other models.
For me theres only 2 problems with this truck. 1. Yea the front end doesnt looks a bit ugly and 2. The price to lease/buy it is a bit high for me. I can't go with the lowest trim. I need my heated seats and that bed and most importantly I need that automatic sliding back window.