There’s no denying it – before its redesign, the Honda Ridgeline looked kind of like a minivan with a pickup bed tacked on. No judgement, of course. It was a fine vehicle, but it didn’t look quite right. Thankfully with the 2021 Honda Ridgeline, the design has finally come to resemble what Honda’s been going for all along – a sleek, four-door pickup.
But other than a solid redesign, what else can drivers expect from the 2021 Honda Ridgeline? Keep reading for a quick overview of Honda’s latest entry into its pickup series.
Design and headlights of the 2021 Honda Ridgeline
Of course, Honda is probably most widely known for their affordable, practical cars, like the ever-popular Honda Accord, but the brand has proven they can make a capable truck as well.
As far as design goes, the 2021 Ridgeline builds on this proven formula, while managing to finally look more “truckish”. Even compared to this year’s model, the difference is staggering. The 2021 Ridgeline features sheetmetal forward of the windshield, and a larger, more prominent grille that gives the truck a bolder look on the front end. On the back, a revised bumper gives home to aggressive twin exhaust tips (kind of like the bumper design on some Ram 1500s).
As for the headlights, Honda has updated the LEDs for a more modern and aggressive look (while maintaining safety, of course).
While the inside didn’t undergo as major a redesign as the outside, the 2021 Ridgeline’s infotainment system went through an upgrade, adding a much-needed physical volume knob. Those interested in storage will also note the Ridgeline’s standard storage cubbies are still present in the new vehicle design, along with a low profile push-button shifter that further frees up space on the console.
Performance
Now, you have to understand – if you’re looking for a truly rugged truck that can take you off-road and back, you’ll probably want to consider another truck. The 2021 Ridgeline is plenty capable as a standard pickup, but anything more than that is above its pay grade.
You’ll still be able to tow, (albeit, under 5k lbs), and the engine allows for plenty quick acceleration. It’s basically a one-size-fits-all kind of truck, and that’s okay for a lot of people.
A fully independent suspension creates a car-like ride. Drivers have the option to pick from front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations to suit their taste. All in all, it handles well, and provides a comfortable ride.
Safety
Not too much is known about the finer safety details of the 2021 Ridgeline. We do know that the model will come with Honda’s standard safety lineup. This includes, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automated emergency braking, which have basically become standard in all new vehicles.
Along with safety features, there are reportedly other new features that will make drivers’ lives easier, including an in-bed trunk and a multifunction tailgate.
Specs
- Price: (est) 35,500 – 45,000
- Engine: 280-hp 3.5-liter V-6
- Transmission: 9-Speed Automatic
- EPA fuel economy: (est) 28 mpg
- Configurations: Sport, RTL, RTL-E, Black Edition
Is the new design enough to make you excited about the 2021 Ridgeline? Let us know!