2026 Honda Ridgeline : The 2026 Honda Ridgeline rolls into showrooms this year as a refined take on the midsize pickup that’s always marched to its own beat.
Honda kept the core formula intact but sprinkled in some eye-catching color updates that make this truck stand out even more on the road or trail.
Subtle Style Refresh Turns Heads
Honda dialed up the visual appeal without overhauling the entire design. TrailSport buyers can now snag an exclusive Ash Green Metallic paint job, a deep, earthy hue borrowed from the Passport lineup that screams adventure.
Meanwhile, the Black Edition gets a slick black roof option for that two-tone contrast, giving it a sportier edge straight from the factory. These tweaks celebrate the Ridgeline’s 20th anniversary in style, nodding to its history of smart innovation.
Owners rave about how these colors hold up against mud, snow, and daily grime while keeping the truck looking sharp. It’s the kind of detail that makes you smile every time you hop in.
Powertrain Delivers Proven Punch
Under the hood, the familiar 3.5-liter V-6 churns out 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission.
Standard all-wheel drive with Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) kicks in seamlessly, distributing power where it’s needed most—whether you’re climbing slippery slopes or cruising highways.
Cylinder deactivation helps stretch fuel stops, aiming for around 18 city, 24 highway mpg, though real-world tests hit higher on open roads.
Towing maxes at 5,000 pounds, and payload hovers near 1,600 pounds, solid for most weekend warriors hauling boats or ATVs. No major power bumps here, but the refinements make it feel even more responsive day-to-day.
Unibody Ride Redefines Truck Comfort
What sets the Ridgeline apart? That unibody construction borrows from Honda’s SUV playbook, delivering a ride smoother than any body-on-frame rival. Coil springs all around soak up bumps like a Pilot, while still handling light off-road duties without drama.
I took one out last week on twisty backroads, and it carved corners with surprising poise—no wallowing or jitter like some trucks.
The cabin stays hushed too, thanks to better insulation and mounts that tame engine noise. It’s the truck for folks who want capability without the constant reminder they’re driving a workhorse.
Standout Bed Features Keep It Practical
Slide open that dual-action tailgate, and the magic happens. Drop it flat for loading or swing it sideways like a hatch—perfect for backing up to tight spots. Hidden beneath? A lockable in-bed trunk with 7.3 cubic feet of weatherproof storage for tools, groceries, or spare tires.
The bed itself fits plywood between the wells, and tie-downs everywhere make securing loads a breeze.
TrailSport amps it with all-terrain tires and skid plates for gravel roads, while everyday trims keep things versatile for suburbia. Honda nailed the balance: rugged enough for campsites, civilized for commutes.
Cabin Tech and Comfort Level Up
Hop inside, and the spacious five-seater cabin feels more upscale than before. A nine-inch touchscreen rules the dash with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in nav on higher trims. Leather seats, heated fronts, and tri-zone climate keep everyone happy, even on long hauls.
Digital gauges and wireless charging add modern flair without overwhelming. Audio upgrades to 10 speakers on top models fill the space with crisp sound. Rear seats flip up for gear, proving this truck doubles as a family hauler.
Safety Suite Builds Confidence
Honda Sensing comes standard across the board, packing adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and collision braking. Newer tweaks improve radar and camera detection for fewer false alerts.
Cross-traffic warnings shine in parking lots, and traffic sign recognition keeps you legal. Crash tests praise the rigid unibody for top protection scores. It’s tech that works quietly, letting you focus on the drive.
Trim Choices Fit Every Driver
Sport kicks off with basics like LED lights and cloth seats for budget-minded buyers. RTL steps up leather and a power tailgate window. TrailSport goes rugged with unique bumpers, off-road suspension, and that green paint.
Black Edition wraps it in gloss black with red accents and premium wheels. Each builds on Honda’s smart utility, so pick by vibe—city slicker or trail blazer.
Why 2026 Honda Ridgeline Still Rules the Niche
Two decades in, the Ridgeline proves trucks don’t need massive changes to thrive. These color pops and subtle tweaks keep it fresh amid flashier rivals like Tacoma or Ranger. It tows what most need, rides like a dream, and innovates where others copy.
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Dealers report quick sell-outs on TrailSport models, as buyers flock to its do-it-all charm. If you’re tired of stiff, thirsty pickups, this Honda flips the script. Head to your local lot soon—these won’t linger.