The word “rugged” appears frequently in the advertising materials for the 2024 Honda Ridgeline pickup truck, indicating that Honda is primarily promoting the rugged TrailSport version of the new Ridgeline. Though the TrailSport is loaded with equipment, every model from 2024 has new design cues and improved in-cabin amenities.
The base Sport, the midrange RTL, the all-new TrailSport with skidplates and all-terrain tires, and the luxury Black Edition are the four trim levels that the 2024 Ridgeline will be offered in. The TrailSport has a unique version of the revised grille, bigger mesh, underbody protection, pewter-gray 18-inch wheels with General Grabber A/T Sport tires, power-folding mirrors, and an unusual sky blue color option. All other variations inherit this design. With pride, “Ridgeline” is displayed from edge to edge on the tailgate, giving the truck a forceful statement.
Beyond only representing the brand, the Ridgeline’s rear end is practical. For easy access to the bed, the “Dual Action” tailgate swings wide like a door or opens conventionally. For tailgaters, the bed has built-in seating and a 7.3-cubic-inch underfloor cooler; however, if you use the truck for material transportation, you’ll love the roomy bed that can hold a four-foot sheet of plywood flat. Because of its sturdy composite material composition and eight tie-down points, the bed doesn’t need a separate bedliner.
Coziness and functionality come together inside the Ridgeline. A plush and adaptable interior is offered with heated seats, a heated steering wheel, rear seats with hidden storage, and a 60/40 split. The new console has enough for a tablet or small laptop, deep cupholders, and a larger, padded armrest. The 9.0-inch infotainment screen and the standard 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster both have user-friendly interfaces and faster processing speeds to improve the driving experience.
Both Android and Apple users benefit from standard phone pairing features, with a spacious phone tray capable of holding two phones side by side, though only one can utilize wireless charging. Black Edition buyers enjoy an upgraded sound system with premium speakers.
Beneath the hood, all Ridgelines share a 3.5-liter V-6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed transmission. The unibody construction remains unchanged, offering a 1583-pound payload capacity and towing capability of up to 5000 pounds. The TrailSport, utilizing the same chassis, enhanced its off-road capabilities with a front metal skid plate and retuned springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars.
All Ridgeline models are equipped with all-wheel drive and Honda’s i-VTM4 torque-vectoring system, distributing power as needed. The TrailSport introduces various terrain modes with modified throttle and traction management programs for improved performance on diverse surfaces.
Beyond the TrailSport trim, the 2024 Ridgeline lineup introduces the HPD package, featuring a distinct grille treatment, black fender flares, unique wheels, and HPD graphics. All Ridgeline models come standard with the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist features. The new models are expected to hit the market in early December 2023.